I had a very cozy and pleasant week at Michelle's place, I would definitely recommend. From the beginning I felt like I could relax there. The room had what I needed. The bed is very comfortable (it has proper pillows, not those cylinders of the picture :D), there's central heating and an extra electric heater, and the shared bathroom was fine.
I wasn't home too often, so I didn't interact much with Michelle, but when I did she was very helpful, kind, and had a very calm vibe. Also, she let me leave my suitcase the last day for a couple of extra hours, which I appreciate a lot.
This particular room was facing Malcolm X Boulevard, which at night is mostly quiet (although the occasional ambulance and NY honking might annoy some people). The area looked safe to me, although I had to get used to it, coming from a small city. The place is right next to a subway station (lines 2, 3) and the bus station that brings you to La Guardia Airport (M60). It's a 10-15 walk to Central Park and 20-25 minute walk to Columbia, fyi. Multiple restaurants and a supermarket close by (if you're looking for pizza, Sottocasa is great!).
So, overall very happy with the room, host, and location!