I have to start with the positive, because there were quite a few things we loved about this home. We happily embraced its antique southern charm, and a beautiful lake, complete with
deck and beach. We have no problem with old, squeaky iron beds, and unique antique items throughout. Be sure to inspect them and take photos upon arrival, as we found a few things broken, such as the coffee table foot. We sent these to the owner immediately, so she could be aware.
However things that should not be found in ANY short term rental are threadbare, blood-stained sheets. Antiques can be old. Sheets should not be. When both the upper and lower sheets of several beds are peppered with blood spots, that is not at all charming. Those are deal-breakers. Other problems made us even question whether the linens had been washed prior to our arrival. The shower floor had an old used washcloth and soap. Towels wreaked of mold/mildew smells. And the ceilings had water stains and visible black mold spots. The place has beautiful bones, but these are serious concerns for anyone sensitive to mold. We reached out to the owner who simply said she would let cleaning services know and she would have it taken care of after we leave. No compensation was offered, despite our request, and no other recourse except to use the additional linens in the closet which also contained the same moldy smells.
To be good sports, we attempted to wash both the sheets and towels ourselves….until we opened the washer. I have never seen such a mold-filled unsanitary washing machine in my life. Thick overwhelming black mold along the gasket, and mold smell. I wish I could attach photos of everything. We ran a couple loads of water and Citric Acid to attempt to clean the washer itself. But the smell and mold remained.
If bloody unclean linens and moldy ceilings do not scare you off, I would suggest you take pictures before and after. Also be prepared to buy your own Propane as we were informed on xmas weekend that Propane was not guaranteed to be included with the grill. A grill without propane doesn’t do much good. So a last minute trip to town was required.
If you just want a lake, bring your own linens and mildew spray.