This home was PERFECT!! We communicated back and forth with Miriam prior to our arrival to setup a time that was convenient for both parties to meet for a tour of her home, and an introduction the area. She offered helpful insights to travel to and from the airport as well as dining suggestions to areas she knew we would be visiting. This was not our first visit to the NYC area, but if it is yours I am sure she will be an even greater source of info for you (just ask/communicate early).
We have stayed at other apartments and hotels before, and with a group of any size I will request Miriam's place again. The neighborhood felt safe, and a 3 minute walk to a good size grocery store for breakfast foods. It is also a very short walk to the Atlantic/Barclay Subway stop (lots of the lines run here that go into Manhattan).