This is a beautiful old brownstone in East Harlem, an area which is becoming more gentrified as the years go by, that said, the area retains Harlem character and vibe, which adds to the great location. The subway stops are very close by and there is a supermarket, CVS and take-out places all within walking distance.
Important points to note for future guests:
The upstairs apartment is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues - it is 3 flights of steep stairs to reach the living area from the street.
The downstairs apartment (which we stayed in) has 3 double bedrooms and a 4th bedroom in the lower basement. This fourth bedroom doesn't have a "sprung" bed, but rather a futon style soft bed. I knew my husband would struggle with this, so Razia kindly let us use one of the bedrooms in the upstairs apt. as it wasn't in use. This isn't so clear from the photos online, so please double check on this.
Suggestions for improvement:
Changing the bed in the 4th bedroom of the lower apartment. We just felt that having made the decision to spend the money on a VRBO, rather than a hotel, doesn't mean we should have to sacrifice a comfortable/supportive bed.
The upstairs apt's lower floor shower didn't provide hot water most days, this needs looking at. Also, the toilet in this same bathroom seemed to be constantly filling the cistern (sounded like it was anyways).
All in all, worked out well.
