If you're looking for a great jumping-off point in Vancouver, don't hesitate to stay here. When Draeden touts this place's location, he's not overselling it: if you want to enjoy a great time in Vancouver, his place is in a fantastic central location that puts darn near everything in comfortable walking distance. For your farther journeys, you've got your choice of the bikes he provides, easy access to taxis, and nearby bus stops and metro stations that will get you anywhere else in town. Planning more of a homebody vacation? The immediate neighborhood has plenty of great restaurants and markets to choose from, or you can venture over to Granville Island to stock up with less than ten minutes' walk + ferry time.
Draeden was very responsive and helpful before and during our stay, and his place has nearly anything and everything you could possibly want: bikes, nice views, a pool, a sauna, a parking spot, laundry access, fantastic towels, soft sheets, a comfy bed, a well-equipped kitchen, breakfast supplies… you'll be living like a local in no time.
As a few other guests have mentioned, the building hails from circa the 70s, and the landing smells like decades of an entire floor of groovy residents chain-smoking in their finest polyester. Once you're actually inside the apartment, though, everything is fresh and clean, the door is well-sealed, and air purifiers are available if you need them for anything. If you're visiting in winter, the baseboard heaters won't struggle to keep you comfortable even during an epic polar vortex. (Trust me, we were there for it.)
Do note carefully that Draden calls out the "compact bedroom." It's likely a matter of US vs Canadian mattress sizing, but I'd put the bed more toward a (US) double/full than the listed queen. The bed is super, super plush and comfortable — you won't want to get out of it — but if you have to have a large mattress (or a lot of room around it) this might not be your place.
Pro tip for food nerds: if you're coming in on the SkyTrain, hang a left when you exit Yaletown-Roundhouse and make the pilgrimage to Urban Fare to stock up on fine foods from friendly grocers before heading toward the apartment. A bit north of that, you can stop in to Swirl and grab a bottle from their extensive selection of BC-made wines. And then put on your blinders and pick up a light jog or you'll be stopping at every tempting patisserie, bakery, and cafe along the way.
We're already planning our next trip to Vancouver, and we'd instantly stay here again if it's available.