A new apartment complex gives low-income workers driving the Coachella Valley's tourism economy somewhere stylish to live that's also affordable.
Western National Properties' 190-unit Agate at Palm Desert apartment complex addresses the region's affordability gap, earning a 2025 CoStar Impact Award as judged by real estate professionals familiar with the market.
"The Agate combines affordability, quality design and modern living standards without compromising one over the others," said judge Kavita Bhatia, CEO of Acreage Real Estate.
Long commutes from more affordable neighboring cities have become the norm for workers serving the thousands of tourists who visit Joshua Tree National Park, the Coachella Music Festival, and Palm Springs’ iconic resorts and golf courses. A study by the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership indicates 69% of the workforce commutes in and out of the city for work.
Agate, opened in September 2024, helps its residents cut the commute with an affordable option in a city where most rents are sky-high.
The complex at 75700 Gerald Ford Drive offers a mix of two- and three-bedroom apartment homes, some with private balconies or patios. Agate’s amenities include EV charging stations, bike lockers and racks, a pet park, a children's playground and outdoor barbecue space.
About the development: The 149,000-square-foot property sits on three acres in Palm Desert, California. The average unit size is 1,000 square feet.
What the judges said: "It's wonderful to see beautiful, innovative designs for low-income housing especially when it has such a high demand," said Susan Harvey, broker and co-owner of Desert Pacific Properties.
They made it happen: Western National Property Management Regional Vice President Kellie Peterson, Facilities Manager Jesus Hurtado, Compliance Director Patricia Perez, Regional Manager Polly Lo, Community Manager Geogery Williams and Assistant Compliance Specialist Katrina Blocksom.
This news article was updated on Apr. 2 to correct the spelling of Community Manager Geogery Williams and Assistant Compliance Specialist Katrina Blocksom's names.