Just returned from 10 days of staying in Eric's excellent apartment. Eric is the quintessential good host. As a first time Airbnb user, I was unsure how this would work out but conversation with Eric through the Airbnb site initially satisfied me that it would be a good way to stay in New York without having to pay for two rooms in a hotel.
At every step of the way in the lead up to our arrival from Australia, Eric was on the end of his phone and met us at the apartment quite late at night (well, not late by NY standards I guess). He was insistent that we use his local knowledge for all things in the East Village if we needed any help and was absolutely invaluable in that respect. The apartment was clean and well equipped and Eric had generously left us wine and encouraged us to use anything he had in the apartment. From the moment of arriving, the location and apartment were a delight. The WiFi (essential for us) was fast and efficient and the apartment had plenty of room for both of us to work on our laptops. The main bedroom is bright and airy and both of the rooms had comfortable beds and even had a selection of pillows.
Unlike some other owners, Eric's 'rules' are only that we leave the apartment as we found it. Nothing else. That is the easiest possible way not to break any rules!
I have nothing but good things to say about the apartment and the owner and would stay there again in a heartbeat. If you are looking for an apartment with a doorman, elevator and a lot of space this is not for you but then you are probably best not staying in the East Village.
If you want some great NY living - the way New Yorkers live - this is an excellent option.