We loved Erika and Alessandra's place! Erika was not able to meet us, but we met with her mother Alessandra. She welcomed us and showed us the grounds and the house. She explained some of the history behind the city and provided recommendations on where to go and what to do. She even had a printed guide she typed up - i can tell she took her time on it and it was SO helpful. I read it one day while sitting by the pool :) I would definitely recommend staying here on your trip to Florence. The location is close enough to downtown to get to by bus, but far enough to get to enjoy the countryside.
PROS and TIPS: The little dog Winny is sooo sweet. We wanted to keep him! Talk to Alessandra if she is available - she is a native of the area and gives great guidance. Super sweet too :) If you follow Alessandra's guide, there is a beautiful view of the Tuscan mountains just up the street. There is a restaurant there called La Cava Di Maiano - they serve the traditional Florence bistecca - it is a must try. They offer it for two people at $70. For two people you will spend anywhere between $70-$100 depending on appetizers and wine. For me it was well worth it (especially compared to LA prices). The house is decorated like a Tuscan villa - it's so pretty, the bed is comfortable, and they provide a hair dryer, slippers, and soap and shampoo. There is an air conditioner too!
CONS: Make sure you bring mosquito spray! There are a ton of mosquitos and I wouldn't recommend keeping the windows open for that reason. Don't take too long of showers because the water drains slow and there isn't a tub so it could overflow if your not paying attention.