We were able to check in a little earlier then 3pm, never got to meet Issa but he was very responsive through email. Jess (the employee/caretaker/cleaner etc.) was the one welcoming us and showing the apartment.
Great location, close to main roads, grocery stores and a really good Poke place (Chef Ernie Gray’s Poke Market). The apartment lacks some character but it's clean and spacious so it will be a great base for exploring Hilo Area and Volcano National Park.