Balat is an ideal place to stay in the Old Town of Istanbul. It is close enough to access all the historical sites, but you don't get vendors pushing you to come into their stores/cafés in Balat like you do in the really touristic parts.
The accommodation is just beautiful, and had everything we needed. The WiFi was good too.
Mehmet was a very kind and welcoming host, and responded to all communications promptly; including helping us, at very short notice, to get a taxi when we were leaving.
We would highly recommend this accommodation
Many thanks to Mehmet, from Teresa and Pete (UK)