Richard was a great host. He had a small tea service set up so I could brew a cup of tea to get me going in the morning. The room was located right next to the door so I could come and go easily without being a bother to Richard. The bathroom was well appointed and had excellent water pressure, a great thing when you have had a long trip to Scotland.
Richards place is located almost right on top of a bus stop that will have many buses to take you into the heart of the Royal mile and he lives very near a few nice cafes or pubs so you can easily get something to eat or drink without having to battle the tourists if you like.
He is almost right across the street from a shopping center with a few Poundland (like dollar stores for Americans) and a full Sainsburys, which is like a small target or Walmart with a full grocery section so you can easily get food or travel essentials.
You don't have access to Richards kitchen, so you can't cook anything but Sainsburys has ready to eat sandwiches and the like for a few pounds if you want something substantial without spending too much.
Overall I think for the price Richards place is a great way for 2 people to see Edinburgh with easy access to public transit but be able to break away from the tourists if you need to rest for a bit.
Also, Richard lives in a street with free parking so a car can be left there without parking fees or a fear of a ticket.