Oscar was communicative and everything was going smoothly until I arrived at the apartment at 9pm. An agent was representing Oscar (Jennifer) and she was also very communicative and helpful both before I arrived and during the short time we spent at the apartment. Jennifer was excellent at responding to Whatsaap messages (as she suggested) and also emails.
When I arrived Jennifer asked if I had been made aware the balcony area was not accessible and I had not. This may have been an oversight on Oscar's part or he assumed it would not be a problem. It was large enough of a problem to make me book a hotel nearby for our 4 night stay. The whole door of the balcony was covered with plastic decorating sheets and there was a smell from chemicals used (maybe to paint or strip paint) for the repair works. Considering the apartment was advertised with the terrace as it's selling point then it's going to be a major problem for anyone if that terrace is not available due to repair works which the land lord will know about. The chemical smell was affecting my head after just 5 minutes so I agreed with the agent to seek a refund and I would book elsewhere.
The agent and Oscar were very helpful with this and ultimately Oscar refunded the full cost of the apartment quickly with no challenges which was much appreciated.
Despite the frustrations caused by this I would have no reservations in recommending Oscar as an AirBnB host and I would also book through him again if I have the opportunity.
Frustratingly, I have lost £46 due to the AirBnB costs which I am unsure of how to obtain back but that's an AirBnB inquiry rather than with the landlord. I am continuing to look at that but AirBnB doesn't make the process particularly clear and straightforward.