We arranged for my parents to stay at Ash’ since it was conveniently located near to where we live.

The positives: The flat itself is spacious with a large outdoor area and in a great location in a quiet residential part of Balham. It's easy walking distance the many conveniences and restaurants. Ash was always quick to respond to my questions in the lead-up to my parents' arrival, and my folks, who met with him the first day said he was very kind and helpful when they needed to contact him during their stay.

The negatives: Unfortunately, there were piles of personal belongings left in each room of the flat, and personal toiletries left out everywhere in the bathroom counter leaving little space for my parents’ items. The bathtub mat was riddled with mould underneath and the tub itself had a significant amount of mould on the surrounding sealant. The kitchen was likewise cluttered with personal items everywhere, making it feel as though you were sharing the flat with others staying there.

We have stayed at many airbnb flats, many of which were people’s homes (vs vacation rentals), and these have always been left in a tidier state, with most if not all personal belongings made scarce and kept behind closed doors. I would have expected the same of this flat.