the communication with kirsten was good, the keys to the apt. where waiting for us as kirsten told us, they were left at a bar so there's was no greeting by neither kristen nor anyone else. that's was not a problem. the apt. was tidy, the pictures are accurate, the building is an old somewhat run down building, so if you don't like funky places, this is not for you. the apt. is on the first floor this was not an issue for us. the apartment is confortable nice kitchen. and somewhat fully equipped. nice thing is that previous guest leave be olive oil, coffee, etc. the only issue i had and it was not a minor issue is that we're not smokers so we rented a place which was listed as a non smoking apartment. the couch where i slept, it had a terrible smoke smell, i went to the bedroom and the same was true for the bed. so if you want a place that is non smoking this is not the place for you. nothing worse than to drive almost 900 kms. arrived at your apt. and when you want to go to sleep, you encounter a strong smoking smell, rosa and i were disappointed but we were not in a place to start looking for another place. the biggest plus was vineria bar gallina, right across the street, and amazing italian wine bar, great food, only cold entrees but amazing quality and an exquisite wine list. gallina was the highlight of our stay in berlin. another nice things around the neighborhood, other bars, a great market place where you have great places to eat. also on the same block a nice size super market.