DB Barton Retreat 2-King bedroom house close to OU, in serene Norman

Great host communication, but the property needs help. We live within half an hour of Norman and just wanted a close place for an extended weekend. This place won the prize, due to the photos and the excellent reviews—all three rated it a 10. Since is is labeled a “retreat,” we were expecting a place to relax. Unfortunately, we were disappointed after the first night so we left, even without a refund. I can’t speak for how it was for the previous three reviewers, but it just wasn’t what we expected.First, though: the good . . . The host, Trixie, was an excellent communicator from before we arrived until we checked out. Though the app seemed to lag a bit at times, she seemed to reply in a timely manner. She also offered us another one of her properties on the morning we told her that this one was not working out. We initially thought about exploring that, but maybe we could just chalk it up to being tired and grouchy after a rough night’s sleep—we just decided to head back home and regroup. Her effort in that, though, was much appreciated!Also appreciated the room-darkening curtains in the main bedroom—something quite rare for VRBO properties, but so important. There is also a ceiling fan in each room, which is another positive feature. The property is a duplex, but it has a two-car garage that guests are welcome to use. But there were a few things that caused our stay to be shortened, the main thing being the smell. It’s not a strong smell, or an odor, per se,

Great place. Quite clean and comfortable. Trixie was responsive. Will stay here again!!

The interior of the home is lovely and ideally located near OU campus. It seemed relatively new to the rental market, so there were some missing items and exterior was unkept when we arrived, but the owner was very responsive to all of our concerns! I would stay again.

Great location with quick access to campus. Property was clean, beautiful and included most everything we needed for a short stay, minus a blow dryer. The area was in a quiet residential neighborhood. Would definitely stay again.