First of all, for anyone, like me, not sure about the feasibility of staying here as a launching pad for visiting NY, let me reassure you; it's easy - the flat is a 5-10 minute walk to a train station with regular trains into Manhattan throughout the day and night. Journey time to Manhattan is between 10 and 20 minutes dependent on where you want to go.
As for the apartment, well done Joseph for making a genuine effort to transform a simple bed for the night into something more homely - there are lots of thoughtful touches regarding both décor and equipment which will make your stay more agreeable.
It remains a basement flat so there is some inevitable noise from upstairs but the neighbourhood is quiet whilst still having the advantage of being very close to a bustling evening scene with bars and restaurants that are markedly cheaper, more friendly and, to be honest, better, than what you will find in Manhattan.
Joseph is a host rather than a landlord; he is accommodating and his communication was clear and helpful from reservation to check out.