We stayed at Luis and Melanie's place for just over a week and it was great. Clean and tidy, with everything you need. Really comfortable (firm) bed. Lots of space. The neighbourhood is on the edge of the gentrification frontier, which means that it has a real Brooklyn feel so it's not swimming in hipsters! It's a 20 minute or so walk to some great bars and restaurants, and the J-train (a few minutes walk on Gates Av.) takes you to the lower east side (Bowery/Chinatown) in about 15 mins, or, in the direction, straight to JFK in about 30. Luis and Melanie were both really friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend staying at their place again.