I did not meet the host at all because he was away at the time, but he was very responsive over another message service. The location of the flat was excellent because it was near the Oval tube station and some bus stops.
As a woman, I have also experienced going home alone at 1am during the New Year's Eve celebration and the streets were absolutely quiet. It was also convenient because there are both a convenience store and a Tesco Express nearby. There are also cheap restaurants along Brixton Road.
My stay was made very comfortable by the amenities, especially the use of the kitchen, the laundry, and the drying rack in the room. On very cold days, the heating only went up to 22°, but I managed. The room was also very spacious and the big desk was so convenient. I was also able to work out in the room.
All in all, I was able to get around easily and come home easily in London because of the flat. Big thanks to the host!