I highly recommend staying with Julia. The location can't be beat and she is a terrific host and roommate.
I stayed there for a few months and felt very welcomed in Julia's home. The condo has everything you need, a large bedroom/bathroom with tons of closet space, the kitchen was fully stocked with everything you'd need to make dinners at home, the parking spot was an added bonus.
I enjoyed my stay in Santa Monica and hope to be back soon!