Mahmud, is very kind and allowed us to check in early given check in time is at 15:00 (make sure you relate that to your flight schedule and arrival time). If you come early in the morning it takes only 20 min but during business hours count on 45-60 min from the airport. There are a couple of stairs to go up - it is one floor only. The house offers stunning views of the Marmara sea and the place is the best to get around Istambul. It is quiet and traffic is not allowed around the area. The apartment is just next door to 4 seasons hotel so provide that as reference while giving directions to UBER drivers (don’t use taxis namely the yellow ones). If it is your first time @Istanbul check all leaflets Mahmud has in the house and eventually consider BigBusTour to get acquainted with the overall geography of the city and main spots. He also has a 2016 Istambul guide available. I have used visit a city app too and that made my life easy. Mahmud left some food in the fridge and there is always water available to drink from the bottle at the kitchen. House orientation was simple and accurate so...pls take care of the air con controls and don’t loose them. Overall, think about leaving the house better than you found it so we can come back anytime soon! Cheers to Mahmud and his hospitable place!