I stayed in Rio for one month (University research stay) and stayed at Michael's place. I loved this apartment and the neighborhood ! The place is clean, functional and perfect for a brief stay in Rio. Being in Santa Teresa (and close to Lapa) offers an other experience than neighborhoods like Copacabana. You are in a more bohemian part of the city an d up on the hill, you have a wonderful view. I loved it.
Michael is a fantastic host. He offered me an early check in, helped me with few stuff, lent me things, recommended me places, talked to me about Rio and Brazil in general... I had just once a problem with the shower and he fixed it right away. He is highly reactive and a guest I could not expect anything better from him.
I have been outside most of the time but you can easily cook at home and will find some supermarkets not too far from there. Whenever I came back home with groceries, I used to take a Uber (very cheap) because it's steep. But you have several places around for eating something. And Brazilian food Is great (and not expensive) so you might be willing to eat outside most of the time.
Finally for those concerned about security, I have to say that I never experienced any problem there and the area looks actually safe (late at night I used to take Uber late, but sometimes I have also been walking the Selaron stairs and the hill up to the apartment and that without any troubles).
Therefore I would strongly recommend this place !