I stayed at Iris' place last night while travelling for work. It was immaculately clean, but still felt very comfortable and welcoming. The room was perfect, and Iris was very warm and an excellent hostess.
The neighborhood has a lot of character to it, and is within easy walking distance of the French Quarter. There is plenty of excellent food and live music to be had, and if you're lucky you might come across an impromptu street party in the Treme with a full New Orleans brass band while walking back from dinner. I'm not sure why anyone would think it wasn't a safe walk at night, as everyone I met while out was very personable.
I highly recommend that anyone travelling to New Orleans stay with Iris. Half the price of a hotel, and three times the charm. Don't skip breakfast!