Casey Ryland: Property manager at The Metropolitan

INTERVIEW WITH CASEY RYLAND

The Metropolitan, located at 92 Millburn Ave. in Springfield, just beyond the Short Hills border, opened in 2023. Offering both apartment living and townhomes, it welcomes a diverse set of residents—from couples to families to people looking to downsize. Here, Casey Ryland, property manager at The Metropolitan, shares what makes the homes and community unique.

What real estate gap was there in the surrounding area that inspired The Metropolitan?

There was a growing need for high-quality rental living that truly matched the lifestyle expectations of the area. Many residents were looking for the space, privacy, and feel of a single-family home, but without the maintenance, long-term commitment, or inventory limitations that often come with ownership in these markets. The Metropolitan was designed to bridge that gap, offering thoughtfully designed rental homes that feel permanent, elevated, and rooted in the community.

The Metropolitan is known for “luxurious rental living.” What does that look like in residents’ day-to-day life?

Luxury at The Metropolitan shows up in the everyday details. It’s the ease of having an on-site team that’s attentive and responsive, the comfort of well-maintained spaces, and homes designed to support real routines—work, family life, entertaining, and downtime. Residents experience luxury not just through finishes, but through consistency, reliability, and a sense that their home is being cared for at a high level.

The mix of three-story townhomes with garages and apartment residences is unusual. Who were they designed for, and why this blend?

The community was intentionally designed for a wide range of residents—families, professionals, downsizers, and those relocating to the area—who all value space and quality but have different needs. Offering both townhomes and apartment residences allows people to choose the living style that best fits their lifestyle, while still enjoying the same level of design, service, and community atmosphere.

What was prioritized in the floor plans to make the residences feel like “true homes” rather than typical rentals?

The focus was on livability. That meant larger square footage, defined living and dining areas, generous storage, garages, and multilevel layouts in the townhomes. These are homes designed for daily life—not just visual appeal. The layouts support comfort, privacy, and long-term living, which is why many residents end up staying longer than they initially expect.

Which amenity tends to win people over during tours, and which one do residents actually use the most?

Parking and private garages are among the most valued amenities. During tours, however, it’s the townhomes themselves that make the strongest impression. Once prospects step inside and see the space, natural light, and layout, it often becomes an easy decision.

If you had 30 seconds to sell a two- or three-bedroom townhome to a family, what would you highlight?

I’d say it offers the comfort and functionality of a house with the flexibility of renting. Families have room to grow, private garages, and quiet surroundings, all within close proximity to schools, transit, and downtown amenities. It’s a place where people can truly settle in and feel at home.

Photograph courtesy of Casey Ryland