Colonial Gardens Manufactured Home Community, Manhattan, KS

Introduction / Overview

For local users in the heart of the Sunflower State seeking stable and accessible housing, manufactured home communities represent a significant and practical option. Colonial Gardens Manufactured Home Community, located in the dynamic city of Manhattan, Kansas, is a key player in this sector. Offering both lot rental and home sales opportunities, it aims to provide a structured and amenity-rich environment for its residents. Known for its proximity to major local hubs and its distinct features, Colonial Gardens warrants a close look by anyone exploring long-term housing solutions in the region.

A manufactured home community, often referred to as a mobile home park, allows residents to either own a manufactured home outright and rent the land it sits on (paying lot rent) or rent both the home and the lot from the management. This model can often provide a more affordable route to a private residence compared to traditional single-family homes or apartments. Colonial Gardens is designed to cater to families and individuals by offering a variety of community amenities, aiming to foster a neighborhood atmosphere.

When evaluating Colonial Gardens, it is important to consider both the advertised benefits and the real-world experiences of long-term residents. Public records and resident feedback provide a more nuanced picture. While the community boasts a renewed commitment to its physical infrastructure and amenities, like a recently redone pool, prospective residents should also be mindful of reports concerning management practices, community rules, and the financial trajectory of lot rent over time. This professional overview is designed to synthesize the factual public data and resident commentary to help local Kansans make an informed decision about this Manhattan community.

Information for Prospective Residents: Management and Financial Considerations

Long-term residents offer varied perspectives on their experience at Colonial Gardens. One resident who lived there from 2012 to 2019 noted navigating several changes, including a period of "iffy" management, a time without management presence, and a complete office relocation after a fire, but ultimately described their time there as enjoyable. This resident provided an example of lot rent increasing from $350 to $450 over a five-year period, categorizing this as average and manageable for the area. However, another resident, who has lived in the community for three and a half years, explicitly states they would not recommend the community, citing a belief that the office and owners do not prioritize residents’ concerns. This tenant specifically pointed out a "tremendous amount" of increase in lot rent during their tenure, expressing concern that there is "no cap" on future increases, and mentioned the existence of "ridiculous rules." It is essential for all prospective renters and buyers to carefully review the lot lease agreement regarding annual increases, rent caps, and community rules to ensure they align with their long-term financial stability and living expectations.

Location and Accessibility

The Colonial Gardens Manufactured Home Community holds a highly accessible position within Manhattan, Kansas, a key city in the state's northeastern region. Its address at 3000 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA, places it strategically near some of the city's most important sites and transport links, making it exceptionally convenient for local users. Manhattan is famously known as the home of Kansas State University and is in close proximity to Fort Riley, ensuring that residents have a direct connection to major educational and employment centers.

The community is situated approximately four miles from Downtown Manhattan, making commutes manageable for those working in the central business district or needing access to local government services. Being located on Tuttle Creek Boulevard, one of the area’s main arteries, enhances daily accessibility. Residents report that local transportation, such as buses, is available for navigating the city. The area is also somewhat bikeable, though most errands are considered car-dependent. For local errands and shopping, the location offers convenient access to major retail centers like West Loop Shopping Center, Manhattan Marketplace, and Blue Hills Shopping Center, as well as big-box stores like Walmart, Target, and Menards. This ensures that the essential conveniences of a modern Kansas city are just a short drive away, a significant advantage for working families and students in the Manhattan area.

Services Offered

Colonial Gardens provides a comprehensive set of services focused on managed community living. The core services center on the provision of the physical space and necessary utilities for residents’ homes, managed by on-site staff.

Lot Rentals and Home Sales: Offering flexible housing options, including the leasing of land lots for resident-owned manufactured homes and the sale or rental of community-owned homes.
On-Site Management: Professional staff are available during business hours to handle day-to-day administrative responsibilities, maintain community standards, and assist with resident inquiries.
Utility Access Coordination: Facilitating necessary hookups for essential services like water, sewer, electric, and gas, which typically allows residents to establish their own utility accounts.
Grounds Maintenance: Management of common areas, including landscaping and infrastructure maintenance, such as ensuring community street lamps are operational (a service one long-term resident noted was prioritized and improved after a lapse).
Pet-Friendly Policies: Welcoming furry family members into the community, subject to specific policies and rules designed to maintain a harmonious environment.

Features / Highlights

What sets Colonial Gardens apart for local Kansas residents are the family-friendly amenities and community features designed to enhance the quality of life beyond the individual home lot. These amenities help cultivate a more engaging and supportive neighborhood environment.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The community includes a swimming pool, which was noted by a long-term resident to have been redone, a playground for younger children, and a basketball court, promoting outdoor activity and social interaction.
Community Center/Clubhouse: A designated space for residents to gather, host events, and participate in community-wide activities and social functions.
Security and Convenience Features: The community offers off-street parking and specific storage options, including RV and/or boat storage, which is valuable for residents with larger recreational vehicles.
Proximity to Local Attractions: The location is a highlight, placing residents close to the Flint Hills Discovery Center, Sunset Zoo, and Tuttle Creek State Park, providing immediate access to local recreation and educational opportunities.
Inclusion in a Quality School District: The community is situated within a quality local school district, making it an appealing option for families with school-aged children in the Manhattan-Ogden area.

Contact Information

For local users in Kansas seeking more information, wishing to inquire about current lot rent, or scheduling a tour, Colonial Gardens Manufactured Home Community can be reached using the following details:

Address: 3000 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA

Phone: (785) 539-5841

Mobile Phone: +1 785-539-5841

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Colonial Gardens Manufactured Home Community stands out as a viable housing choice specifically suited for local Kansas residents in the Manhattan area for several core reasons. Fundamentally, it provides a means for private, detached living—either through homeownership or rental—that is often more budget-friendly than traditional alternatives in a major university city. Its physical location on Tuttle Creek Boulevard offers excellent access to Manhattan’s economic drivers (K-State, Fort Riley) and necessary retail and medical services.

Furthermore, the community is geared toward family life, featuring amenities such as a swimming pool, playground, and basketball court, all within a dedicated community setting. Being part of a reputable local school district further cements its appeal to local families. For a Kansas resident looking for an affordable, family-focused environment with established community features, Colonial Gardens offers a strong proposition. However, the suitability for any local user must be weighed against the reported variability in management communication, adherence to community rules, and the potential for substantial, uncapped increases in lot rent. Local users are advised to engage directly with the community management, clearly understand all lease terms, and speak with a range of current residents to ensure the community's offerings align with their long-term housing needs and financial planning.