Like the other reviews state, we also experienced Jullien's friendly help with luggage on arrival as well as many little details that make guests feel welcome after a long and exhausting flight (like carrying our bags up 3 flights of stairs, water in the bar fridge, use of an iron, hair drier, electric plug adaptor, enough space to hang our clothes, replacing the kettle with a new coffee maker and being willing to help when we had difficulties with excess luggage).
The area may be gritty, but we never felt unsafe (even late at night) and the nearby take away shops and pizza parlour were friendly and offered delicious food and quick service. The apartment and room were super clean and suitable for a comfortable 11-day stay. If there was loud traffic or music in the neighborhood, it was drowned out by the air conditioner fan that served as white noise. We slept well on the comfortable bed and silky sheets every night.
Pam (and cute little Jada) were also eager to assist when we had questions. As hosts, the couple were most accommodating, quick to respond and ready with suggestions when we needed assistance. Another big plus factor is the proximity to a metro station that makes all areas in New York accessible within less than an hour.
This was our first AirBnB experience and it was a truly pleasant, positive one. We had privacy and space to come and go as we pleased, never felt like we were intruding (although we were worried that our walking on the floors would bother other guests) and we knew that Jullien and Pam were within earshot and ready to give assistance. It is a comfortable and affordable option for exploring this great city. Our only regret was being too busy to spend more time with the hosts and getting to know them better.