We stayed in Carlos' apartment for three nights during the World Cup. The apartment is very modern, very well equipped and extremely clean. It has a view on a backyard but we can't find out why it has previously been labeled as 'very ugly'. The location of the apartment is also a major asset, one block away from the beach, short walk from General Osario metro station, very close to the supermarket Rio Sur and close to bars and restaurants of Ipanema. The building has a 24/7 very friendly and helpful concierge.
Unfortunately we did not get to meet Carlos, perhaps the only twist of our experience is that as he has many properties he does get a little bit confused on keeping track of the arrival of his guests. However we did get our keys as soon as we arrived at the location.
We would definitely use again.