Like others said, the location of Francesco's apartment can't be beat. You can basically see both Ipanema and Copacabana beaches from the street out front. Very walkable neighborhood - plenty to eat, see, do - and we felt totally safe the entire time (even walking around at night). No trouble at all getting Ubers or cabs (there's a cab stand around the corner) to/from the location. Grocery downstairs is super convenient.
Everything looks like the photos, and the apartment is even larger than it seems. There were only two of us, but we could have easily fit another couple or family in there with us. The bathrooms are modern with nice showers. Kitchen seemed updated too, but since we were only there for a long weekend we didn't use it for more than making coffee. (No drip coffee maker, but there are both pour-over and moka pot options.) Mattresses are futon-style, but we expected those from the photos. Good light-blocking curtains in the bedroom.
Highly recommend Francesco's place!