I originally booked this place for two weeks to "work from home", hoping it was as cozy and welcoming as it seemed in the photos. I ended up only staying one night and leaving after frantically asking some friends in the area for some help. I found that the unit feels more like a big dorm room than it seemed in the photos, not worth the $86.50/night I paid (it seems they lowered the price now). I did originally have qualms as soon as I had booked, because I am a photographer myself and know the power of a nice photo so I had some doubts. Indeed the pictures made it seem more warm and cozy and it turns out yes, they are also strategic about not showing the sink is at a weird angle around the toilet so you have to squeeze past it to get there. (there used to be a negative review talking about this but now it seems gone. hmm...) The lighting was also very cold, adding to that dorm feeling... I just couldn't imagine spending so much time in there. I did actually try to cancel immediately after my booking but they wouldn't let me since it was so soon before my trip. It would've saved all of us the hassle if I could've canceled right then, but I understand that was on me and airbnb's policy.
I honestly don't need much to enjoy a stay, as I've been a long time airbnb customer and always on a budget. This unit feels way overpriced for what it is, even given the location. I know the Bay area is pricey but I've seen better deals in the area (I live here but in between apartments). I was surprised by the multiple reviews here who said they were staying for months on end. My only guess is they can really do with 0 frills and were likely outside of the unit most of the time. If that's you, the unit might be fine.
I will say that the team that runs this unit were still professional and kind during the process while I was negotiating a refund and canceling my visit. So there's that. My advice to the team running this place: Just put in some nice touches and make this place as cozy and welcoming as it looks in the photos. Even a nice side table lamp for warm lighting would be a good start. I fully expect that the host will probably try to respond to this review as they have with others so I want to say: I don't like leaving negative reviews, but I feel compelled to do so to help out other potential guests so they know what to expect.