In seven years as a member of the Airbnb community, I have never posted a negative review of a guest or host. As a property manager and realtor, I prefer to provide constructive criticism privately and always attempt to promote the entrepreneurial endeavors of fellow members. I feel very differently about Bronte's 'Arty Paddington Apartment'! Despite being informed by both the strata manager of her building and the local contractor performing demolition work, Bronte chose to rent her listing with the full knowledge that her apartment was located above and adjacent to an active construction zone. In doing so, she violated the sense of trust and reciprocity that make Airbnb such an amazing platform.
Bronte's listing is located in an anaemic building constructed of depressing brown brick that was wonderfully popular in the 80's. Aside from the stray cat and cockatoos, the environment was sad, depressing and uncongenial. The apartment itself lacked basic amenities (coat hangers, fry pan, toilet paper). The light bulb in the bathroom did not work, neither did any of the dimmers switches on any of the other lights. The balcony was actively unsafe with no guard rail and many of the floor boards missing. In previous negative reviews, Bronte has mentioned her apartment is not for "all demographics". I would agree! You would need to be fearless, deaf or desperate to consider making a reservation at this listing. If you do happen to fall into one of those categories, I would consider packing your own tool belt as you may be required to play handyman. At the very least bring some valium as dealing with Bronte is a wrist slashingly awful experience.