Charming cottage by the sea

Thank you, Sudarat! We were glad you welcome you back.

Hi Gale - I'm not sure why the kayaks were unusable? We just used them last week! (They're not new, for sure, but they're definitely usable.) The beach chairs we had have gone missing, so we'll have to replace them. The walk to the beach takes about 5 minutes ... although our kids have made it in under 2 as they walk/run quite fast! Glad you enjoyed it, otherwise.

We loved having you! Hope you ARE able to return.

So glad you enjoyed it. Hope you can come back...

We've been trying to replace the few broken window cranks in the available hours between one renter leaving and the next arriving. Unfortunately, our repair guy only discovered after removing two old cranks that the new ones didn't fit. (Such is the reality of old houses/old windows.) We will, however, persevere in the search for replacement cranks! As for the mouse, it's the first such complaint we've had in 7 years of renting - had our tenant told us, instead of saving it for a review, we would have called in a professional immediately. (We are as responsive as possible to any issues or complaints. Just reach out!) It does probably need to be restated that this is an old (1890), well-loved, family-owned cottage by the sea that we enjoy sharing with renters. It is imperfect and (hopefully minor!) issues do arise, occasionally.

I actually advised that it was not necessary to close and seal the window as the hurricane was hundreds of miles offshore. (As an aside, we would never allow anyone to stay in the house if a hurricane was "passing through." The renter would be evacuated and all monies would be refunded.) What this particular renter wanted me to do was have a handyman "nail the window shut" until we could get it replaced. In a house that relies on open windows and fans for cooling, that would not be an option. Unfortunately, things do sometimes break during the summer rental season - as did the crank on this particular window, as did the bar that holds open the screen door. But unless it's an emergency or something that would inconvenience a renter - like a broken dishwasher - we try to avoid making major repairs while there are renters in the house. Our house is indeed old, 130 years, and all the windows need to be replaced, which we are doing window by window, as our budget allows. (While we're at it, we hope to put in a new kitchen someday!) There are a few cranky windows off the balcony that need a push to close, but this should not inconvenience anyone as those windows pretty much stay open all summer. It is incorrect to say "I did not see a problem" with any of this. I simply tried to explain the financial and timing realities of window replacement. We have been so lucky over the years to rent to people who love this house and its setting, quirks and all. This was not one of those lucky rentals.

Wow, Jessica - what a lovely review. Thanks for taking the time to write it. Here's hoping we can welcome you back next year! Kathy

Hi Lillian, It would cost more than we could manage to put an AC system in place and because of the window design we can't use window ACs. So fans it is, until and if someone invents a really good tabletop or standing AC. The weather is so temperamental, I know - some really hot days followed by chillier ones; I had the heat on in mid-June when I was there, about a week before you! I am sorry you suffered from the heat. As for the windows, we use sleep masks as we don't want to cover or impede that incredible view with light blocking shades or drapes. I will note the usefulness of sleep masks for future renters, for sure. All best, Kathy