Although we did get the opportunity to meet Buz (who I have heard is wonderful), our communications were timely, helpful, and simply excellent. The house itself was great as well. It is much smaller feeling once you enter, and everything is a bit less nice than pictured, but overall the house was almost perfect for our needs (group of seven) and we have little room for complaint. Warning: the one bathroom can get tiring for a large group and although it says it can sleep fourteen, I would never try to squeeze in more than eight or nine). As for the neighborhood, it's no seedier than the rest of Venice Beach, and it is convenient to have a front alley walkway instead of a city street to access the beach. Parking is tight in the back but we managed even with two cars. The location is perfect for anyone who is planning on going to the beach or the Strand frequently, and the communal bikes were a blessing.

Bottom line is that if you are looking to avoid pricey hotels, want to cook for yourself often, and enjoy a longish stay in Venice with close access to everything, this listing is perfect for you. Cheers to a fantastic stay.