Heraldo's place is great, but what made the experience one of the best I've had was Heraldo's hospitality. A great host makes all the difference - I would recommend his place without hesitation.
The apartment is well laid out, small but comfortable, and in a great location. The bed was probably the most comfortable I slept on in Rio. I stayed for a month, and I wish I'd stayed longer. There is a metro a ten minute walk away, and three different grocery stores on the same block. You can walk to shopping and restaurants in three different directions. I work while I travel, and I found the internet to be more than sufficient for my needs, as well. The building is safe and in a good area. There's always taxis nearby, and Uber came there no problem.