TLT Properties

Positive experience: Genuinely great apartments for the price and when repairs had to be made things got done! Had some maintenance and pest issues in the first place I lived at under TLT but ultimately landed at a lovely little place and when I needed to add someone to the lease it was super easy and Todd was super helpful!!

Positive experience: I rented from Todd for two years, two different apartments. Rent is cheap, Todd communicates well and is accommodating. He is generous with returning security deposits. However, you get what you pay for. Both apartments suffered from years of deferred maintenance. I appreciate the quirks of historic buildings, but issues I experienced were due to neglect, not simply age. In my first unit, the hardwood floors were so poorly maintained I received multiple splinters from walking barefoot. The steam radiators had constant leaks (I have videos of them spitting water), but despite repeatedly contacting maintenance, they were never fixed. In my second unit, one of the iron radiators literally broke through the floor. I reported the problem upon move in, and maintenance promised to have a contractor look at it. When I followed up, they refused saying "its just what happens with those old radiators" (yes it happens, but should still be fixed). Both units' walls were rough shape (warped/cracked) - this does happen with older buildings but property owners who care about their buildings can address it (I grew up in an 1800s house that predates both of these bldgs). When I moved into my 2nd unit, I discovered the washing machine was broken (an advertised amenity). It took 5 months to replace, which was super frustrating and forced me to spend excessive money and time at the laundromat. My experience with maintenance was complicated. Andy is very nice guy, but I suspect he is responsible for more maintaining way more units than would allow for thorough care. Andy was sometimes very responsible to texts, other times not. To his credit, he was excellent in emergencies, but I do not think it is normal or acceptable that I experienced several of them to begin with. In my 2nd unit, the faucet snapped off the kitchen sink, the boiler broke several times during the winter, and a squirrel fell down the chimney INTO MY FIREPLACE - which could have been avoided had they capped the chimney or repaired the broken damper which I reported upon move-in. There were a myriad of other issues when I moved in to that unit that Andy and his team addressed quickly, which I appreciated -- replacing several outlets that could no longer hold a plug, broken blinds, dangerous kitchen shelves missing brackets. Other issues were brushed off, like the aforementioned fireplace damper and radiator. Also upon move-in to the 2nd unit, I reported sizable holes around kitchen plumbing and nearby mouse droppings. Maintenance refused to seal the holes, saying that mice could fit through even tiny gaps. That might be true, but these gaps were not tiny. Ultimately, I did trap a mouse and had to purchase my own supplies and seal off the holes myself - after which, I had no more mice. The entrances/stairwells/hallways in both bldgs I lived in were also gross and never cleaned in the time I lived there. The major issue is that TLT does not perform any maintenance between tenants. I moved between 2 units and there was no turnover period. Decades of neglecting maintenance in this way leads to many of the issues I've shared here. My first year renting from TLT was okay enough because I moved into another of his units, which unfortunately had far worse maintenance issues that made my time there unpleasant. It is a beautiful old house, and it is a shame it is in such poor condition. I give TLT 3/5 stars because I think it is still a better option than many of the mega-slumlords in CU that exploit students. But, I believe that your experience with Todd and TLT will depend greatly on the condition of your specific unit. Rent is cheap, and I was willing to tolerate the tradeoffs for a couple of years while on a budget in graduate school, but I caution you not to rely on video or remote-only tours to accept the condition of an apartment. On a final note though, I had to pay a non-refundable pet fee of $250, which I think is absurd given the condition of the units and the lack of repairs made between tenants. That money isn't going anywhere except the landlord's pocket.

Fantastic experience: I’ve rented from Todd for two years the apartment was great! And he was always super responsive for any questions. His maintenance teams was great and responsive as well. If I wasn’t moving I would have stay another year in the unit.

Fantastic experience: Lived at one of Todd's properties for two years and would recommend anyone to rent from him! The space was perfect, location ideal, and never had any problems. He is super responsive, as is his maintenance team. If I weren't moving out of town, I'd stay at the place longer. Uncomplicated, responsive, and good price -- the trifecta you don't often see!

Positive experience: For almost 13 years, I lived in an apartment in a house divided into four units. Todd took over the management of the property under Heath Properties name a few years into my time there. He was always very responsive to issues, and he tried to be fair to all tenants. My experience of both Jim and Andy on maintenance is that they were both kind, professional, and responsive. I don't think I ever waited over 24 hours for a response--not sure how they do it! A lot of these old houses have great character and are in beautiful neighborhoods with lovely views in every season. They also have their quirks, and sometimes you have to accept that. You can have a nice quality of life in these places when neighbors respect each other by not smoking where others will be affected and by maintaining reasonable quiet hours and just generally respecting each other. I will miss "my trees" and old neighborhood. That place helped me through a tough life transition. Rent was reasonable and allowed me to get back on my feet and eventually over time even pay off my student loans. Todd was also kind enough to find a tenant to take my apartment early when my situation changed and there was a timing issue. I tried to leave my apartment looking a little better than when I moved in and got my full deposit back. Thanks, Todd, Jim, and Andy, for your patience and help over the years!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been renting from Todd/ TLT properties for the past two years and I couldn’t be happier. From day one, they made the entire process smooth and transparent. What stands out most is the communication. Responses to messages or maintenance requests are almost always within a few hours, and never more than a day. When something needs fixing, it gets handled quickly and professionally whether it was a leaky faucet, or HVAC issue.They clearly take pride in keeping the property in great shape. The unit itself was clean and well-maintained when I moved in, and they’ve continued to make thoughtful improvements (new ac unit and heating, new roof just last year). Rent increases have been reasonable and always communicated well in advance. As a tenant, I’ve never felt like just a number; they treat you with respect and fairness. I’ve already recommended them to friends and family who were looking in the Monticello area and I’d happily rent from them again if I weren’t in a house now. If you’re looking for a reliable, responsive landlord who actually cares about their properties and tenants, look no further.

Positive experience: Responsive and easy to work with.

Negative experience: The heating pipe in my room makes a loud knocking noise day and night. This has been ongoing throughout the winter and spring. Even when it is around 60°F outside, the heating system is still running. I first used earplugs to sleep, but over time this led to an ear problems and treatment. Now I either wake up dozens of times per night because of the noise or have to stay with friends just to get proper rest. I pay for this room $ 1000 per month. Living in this apartment has been difficult for the whole time (even before Todd became the owner of this house, the ceiling in my room was constantly leaking, and I had to move out a few times for the repairs). Both landlords have been aware of the noise issue but done nothing to resolve it. Excuse : “it’s an old house”. Todd doesn’t even answer my letters with video of the noise (which eventually made me write this review here). Instead, he wants me to pay rent for summer months and is going to take legal actions against me if I don’t. Although my visa and stipend end in May and I will no longer be able to stay, and it is unrealistic to sublet the room for summer and with noise problems + the squirrels living in the walls. Local landlords never let international students to sign the lease for 6-9 months, he knows that. Sadly, but I would not recommend this property company and the landlord who only cares about profit, as well as I do not recommend 603 W Green St Urbana property to live in.

Positive experience: I rented from TLT for about a year. It was a good place in a quiet neighborhood. It was a decent price in comparison to other studios in the area. Todd was very accepting of my pets, which was absolutely wonderful. The only minor complaint/suggestion was the laundry room/area was less than desirable and the dryer wasn't the best. The building was older, so a few things, such as the stairs, needed a little updating. Overall though, I would recommend TLT properties to anyone who would ask me about landlords/rental agencies in the area.

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience living in TLT properties. My place was well priced and dealing with the management team was very simple the few times things needed service

Fantastic experience: I was a tenant with Todd for three years and I highly recommend his properties. The place was well maintained and the handyman, Andy, is responsive and effective. Todd was open to any issues I had while still allowing us to paint and plant a garden. I really loved having a private landlord that was responsive and would work with me over one of the big companies that fight you over every little thing. Overall good landlord.

Fantastic experience: I rented a lovely space from Todd in Champaign and had an excellent experience from start to finish. The property was clean on move in, the rent was very reasonable, and any needs or requests were taken care of immediately. Communication was always easy, and it’s clear he takes good care of the spaces he manages. When we moved out, we left the unit in great condition and received our full security deposit back without any hassle. If you’re looking for a reliable, hands-on property manager in Champaign, I highly recommend Todd!

Positive experience: I enjoyed my apartment and the closeness to downtown. It was a really nice and quiet area. Todd was really flexible and easy to work with, as well as attentive to all repairs. Some units are older (but charming!), so repairs were somewhat frequent. They were handled quickly though! I moved to a larger apartment elsewhere, but I would recommend Todd and TLT Properties if you're in the area. Also, rent is extremely reasonable with him.

Fantastic experience: I rented with TLT for three years and it was the best experience I've had in as a renter. Todd was very accommodating, understanding, and has excellent communication. He goes an extra mile for his tenants and if you have any issues he as well as Andy addresses them as soon as possible. If it wasn’t for needing to care for someone else I would have continued renting there.

Positive experience: Rented from Todd for about three years and never had any huge issues. My apartment was a really good price for what I was getting and Todd was able to get maintenence over to me pretty quickly once when my heat went out.

Fantastic experience: Rented from TLT Properties for the last 3 years...if I wasn't moving out of state, it would of been my forever apartment. If I ever had any issues they were fixed, or resolved in a timely manner. If you're ever looking for an apartment in Rantoul and you see a TLT apartment open on South Garrard...I suggest taking a look, you won't be disappointed. Older house turned into an apartments...amazing yard, with a park like setting. Interior is awesome with some of the older home features.

Fantastic experience: TLT Properties is a great company to rent from! Management is more than willing to work with their clients to ensure everyone's satisfied!

Fantastic experience: As an international student who came to the US right at the beginning of the academic year, it was particularly challenging to find an apartment in CU area. I did not have a US phone, so I emailed variuos companies. Even though this happened on Sunday, I was surprised that Todd (who runs TLT properties) replied to my email in a couple of hours the very same day and offered a couple of available options. A couple of days after that I signed a contract and lived there for 3 years. Todd helped with the paperwork and later was always available if he needed to be contacted. Overall, I had a very positive experience with TLT properties which I can call a company with a human face. Thanks!

Fantastic experience: Lived in a divided, single bedroom, old house for a few years. Other than the age of the building, it was a very cozy apartment. Landlord replies to questions and requests promptly, and is overall easy to work with.

Fantastic experience: I rented a unit from TLT and this was the only rental company of all the companies in the Champaign area that I renewed a lease with. Very reasonable prices. Todd and maintenance are always responsive. I definitely recommend renting through TLT!

Fantastic experience: Todd is an awesome landlord. I lived under his management for 7 years. The only reason I moved is because I needed to get my dog off of the second floor climbing stairs (for longevity life). The maintenance guy Jim is very personable and time sensitive. Todd is pet friendly without breed/weight restrictions. I'm really appreciative to have lived under his management.

Fantastic experience: I lived in 2 different TLT properties over the course of 5 years both in Monticello and Champaign. The maintenance men, Jim and Andy were both phenomenal and very kind. Todd is always easy to reach and willing to help. Both apartments were affordable and cozy.

Fantastic experience: I rented from Todd for 3 years in 2 different properties, and I had a great experience. He is always quick to respond to any concerns I may have had. The properties I rented were old but both very beautiful and charming as old houses are. They had a lot of windows for natural light, original hardwood floors, and nice outdoor areas either a front porch or balcony. The streets were also cute and I felt safe walking them with my newborn son. TLT Properties is a great company to work with. Should I ever move back to Champaign, Todd would be the first landlord on my list.

Fantastic experience: Todd has been the best landlord I’ve had in CU. Rent has been reasonable. Andy, his maintenance man does a great job as well!

Fantastic experience: I have yet to rent under Todd (though that may change in the future) however when I had questions regarding a unit he was quick to respond and give me all the information I asked for and then some! I greatly appreciated his attentiveness and positivity. It's a breath of fresh air to find landlords who care!

Fantastic experience: Lived in multiple properties for multiple years. Reasonable and understanding experience, issues typically handled in a timely manner. Todd was always responsive to concerns!

Positive experience: Todd is a great landlord! Never had too many problems but if I had any questions or concerns he always got back to me in a timely manner and the maintenance was quick as well. I had a spacious one bedroom with lots of windows, natural light and HUGE bathroom in a perfect location next to campus, downtown, public library , restaurants, etc. all for a great price. Unfortunately I had to leave my beautiful one bedroom but would definitely look to TLT Properties if I make my way back here!

Positive experience: I've rented a couple of places from tlt properties over the last several years and have been pleased with all of them. Responses to concerns were always quick, lawns taken care of and communication was great. They definitely worked with me when I needed them to and it was appreciated. ​my neighbors have always been pretty good too but maybe i just got lucky with that one. I never felt I was being over charged for the places I was at and I got a lot of space for a great price. Lots of character too. Not saying it was always perfect or didn't need work but always felt safe, things that needed work got done quickly and even the maintenance man was mindful of my time and talked me through things before doing anything. When I couldn't get out of work on time to sing my lease Todd realized I worked across the street from him and came over to me, so I could sign the lease. Never made things more difficult, very straight forward and always helpedlful. If you're searching for a new place, definitely consider TLT Properties.

Positive experience: I had a great price on a huge one bedroom apartment for 3 years. When I needed to end my lease early, Todd found a tenant to take the apartment over and gave me my deposit back without an issue. You get what you pay for in my opinion- it was definitely an older unit with some quirks. The laundry situation was not ideal. To be fair though, I was probably only paying for 60-70% of what it would have gone for if it was immaculately maintained. Maintenance seemed pretty busy, I had to ask several times to get things done sometimes, but for big problems (raccoon in the crawlspaces, no hot water, heat went out) they were on it within 24 hours. If you're willing to compromise on these points for a great price, TLT is a good option.

Fantastic experience: Very nice guy. Super professional and made my mom a priority since she is disabled. Not too many like him in this world. Thank you Todd we look forward to doing business with you

Fantastic experience: I rented from Todd for the 7 years I lived in Champaign at two different TLT properties, and I can honestly say that my experience in Champaign would not have been as good as it was had I gone with a different landlord/rental company. I signed my lease blind from out of state the very first year and Todd was incredibly accommodating and understanding of the situation, and went out of his way to send me extra pictures of the apartment both inside and out so I knew what I was getting when I signed (this was before video tours were a common thing). When I moved out of that apartment to a bigger one with TLT, Todd happily showed me every unit I had even a little interest in so I could make whatever choice was best and went over the honest pros and cons of each as we went through them. From a renter perspective, TLT is fantastic. Maintenance requests were always taken care of within a few days, and the few times where a very serious issue happened (i.e., pipes bursting) maintenance was there on the same-day to make sure no damage was done to anything inside the apartment. Huge shout out to Jim and Andy for always taking care of things. Any time there was any situation with extenuating circumstances for either me or my roommates over the years Todd was always very understanding and flexible and always genuinely tried to work to help make things work seamlessly. We always had plenty of heads up when our apartment was going to be shown, and there was constant communication in all of the move out / move in processes. I really can’t say enough good things about Todd / TLT and the experience I had renting from him. If you have the option to rent from TLT over any other group, do it, you won’t regret it.

Fantastic experience: I had rented an apartment from TLT an I must say Todd was a pretty good landlord appreciate you

Fantastic experience: TLT provides affordable housing in the Champaign area. Well managed and fair. Highly recommended

Fantastic experience: After several not-so-positive experiences with landlords and leasing companies, leasing under Todd was a breeze! Easy to get ahold of, quick to reply and relaxed. Maintenance staff was efficient, friendly and overall helpful as well.

Negative experience: Apartment was ran down, neighbors were always fighting. Neighbor controlled heat in our apartment. I certainly rented from you.

Positive experience: I lived in this apartment for 10 years, the last seven of which Todd was the owner of the building. Maintenance staff were always easy to work with and very responsive. Todd was flexible and responsive when any issues arose in the building. Very good feedback during during transition of taking ownership of the building. When I decided to move and the apartment needed to be shown, Todd made it easy to schedule a time and allow me to get out of the house with my dog. He was very communicative when it came time for me to move out and I had come down with COVID during that week, he gave me a few extra hours to get everything out and cleaned up and provided quick feedback on the status of the vacant apartment.

Fantastic experience: Renting from TLT properties was amazing! Todd is so responsive and always happy to help! Jim who helped with the maintenance is also very friendly! Overall would rent from TLT properties again!

Fantastic experience: Todd, and Jim do an amazing job quickly responding to any issues that arise and helping resolve those issues right away. Both are professional with their responses, and show a ton of respect for their tenants. I highly recommend renting from TLT Properties

Fantastic experience: Todd was my landlord these past three years and it was a great experience! He is very responsive, his maintenance team is very helpful and proactive, and is empathetic to the needs of his tenants. He's a great landlord to have!

Fantastic experience: Great management company! My current building was bought by TLT a couple years ago, and the speed of replies from Todd and the maintenance people has been fantastic!

Fantastic experience: Great place and great community to live! Awesome landlord!!!

Fantastic experience: I've really enjoyed my time renting with Todd and TLT properties. I have lived in the same apartment for 6 years now while in grad school and would definitely rent from him again in the future. Anytime I've needed anything he has responded really quickly to get whatever it was I needed addressed and he has been flexible with changes I've asked to make to the space. Also, as a single woman living alone I've never felt uncomfortable with him or the person who responds for maintenance and repairs, which is something I totally appreciate. I really love my apartment and the location and rent is super reasonable. I've rented from lots of different companies in different states over the years, and TLT is by far the most positive experience I've had.

Fantastic experience: I have been at my current apartment for about 4 years. Maintenace is always prompt and takes care of it issue. Renewing and leasing was very simple and straightforward. The only downside is the walls are on the thin side, but it’s an apartment it’s to be expected. It’s a good size apartment for a 2b/1b. Sad to be leaving.

Fantastic experience: Very nice place to live (408 W Washington). Todd is a great guy, quick, professional and responsive. His maintenance crew is the same. Neighborhood is friendly and just a 7 minute walk to downtown (I've timed it)

Fantastic experience: I rented with Todd for almost 3 years and it has been a great experience. He has always been responsive and accommodating. And easy to reach for whatever we may have needed. Jim, the head of maintenance, has always addressed our maintenance requests promptly and done an exceptional job. They are both very professional and responsive. We would have stayed longer had we not bought a home of our own. I would absolutely recommend to anyone in the Champaign/Tolono area.

Fantastic experience: Lived in an apartment of Todds for about 5 years. It was an enjoyable experience and it always felt like my space not that I was in a rental. If there was ever any issue it would get taken care of swiftly and promptly. I can't say enough good things about Jim the maintenance guy. Such a sweet guy and would drop what he was doing to sure any issues I had were taken care of (Not there were many, just little things) Would definitely rent from again.

Fantastic experience: Renting with Todd has been a great experience. He has always been responsive and accommodating, while Jim, the head of maintenance, has always addressed our maintenance requests promptly. We were with TLT for just over two years and would have stayed longer had we not bought a home of our own. I would absolutely recommend to anyone in the Champaign area.

Fantastic experience: This is the best company I have ever rented from. Look no further.

Fantastic experience: I’ve lived in one of TLT properties apartments for about a year. Anytime I have ever had an issue they are out within a few hours and take good care of me. I highly recommend renting from them. Super affordable and friendly!

Fantastic experience: We rented from Todd for almost 16 years. We raised two daughters in the house we rented and made many fond memories there. We thought about buying a house and moving many times, but our family was so comfortable and happy in our rental that we just never made the jump! We did finally decide to buy a house and move out of our rental, but it was bitter sweet. Todd was a great landlord and was always available by email or text, very quick to respond. He was more than helpful many times through the years that we lived in our rental. Jim, who does maintenance, was fantastic and always took care of any issues that came up in a timely manner. I would recommend renting from Todd to anyone that's looking for a place!

Fantastic experience: I've rented from TLT Properties over the past year and have had a very positive experience. Todd was organized and prompt to respond to any issues I had. Plus he is a nice guy and was always willing to help me when I needed something. Definitely recommend!

Fantastic experience: I had no issues renting from Todd and TLT Properties. Everyone responded quickly and showed interest in fixing any issues I may have had. There are a lot of companies in the CU that will take advantage, but I experienced none of that with TLT Properties. Overall, a good experience.

Fantastic experience: What a great landlord! You won’t find such a reliable and understanding person in the realty business. Made us feel right at home and he was such a pleasure to work with. Will definitely recommend to any friends and family in the area.

Fantastic experience: Todd is the best landlord ever! I have really enjoyed living and working with company. I would refer him to all my friends and family! Jim is amazing too! He is so helpful with any repairs! If you want a great place to stay then call Todd! Dont miss out on a wonderful experience!

Fantastic experience: I've lived in properties owned and/or managed by TLT Properties for over ten years. Fair. Responsive. Respectful.

Fantastic experience: I loved living in my apartment and hated to leave! If I didn't have to move out of state for my job I would still be at my TLT rental. Todd is great and the maintenance man Jim is just the best!

Fantastic experience: Ok this is a real review. We've lived with AK Properties for 2 years downtown Champaign and had a great experience. Todd was an awesome landlord over the years. He was always considerate and flexible. He always trusted us to keep the property in great condition and pay at a reasonable time. I have texted Todd at evening hours, and he was always responsive and took care of us. I've lived in many places and this was by far the best experience. Also want to give a comment on Jim, who is in charge of maintenance. Amazing guy, when we lacked heat during winter due to a small malfunction, Jim took care of us instantly, and even made sure we were ok the following day. I wish I could have stayed with this company, truly sincere and wonderful people.

Fantastic experience: Todd is the best landlord ever, maintenace is always there if you need any assistance, jim is the guy. If i did not move out of state, i would definitely stay in one of todds properties.

Fantastic experience: I've rented from a few different places in Champaign, and this is the best place I've lived so far. The staff are all very friendly, helpful, and easy to talk to. The properties are really great, with many near downtown. I love my current apartment, too! Maintenance is off the charts - even bigger jobs are fixed promptly and well, to my delight. Would absolutely recommend this property company to anyone looking to rent in Champaign.

Fantastic experience: I've been renting from TLT Properties for four years. Todd, the landlord, is always prompt in replying to emails, and deals with any issues we have quickly. Jim, head of maintenance, is amazing! He deals with any issues immediately, and explains what the problem was and how he fixed it. Both Jim and Todd are only an email or text away, which is not always the case with other rental agencies in the Champaign-Urbana area. I have had a great experience renting from TLT Properties, and would have continued to rent with them if I wasn't moving out of state.

Fantastic experience: I’ve lived in one of Todd Thorstenson’s apartments for two years, and couldn’t be happier. The apartment itself is a gem, and both Todd and Jim, the maintenance manager, are super responsive to any issues in the house or apartment. I feel lucky to have found this apartment!

Negative experience: Todd is a slumlord point blank

Fantastic experience: My husband and I have lived in two apartments with TLT Properties over the last four years, and we recommend this landlord! When there were problems, we could rely on a prompt and efficient response -- but the landlord was never in our business or annoying. The maintenance team is friendly and helpful. Overall a great landlord!

Fantastic experience: Todd's been my landlord for five years, and I've happy with the arrangement. He balances being available for his tenants while not trying to get too much in their business. My maintenance requests have been promptly responded to.

Fantastic experience: I've rented with Green Street Realty, JSM, and Roland Realty in Champaign, and leasing from TLT Properties has outshined them all. Todd shows great attentiveness to my concerns and has always been prompt in replying to my emails or texts. TLT Properties' Chief of Maintenance, Jim, is likewise prompt on tending to any fixes and is courteous about sending a reminder text to each tenant for pest control continuity every month. It is a great feeling to know that if you have a question, your landlord and maintenance contact is just a text or email away. Previous landlords have required me to log into a tenant portal and submit requests for maintenance with no prompt replies and with half-hearted work put into the fixes. At TLT Properties, Jim and his team have been consistent in fixing any maintenance requests in a timely and complete manner. Previous landlords have required me to jump through hoops to try to locate a manager about any problems that would be addressed with a landlord and most often I would only get as far as speaking with some irritated administrative assistants behind a front desk. With TLT Properties, I've been able to directly connect with Todd. TLT Properties has been the best company I've rented from in the Champaign, IL area. I highly recommend!