FAQs

What is Solara?

Solara is an exciting, ground-breaking, state-of-the-art, eco-friendly, “net-zero” luxury apartment community located at 291 North Thompson St. in Rotterdam NY.  By combining energy efficiency, renewable generation and smart technology, Solara is one of the most technologically advanced and luxurious apartment communities ever built. Learn more about Solara and net zero communities here.

What do the apartments rent for?

General information about the units types and pricing can be found on the Apartments page. Rental pricing for specific units is posted under the Available Units page of this website.

Are the apartments available for viewing?

Yes! We have our model apartment home open for viewing. Contact us today to set up a personal tour!

How do I go about applying for an apartment?

The Available Units page of the website allows prospective residents to submit an application on-line.  There is a $20 application fee to cover the cost of screening which is paid via credit card. You may become pre-approved and may reserve a unit now with a deposit once you are approved.

What are the lease terms, deposits and rental payment arrangements?

The lease term is initially 1 year.  After 1 year, the lease will default to month-to-month.  A security deposit is required in the amount of $300 deposit for any layout. First month’s rent and security is required to be paid prior to move-in. All residents are required to carry a renter’s insurance policy.  All rental payments are made on-line through our convenient Resident Portal. The Resident Portal allows our residents to pay rent, track their rental account and make maintenance requests when and where they want, 24/7, from any computer, tablet or smart-phone.

What utilities are provided as part of the rent?

This is the good part! With Luxury-One pricing, your rental payment includes the cost of ALL utilities including water, sewer, garbage collection, electricity, heat, hot water, air-conditioning, snow removal, high speed internet, DISHTV, smart home technology, covered parking and electric vehicle charging. Make one payment per month for all of your living expenses. No more shocking National Grid bills to worry about!  Click here for more details regarding Luxury-One pricing.

What appliances are included?

Each apartment comes with an electric range/oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, built-in microwave, full-sized washer and dryer and a smart home automation hub.  All lighting is from energy efficient and long-lasting LED fixtures. No more changing burned-out lightbulbs!

Are there garages or covered parking available?

There is plenty of complimentary covered parking under the solar carports.  In addition, there is uncovered parking right next to the building entries. We do not have garages on the property.  Spaces are not assigned but are on a first-come-first-serve basis.

What is your smoking policy?

Solara is proud to be a completely smoke-free community. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the buildings and anywhere on the grounds or in the parking lot. This no smoking policy is strictly enforced.

What is your pet policy?

Solara is not only pet friendly but pet passionate! Dogs, cats and other small animals (i.e., birds, hamsters, etc.) are allowed with written permission. An additional $100 security deposit is required for each dog and cat. The maximum number of animals allowed is three. There is a monthly fee along with a one-time, non-refundable $100 pet fee. Please click here for monthly fees.

Will my energy use be restricted?

No, energy use will not be restricted as long as usage is reasonable. The goal of the net zero concept is for the community to use no more energy than can be generated by on-site renewable sources. The buildings of the community were computer modeled using typical apartment energy data to estimate usage. From this model, the on-site energy generation was sized. A key component to meeting the net zero goal is resident behavior. Being mindful and using common sense when consuming energy is all that is required to meet the goals of net zero. Examples of common sense include, turning off lights when not home and closing windows properly during the heating and cooling season. To encourage conservation, each apartment is individually monitored for energy use. Usage information is displayed in on a small screen within each apartment with other information to provide feedback to each resident.

Are barbeques allowed?

NYS fire code prohibits propane tanks and open flames within 10 feet of the building. Charcoal, gas or any other open flame barbeques are not allowed.  However, electric barbeques are allowed on the apartment porches.

What are the provisions for electric vehicle (EV) charging?

We are proud proponent of electric vehicles. We plan on having at least 15 vehicle chargers per 24 unit apartment building.   EV charging is FREE and is mostly Level 1 charging of around 3kW. Please contact us if you have or are planning to purchase an electrical vehicle.  We would be happy to answer any questions.