Booking and staying at Molly and David's house was not quite what we expected.
I'm torn on how to review this experience. It's a nice place in many ways, but I'd suggest that you read all the fine Airbnb print thoroughly and message the hosts with every question you have before booking. I'll be as objective as possible though as I can in this review.
First, the pros. The layout of the house was appealing. There was a good flow in the main areas. And bedrooms were a good size. Communications were returned fairly quickly, which I appreciated. Arriving was coordinated well and a personal introduction to the house was appreciated. The house, yard, and pool were clean.
Second, the cons. We felt that David and Molly were inflexible when it came to our situation and added fees. Because of unforeseen circumstances we had to change our reservation to a different weekend, which-unknown to me when I made the request,-came with an increased rate. I mean, beyond the reservation change fee. I was not aware of the added reservation rate until I had made the request to change the weekend and it was approved by the hosts. Nor do I remember seeing any information that it would be more expensive (beyond the change fee).
When I contacted M & D they simply stated that they could not adjust the price. They gave reasons, which was appropriate, but did not budge.
We chose this house for the pool and the hot tub. We knew there would be a fee for the hot tub, which was fine. We paid for three evening heatings.
First, we were and still are surprised that the hot tub was not included in the basic rental of the house. Why not? Seems like other hosts have figured out better was to provide this option. I ask that question though because the hot tub was a hassle. The first night the temperature was hot. Great. The second night it was barely bath water temperature. And the third night just barely warm. Granted, the second night we got a quick reply but it was too late. We were done with the hot tub. The third night the host on duty responded right away and was at the house to turn up the heat within ten minutes. That was great, but still, why? This was a disappointment. I'm sure it looks to Molly and David as if we were complaining for the sake of complaining, but truthfully, these are things we don't expect to have to deal with on vacation. Especially for the price we paid.
I was an Airbnb host for almost two years and my partner has had an Airbnb for eight. We understand that hosts and guests need to enforce and abide by the established rules, but we also feel strongly that exceptions should be made at times.
We probably would be giving a very different review if there had been a little wiggle room on Molly and David's interaction with us. It could have been a place we considered booking again, but we won't now.
I'm going to add that this was a growing moment for me. I doubt I will book any place again that has a strict cancellation policy. And yes, I will read every last note before booking next time. That said, I thought I did.
My partner and I really just wanted to walk away feeling like we were heard and on some level acknowledged. We enjoyed our stay enough, but really regret booking Molly and David's place.
My goal in writing this review is really to be helpful to other guests. I hope you'll consider their house. You may love it, which I hope is the case.