I had doubts about this place due to the secret nature of the rental. However the communication was prompt and friendly when I asked direct questions so I decided to keep the reservation. It did make me feel a bit uncomfortable that I was doing something wrong because of how many messages and reminders the company felt it was necessary to send. The amount of rules and fines were a little over the top and quite off putting.
It was not hard to get the keys, directions were very precise, just an extra step to check in and check out. There is no attempt at being accommodating. Extra charges for everything. And many messages sent saying this multiple times. Again, off putting. I have stayed in many Airbnbs and this one just rubbed me the wrong way with all the rules and fines. They even sent a message saying not to spit off the balcony.
The area is a few blocks (maybe 10 minutes walking) to the Gaslamp district. It is quiet enough. There is a homeless tent camp just across the street that might make some uncomfortable to walk past.
Once in the building no one ever questioned who we were or looked twice at us. The apartment itself is fine. Feels more like a hotel than an Airbnb. Beds are very comfortable. The bedrooms need darker blinds. It is very bright from the city lights and the blinds do not block out the light at all. The kitchen is bare bones. Not even a corkscrew was provided. You would not want to attempt cooking. Cereal and coffee was all we had. All in all in was fine place to sleep but I would not stay here again.