When the venue is nice it set up the mood...I have seen lovely beautiful girls in mediocre places and it takes away the atmosphere from the encounter.
Landlords are taking advantage charging crazy prices, for apartments below standard levels.
I have been in places where you can't fit in the shower, that small!! Old dingy places, that I prefer to avoid.
I try to help girls finding suitable accommodation in my neck of the woods, but its becoming more expensive everytime, and the standard are droping too.
I have been offered wine and soft drinks before, its a nice touch from the ladies. Everything adds up to breaking the ice and make the date a successful encounter for both parties.