Riverwalk Commons
South Bend, Indiana | Student Housing | 133 Units
Elevating the Student Living Experience
Riverwalk Commons stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when property management and community engagement come together with purpose. This 133-unit student housing property near Indiana University in South Bend, Indiana, has long been a fixture in the market, but under Root Management’s direction, it has reached new levels of success, achieving 100% occupancy for the 2025–2026 school year.
Consistent Growth Through Connection
For the past three years, Riverwalk Commons maintained a strong 89–90% occupancy rate despite a competitive student housing market. The key to this consistency has been Root’s proactive communication with residents. The team begins outreach four to five months before lease renewals, ensuring students feel supported and informed well before move-out season.
Recognizing that moving during the school year can be stressful, Root Management prioritizes stability and reassurance. This approach not only strengthens resident relationships but also builds long-term loyalty and retention.
The Path to 100% Occupancy
Hitting full occupancy for the 2025–2026 school year didn’t happen by chance, but rather it was the result of a thoughtful, multi-layered strategy.
Root Management implemented targeted renewals with early-bird specials for returning residents, built partnerships with IUSB coaches to offer special rates for student athletes, and extended community outreach to local high schools and popular student hangout locations. These efforts created strong word-of-mouth and a reputation for a supportive, student-centered community.
As a result, Riverwalk Commons exceeded our 90% occupancy goals.
Creating a Safe, Engaging, and Well-Maintained Community
Operational excellence plays a major role in Riverwalk’s success. Root’s maintenance and management teams take a proactive approach by regularly cleaning air filters, changing smoke detector batteries, and adding amenities like fencing for enhanced privacy.
Recent upgrades include new lighting, better elevators, improved laundry equipment, and modernized units, as well as an expanded student lounge designed for both relaxation and collaboration among students.
Ongoing engagement through monthly newsletters, social events, and contests keeps students informed and connected. Whether it’s an ice cream social or a door-decorating contest, these touchpoints foster a sense of community within the buildings.
Results That Speak for Themselves
About half of Riverwalk’s residents choose to renew their leases each year, which is a strong indicator of satisfaction in the student housing market. Parents frequently share their appreciation for the property’s safety and responsive staff, while students value the sense of belonging and the popular lounge area for studying, gaming, and socializing.
Behind the scenes, Root provides the property owner with full transparency through weekly leasing and maintenance meetings, plus monthly financial reviews that track key performance indicators such as occupancy rates, lead-to-lease conversion, maintenance response times, and financial variance reports.
Building Brand Awareness and Momentum
One of the biggest challenges in student housing is brand visibility. Root Management continues to address this by expanding Riverwalk’s presence both online and within the community to encourage residents to become ambassadors for the property.
Even turnover has become more efficient: when a few units required extra attention during move-out, the Root team resolved everything within seven days, ensuring readiness for the next residents without delay.
Looking Ahead
With full occupancy and a growing waitlist, Riverwalk Commons is now positioned for continued growth and potential rate adjustments as the market evolves.
This success story demonstrates what’s possible when a management company takes a hands-on approach, building strong relationships with residents and owners.
A Testament to Root Management’s Approach
Riverwalk Commons reflects Root Management’s core philosophy: create exceptional experiences, build strong communities, and protect the owner’s bottom line.
As one team member summarized, “This is a shining example of what a fully committed management company can achieve while being mindful of turn expense.”
If you’re a property owner or investor seeking a management partner who combines operational excellence with community-driven results, Root Management is ready to help you achieve the same success.
