CONSENT OF CHRISTOPHER B. LEINBERGER

Published on May 5, 1998



Exhibit 23.13

CONSENT TO SERVE AS A DIRECTOR


In the event Avalon Properties, Inc. is merged (the "Merger") with and into
Bay Apartment Communities, Inc. (the "Company"), I hereby agree to serve as a
director of the Company, which will be renamed Avalon Bay Communities, Inc.
following the Merger. I also agree to the inclusion of the references to me in
the Company's registration statement on Form S-4 and any prospectus included
therein as a person who has agreed to serve as a director of the Company.


/s/ Christopher B. Leinberger
-----------------------------
Christopher B. Leinberger
April 15, 1998