This will be the first time I am writing a bad review on Airbnb, for various reasons based on personal experience (10 days stay). However, it is not indicative of what others may experience.
Before I write anything in detail, please know that I went to this trip with a higher expectation than last. I had previously stayed in an Airbnb near this area at Darling Habour (Location, decor, value and view was much better) but I expected an overall better experience due to their promise of being professionally managed.
The Check-in process required you to go to somewhere near to collect keys from a box, not an uncommon practice and instructions were very straight-forward with picture guidance. However, this apartment had a front and back entrance (was not notified), this caused some confusion on my side. The listing was made for 4 people and only ONE key was provided, this made it very difficult for us to have split travel itineraries and we have to make numerous adjustments to our trip. We went as far as to change our itineraries completely just so that I could be with my parents most of the time.
The apartment itself was relatively clean and you can tell it has been cleaned by someone. However, the amenities given had several issues. The host had the knowledge that I would stay here for 10 days and with a max capacity of 4 guests, they should know to prepare for 4. We were given 6 rolls of toilet paper and all of them were moist and wrinkled, 2 of them turned yellow and stale. The shampoos and soap provided was not nearly enough for a 10 days stay. Lastly, the kettle provided had prominent rusting internally so we had to buy one to avoid health problems. One of the toilets had a bathtub and shower combination, however, no anti-slip mats were provided and my parents almost fell. Additionally, there was a tap in the middle for baths, the hazards combined could be deadly for elderlies or kids. However, everything else about the apartment is considered serviceable. The sofas provided were very comfortable and the heaters were helpful at night. The television in the living room was relatively new and watching on it was definitely pleasant.
Communication was the worse part of the overall experience. Being professionally managed, I did not expect it to be this bad. After the initial few messages, they decided not to reply to me for 15 hours. I had to lodge a report to Airbnb to prompt any further replies from them. I personally feel that any host should reply even if they do not like the request we have posted so we can move on.
The best part about the apartment that was very accurate was the location. Everything was as advertised and a lot of amenities were close by. The Social Brew Cafe is nearby and a good breakfast spot if you stay at this apartment. The Star Casino, Aquarium and the Habour were all very near and within walking distance. For dinner, a short walk down to Nick's Restaurant will not take longer than 15 minutes. Overall, a very good location for a short getaway at Sydney.
I just felt that the overall experience was not value for money on my end. Hopefully they would change things and everything will improve. Please do not take this review as a reason not to book with them but maybe just set an expectation through my experience.