You won't find a better host than Laura. Super friendly and responsive. I stayed there for a month and would gladly stay there again.
What I love about her place:
- Fantastic neighborhood. You can walk 5-10 blocks in numerous directions and find top-notch grocery, coffee, dining, and drink options. It's also a beautiful neighborhood just to walk around. Almost a park-like setting with quintessential Portland craftsman style homes.
- Lots of street parking. Never once had an issue.
- You have your own washer and dryer.
- Lots of space to store my snowboard gear (in the laundry area).
- Very cozy. I stayed there during one of the coldest February's on record, but Laura's suite was very comfortable. And there's tons of hot water for a long, hot shower.
- Great natural light considering it's a basement unit.
- The unit is underground and at the back of the house, so there's zero street noise...even though the house is located on a somewhat busy street.
- The space is well designed. Spacious kitchen, bedroom, living area, and bedroom with a walk-in closet.
- Great privacy.
A few downsides:
- The internet was just okay. There were multiple times per week when the connection was under 5 Mbps, even though Laura pays for the 40 Mbps plan. This is mostly due to Charter Spectrum's spotty service (it's not a Comcast fibre connection). But the wifi signal also needs a boost so there's better coverage throughout the flat. I gave Laura this feedback and I'd be shocked if wasn't resolved right away.
- Because this is a basement unit in an older home, you do hear footsteps from above whenever people are home. However, overall this was not a big issue. There were two working professionals living upstairs (no kids or dogs), and they didn't seem to be home all that often. And when they are home, they are very respectful of your privacy. Really great people.