This rental looks exactly like it was advertised. No surprises there at all. The landlord was VERY communicative and responsive; seemed concerned about my concerns and did not seem put off that I was reaching out for something. The kitchen was functional and attractive. The TV was enormous. The couch was comfortable and the AC and heater worked great. Everything was just fine and worked just the way you would want it to.
My favorite parts were the location which was near EVERYTHING. Completely convenient. Easy for delivery drivers to find. The locked garage was TO DIE FOR. So nice to not have to search for a parking spot. (Heads up to future renters) I used the back door primarily to come and go because it was just a few steps from the garage. The WIFI was reliable. The neighborhood was calm and reasonably quiet. Other reviewers have mentioned hearing sounds from the stairwell and while, it is true that there were audible sounds from neighbors entering/leaving the building or in the upstairs unit, it is nothing unusual. These were unremarkable and unobtrusive sounds that would be completely familiar to anyone who's ever lived in an apartment building...which is what this is. Also, one of the neighbors (all of whom that I met were universally friendly and agreeable) advised that all but 3 of the units in this building were AirBNBs - so I'm thinking that even if one renter hears sounds on their stay, it would be likely that the noisy renters would be gone by the time future renters arrive. (I hope that wording makes sense.) Plummer Park is on the block next door and a great place to play tennis, pickle ball, etc. It also has an open area where dogs hang out with their owners. It's not formally a dog park but certainly functions like one; the walk there was pleasant.
I'm a nearly vegan vegetarian, but I like food smells - so the occasional powerful waft of hamburger smells from the burger joint next door was enjoyable for me. But vegans or other types of vegetarians who are sensitive to this type of thing might not enjoy these smells when out by the garage. I do not recall ever smelling this indoors. Finally, re food, Le Pho is down Santa Monica Blvd and wonderful. Galanga Thai Fusion is a charming restaurant right across Santa Monica Blvd from Fatburger (the burger joint immediately behind this unit) - the staff there were completely lovely.
All in all, I liked my stay and would wholeheartedly recommend it to others.