Thanks, BrentA100. I'll check that one out.

I've also been researching centrally located and lower-priced hotels in Rome. The ones I liked, that get good reviews and are in your price range include:
Daphne Trevi (they have another B&B nearby, but I forget its name), the B&B all'Orologio Piazza Navona, Domus Julia (this is the one I did reserve for 3 nights in May), Hotel Panda (REALLY inexpensive and basic, but recommended by many), Hotel Parlamento, Hotel Oceania, Albergo Cesari, Hotel Fiume, Hotel San Carlo, Hotel Giardino. Good luck!

Thank you, thank you, Maureen! Now, with Brent's suggestion, and your list, I have a good starting point.

Hi Maire,
One thing to definitely check on is whether the hotel has air conditioning. I don't know whether Hotel Portoghesi does, but if you are visiting during July or August, you will definitely want it. Ciao!

Thank you. Yes, AC is a must, plus I would like a good shower (bathtub optional). What were the showers like in Hotel Portoghesi?

In the 190 Euro room, the shower is really small, but the 220 room had a bigger shower and I think a tub as well.

Thanks so much everyone for you input. I've tentatively booked us for 3 nights at "The Inn at the Spanish Steps" in the "Room with a View" which apparently looks out on the "steps" .. in the building "next to the Inn" ..
The rooms looked more modern, and location seemed ideal. We have 2 more nights at the end of our trip that I'm planning on booking at Russie ..
If anyone has any experience (good or bad) with the Inn at the Spanish Steps, please let me know. We're paying 430E a night for this room, Executive size with King bed, includes limo pickup at airport and breakfast.
Thanks everyone.