Columbus Property Management Rooted in Local Expertise: A City We Know by Heart

Columbus, Ohio has grown from a modest Midwestern city into one of the nation’s most vibrant and livable metros—and Oakwood Management has been part of that story since the beginning. For over 55 years, we’ve helped shape quality rental living by managing some of the region’s most recognizable apartment communities. Oakwood doesn’t just operate here—we live here. We know the neighborhoods, the trends, and the people. From Polaris to Downtown, from Hilliard to New Albany, we’re proud to serve both residents and property owners with deep local knowledge and unmatched care. We’ve weathered economic shifts, population booms, and industry change, and we’re still here — stronger than ever.

Oakwood Management Company: A Top-Rated Property Management Company in Columbus, Ohio

Oakwood Management Company is one of the largest property management companies in Columbus, Ohio, overseeing more than 12,000 apartment and townhome units across the region. Our diverse portfolio includes Class A, B, and C properties—ranging from luxury lease-ups to value-add assets—spanning garden-style communities, mid-rise buildings, and townhome communities. Our management style is: hands-on and proactive, resident-focused, and data-driven for maximum ROI. Whether you're a renter seeking a well-maintained apartment or an owner looking for reliable management, we deliver results. 

Oakwood Management includes Full-Service Columbus Property Management Solutions:

• Leasing and renewal strategies

• Property maintenance and inspections

• Online rent payment and resident portals

• Marketing and occupancy optimization

• Capital improvements and renovations

• Resident retention programs

• Vendor management and compliance

• Fair housing and regulatory oversight

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every property we manage and every relationship we build—making Oakwood a trusted name in Columbus property management.

Premium Amenities and Resident-Focused Services

We go beyond basic property management. Oakwood communities feature thoughtful amenities, well-maintained landscaping, professional on-site teams, and a focus on creating long-term resident satisfaction. From pet-friendly apartments to smart-home features and engaging resident events, we tailor every aspect of our communities for comfort and convenience.

Popular amenities across Oakwood-managed communities include:

• Pet-friendly policies and dog parks

• Smart-home technology

• In-unit washers and dryers

• State-of-the-art fitness centers

• Resort-style swimming pools

• Clubhouses and resident lounges

• Outdoor grilling and picnic areas

• Business centers and coworking spaces

• Garages and additional storage options

• Package lockers and secure mailrooms

• Playground areas and walking trails

• Golf simulators

• EV charging stations

• Coffee bars and resident cafés

• On-site maintenance and management teams

Trusted by Columbus Renters and Real Estate Investors

Oakwood Management has earned the trust of thousands of residents and investors across Central Ohio. With consistent five-star reviews on Google, Apartments.com, and more, we’re recognized for our professionalism, responsiveness, and community-focused management style. Our average occupancy rates exceed 95%, and many of our partners have worked with us for over a decade. Oakwood was recently recognized in the 2022 Elite 1% ORA® Power Rankings by J Turner Research, with communities like Highpoint on Columbus Commons and Woodland Trace ranked among the nation's best for online reputation. Here’s what real residents and property owners have to say about their experience with Oakwood Management.

• “Management is always quick to respond to my emails, and I appreciate that I can walk down to the office if I have any quick questions. They are also quick to let people know if the pool, gym or lobby will be closed for any reason. Maintenance always comes the same day that I put a request in, and they're very nice.” – Laura Y, 5-Star Google Review – Resident at River & Rich

• “The View at Polaris is the best place I have ever lived. I am about to sign for yet another 15 month lease. Beautiful pool, clubhouse, and neighborhood. Oakwood management is great and I have never had one problem in the last 2.5 years I have been here! The property is well maintained and VERY clean. – Taylor G, 5-Star Google Review – Resident at The View at Polaris

• “I’ve lived here for 3 years and absolutely love it! I have had ZERO issues at all. Anything I’ve ever needed fixed or helped with, the office staff is able to solve anything immediately. – Hannah S, 5-Star Google Review – Oakwood Resident

Resident Perks & Tenant Benefits with Oakwood Management

Oakwood Management offers more than great apartments—we provide tools and services to support your lifestyle and financial goals. Here’s a list of valuable resident perks and tenant benefits available at many of our communities:

• 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance — Prompt, professional support around the clock for peace of mind.

• Pet-Friendly Housing — Most communities welcome pets and feature dog parks or pet stations. Breed and weight restrictions may apply.

• In-House Recycling Program — Available at select communities for convenient sustainability.

• Online Application & Lease Signing — Apply, sign, and move in digitally with ease.

• Digital Rent Payments — Pay rent securely through our online resident portal.

• Utility Set-Up Assistance — Help arrange water and trash services before move-in at select locations.

• Flex Rent Payment Option — Spread your rent into smaller payments using Flex, where available.

• RentTrack Credit Reporting — Opt in to build your credit by reporting on-time rent payments to major credit bureaus.

• Home Purchase Rebate Program — Residents at select communities (like Albany Glen and River & Rich) may qualify for a cash-back rebate when buying a home through CASTO Residential Realty.

These perks are designed to make everyday living smoother, more rewarding, and more connected to long-term goals—whether you're building credit, settling in, or planning for homeownership.

Showcase: Oakwood-Managed Communities in Central Ohio

Take a look at a few of the diverse apartment communities we proudly manage across Central Ohio—each offering distinct amenities, style, and neighborhood appeal.

• The Ravines at Westar: Wooded Westerville retreat with pool, fitness center, and coworking lounge.

• Northstar Flats: Delaware apartments with golf simulator, pet spa, and top-tier finishes.

• The Residence at Topiary Park: Downtown Columbus location with walkable access to art, coffee, and green space.

These featured communities reflect the range, quality, and care that define Oakwood’s approach to property management across Central Ohio.

Why Real Estate Owners Choose Oakwood Management

Oakwood Management is trusted by developers, investors, and property owners throughout Central Ohio for full-service property management that blends institutional-grade expertise with personalized attention. Whether you’re managing 100 units or 300, we tailor our services to your goals—prioritizing strong NOI performance, asset longevity, and resident satisfaction.

We’re proud to be:

• Recognized as the #1 Residential Property Management Company by Columbus Business First

• Awarded a C-Suite Honor for President & CEO Keith Jones' leadership impact by Columbus Business First

• A Rating by the Better Business Bureau 

• Recommended by local real estate professionals on LinkedIn and beyond

Reputation matters—and Oakwood’s speaks for itself.

Contact the Leading Property Management Experts in Columbus

Looking for trusted property management in Columbus, Ohio? Let’s talk. Oakwood offers the local knowledge, institutional experience, and service-first mindset to maximize your investment and elevate your community.

Click here to contact Oakwood Management today or explore our communities to see our management philosophy in action.

The post Oakwood Management: Columbus Property Management You Can Trust appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

Last year was nothing short of extraordinary for Oakwood Management. We celebrated major milestones, strengthened our presence in thriving neighborhoods, and reinforced our reputation as the premier apartment management company in the Columbus region. Now, as we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited to introduce the newest additions to Oakwood communities, designed to elevate the living experience for residents across Central Ohio.

2025 New Community Openings

Looking for Oakwood apartments or Oakwood townhomes with premium amenities? Here’s a sneak peek at the communities opening this year:

1. Oxford Park – Located near New Albany, this vibrant community features 216 one- and two-bedroom apartments with standout amenities like a high-tech golf simulator, a heated pool, and a modern gym. We look forward to this community opening at the end of Q1 2025. Select units will offer apartments with garages, perfect for residents seeking extra storage and convenience.

2. Copper Run – A 240-apartment community in Marysville, Copper Run offers luxury living with easy access to the city’s expanding job market, including major employers like Honda. Completion is slated for Q2 2025. 

3. Retreat at Citygate – Conveniently situated near Gahanna, this community provides a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Located minutes from John Glenn Columbus International Airport, this community will open at the end of Q1 2025.

4. The Zelle at Polaris – This community just opened its doors for community tours. Featuring 84 studio and 1-bedroom floor plans, this community offers affordable living with a luxury lifestyle in Polaris, one of Columbus’s most sought-after shopping and entertainment districts.

5. Meadows at Sunbury – Opening in Q2, this community will offer 120 high-quality apartment homes in the heart of Sunbury, with select homes featuring apartments with attached garages. With easy access to I-71, this community is ideal for commuters looking for modern living outside the city.

6. Keeneland Place – Keeneland Place marks the largest of our 2025 projects with 384 apartments opening in Grove City in summer 2025. Future residents will enjoy access to premium amenities and Oakwood apartments designed for modern living. With spacious layouts and nearby shopping at Stringtown Road, this community is perfect for those looking for convenience and comfort.

7. Galaxy at Polaris – The highly anticipated Galaxy at Polaris will launch in early Fall 2025. With 289 apartments, residents will enjoy top-notch amenities, unparalleled convenience, and options for apartments with garage parking. Located just minutes from Polaris Fashion Place, this community offers a premier living experience.

8. Retreat at Marysville – Opening at the end of 2025, this community will add 130 apartments to our growing portfolio. This addition to Oakwood properties will feature stylish layouts, modern conveniences, and easy access to Marysville’s thriving business sector.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

In addition to these openings, we’re breaking ground on several communities set to open in 2026. These developments reflect our commitment to thoughtful growth, innovative design, and creating vibrant communities where residents can thrive.

Find Your Next Home with Oakwood Management

Whether you’re looking for apartments with EV charging, dog parks, or modern apartment gyms in Central Ohio, we have a community that fits your lifestyle. Visit our website to explore floor plans, schedule a tour, and find your perfect home today!

Here’s to an exciting 2025 filled with growth, innovation, and new beginnings!

The post 8 New Apartments Communities Coming to Central Ohio in 2025 appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

Oakwood is excited to announce the groundbreaking of Oxford Park, our first project of the year. Located near New Albany, Ohio, this new community will feature 216 modern apartments. The breakdown includes 72 will be 1-bedroom apartments and  144 will be 2-bedroom apartments.

Unique Amenities

Oxford Park will offer exceptional amenities, including a high-tech golf simulator, a tanning bed, and a luxurious heated pool, enhancing the quality of life for all who call it home. Additional amenities include a large clubhouse with a coffee bar, a modern gym, and a package concierge room.

Prime Location

Oxford Park is located on College Road between Westerville and New Albany. Situated across from Oakwood-managed The Fenimore, Oxford Park is in a thriving area. This development responds to the growing need for apartments following the announcement of the new Intel plant, which has spurred significant economic growth in the region.

Stay Connected

As construction progresses, we will share updates on our social media. We look forward to welcoming residents to Oxford Park and contributing to the vibrant New Albany community. Please visit our website or follow us on social media for more information and updates.

The post Oakwood Breaks Ground on Oxford Park Near New Albany, Ohio appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

2024 will be a hot year for Oakwood as 10 new communities will welcome residents across Central Ohio. These communities span from Mount Vernon to Marysville, to Grove City, Ohio. Columbus remains a hot housing market and is one of the top places for young professionals to choose to live. The year ahead promises not only growth for Oakwood but also an enhanced living experience for those looking to be a part of Central Ohio's thriving communities.

These 10 communities offer many of the must-haves for apartment renters, including resort-style pools, modern fitness centers, dog parks with dog washing stations, secure package rooms, electric vehicle charging stations, and much more. In every community, you can count on round-the-clock emergency maintenance and a dedicated onsite team ready to attend to all the needs of our residents. At Oakwood, we believe that home should be easy so our residents enjoy a convenient online resident portal to pay rent, request maintenance, and receive important communication from the onsite staff. 

Beulah Place Phase 2: Beulah Place Phase 2 will be opening up in Quarter 1, adding 120 new apartments to the larger Beulah Park project. 

Mill 23 at Coughlin Crossing: This new Delaware community is located at the crossroads of Stratford Road and Route 23. Mill 23 features 1 & 2-bedroom apartment layouts, including classic carriage-style buildings with garages for rent.

Retreat at Canal: Slated to open within the first Quarter of 2024, Retreat at Canal will be our second community in Canal Winchester.

Club at Woodside: One of two Oakwood communities set to open in Marysville this year, Club at Woodside will feature nearly 200 new apartments. This community will open in Quarter 2. 

Retreat at Marysville: This community will open within Quarter 3 of 2024 with 130 new apartments. 

Retreat at Mount Vernon: Our inaugural Mount Vernon community is set to open in Quarter 2. This first phase is bringing 152 apartments to Mount Vernon. 

Fenimore Phase 2: The second phase of this New Albany community will add 96 new apartment homes in Quarter 3 of 2024. 

Zelle at Polaris: This Polaris community is located off Lazelle Road., It marks Oakwood’s 8th community in Polaris. Its 84 new apartments will start leasing in Quarter 4 of 2024. 

Three additional communities are scheduled for Quarter 4 of 2024 in Dublin, Powell, and Gahanna, collectively adding 482 more apartments to Central Ohio.

Community Featured in Image: Retreat at Canal 

The post 10 New Communities Coming Online in 2024 appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

Drum roll, please! The doors to Northstar Flats are officially open in the heart of Sunbury, Ohio! We celebrated this brand-new community’s ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, November 27th. This modern apartment community is now open for tours, and you could be moving in within just a few short weeks! If you are looking for suburban tranquility with a vibrant lifestyle, Northstar Flats is the place for you! 

Our residents will enjoy fantastic amenities geared around a fun, easy lifestyle. Our amenities include a cutting-edge golf simulator, a heated resort-style pool, a rejuvenating tanning bed, a gourmet coffee bar, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a community garden.

Choose from our selection of 1-bedroom or 2-bedroom homes, each thoughtfully designed for your comfort and style. Discover spacious, open living areas complete with high-end finishes. With stainless steel appliances, durable hardwood-style flooring, elegant pendant lighting, and other designer touches, you have the perfect canvas to create your dream home.

Situated just north of Columbus, Northstar Flats is truly one-of-a-kind. It is strategically situated at the crossroads of state Route 36/37 and Interstate 71 for easy access to Delaware, Polaris, and more. Find shopping just minutes away at Tanger Outlets and the Polaris Mall, with various grocery stores just a short 15-minute drive away.

For those seeking culinary delights, you'll find many enticing restaurants in nearby Sunbury and along Main Street in charming Delaware. One of our staff favorites is Surve right in the heart of Sunbury! 

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and excitement at Northstar Flats – your gateway to an exceptional lifestyle in Sunbury, Ohio! Schedule your tour today! 

The post Northstar Flats Celebrates Opening in Sunbury, Ohio appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

Summer is in full swing, and Oakwood is showing no signs of slowing down. With 4 new communities already breaking ground this season, the momentum is strong. One of the most exciting ventures is the start of construction at The Galaxy at Polaris—a project set to redefine the concept of multi-use development. Nestled conveniently in the heart of Polaris, The Galaxy isn't merely aiming to be an apartment community; it's striving to craft an entire neighborhood that fosters connection, convenience, and community. This community is set to launch in Fall 2025.

A Vision Beyond Brick and Mortar
As the latest addition to Oakwood's portfolio, The Galaxy at Polaris stands as a testament to a forward-thinking approach to urban planning. The developers are building a thriving microcosm—a place where residents can live, work, and play harmoniously. The developers envision a dynamic blend of residential and commercial spaces that seamlessly integrate and foster a sense of unity and purpose.

Unveiling the Project's Scope
This community includes a 731-space public parking garage, a six-story apartment building featuring 289 units, approximately 37,000 square feet of vibrant commercial spaces, meandering walking paths, a lush park, and an inviting amphitheater—all situated on an expansive 16-acre canvas. The commercial aspect of this project is equally enticing. A 7,000-square-foot restaurant will become a culinary hub, providing a delightful gastronomic experience. Complementing this, a 25,000-square-foot entertainment and restaurant space promises to be a dynamic destination for leisure, making every outing a memorable one.

A Haven for Active Lifestyles
Anticipating and embracing the pulse of the community, The Galaxy goes above and beyond by catering to the growing popularity of outdoor sports. The introduction of 12 outdoor pickleball courts caters to the surge in demand for this engaging and social sport. With the foresight to potentially cover these courts in the future, The Galaxy ensures that residents' preferences are not only met but exceeded.

Shaping the Future Together
The Galaxy at Polaris is more than just a construction project; it's a collaborative endeavor to mold the future of urban living. Oakwood's commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and harmonious neighborhood shines through in every aspect of this development. By embracing diversity, innovation, and the spirit of togetherness, The Galaxy at Polaris is your portal to an extraordinary lifestyle.

Discover this out-of-world experience on our website.

The post Breaking Ground at The Galaxy at Polaris: Creating a Neighborhood, Not Just an Apartment Community appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

When a new community pops up, it’s often touted as being “mixed-use,” meaning it features retail and office space in close proximity to traditional living developments like apartments and condos. The shift to these types of properties fits into a larger pattern of development planning called New Urbanism, which promotes human-scale living with walkable public spaces. In other words, New Urbanism forgoes the spaced out houses of older suburbs in favor of denser, more communal living.

What is New Urbanism? Dating back to the 1980s, New Urbanism is a form of urban planning that is designed to minimally require a car. The supporters of New Urbanism seek to create compact town centers that serve as a hub for business, retail, and living. Garages are typically tucked out of the way and used in place of traditional parking lots when possible, encouraging residents to walk between spaces. The movement is meant to be holistic and pragmatic, connecting all aspects of a resident’s life easily and accessibly and making the affected area function better.

Design principles. When picturing New Urbanism, a sleek and modern city may first come to mind. However, design is a key part of this kind of development but is certainly not limited to modern finishes. A traditional “Main Street” of a suburb can often exemplify the principles of this policy, since residents can walk to businesses while homes are just around the corner. The architecture on Main Street is likely colonial or Victorian, yet the space can still be New Urbanist. Buildings and layouts are designed to create functional communities, with open spaces and foot traffic patterns encouraging residents to interact with one another and create a true neighborly atmosphere.

Sustainability as a priority. New Urbanists also strive to create communities that are sustainable. The reduction of car traffic plays a key role in this, with residents opting to walk instead of drive to complete common tasks. The sprawling suburbs that came before New Urbanism do not offer this option, with a simple trip around the corner requiring a car because of the large size of the lots. New Urbanists frequently rely on the redevelopment of historic properties to conserve land as well as the social spirit of their neighborhoods.

Cities featuring New Urbanism. Some cities have incorporated New Urbanism beyond individual developments, allowing major sections of their city to embody this strategy. For example, the historic city of Charleston, South Carolina is well-known for its walkability. The port city was built on a peninsula that limits its physical expansion, so throughout the years, the city has been redesigned to incorporate continued growth while preserving historic areas. Similarly, Alexandria, Virginia has also been thoughtfully redeveloped by New Urbanists, with bikes incorporated as a major transportation method rather than cars.

New Urbanism in Columbus. Columbus has New Urbanist properties and communities dotted throughout the city. Newer communities like The Pointe at Polaris and River and Rich exemplify New Urbanist principles, and the Beulah Park project in Grove City builds this kind of mixed-use area on a much larger scale. Additionally, suburbs like Hilliard are promoting business and living close to their uptown districts; residents of Landmark Lofts are able to walk over to Old Hilliard and all the businesses and recreation it offers.

New Urbanism is changing the way American cities look and operate. The increased shift to denser, more bustling parts of the city certainly affects Columbus, and Oakwood is excited to be a part of both this new movement and other types of development.

See Oakwood’s mixed-use developments as well as other apartments that are part of our 50+ communities, on our website here.

The post The Rise of New Urbanism appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.

On Friday May 3, ground was officially broken for the Beulah Park redevelopment in Grove City. Oakwood Management Company team members were in attendance to celebrate our part in this historic renovation of one of Grove City’s most beloved spots, as Oakwood Management Company will manage the apartment community planned for the first phase of development.

Beulah Park was originally a thoroughbred racetrack founded in 1923, located seven miles outside of Columbus in Grove City and open seven days a week. For ninety years, the racetrack served as the centerpiece to Grove City, a favorite gathering place for residents and a fun source of entertainment for all of Columbus. The park hosted such great horses as Glacial Princess, a mare whose remains were buried at Beulah Park.

Now, Pat Kelley of developer Falco, Smith & Kelley Ltd. plans to redevelop the track centered around a sense of “new urbanism,” retaining the “historical significance and nostalgia for Grove City” that the site provides. The Beulah Park Living project will feature 264 apartments, 104 ranch-style homes, 80 town-home condominiums, 94 assisted-living luxury units, and 516 single family homes in the first phase. The community covers an extensive piece of land that will serve as a connector to Grove City’s Town Center, with plans to extend key road Columbus Street.

The architectural style of the community will be a combination of cottage and craftsman. In addition to the residential plans, Beulah Park will also have a sixty-acre park and neighborhood-scale retail and office space. The incorporation of mixed-use spaces and dedicated land for parks shows a commitment to making the development a true neighborhood for Grove City.

Regarding the project, Oakwood Director of Operations Ken Knox said, “The Beulah Park project is a significant development for both Grove City and the Columbus metropolitan area as it represents the redevelopment of an attraction that served as a popular destination within the region for nearly a century. Oakwood is thrilled to have received the management contract for the apartments and proud to play a role in the redevelopment of a local treasure.”

The post Beulah Park Groundbreaking Begins Historic Redevelopment appeared first on Oakwood Management Blog.