We stayed a Francesco's place at the end of Dec 2018. From the start I want to say we loved staying at Francesco's and we would stay there again if we came to Rome. I don't think we'd even consider anywhere else if it was available.
Regarding the host: Francesco was there to greet us when we arrived. We had set a time but we were late (we decided to take a train then bus rather than an taxi/uber which delayed us quite a bit) but Francesco was cool about it. He explained everything to us and showed us around. He had a booklet that he had made up which showed local restaurants he recommended (which we tried all of and they were all great), garbage times if you need to throw away garbage and stuff like that. It was really helpful. On the first night I had trouble opening one of the doors (maybe too many Vinos) and we contacted Francesco and he came in under twenty minutes and sorted it for us.
Location: you won't find better in Rome. It is within a few minutes of Piazza Novona which is amazing at Christmas and it's easy walking distance to St. Peter's square and the Basilica and just a little further on is the Vatican museum. Most things you would want to see in Rome are within walking distance from the apartment assuming you have an average fitness level.
Cleanliness: everything was spotless.
Amenities: There were too large bedrooms. The bathroom had a shower, toilet and bidet as well as washing machine (and Francesco provides a rack to dry clothes). We didn't use the kitchen and anybody staying Rome shouldn't but if you plan to cook you might find it a little small. The apartment had heaters that just turn themselves on and off and it always seemed to be the perfect temperature to me.
Cons: the only con I can think of is street noise. The apartment is one floor up from ground level so like anywhere in Rome you can still get street noise but the apartment faces a narrow Lane and a narrow street which are not that busy. This never bothered myself or my wife who is a light sleeper. Neither of us wore earplugs.