Navigating the streets of Boston is a challenge in itself, let alone hitting all of the shopping destinations on the ultimate shopping holiday.  A lot of planning is involved when getting ready for Black Friday, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1.    Avoid malls

Most of the best deals can be found outside of malls! For avoiding larger crowds, try to visit individual retailer locations.  Pursuing shopping destination such as Newbury Street, Charles Street, and Boylston Street are all less spots that are less densely populated, yet have no shortage of the best boutiques.

2.   Free Stocking Stuffers

Many drug store chains such as, CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid have deal which include free items great for stocking stuffers. Some past items that have been free include: name-brand cosmetics, nail polish, and snacks.

3.   Plan a budget

This one is pretty self-explanatory, but you can lose mind of this in the heat of Black Friday. So be sure to know what deals to target, and how much money to spend.

4.      Check Retailer's Social Media Pages

Make sure to check the Facebook and Twitter pages of retailers for real-time offers and updates. Many promotion codes can be found on these pages, and always check newspapers for Black Friday offers.

5.      Take Advantage of Cyber Monday

A less popular shopper ritual than Black Friday, Cyber Monday is when online retailers are looking to reel in consumers with great deals. This day is great for anyone looking for holiday deals while avoiding the stress, crowds, and traveling involved with Black Friday.

Friday, November 29 marks the most chaotic day of the year for shoppers and retailers alike. Although many Black Friday deals are getting an early start on Thanksgiving, the vast majority of deals can be found early Friday morning. Here are some great places gathered together by our knowledgable agents, in order to get that Black Friday shopping done:

Picture via Boston.com

Newbury Street

One of Boston's most popular shopping destinations includes numerous trendy boutiques, national retailers, and individually owned shops. Some retailers include:

·         Fresh (121 Newbury St.) 3 free samples with every online purchase

·         Marc Jacobs (81 Newbury St.)

·         Ralph Lauren (92-93 Newbury St.)

·         Chanel (5 Newbury St.)

·         H&M (100 Newbury St.) Deals starting at $2.95!  Up to 70% off!

·         Nespresso (7 Newbury St.)

·         Hotel Chocolat (137 Newbury St.)

Prudential Center

Located at the base of the Prudential Tower is the shopping center featuring numerous apparel, accessory, and specialty stores. Some retailers include:

·         Lord & Taylor

·         Oakley Up to 91% off on sunglasses

·         Express 50% off every single item until noon Friday

·         Ann Taylor Take a 50% off deal

·         Vineyard Vines

·         lululemon athletica Save $5 for every $100 spent

·         Sephora $10 for limited edition products

·         Vera Bradley 25% off entire store open-4 a.m.; 20% off 4 a.m.-close

Copley Place

Located in Back Bay, the complex includes office buildings, hotels, and an upscale shopping mall great for scoring deals on Black Friday. Some retailers include:

·         Apple $41 off of iPad Air and $101 off Macbook Pro

·         Saks Fifth Avenue Extra 40%-50% off storewide

·         Barnes & Noble

·         Louis Vuitton

·         Michael Kors

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on how to make the most of your Black Friday excursion.  For more information on what shops to hit in the Boston area, feel free to message our Rental Agents directly at our new rentals Facebook page, Newbury Rentals!

Happy Shopping!

- The Charles Realty Team

According to Condé Nast Traveler, the American based luxury travel magazine, Boston was named the #10 best city for shopping in the U.S.  Our fair city ranked among the upheld shopping capitals such as L.A., San Francisco, and New York City.  Bostonians know that Newbury Street is the home to the diverse realm of shops, from luxury boutiques to high end second-hand stores.

Whether this is your first Boston winter in the new apartment or just looking to battle the challenges of living in the city during gargantuan snow storms, we are here to give you some tips on how to make it through:

Mind the Thermostat

Yes, we know that this is the #1 word of advice from any Bostonian, and there is a reason for it.  Not only is it super energy and cost efficient to keep your heat on low when you are out of the house, but also it's just as important to get your thermostat checked out!  It's good to double check that the batteries and the thermostat itself are working properly before the real snow begins.

Beware of the Draft

Double checking that the windows lock properly and weatherstripping all windows and doors are two quick ways to combat the cold winter air.  According to the U.S. Department of Energy, cold air drafts can waste anywhere from 30% to 5% of your energy use. Rolling up towels are a quick DIY way to weatherstrip any problem doors.

Schedule an Energy Audit

Have one of the experts handle it and inspect your home to help you cut costs on your winter heating bills.  Whether you live in an apartment or a condominium, you can have your landlord contact National Grid to inspect your home and provide a full report on how to make your home more energy efficient.

Stock Up on the Basics

Flashlights, batteries, and your ice-melt solution of choice are all handy items to stock up on in the Boston weather.  It's always better to be prepared with these items on hand then to have to trek through snow banks in Back Bay for any last minute necessities.

Always Have a Backup Plan

Parking in Boston can be a nightmare on a day to day basis, then throw in a New England Blizzard and things can get really interesting.  Always be sure to have a back-up plan about where to park in case your parking spot is ever the home to a snowbank. You can talk with your landlord or surrounding parking garages about back up options.

Protect Your Floors

Even gleaming hardwood floors can take a toll from the harsh New England Winter. Take any old tray and fill it with pebbles and rocks to create a stylish and mess free place to put your winter boots to dry.

For more tips and tricks on how to make it through a legendary Boston winter, feel free to reach out to our agents about life in the city!

Sources

Winterize Your Home

24 Ways to Get Your Home Ready for Winter

By: Maria Vivas

It's never too early to make plans for the upcoming year. If you are looking to make the Back Bay your home in January, this refined studio apartment is perfect for you.

This completely renovated loft does not sacrifice any of the quintessential Brownstone elegance. With crown moldings, classic trims, gleaming hardwood floors, and custom built-ins, this home is the definition of classic Back Bay style. Additional stand-out features include stainless steel appliances, oversized walk-in closet and chandelier lighting. The home comes completely furnished to ease the stress of moving into your new place.

The well-kept building features laundry and elevator access that make for easy living in one of Boston's most coveted locations. Located at 105 Beacon Street, this home is merely steps away from the Public Gardens, Copley Square, and all that Newbury street has to offer.

If you want to see this home in person, feel free to contact one of our expert rental agents to schedule a showing here.