Pros:
I never met Natasha, but Firas her brother was very kind and accommodating. I got to talk with him a few times and he did his best to make my stay a pleasant one.
The bed is comfortable and the room gets good light.
The apartment is close to the 2 and 5 trains, and a bit of a walk to B and Q trains (worth the walk, they're much more reliable), although you should note that "25 min to Manhattan" refers to the first stops on the island; getting to midtown takes about 50 min to an hour (I made this commute twice a day).
The bathroom is good, has clearly been recently renovated.
Fast internet.
There are several mini markets closeby, and a good grocery store about 10 mins away on Flatbush.
Cons:
The place was filthy when I arrived. Firas did clean up when I complained, but it is just clear that the place has been kept in an unclean condition for a long time. Evidence of rodents here, so just be aware that you will not be staying in a place that is decently kept up by the host.
The kitchen is spacious, but not well stocked. A knife to chop things up would be a great addition, and some basics like salt and pepper.
The place was very cold throughout my stay. Luckily Firas had given me a space heater on my first night.
The neighborhood wasn't the best for a single woman. For the most part it is residential and safe. I've travelled a ton and can hold my own, but there were a couple times I felt threatened by unwanted attention.