I can only echo previous reviews. Our stay at the Ballad Garden Apartment was simply wonderful and it's true that it's even much nicer than the photographs suggests. Everything is brand spanking new and we were surrounded by good taste and good quality. This homey home away from home is in a quiet neighborhood with the occasional distant sound of children laughing and playing at recess, which we loved. The best bakery in town is just steps away (but plan on getting there early if you want to get in) and downtown Ballard is an easy walk. Perhaps most importantly, our hosts, Barb and Taru, couldn't have been nicer, more generous or more accommodating. One reviewer mentioned the homemade cookies, but failed to mention the oranges, granola bars bottled water and even enough coffee and cream to get us started. It was all over the top in the nicest of ways. If you're planning a stay in Ballard, you definitely want to stay here.