The house looked neglected as we pulled up in front. Upon entering, we were hit by an overwhelming smell of smoke and the house appeared dirty. Deodorizing spray didn’t cover up the smell. The description did say “previously smoked in house” but that did prepare us for the smell.

We had to wash the linens and remake the beds on arrival as it wasn’t possible to determine that they had been changed. The master bed mattress was stained so we turned it over. It was okay comfort wise. The pillows were in very bad shape and grubby and all need to be replaced ASAP. New bed linens would be appropriate as well.

The kitchen was fairly well supplied with utensils, older dishes, plastic bowls (need to be replaced), coffee maker, tea pot, oven, dishwasher, fridge with ice and water in the door. The owner supplied tea, coffee, sugar, Coffee-mate which was a nice touch.

They brought a small BBQ for our use.

The TV was very small and placed up on the top of a cabinet about 6 feet from the floor which made it extremely difficult to watch. There were a minimal number of stations (basic cable) so very few options for viewing. Thankfully it had Netflix. However, there were at least 3 satellite dishes on the roof so not sure what they were for?

The couches in the living room were very old and extremely low and lacking support (springs are shot) making it difficult to get out of once seated. They are inundated by smoke and not clean.
The windows were all filthy and the living room blinds wouldn’t open.

We had to borrow cleaning supplies and do some of our own cleaning - such as floor washing and cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. One day we were going to vacuum before our little grandson came over but as soon as it was turned on, it gave off a smell like vomit.

Only one key was provided and there were two of us. An extra key would have been convenient.

The landscaping is in serious need of attention. The front step is very high and front door swollen shut. It was supposed to be repaired the first week but never was.

There was a door in the kitchen to restrict access to the basement but the frame was open about 6 inches from the wall making it an extreme hazard for small children and pets. There was no laundry facilities as stated in the ad which is very inconvenient for longer stays.

Shower pressure was good. The owner supplied toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner.

The house may be dated but if it were maintained, it could be nice but some deep cleaning needs to be done as soon as possible and money spent on decent furniture and linens etc. It is in an ideal location: quiet neighbourhood and close to Transcona Trail and convenient to shopping.