Smart Home Rentals Ltd reviews

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

The booking process was straight forward and clear. There was a regular string of emails following the booking with useful information about key collection and check in procedure etc. Key collection was quick and straight forward with really convenient parking nearby. We picked up the keys at around 2.30pm and were informed that we could go there straight away if we wanted. Someone from the agency called in the afternoon the following day to ask whether everything was ok. The accommodation was exactly as described. The weather was bit poor on the Saturday - I'd like to blame someone for that! All in all a very positive experience and enjoyable 4 days.

Manoj · 24 October 2021

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

10 minutes before arriving at the property the agent (SmartHomes) called to say the property was not ready despite it stating it would be available at 4pm. We had driven 4 hours with 2 young children and were told it would be ready around 6pm and they would call us when it was. The office closed at 5:30 so I checked someone would be able to call and was told they would We did not receive a call and I called the out of hours emergency number and left a message. I called 2 further times and did not get a call back until 7:13pm to say we could get into the property. I asked for someone to call me regarding the fact that my family and I had to sit around in a strange town with nowhere to go for over 3 hours after a 4 hour drive. I was told they would call me first thing Monday. They didn’t. I called them Monday afternoon and was told they would give me a £32 refund for the delay. I told them that was ridiculous and was told in an email that the case was closed. We got into the property and we’re disappointed at the standard of furnishing. It was made to look good in the photos but was very cheap and certainly not luxurious. The ironing board did not have a cover and was replaced. There is no privacy in the living room at night as there are only net curtains and no proper curtains and, when the lights are on, everyone can see in. This is particularly disconcerting as there is a restaurant next door that overlooks the property with floor to ceiling windows. The property is right next to a main road and is very noisy. The balcony overlooks the main road and is great if you want a view of the road and the properties opposite. Building work was ongoing throughout the holiday and on the last day the scaffolding was being taken down from 8am for most of the day. The property is not as luxurious as described or as they have made the photos look. The location is poor. The parking spaces are tiny. SmartHomes are incompetent and unresponsive. If you know what’s good for you I would avoid this agent and the property and choose somewhere else. Following their poor response, As expected, SmartHomes accept no responsibility for their poor service and communication. The amount of refund offered (£32) was derisory and I refused it because it was a pathetic amount and did not reflect the distress caused to my family (especially my children) who were very tired after a long journey and we’re left with no place to go for more than 3 hours. I don’t need £32 that badly that I would accept such a trivial amount. I told you that late checkout was of no use to me as we had arrangements on the day we left so that was a pointless offer. As usual you did not listen. To call us 10 minutes before arrival is unacceptable. It was the poor communication that was the problem, not the late checkin. Furthermore to not offer a satisfactory refund for this, is even more of a reflection on how seriously you take customer service.NegativeResponsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value

David · 24 October 2021

★★★★★ 4/5

Google

4*/5 our family stayed at 6 Sandbourne and we couldn't have asked for a better holiday. Only problem, the dates we are looking for next year aren't available, but would highly recommend this property for anyone visiting the area. Italy was also very helpful during our stay at the property.

Reuben_ · 17 April 2024

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We have been enjoying our stay at 29A Sandbourne Road for many years now. It is very clean, comfortable, with fantastic views from the cliff top gardens and most of all, dogs are welcome. There is a short walk to the beach and the property is close to many good restaurants. Smart Home Rentals have been very efficient and responsive to our queries. Dr Ralf and Pat Trottnow.

R · 24 October 2022

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Thanks very much indeed to Nicole and the team for their tireless hard work as Lettings Agent in holiday letting my flat for the last eighteen months, and then also as Estate Agent and selling my flat when I sadly had to move away from the area. I'm really grateful for being able to leave it to their professional service, and will have no hesitation in using them again when I return to the area in the next few years. Thanks again, and I'm envious that you are all still there in one of the best areas to live and to go on holiday in the Country, and I'm not!

Dave · 24 October 2020

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

So disappointed with how unprofessional this Agency is. Poor communication. Promises not carried out. Cancelled our holiday we booked 6 months ago saying a technical blip but 2 hours later they offered me the same holiday let but the price had increased by £213. Never responded to my latest communication & was advised never to use this company again.

Annie · 21 February 2025

★★★★★ 4/5

Google

29A Sandbourne Road is a delightful, spacious property. On arrival the property was very clean and had everything we wanted; even a good selection of games which came in handy when the weather let us down. There is a stunning sea view at the bottom of the garden. I wouldn't recommend this for younger children as there is a cliff top drop with only railings as a barrier. We did have a problem with the bathroom. Bath leaked water and when the shower was used it flooded the floor. This was reported to Smart Holiday Homes immediately but sadly wasn't rectified during our stay. We therefore couldn't use this bathroom which we didn't find acceptable. Overall a fabulous family holiday home which we will be booking to stay in again.

Julie · 25 October 2018

★★★★★ 3/5

Google

Just spent our 6th stay at 3 Seahaven which sadly is likely be our last due to the very rapid hike in the rental rates. Although the apartment is well located it has not undergone any refurbishment or redecoration in all the time we have stayed there apart from a new carpet (our first stay at 3 Seahaven was November 2012). The kitchen is looking very tired now and also lacks a dishwasher. I suggest that the owners have a fair bit to do to bring the apartment to a such a standard to justify a minimum off peak rate of £465 per week rising to £1186 peak season in 2017. Finally, not a very pleasant welcome on arrival this time as we were greeted with a putrid greasy odour which permeated throughout the flat. I can only assume the previous occupier must have been frying bacon / sausages and the aroma lingered for some days despite me buying a Neutrodol air freshener to place in the kitchen. Rather disappointing that the cleaner didn't take appropriate action prior to our arrival.

Alison · 25 October 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We stayed at 10 Elmhurst from 22nd to 30th December. A very cosy and comfortable apartment in which to spend the Christmas period. It is perfectly located a couple of minutes from miles of beautiful beaches and easy walking distance to Westbourne, Bournemouth, Sandbanks and Studland. There is plenty of parking both on and off road, though allocated space a bit tight. Apartment is well cared for and extremely clean. It possesses everything one needs although the shower can be tricky. A bit more crockery might help and the carving set isn't the best. When we stayed a couple of bulbs had blown and these were replaced straight away. However, these are minor quibbles and the overall experience is first rate. Nick & Judy Smith

Nick · 25 October 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We were very happy with our stay. The emails were timely and informative from the company. A neighbour was at hand to meet and greet us and the owner, sent helpful and welcoming texts. We got round by bus and taxi which worked well in the main. Nearby bus stops where we could pick up buses to Poole or Bournemouth - only problem was that the last bus back to Lilliput was at 7.40 p.m. which we thought was rather early. No problem bringing a car though as there was a parking space at the property. Local shops ideal. Fish and chip shop, Tesco open until 11 p.m. and a bakers. Downstairs is not great to sleep in if there are young kids upstairs that you need to listen out for, but not a problem for us as kids are older. Extra rooms have been added on the top floor so we are hoping that downstairs will be a larger games room next year ; ) Fantastic firework display over Poole harbour enjoyed from the terrace. Plenty to do in Poole and Bournemouth for all ages - we went on two boat trips, visited the Oceanarium, the Theatre, two museums, the Splashdown park and much more. The holiday suited our party of teenagers up to an eighty year old! Overall one of our best holidays so thank you. The luxurious house definitely added to our enjoyment.

Sue · 25 October 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We did our homework and chose the flat based on a number of key requirements. When we arrived we happily found that all the photos and descriptions that we hoped were true and accurate, were true and accurate. The flat has an ideal location - far enough away from the hub-bub to offer quietness and relaxation, but close enough to the beach, local amenities and nicely in between Poole and Bournemouth. The flat has been done up to a very nice standard. Beds were comfortable. Children's room has an ideal pull-out lower bed (great for our 2 1/2 year old to sleep on, low enough not for us to lose sleep worrying about him rolling onto the carpet and getting hurt). Both bathrooms were particularly well designed and finished. The en-suite was a very nice place to come back to after a hot day on the beach and have a very powerful shower in plenty of room. The kitchen was well-equipped and clean. A good size too, as we all like to bee there prepping meals etc together. The lounge is a lovely space. Great to have a dining-table there and a lounge area and TV all together - very social and worked really well throughout our stay. I like being on the 3rd floor, it had a nice breeze coming in through the windows, and with the lift it is was never a problem bringing in suitcases or shopping etc. The whole area felt safe, neighbours were pleasant and there was never an issue with parking or noise. Altogether a very relaxing, very stylish holiday. Will we return? Absolutely! We all felt we had finally found a really good base for us to have our UK holidays in, where we truly feel like we are at home. The flat worked on all levels for us (family of 4). The beach is magic. There's so much to do for all ages in Poole and Bournemouth and surrounding districts. I highly recommend a cold beer or glass of champagne at the local Harbour Heights Hotel, which has a beautiful terrace and gardens with amazing panoramic views of the entire area. A great holiday. Thank you 8 Pinebeach!

Jon · 25 October 2017

★★★★★ 4/5

Google

Excellent apartment, situated 5 minutes walk to Alum Chine beach, with good toilet facilities and Vesuvio (a large Italian Restaurant). Pleasant 20 minute stroll along the prom to the pier, gardens and town centre passing a very good Harvester chain pub and several cafes and ice cream kiosks. The apartment was spotlessly clean like all other Bournemouth Beaches properties. It is on the second floor with a lift down to the basement carpark. The apartment has 2 good bedrooms with an en suite to the main one. There is a large bathroom, lounge with a good tv and a well equipped kitchen. There is free WIFI. There is a balcony with table and chairs. There is a pleasant 20 walk through the Chine to Westbourne shopping area. There are a number of quality shops including a large M & S Food store and many good restaurants and pubs including Chez Fred an award winning fish and chip restaurant and Baffi Pizza.

Paul · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We have just Returned from Poole/Bournemouth after a week. Dealing with Bournemouth Beaches was great and the property we had was brilliant. 6 Ballard's Close was right on the harbour and the 3 storey house had everything we needed beautiful views from the garden and the balcony's. Close to town and so much to do and things happening most nights. Bike show car show firework nights(we took a boat out to watch this, bargain £6).local pubs are great for food also and very friendly. Took the ferry from Sandbanks on a 10 minute trip and went to Corfe Castle and village again Beautiful, We will definitely to Bournemouth again and will use Bournemouth Beaches, brilliant service from booking to ringing in the week to see if everything is ok. We will be telling friends and highly recommend a visit

Candy · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 4/5

Google

We had a fantastic time at 2 West Bay Apartments. Easy to book which all proved stress free. The staff were more than helpful, when collecting the keys they provided us with a map. It was our first time visiting Bournemouth, so having the map was really useful, especially for my two daughters. The apartment was very clean, with a lovely bright living room. The only downside was that the main bathroom smelt of drains from time to time, so we decided to stick to the on-suite in the main double bedroom. Would most definitely recommend West Bay to anyone visiting Bournemouth, so near the beach and short walking distance to the main shops. We truly had a lovely stay, and would love to go again.

Lucy · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We stayed for a week at 7 Elmhurst and had a wonderful time. The apartment was beautifully clean and was very nicely furnished throughout . The kitchen is well equipped and the beds were very comfortable as were the chairs and settees. The flat is on the first floor and is one of about ten or eleven apartments in the building: other residents that we met were polite and considerate and there was very little noise whether in the day or night. There is a lift (which is handy) and the communal areas are neat and very well kept. The flat is perfectly situated between Sandbanks and Bournemouth and it is about a 3 minute walk to the beach. We loved it here and will definitely be staying again very soon. I must add that the booking process and customer service through Bournemouth Beaches was first class and I would have no hesitation in recommending this property for your holiday or this company to look after you.

Mickey · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We booked two weeks at your 4-bedroom house in Sandbourne Road. A perfect home for a holiday, close to the beach with far-reaching views. We all enjoyed ourselves and hardly moved from the immediate area. The house itself was modern and comfortable. We liked it so much we have booked next year. Smart Homes Rental were efficient, friendly and quick to respond and their cleaning service was professional.PositiveQuality

Chris · 24 October 2021

★★★★★ 2/5

Google

We booked Allure - a 5 bedroom (sleeps 10) property on Sandbanks. This was Mid May so not high season and with a deposit came to £1,750 for the week. On arrival, we were met by a very pleasant young lady who briefly showed us the property, but it was long enough for us to know how things worked and where they were. On looking round, the property looked impressive. Nice rooms, nice kitchen, decent sized bedrooms with en-suites; so the visual inspection went well. Our Gripes About The Property: Double bed mattresses were uncomfortable and poor quality. You can feel the springs in the mattress and lying down meant you could feel the base beneath. They were half the thickness of the ones we have at home. I even ended up moving to one of the twin bed-rooms as the single mattresses used on those beds were much better. Shower head in one bathroom was broken and perched in a position so as to look OK. As soon as you picked it up, it fell off. Plug in one en-suite bath would not fit properly so having a bath was not possible. We were shown how it should work but we never successfully managed to get it to work. Tap of another bath fell off when touched. Pots and pans were dirty and frying pans had lost all their non-stick Teflon coating so we went out and bought our own. Only one cutting board provided so raw meat, vegetables, bread etc had to "share" the board (washed it first each time of course). Knives were blunt. Dishwasher was broken. Toaster short circuited the electricity so toaster was broken. Electricity circuit breaker doors were locked so in order to flick switch after electricity went off, we had to improvise to get door panels open. No keys available. Only one bin in the whole house.....nothing in bedrooms or bathrooms; just one bin in the kitchen which had a broken lid. The tumble drier was housed in a cupboard with no plug, so to use it, you had to drapes the cable across the hall floor to the nearest plug opposite...small issue, but when kids are running around and an 89 year old having to walk over it to get to the bathroom, it's a little dangerous. Our Gripes About Bournemouth Beaches Ltd When we reported the issues (all the day after we arrived), Bournemouth Beaches sent round a very nice chap who looked at the problems. The same day he replaced the shower-head, fixed back the tap which fell off and looked at the dishwasher which we knew was not going to get fixed easily. We had to ask a few times to get a toaster and that arrived the day before we left. We received no real response from Bournemouth Beaches with regards the dishwasher other than to say it needed fixing. No time scales, no apologies that we'd most likely be without it during our stay etc. This property was not cheap and we expected everything to be working and in good condition to make our holiday enjoyable and relaxing and the last thing we wanted to do was spend holiday time washing up by hand. Issues do happen and we recognize issues like a dishwasher needing parts but these things should not have been allowed to go "unnoticed" in the first place. What we are most annoyed by is the fact that at no time did Bournemough Beaches apologise for the inconveniences caused or to find out if our holiday was being spoilt. Basically no compassion or any real care about our holiday. It was as if they had got our money, knew we'd be gone in a week and there was no need to do much about things. Even now, after a long email to them explaining our disappointment with the property and holiday, no-one has had the courtesy to write back acknowledging our email and the issues we had. So, the property, whilst looking nice, was disappointing and not really set up as a holiday let. There were no books, no toys or games to play, no videos. There was no manual about the area, no information about local doctors, hospitals, restaurants and so on: all common in other holiday rental places charging a similar amount. Bournemouth Beaches, if it wants return business, needs to do more than just take the money and then ignore its customers.

David · 26 October 2013

★★★★★ 4/5

Google

We stayed at flat 5, Mansard Court for a weekend. Impressed with the service from Bournemouth Beaches. Smooth booking process and always answer email's immediately. Key's received a week before we stayed. Flat was nice and close proximity to the centre of Sandbanks and had all the facilities we needed. A visitor book with information on the area would have been handy. We received a courtesy call over the weekend to check we were happy with everything which I thought was impressive. Would absolutely book with Bournemouth Beaches again.

Marina · 26 October 2013

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We had an excellent 5 days at The Coach House (Apartment 1). It had everything we needed for our stay. It is ideal for couples, is centrally located, with good off road parking. Owner Madelaine was there to greet us when we arrived. Customer service was great throughout and a bottle of wine and milk awaited us in the fridge. Brilliant weather too!PositiveResponsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value

Paul · 24 October 2020

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Just returned from a weeks stay at 8 Pinebeach, Branksome. Booking was easy and efficient, with a courtesy follow up call when we arrived. The flat is stunning. every aspect for a home from home holiday is thought of and supplied. The owners have to be highly commended on their thought and execution of this rental property, the decor and finish is excellent and so comfortable. Fantastic! We will definitely be returning.

Bradley · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Booked a property with Bournemouth Beaches for a week long stay in one of the holiday lets and found them as an agent to be very efficient in communication and very considerate of our potential needs. Emails were comprehensive and well timed. Information was very good and without intruding on our break Bournemouth Beaches made us aware that they were available to help if we needed it. Definitely would use again !!

Tony · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

This was our 5th stay in Flat 4 The Boltons, which we thoroughly enjoyed. The Boltons is in a great location, so handy for the sea front , an easy walk into the town and in the other direction is Westbourne with plenty of restaurants and shops. We love staying in The Boltons - the flats are very well equiped and also have the added bonus of the heated outdoor pool.

John · 25 October 2016

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Bournemouth Beaches was very efficient at responding to emails and confirming my booking. I stayed at Apartment 1 Coachman house, this is in a great location near to Bournemouth town centre. The studio apartment is very spacious with all the facilities that you need and is very well maintained. Off-road parking is available and it is also located in a surprisingly quiet road. It met all my needs perfectly.

Kelly · 25 October 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We have just returned from a week at 2 Holmedene Court and have thoroughly enjoyed our holiday. The apartment was spotless and very well equipped. I have to comment on the double bed which was extremely comfortable, unlike many holiday lets. Also, we travelled by coach and were given a complementary transfer from Bournemouth coach station to and from the apartment. We will definitely return. Thank you Bournemouth Beaches.

Stuart · 25 October 2016