First and foremost, Brad is a fantastic host. I'd probably say the best host I've ever encountered using Airbnb. Communication was stellar, and he was super accommodating. We needed to arrive early than the check-out time, and he was accommodating, flexible and reassuring. Can we give hosts ten stars? If so, Brad needs to get that rating.
As for the place, it is as described. Spacious, well-designed, and furnishings were comfy. The vibe and look of the listing was spot on. We loved the minimalist appeal. We even tried sleeping on the pull-out couch. And it was surprisingly soft. We stayed for ten days, and the listing was waaaaay better than any hotel room we could have booked(in the same price range). Shower pressure was strong, and the king memory foam bed was a blessing (after a long day). All the accouterments included towels, dishes, kitchenware, extra trash bags, and fabric softener for the laundry machine. My favorite amenity was the air conditioning. It was heaven sent. We always came home to a nice cool refreshing home. And in the heart of the summer good AC is a must.
As much as we are raving about the place, there are some fair warnings and notes that folks who decide to stay here should consider. In all fairness, the considerations are all likely out of the host's control.
First, the upstairs tenants can be very loud sometimes to the point where it is unbearable. The first few nights it was terrible. We decided to message Brad (the host) and to this credit, he was very understanding and tried contacting them immediately and multiple times. Not sure what he did, but within a day, most, if not all of the noise was mitigated. Kudos to Brad. And hopefully, this won't be an issue moving forward for other guests.
Other reviews have noted people waiting by the entrance waiting for the bus - this will happen. It wasn’t a big deal to us, but it can be bothersome. When you flush the toilet, hold it down longer than you usually would, it works; just sllooowww to flush. Lastly, just remember you are on a major street. Being on the main street in a big city can have plus and minuses. You will hear sirens wailing, people walking past your windows at all times of the day, and the ubiquitous CTA bus pulling up to your front door pretty regularly.
On the plus side, you’ll be close to mass transit and immerse yourself in the city. It’s a balancing act of benefits and drawbacks.
I’m not sure I’d stay here again because I’d prefer a more muted city experience. But I’d stay at Brad’s other listings. Overall, the listing was just as described, and the accommodations exceeded my expectations.
Brad has clearly earned his Super Host title, and it shows. I would stay at any of his listings in the future.