Ali's place is in a great location, just off Istiklal. We didn't do much research about the streets of Istanbul, so the only thing that shocked us was that the place was on top of a steep hill, which means climbing to and from the tram meant walking up and down steeps slopes. But there is also a metro station nearby that requires way less climbing. The entire area is built that manner though, so staying anywhere else would have been the same.
The place was very spacious and had a very good view of the bosphorous. You can even star gaze due the the low light pollution. Ali is also a very helpful person who replies very quickly. I've never met a host who took so much initiative in contacting me before my arrival and departure! We had a great time and would definitely stay again should we ever visit Istanbul.