Francis' place was terrific! It felt really clean and comfortable and spacious. After I booked, I had noticed a few of the reviews that mentioned that you have to walk through the main bedroom to get to the bathroom and kitchen so I was a bit worried, but it really wasn't an issue at all. There's a hallway that connects the kitchen and bathroom to the rest of the apartment and there's no reason to lock those doors since the upper floor is all yours. Still, the apartment is probably best for families or groups of close friends since one of the two main bedrooms doesn't feel super private. It adjoins the living room with french doors, so you can see into it. But every bedroom has a closing door, and definitely anyone can easily get to the bathroom anytime.
There are two or three subway stations a short walk away so it's pretty easy to get to Manhattan or other parts of Brooklyn. The neighbourhood itself has a handful of nice restaurants and cafes but you mostly have to leave the area for entertainment. It's not (yet anyway) one of the super happening Brooklyn areas, but the upside to that is that the street is very quiet for sleeping, and parking is not a problem. As for how safe the area feels, it might depend on what you're used to. It's very very quiet int he evening, a bit more bustling close to Broadway. Some streets/spots seem a little run down. Certainly walking home at night in groups or pairs is no problem, but some people may not feel comfortable walking around at night alone.
We ate all our meals out, but the place is totally equipped for cooking and eating in. (We discovered a great bar/restaurant about a 15-minute walk away called Petra. A nice cozy casual candle-lit hangout with delicious shareable food, mostly Turkish flavours. Good wine too)
Francis is SUPER warm and available for help or questions, and he accommodated us leaving our bags with him before check-in and after check-out. They have info in the apartment for getting around and neighbourhood restaurants, etc...
All around, a great stay at a really great value! Highly recommend!