Disappointed

Guest: Dan (North Carolina)
Date of Stay: 09/02/10 Review Submitted: 09/12/10

As a New York resident of ten years and a frequent traveler who has happily rented homes off of VRBO over 20 times (Vail, Los Angeles, Greek Islands, Japan, Italy), I cannot recommend this apartment for rental. The description is misleading in several ways. First, there is nothing "exceptional" about this property. It is disappointing and sub-standard by Upper West Side and VRBO standards. We were surprised to find soiled carpets, shabby furniture, a half working stove, an unsecure wireless network, and the lack of central HVAC in the apartment upon our arrival. The third level bedroom is in a cramped basement, musty, and has no A/C of any kind. The second bedroom is on street level with windows that open to the street (with metal security bars) -- the street traffic noise is unavoidable. Also the "pull out sofa" in the living room is a dusty old futon. The master bedroom is acceptable, although it does not have it's own bathroom. Although the apartment was clean, the furniture, beds and linens were of low quality. Second, it should be stated that this location is on the border between the Upper West Side and Harlem (and Morningside Heights). There are several subsidized housing projects within a block of the apartment, and quite a bit of foot traffic in the neighborhood. Again, I lived in New York for 10 years (98-08), and I am comfortable in a dynamic and diverse urban environment. I think the proximity to the projects should be plainly noted in the listing for visitors. Note that the two previous positive comments were submitted by the owner.

Owner response:I have taken to heart the critique that was submitted, but do want to make the following statements: No central air conditioning was advertised. Most apartments have window units. There are 2 secure internet services, with passwords, available for this apartment (as noted on the info sheet in the apartment). I pay for a third service, which is open with no password. The guest probably used this one. Never advertised as having a bathroom in the master bedroom. By definition, a garden triplex in a brownstone probably has a bedroom on the street-side. It was clearly stated that the garden level has 2 bedrooms. 99.9% of my guests love this location: next to Central Park, in a charming, restored neighborhood. With respect to the housing project a few blocks away: this is the beauty of NYC!! Millions of people from all walks of life, and all income levels, living side-by-side in harmony. It never occurred to me to mention the project, because I have never considered it to have a negative impact of any kind. I submitted the 2 previous comments, because they were either left for me as a note in the apartment or were sent by email to me.

Recommended for:

Guest: MW (-)
Date of Stay: 05/02/10 Review Submitted: 05/03/10

I wanted to drop you a line and thank you for renting out your property to us. It was wonderful living space and really made the trip extra special. --- a group from Toronto

Recommended for:

Guest: P.C. (-)
Date of Stay: 03/30/10 Review Submitted: 04/08/10

Just a note to thank you for providing me and my family with such a wonderful apartment for our vacation. The location is ideal and the accommodations were perfect for all we needed. J. (the superintendent) was extremely helpful with making sure we knew when and where we should park the car to avoid parking fees and/or tickets...Yes, rave reviews! We will definitely spread the word.

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