We have family in Astoria and so booked this place already being relatively familiar with the area. Mike's place is great -- for the neighbouhood it's a very spacious and clean apartment. Large rooms -- you definitely don't feel cramped. It is very conveniently located, being close to the subway and some of Astoria's best amenities on and near 30th Ave. We didn't have a chance to use the balcony but it is gorgeous -- if we had better weather or a longer stay we would have happily spent some time out there.
For those travelling with littles -- we had our son with us and his play pen fit in Mike's room with loads of extra space. Also, the curtains are very heavy and dark and the apartment is on the main floor -- so easy to roll our stroller right in and out. It was really ideal.
Mike was very easy to communicate with and was very generous with check in and check out times as our schedules for our stay seemed to complement each other.
We travel to Astoria often and I would definitely try to book this place for a return trip.