José made us feel immediately comfortable, he even explained how to make a reverse charges call to contact him initially. The flat was as described and José or one of his guys Ramon and Luis were always avilable to help when we asked.
The area is touristy but upmarket and is just off the beach, Copacabana is the next along. Resteraunts and bars are right there on the same street, supermarket, metro, buses and taxis all local. Very safe and secure, we had one issue with the flat that José is sorting out now that he is aware.
Not a problem for us as they helped carry the luggave but it is 3 stories up the stairs.