We enjoyed our stay at this comfortable home, even though we experienced some Cons and well as all the Pros:
PROS:
~ Prompt and helpful communication from hosts
~ Local tips from hosts came in handy
~ CLEAN and TIDY! A+
~ Awesomely big TV with Netflix! Living room set-up is great for TV watching.
~ Well equipped kitchen and bathroom
~ Nice proximity to beach, Balboa, zoo, etc.
~ Water pressure in shower was good, and plenty of hot water.
~ Brita water filter in fridge came in very handy.
~ We didn't use the beach chairs, but that's a nice touch.
~ Good value!
CONS:
~ Neighborhood advertised as "up and coming" and "not yet fully gentrified," but in reality that seems wildly optimistic. There's no discernible evidence of gentrification, and if it's really "up and coming" well I shudder to think where it started out. I only felt safe here because I was with my husband. There is nothing interesting to walk to in the immediate neighborhood, so plan to drive or Uber. It's a barren barrio except for a mediocre taco shop. You'll see more than the "occasional" homeless person, schizophrenic or drug addicted wanderer, silent and scowling grocery store cashier, etc. The vibe is not exactly upbeat or comfy. We only spent our evenings in the home though, so the dicey neighborhood was not a huge issue for us. It's something you might want to consider if you're a female travelling alone, or if you're travelling with children or like to explore your neighborhood on foot.
~ The AC is inefficient. You'll get a frigid kitchen while the living room and bedroom will remain hot and stuffy. This was not a problem for me, but it was for my husband who likes to sleep cool. There's a bedroom fan but it's a bit noisy and didn't help much.
~ The door is tricky to lock. It seems locked at times but isn't. DOUBLE CHECK IT!
~ Some basic "creature comforts" were missing that could easily be added: how about some sort of night stand in the bedroom, an extra towel or two, an extra couple of pillows, and a throw for the couch? An ottoman would be great too.
A place worth considering if you're on a travel budget!