A model unit at Vermella Union in Union — Courtesy: Russo Development
By Joshua Burd
With interest still strong at its new luxury rental complex in Union, Russo Development has launched a virtual leasing platform to help maintain that momentum.
The developer last week announced its plan to enable leasing activity to continue at Vermella Union without requiring person-to-person interaction during the COVID-19 crisis. As part of the new social distancing platform, Russo is offering video conferencing tours, guided tour films and remote access to application materials for the project’s 415-unit first phase.
Prospective residents can also connect via video chat to consult with leasing agents and property managers to coordinate leasing and relocation activities.
“We are very sensitive to the need to adapt to the circumstances presented by COVID-19, but we also recognize that there are many critical and obvious reasons for property owners to maintain their operations, including enabling moves for people who cannot change their plans to move or who now need to move,” said Adam Pasternack, president of Russo Property Management. “While taking all due precautions, we are continuing our leasing operation virtually and providing safe processes during relocations.”
The steps come as Russo recently marked its 150th lease at Vermella Union, which sits off Morris Avenue, adjacent to Kean University and the Union train station. That mass transit access has been a key draw for renters, the developer said, as has its sweeping list of amenities and the accompanying on-site retail.
Vermella Union offers layouts ranging from studios to three bedrooms, all of them with high-end interiors. On-site amenities include a 25,000-square-foot resident lounge, a multisport simulator and game room, along with a private business lounge, a screening room, a children’s playroom and a demonstration kitchen.
Adjacent to the property is a new 35,000-square-foot retail center that is home to a Panera Bread, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Starbucks, among other stores. At full build-out, the property will span 1,250 apartments across the 42-acre site, which was once home to sprawling Merck complex before Russo acquired it in 2017.
