If you're looking to live like a local, you'll love Andrea's place tucked back onto a side street overlooking a canal. Andrea has gone out of his way to have everything a traveler could want including a washer/dryer. Spotlessly clean and extremely comfortable, it was enjoyable to just rest in the apartment and watch the gondola & boat traffic outside our window (it wasn't noisy, though).
One should be aware, however, that it's kind of off the beaten path; not far to walk to San Marco Square or Rialto, but not an area that has a lot of foot traffic at night. That said, I never felt unsafe, but if you're looking for nightlife this wouldn't be the spot.
I wouldn't hesitate to stay at Andrea's place again. He was extremely helpful with any questions and communication was great.