I booked the room at Esen's a couple of weeks before I arrived in Istanbul and was impressed with his efforts to make sure I knew my options for transportation from the airport. Any help I needed with directions, booking onward travel, etc... I found with him. He is a very thoughtful host.
This was my first airbnb experience.
Things I liked:
I slept very well there. Super comfortable bed. Enough room for my yoga practice in the room. House is clean. The apartment is located between a very nice shopping area with the City's mall, and more of a factory outlet style cheaper clothing kind of neighborhood.
I had forgotten a few basics in my packing, so I enjoyed this location.
There is an elevator... helpful at times.
It's a couple of blocks from the metro. You can get everywhere from there.
It is a good place! Good host!
Good option.