Stayed July 25-29, 2016
Let me 1st begin by saying, Darlene was absolutely fantastic to communicate with. She is highly personable and very timely and patient. We were looking for a house beginning the day after the HOF Induction on very short notice and Darlene's house had just come available. I grabbed it based on location, sleeping arrangements and perks. The bedrooms and bed situation were nearly perfect for my family. The pond and paddle boats provided excellent entertainment for my 4 teens.
When we pulled up to the house, however, we were immediately greeted by a large pile of construction material in the driveway. The description said that there would be a new deck for the beginning of the 2016 season. Unfortunately, the deck was not complete and building material was piled in the driveway. Upon entering the home, we realized how much construction the house was under. Unfinished floors (covered with rugs), moulding and trim missing throughout the house and a new, not quite finished kitchen. Unfinished electrical wiring, unfinished tiling, an unsecured lower cabinet, many missing drawer and door knobs. I wish the description was more clear because we just remodeled our own kitchen and lived thru 4 months of construction and I was looking forward to a nice, clean and put together home. The herb "garden" is actually pots outside the front door that had been picked almost clean. The "stocked" pond had no fish. The "relaxation" area had remnants of past renters and filthy chairs. The beautiful slider out to the deck was sealed close so we could not go out to the back deck to see the fireworks or sit overlooking the pond. The master bedroom bed is extremely uncomfortable and pillows are too soft.
We had an issue with hot water the 1st night (there was none), and when I sent Darlene a text message, she immediately responded. I tried her suggesrions, to no avail. She had a repairman at the house by 8:30am and he fixed the problem. I understand unforseen issues and I was grateful that she had the issue fixed so promptly.
There is so much potential for this home and I found myself dreaming of "what it could be." All in all, once the renovations are complete, I agree with other reviews that it WILL BE spectacular. The location is fantastic, and convenient for all the Cooperstown area has to offer. The home was clean and Darlene is a dream to work with.