We didn’t enjoy Gonda’s place: yet, I have to say most of “what we didn’t like” was listed in the reviews: the noise is intense, the area is not super safe, and the heat is very present. But being there during what we’re probably some of the worst hot days of NY summer... with a baby... was just too much... especially when the heating system started (yes you read correctly!) and we just could not stop it. Nothing to do with Gonda, more with the building maintenance... but it made the stay impossible.
That being said: Gonda was extremely responsive, very flexible, and seems like a great person!
I won’t come back, and won’t recommend the place to a family, but it you are just on your own or a couple, this might be the affordable place you are looking for.