We loved our time in Raul's apartment. It was a perfect home base for exploring Amsterdam city center for the first time!
I feared the apartment would be damp since it is partially below street level - it was not AT ALL damp despite all the rain. It was bright, clean, and fresh. Some reviews said it was noisy at street-level at night... yeah, sometimes it was, but we didn't mind. We felt very cozy, safe, and comfortable whenever we were inside. It was nice not to have to walk up 80 steps like some Amsterdam apartments!
The furnishings were minimal but absolutely practical and useful. We did not mind the limited kitchen appliances at all. We had everything we needed for our family of 3 and more.
The area was very walkable and you could easily catch a taxi by the front door if needed.
Raul was responsive and accommodating before, during, and after, and made our trip worry-free. He was a fantastic host. I would come back in a heartbeat!