If you want to have the real NYC experience, look no further than Elizabeth's amazing brownstone in Harlem. This house is HUGE, you can host several families and there will be room for everyone. The kitchen is outfitted with all new appliances, 2nd floor bathroom is updated with gorgous subway tiles, and there are tons of extra towels and linens. The brownstone is definately the real deal, it's over 120 years old but updated in all the places you need it, spotlessly clean (seriously the cleanest baseboards I've ever seen) and location, location, location!
We spent four days at Elizabeth's house and we went all over the city with ease. The subway is less than a 10 minute walk, which is right past historic Slyvia's and Red Rooster! If you want to go to the East side, you are a 10 minute walk to the bus stops and Citibikes are right around the corner. I might keep saying 10 minute walk - to Apollo Theatre, to Lenox Deli, to shopping, to Whole Foods. Maybe a little further walk to Central Park if you want to walk it, or you can just walk 10mins to the subway and be there in a heart beat (only two stops away.)
I can't say enough good things, we had a blast. Elizabeth was very attentative and answered any questions we had within minutes. Just book it and have a great time.