I stayed at Leo's and Sandra's home for six and a half weeks and what can I say... it was just perfect :)
The family is amazing, they are always there to help you if you need help. On my first day, just after arrival I went on a bike tour together with Leo (up to Corcovado mountain), which was an absolutely unique experience.
Communication will never be a problem, since everybody speaks perfect english.
Location of the apartment in Laranjeiras is also great. In my opinion, it's one of the best neighbourhoods. You have everything close by, metro station (Largo do Machado), bus stations, supermarket, rental bike station (Itau bikes),... you name it. You can get to the beaches or to work very easily and quickly. Moreover, the house is situated in a dead-end street with a lot of trees around, which means that it is super calm and also nice to look out of the window. Definitely an advantage over other places!
The apartment itself is very clean, has everything you need for a long-term stay. The room is spacious and also has enough storage for all your belongings.
After all, I can only highly recommend this place!
Thank you very much, muito obrigado, vielen Dank!