APARTMENT WITH POSSIBILITIES BUT NEEDS IMPROVEMENTS
This is an apartment with possibilities. The location of the apartment and size of the rooms is great. The appliances and bed were as specified-high quality. However, unfortunately, this apartment was not ready to rent.
Problems with plumbing and electricity are difficult for a renter to deal with. There needs to be someone to help with repairs. Two plugged sinks, and lights in the hall and kitchen which were not working in this 17th century building as well as a bathroom doorknob and toilet seat missing proper fittings are not problems to be given to the renter to be fixed. There was no toolbox with equipment to even try and no written directions or booklets about the use of the appliances available.
Safety was a problem in the bathroom. The tub with a rain shower above was modern, but with very high sides and was slippery (we borrowed a tub mat) with no shower curtains (We purchased a set). There was no area for personal equipment: No shelves, drawers, hooks or even a wastebasket.
The kitchen and living area were also missing usual equipment like a cutting board, enough cooking utensils and dishes. The apartment was heated by the AGA kitchen stove with all the apartment radiators and towel warmer permanently turned off. The bathroom was especially cold.
The apartment was not set up for two people i.e.: pillows for only one person in the king-sized bed, limited hangers, one key, and one water glass.
When we arrived, we found there was no entry for guests by doorbell and no way to receive mail at the building.
After we checked in, and the owner presented a beautiful platter of raw vegetables, she gave a short verbal tour and left. She wrote to refer us to a friend in another part of France who could translate our questions into French for her. The friend would then call us back with answers. The friend who was kind would assure us that the problem would be solved, but it never was.
In summary, our stay at this apartment was hard to enjoy with so many problems to solve. And in the end none were resolved, except for finally receiving a second key. It was not what we expected, even though it had a great location, great bakery a few feet away, elevator, good internet etc., it was not comfortable. Truly, there was nothing wrong that could not have been fixed by the owner, a concierge or skilled repairman. If changes are made with more thought given to the needs of visitors, this could be a very nice apartment to rent.