We've never met the host, but the communication was quick and precise.
The check-in doesn't require the host, so you can check in even really late.
The apartment is in a nice borough and in a convenient position to catch a bus or take the metro, but still pretty far from main attractions and night life activities (at least 20/30 minutes by means). Anyway, this could be a pro if you need quiet and silence.
The only problem for me was the narrowness of the bathroom, but for a short period it's fine.