You can reach Manhattan quite easy via the nearby subway but it will take you approximately 45 minutes to go to there where you want to be.
The host is very friendly and gives you lots of good advice. The apartment is somewhat outdated and the heating systems makes a lot of noise and the apartment has a strange smell (heating?). I have to say the beds were very good, I have had worse in 5 star hotels.
Probably a good address for the backpacker and good value for money if you are not so concerned about comfort and location. We were with 7 people and there was enough room.
If you want to spend a little bit more money (which I will do next time), find a place in Manhattan, it will save you some time.