I had a five-star experience staying at Kina's place. I arrived very late at night and she was totally understanding about the late flight. She even gave me a tour. Her home is full of southern charm and she has beautiful taste. Your area is not accurately reflected in the pictures. It look like a basement, but it is all above ground.
Kina was also helpful beyond expectation. She gave me a few rides downtown and even picked me up when I was stranded in the rain after a concert got cancelled at Jazz Fest. Plus she is a wealth of information.
The neighbourhood is completely safe - as long as you apply common sense. The houses are gorgeous and you feel like a part of daily life in New Orleans as opposed to a tourist. I took several walks and met some of her neighbours. Wonderful! All of them.
If you are the Lonely Planet type travel book Kina's place. Her family's story alone (which I will let her tell you) should be in the history books. I am so grateful I stayed with Kina and you will be too.