What can I say, this kind of experience is exactly why Air BNB exists. It immediately felt like we were visiting one of our own family's homes, and that all was right with the world and we could relax. It was really the type of place you wish you lived at, with everything you needed within a 5 minute walk.
Also, for people who aren't fluent in Italian, none of the locals we encountered ever made us feel uncomfortable as we were buying groceries, eating at restaurants, etc. Everyone was very friendly and seemed to enjoy our presence.