If there were half-star ratings, we'd give this place a 4.5. We are a family of three who just spent two weeks at the lake house.
The host - Alex is extremely communicative and accommodating. Before we arrived, I wrote to ask if the house had a salad spinner and muffin tin so I'd know if I should bring them from home. Alex ordered them right away and they were at the house when we arrived. He was like that throughout - great, clear communication and very accommodating.
Check-in/Check-out - A breeze! You get a code and let yourself in. There are no detailed instructions for check out.
The lake - Wonderful! Internal combustion engines are not allowed, so the lake is quiet. It's also quite warm for a lake in the Pacific Northwest. We enjoyed paddling around and swimming. The house comes with a kayak and a paddleboat as well as life vests, which is great.
Location - The view of the lake from the house is lovely and the outdoor space is really wonderful. Tons of space and a lovely gazebo where you can sit in the shade looking out at the lake. One thing to note is that Star Lake is close to the freeway and to the flight path for Sea-Tac airport. They both generate quite a bit of background noise. I'm sensitive to noise, so found it challenging, but I know other reviewers weren't bothered by it. The surrounding area is not lovely or interesting, but if you want to visit Seattle and other places nearby (or just hunker in at the lake) this would be a great place to stay.
The house - Very clean and nicely laid out. The master bedroom suite is upstairs on the 3rd floor and the other bedrooms are downstairs. There is a sweet little bedroom right off the master that's clearly set up for aa young child, so there's a great option if your child is too little to sleep on a different floor. There's also tons of space in the master for a portable crib. The master bathroom is huge and lovely. The rest of the bedrooms/baths are good too. The house does feel a bit like no one has ever lived there...a little like corporate housing rather than what one generally finds as a lake rental. It's not as warm and cozy feeling as other lake houses we have rented, but it's very functional, clean, and tidy with a great view and Alex is an excellent communicator.
We look forward to coming back!