You get what you pay for
Stayed for two nights in May 2012. Location (near Union Square) and price (under $100/night) are terrific. The housekeeping staff did a good job. The free wi-fi worked well and the hot water was hot. The good news pretty much stops there. The place is kind of a dump. As one reviewer stated, it is more of a hostel than a hotel. No charm whatsoever. 'Reception' area is the smallest I have ever seen. The one (small!) elevator looks like it was last refurbished in the early 1900s. Narrow hallways. Thin walls, with God knows how many coats of paint on them. Small room. Tiny bed. Window opens onto air shaft. Sink in room with no additional lighting (be careful shaving!). TV and mini-fridge worked, but had to unplug them to charge computer and phone. Melamine table/desk with plastic chair. No phone or in-room coffee (however, two Starbucks within two blocks). Very tired carpeting and bed coverings. Hotel attracts a younger crowd that likes to come in late making lots of noise. Yes, it is more of a hostel than a hotel, but at least it is clean, the location is terrific and the price is right. You get what you pay for.