I felt I could treat Erica's space as my own, which was a welcome relief in the chaos of moving to a new city. Her roommates were kind and I immediately felt comfortable around them -- I didn't feel like a guest but rather a friend who was crashing there. Erica even left a little hand-written journal filled with everything you need to know and personal recommendations for around the area. She said that anything of hers was mine to use, from her musical instruments to the books in her shelf to the soap in the bathroom. Very hospitable!
The pictures are accurate. There is the occasional sound of the train rumbling under the apartment, which is on the ground floor, but even as someone who is a very light sleeper this didn't bother me. If I ever need another short-term stay in NYC I would look to stay here first.