Have you tried making more concrete requests. Like you say, there may be a language barrier there, or he may just be playing dumb and using that to his advantage. Wouldn't be the first time that happened to somebody dealing with a foreigner. You may just have to say something like "I'd like you to replace my oven and cooktop. Do you think you can do that or not?" That way he'd have to say either yes or no, and at least you'd know that he understood.
I'd also recommend being very direct and simple, if you really want it fixed. Maybe even write it down.
As for roommates... ack. Having a stranger for a roommate is college, not so much in adulthood. You really want some other person in your house all the time? It's enough of a challenge to live with someone you love... let alone someone who you only have craiglist in common with.
I looked at a cool place that was a roommate wanted ad once. It actually had a barn and room for horses too, but it was a very nearly independent apartment... had it's own bathroom, living room and kitchenette, and it's own entrance. That place was pretty cool.