Live a worry-free life at Sterling ArborBLU's student apartments in Ann Arbor!

Read through some common questions about our apartments near The University of Michigan, and reach out if you have any other concerns!

Who is the management/owner of the community and their history?

Our residents are the cornerstone of the Dinerstein Companies and have faithfully guided our business since its founding in 1955. In 1997, we recognized the need for high-quality student housing. The Dinerstein Companies responded by forming Sterling Housing. Today, Sterling Housing is the country's largest off-campus student housing developer. Our eco-friendly student properties are catered specifically to the college experience so students can have the perfect home away from home.

What is the company’s mission statement?

To do right – by our residents, employees, lenders, and partners.

GUARANTORS:

All guarantors must meet the following criteria:
Rent/earnings ratio

Guarantors must:

  • Make 4 times the monthly rent to be approved – or –have a sum of no less than 12 month’s rent in an accessible bank account
  • Provide proof of income/funds by paycheck stubs or bank statements
  • Non‐criminal financial screening

Guarantors will be screened using a third‐party screening company to evaluate the guarantor’s credit, check‐writing history, and rental history. recommendations from the third‐party company will be returned as one of the following:

  • Full pass – standard deposits apply (if applicable)
  • "Pass with conditions – non‐criminal factors do not meet community standards; the application will be reviewed."
  • Deny – non‐criminal factors do not meet community standards; the application is rejected. Applications that yield a pass with conditions or deny recommendation from the screening company are welcome to apply with a different guarantor.

What is a guarantor?

The term “guarantor” in this criterion means the person who will guarantee the obligations under the terms of the lease for the resident, including, but not limited to, financial responsibilities.

What are installments?

One of the portions, usually equal, into which a debt is divided for payment at specified intervals over a fixed period. Rental payments are accepted in installments specific to the chosen bed space and executed lease contract.

Do I have to leave during school breaks?

Unlike the dorms, we do not require residents to vacate their apartments during school breaks. Your 2025-2026 lease year residency is August 21st, 2025, and ends July 31st, 2026.

What are individual leases?

Each bed in an apartment is its lease agreement. Therefore, you will not be affected if roommates are delinquent, cause damage to their bedroom, or cancel their lease contract.

What do the fully furnished apartments include?

We’re excited about our furniture package. Our designer furnishing options include controlled access, an in-unit washer and dryer, a modern furniture package with a couch, sofa chair, coffee table, end table, bar stools, full-size bed frame, and memory foam mattress (in select units), desk, two drawer filing cabinet, and desk chair.

What are the parking options?

Garage parking is available.

How do I acquire renters insurance?

At Sterling Arbor Blu, you must provide proof of renters insurance at move-in or participate in our liability waiver program. This program is only $13.95 per month, and you will automatically be opted in unless you provide proof of your own renter’s insurance policy. The liability waiver program is not a renters insurance policy, and personal property will not be covered. If you choose to provide your own renter's insurance, you must have at least 100k in personal liability insurance and email it to status@foxen.com once your placement has been solidified.

What if I don't have a qualifying guarantor?

We've partnered with leap to make your transition into your new apartment as simple as possible. Check out how leap can act as a guarantor on your lease. Click the download below.

Is Sterling Arbor Blu a gated community?

Sterling Arbor Blu offers controlled access to the parking garage and community areas. Resident(s) receive specific information related to access to and around the community, which may be changed at any time with notice. These devices are provided as a deterrent to unauthorized access only and do not guarantee safety or security.

Is there on-site management/maintenance?

Yes, on-site management will be available during business hours. Maintenance is on-call during office hours and available after office hours for maintenance emergencies only. For all other emergencies, please contact 911 and then the management team.

ACH transactions – $1.95 per transaction.
Visa – a flat rate (approximately 2.95% of the average rent at the site.
Mastercard/Discover – 2.95% of the transaction amount (minimum of $3.50). Rent must be paid by the 3rd of every month to avoid late fees. Advance payments are accepted.
Rent must be paid by the 3rd of every month to avoid late fees. Advance payments are accepted.

Can I pay online?

Residents will pay the following service fees for online payments to RealPage payments. We feel choices are essential when it comes to convenience. Therefore, we offer several payment options to suit your needs.