A good sized house and a good location. There were some aspects of the listing that were not explained well, like that one of the main "bedrooms" is actually the main living room (with the television) for the house. Also, the house is on a septic system so it would have been helpful had that been communicated in the listing and house instructions as water usage around the house needs to be staggered (think like not everyone can shower in the mornings or there is a warning of septic overload). The house was very well stocked in terms of having kitchen supplies, but there was also evidence of mouse droppings in the kitchen. So all in all, a good vacation rental on a nice lake for a large group of people, but there are tradeoffs.

The weather was great. The neighbors were really nice. The dock was nice and the kayaking was a blast. Unfortunately, the rotting wood on the upper deck attracted hundreds of hornets that were constantly swarming the area and anybody who tried to hang out on it. There were mouse droppings in all the drawers, and around all of the cooking utensils, in both kitchens so we resorted to a lot of takeout food. There was a endless supply of huge black flies coming from somewhere in the house and there were spiders and webs on the inside of most of the windows. For what we paid we were expecting the property to be better maintained.

My family spent several days at this house on Deer Lake. The location is fantastic. Close to the Clinton ferry, and all the fun things to see and do on Whidbey Island. The best part was the view of the lake from almost every room, plus the game room and lake activities! The house could use some updating and a deep cleaning. The hot tub was also not very hot and did not smell like chlorine so I we only used it once.

PROS Nice big house on the lake with dock. Well appointed with appliances, dishes, utensils, glassware and linens Comfortable pillow top mattresses Large master suite with beautiful view Lots of recreational equipment incl canoe, paddle boards, fishing poles Fun fishing for small bass With one exception, house is well suited for large family group CONS Had to have overloaded septic system serviced on our second to last day. According to septic service company, system designed for 360 gallons/day for a 3 bedroom home serving 4-5 people; not adequate for 10 guests as advertised. We were a family group of 8 using facilities normally. Encountered multiple mice and employed the four provided traps without success using peanut butter Mouse dropping in cabinets and a drawer where mice used paper napkins for nesting material Master bathroom not cleaned CONCLUSION On balance we had a wonderful time and would readily recommend the house for a delightful lakeside vacation but would hope the shortcomings are resolved. Mice are to be expected in a rural setting and didn’t bother us too much. However given their expected presence, the house should be cleaned with that in mind. The owner and Vacasa/VRBO should figure out how to manage the septic limitation, or inform guests, accordingly.

Perfect spot for a family reunion with kids and grandkids. Lots of fun water toys available and good swimming and fishing. Lovely neighbor.