Stayed with friends at George's place for the weekend prior to partaking in the NYC Marathon - it was deep in Brooklyn, but the place was clean, spacious and safe. Only snag is there is no kitchen, fridge or kettle. So you will need to go out for food. Neighbours upstairs were super friendly. A good location and easy to getting into Manhattan, though be prepared to walk around 10 - 15 mins to the nearest subway stations.
Would stay again for sure !