My husband and I stayed in Elenas home and enjoyed the convenience of the location (between Marina DelRey and Venice) - three minute walk to restaurants, pier and shops. Easy 10 minute or so walk to Venice beach. Very quiet, however, if there were a crowd upstairs, you may hear them. At the time of our stay, there was only one person upstairs and he was pretty quiet. We did not have any trouble with smelling fumes. I have a very sensitive sense of smell and all was fine. The only drawback was there is no view, it is a very nicely done basement/garage apartment that feels homey. The pictures represent the home well. We did not leave displeased at all! Definitely would recommend staying here!