Mehmet was an awesome host!
We contacted him prior to booking, before arriving as well as throughout our stay and he was very kind and helpful.
The apartment was true to pictures and as described in the listing. It was spacious, airy and had lots of natural sunlight due to the big windows. We had everything we needed for our month-long stay, including a washer, fridge, oven. In the kitchen, we were able to prepare meals for those times when we didn't feel like eating out.
The apartment location was a short walk to both the Havaist bus stops for when we took weekend trips away as well as to the Marmaray station for when we wanted to go out and explore the city. The area around the apartment was lively with lots of shops (from restaurants, groceries, bakery, coffee shop, clothing, beauty salons), you name it! We even got our PCR test done at a clinic nearby (3 mins walk). Most importantly as female travellers, we never felt unsafe walking home late at night either from the Havaist stop or from the Marmaray station.
The apartment is on the third floor and as we had huge(!) suitcases was a little tricky navigating the stairs. Again, Mehmet was kind enough to help us get them up (upon arrival) and down (upon departure). The hot water was a little fiddly (you either get it really hot or cold) but we got used to it and was fine. Also had to be mindful of the neighbours as the walls are not soundproof. The wifi was adequate but since we were also working from the apartment, we realized that for video meetings one of us had to use our cellular data for smooth connection. For voice calls or browsing, had no problems whatsoever.
Overall, we had an enjoyable work/holiday in Istanbul staying at Mehmet's apartment and would recommend it as a place to stay among the locals. Thank you Mehmet!