We got there a lot earlier than we thought we would, and after letting John know, were told that we could check in early, which was very nice. John was waiting on the porch when we arrived. He gave us a full tour of the bnb and went over house rules. We were able to get in touch with him when we needed something, but barely saw him otherwise.
This is a FANTASTIC location! We were directly across from Wicked Weed Brewery, and could walk ALL over downtown (which we did). We had such a wonderful time, we requested a third night.
They do have communal showers/ bathrooms, but that was never a problem for us. Every floor has at least one bathroom/ shower (our floor had two), and those we actually saw were super friendly, and made us feel very welcomed.
John's place is a superb location, and he was a wonderful host. We'll be moving to Asheville soon, but I will send guests his way.

**Other perks: There is a communal kitchen, one sink and mini fridge in the rooms, communal washer and dryer, a balcony overlooking Wicked Weed/ Orange Peel, a downstairs porch, communal FREE computers, and you're right next door to the Food Co-op, and a few store fronts down the street from a bakery (that was very good).