Very good location, literally ten steps away from the Cafe des deux moulins in Rue Lepic. I chose this area because it is a short walk to multiple bus lines and Blanche metro station. If one feels energetic enough, one can walk to both Pigalle or Place de Clichy metro. The place is a lively part of Montmartre, bordering the 9th Arrondisement. It is on the same block almost / around the corner from the Moulin Rogue. There is a Monoprix nearby, and two supermarkets, one organic supermarket, many bakeries, restaurants, and Asian traiteurs for take out. There is a boucherie, rotisserie, fromagerie, wine shop, fruits and vegetables store, flower shop, epicerie, chocolate store, pharmacy, laundry, and seafood restaurant in the street. The street itself where the apartment is located is quiet (different from how Rue Lepic is!) and it felt safe.
We were unable to meet Benoit, however detailed instructions on self check in were provided a day before our arrival. There are two-step locks before one is able to enter the premises.
Note that one must climb two flights of stairs (one a bit tall with more than ten steps, the other spiraling) which did pose a challenge as I had two suitcases. For everyday use, it was not a problem. At night however, these stairs and hallways are quite dark! There are light switches at the ends of the hallways (discovered these late in our trip haha!)
The apartment itself was cozy, airy, and well lit. We were two persons traveling, and the space was fine. A third person would be able to sleep as well in the sofa bed, but having many suitcases would pose a problem. (Our suitcases remained closed, at the main living area). There are three sets of heavy-duty locks on the door, which makes the place secure.
There is a big French-style window that opens to a courtyard, hence it is quiet. At night, however, one may be able to see neighbors (and neighbors see you as well) especially if the windows are open. The panes are covered in privacy film though, so you won't be seen if windows are closed.
The living area consists of an L-shaped sofa and a small center table which doubles as a hidden storage compartment. We ate some meals in this area, as the only other table was the long bar table. There is a television and the wifi signal is strong. There are other entertainment devices, however we were unable to make these work.
The pantry had the essentials (plates, spoons and forks, glasses, condiments) and more. There is a refrigerator, a microwave with grilling function, and a washer (no dedicated dryer). There is also a hot plate stove, but we did not use it.
The bathroom was a bit small, but nonetheless functional for our purposes. There is a bathtub and shower, where one can soak after a long day touring Paris. The floor of the toilet area tends to get wet though after a shower, so please be careful as one might slip. Toiletries (soap, shampoo, shower gel) are available as well.
The bedroom is cozy and very much suitable for the two of us, with warm beddings especially since it was a bit chilly at night during our visit (I opened the windows). Inside the bedroom was another set of French windows which open to a light well. The neighbors do not open their windows, thus you don't get to see each other from this window.
Extension cords with multiple sockets are available by the bedside, behind the microwave, and near the windows at the main living area.
Overall, given the location and the coziness of the apartment, it was such a bargain! I would like to rent out the apartment again on another trip to Paris. However, it may be a challenge if travelling with older persons who may have difficulty climbing stairs.
Sadly we were unable to meet Benoit during our stay. We communicated via WhatsApp, and he messaged to check if everything was fine with the apartment. Detailed instructions also on where to dispose of the trash and how to check out. Thanks again Benoit!