Furkan’s place was as described and though in some places, a little rough round the edges, it was just what we wanted for 4 adults and 2 young children.
Some people have described it as dark, but I wouldn’t agree. One bedroom is dark, which was perfect for us to use as a bedroom for our 3 and 4 year old. The water pressure in the showers is great and the beds are comfy. I can tell Furkan has also listened to other reviews and has provided a fold down table and chairs for people to eat at inside if they wish (we didn’t as the weather was great so ate outside) and also has a clothes airer which delighted my washing mad mother.
The area, for us, was prefect. It is full of locals and feels very untouristy, which was ideal. Lots of cafes and bars and restaurants which felt authentic. The whole area is very hilly, lots of ups and downs to get around, so not good for people who don’t like a walk as part of their day. It was good for us (2 x 70 year olds, 2 x 40 year olds and 2 young children - no complaints here).
It is a 10 min walk (downhill) to the tram (Tophane) to get over the water to the blue mosque etc. I wondered at first if that would be a better location to stay in, until I went there. It is tourist overload. I was happy to be able to pop in and leave again, back to a much cooler area. The street: Asmali Mescit and the surrounding little streets provided good options for food/drinks, as well as Velvet cafe and cafe privato and streets nearby.
The highlight of the apartment is the outside space. With 2 young children this was the winner for us. I cancelled a different apartment which had a family bathroom (rather than 1 en-suite, a WC and a shower in the hallway, as this apartment has) just to have this outside space - and it was the right decision for us.
Furkan was a great host, allowed us to drop bags early. Check out late. And leave bags to collect later in the day. Recommended.