Michael's place in Ixelles is an excellent location. A great neighborhood with shops and restaurants; very convenient to the tram and other public transport.
The apartment is minimalist, but warm, quiet, and cozy. The rooms face the inner courtyards, so it feels very private and there was lots of light. I had a little trouble with the stove--an induction stove, which is not as common in the U.S. I texted back and forth with Michael a bit, and couldn't make it work, so he graciously refunded me the cost of a meal out. Eventually, I figured out the stove works only with certain pots, and then everything was fine.
Regarding comments about the apartment's cleanliness, I would say it is home clean, but not hotel clean. This was fine for me and my 2 kids for 5 nights. All in all, a good value in Brussels with a gracious host.