Having never used airbnb before, we were slightly apprehensive about using this website. However, Mick and Heidi were fantastic hosts and kept us in the loop from the moment we booked their apartment. When we arrived, the apartment was in a prime location, clean and had everything we needed (including some soda and beers that they kindly left us!). The neighbourhood had some great bars, cafés, restaurants and shops so we hardly left the area but we were also very close to all the touristy spots and Central Park was only 5 stops on the subway (about 15minutes).
We couldn't have asked for a better apartment and hosts during our 10day stay, we would recommend Mick and Heidi and their lovely apartment to anyone going to New York.