It’s no secret that there’s a wave - no a tsunami - of new construction washing over Boston.  And it makes sense - new real estate inventory has slowed to a trickle and buyers are desperately competing for what little options they have, often times waving contingencies and paying tens of thousands of dollars over asking price.  Exacerbating the drought of Boston condos for sale is the influx of new residents from all over the world, attracted to the area for it’s consistent and high ranking as one of the country’s best cities for education, job opportunities and lifestyle.  

The short supply of existing residences, steady stream of new Bostonians, growth of industry, and the stability created by an abundance of local universities have made it an optimal time for developers to pepper the city with new residential construction projects. But even with an abundance of new options, the market for new construction units is very competitive, and buyers must be prepared to purchase these units before they are completed or very soon after.  

So we went through each of Boston’s neighborhoods and put together a snapshot of our favorite residential construction projects.  Some have recently been completed and others are scheduled to be completed between now and the Summer of 2018.  This week, we’ll start with one of Boston’s hottest neighborhoods and a hot bed for new residential construction: The South End.

1. Union Park Condos

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

Although part of this South End condo building is a restoration of an existing four-story historic brick building (the majority is a contemporary four-story addition), we’re putting it first on our list for two important reasons: it was recently completed and there’s only one unit left (Unit 2).  Here are the specifics (Source: unionparkcondos.com): 

• 3 luxurious units: two duplex units and one extra-large floor through unit
• Located on coveted Union Park in The South End
• Views of Union Park and Back Bay / downtown skylines
• Steps from restaurants, cafes, shopping boutiques, farmers market, grocery stores, schools, parks, rec. facilities and public transportation
• Luxury offerings include: high-end finishes, modern home features and amenities, high energy HVAC systems, custom wood cabinetry, stone counter tops, Wolf & Subzero appliances, spa bathrooms with radiant floor heating and recessed lighting.  

2. The Factory at 46 Wareham 

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

If you’re looking for a fashionable, creative and one-of-a-kind neighborhood, SOWA is a “world-renowned retail and arts community in The South End” (Source: sowaboston.com).  It’s also home to The Factory at 46 Wareham - 18 residential ownership condominiums atop 32,875 square feet of office space.  

•  Large 2 and 3 bedroom units (1,200+ sq ft) and a penthouse
•  66 parking spaces
•  Expected completion late 2017 / early 2018

3. Siena at Ink Block 

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

Joining it's recently completed sister building Sepia, Siena is the next condominium project at Ink Block - a city block of upscale residential condominiums, high-end amenities and retail.  Ink Block Boston is being described as the “ultimate urban living experience.“ Details are as follows (Source: http://www.bldup.com/projects/siena-at-ink-block):

• 76 luxury residential condominiums
• Amenities include a rooftop Sky Lounge and roof deck, a fully equipped fitness center, 24/7 concierge service and on-site parking
• Homes will feature hardwood flooring in common areas, wool carpeting in bedrooms, and state-of-the-art finishes
• A number of Siena’s condominiums will be maisonette, featuring private entrances
• Completion early 2018

4. 370-380 Harrison Avenue

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

This 14-story, 356,500 square foot mixed-use building is in the heart of The South End’s rapidly developing New York Streets neighborhood.  Expected completion isn’t until 2019, but this project is generating a lot of buzz and the 96 ownership condominiums are sure to sell out long before the building is completed.  Details include (http://www.bldup.com/projects/quinzani-s-bakery-development):

• 96 ownership condominiums and 218 rental apartments
• Approximately 8,500 square feet of ground-floor retail
• Resident amenities include upper level roof decks with outdoor social space
• 3 levels of parking with a total of 180 spaces

5. Jordan Lofts

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

These South End condos were completed last year, and though the building is almost sold out there are still a few units available.  Nestled in the SOWA neighborhood, this fully restored historic building features fifteen luxury loft condominiums which include

• High ceilings, large windows, abundant natural light, open floorpans and recessed lighting and skyline views
• One vehicle parking space per condo
• Commercial / retail space totaling approximately 13,000 square feet located on the ground floor

6. 7 East Springfield

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

This nine-unit residential condo building in The South End is currently under construction.  It’s located steps to Boston University School of Medicine and Worcester Square.  The six-story building is bounded on one side by the oldest surviving house in the South End - the federal style Porter House, and it includes:

• Eight 1,000 square foot two-bedroom units and a 1,800 square foot three-bedroom penthouse
• A five car parking garage will be constructed on the ground floor

7. The Girard

(Image Source: www.bldup.com)

This new mixed-use building offers only rentals, but it’s an artistic space with contemporary units inspired by local artists, and an atmosphere that’e definitely worth mentioning.  In a nutshell, the building offers:

• 160 apartments and approximately 3,600 square feet of ground-floor retail
• Amenities: Wi-Fi Workbar, meeting rooms, top-floor and rooftop common areas and a fitness center
• A gallery exhibiting local artists’ work
• 162 resident parking spaces in a two-level underground garage

The South End is a culturally rich neighborhood, with exceptional food, a lively nightlife and a dynamic atmosphere.  As one of Boston’s most desirable neighborhoods it’s not a surprise that so many developers have chosen this coveted area as the site of new residential projects.  We expect there are many more to follow, so stay tuned as we continue to provide updates on new condos in The South End and around Boston.  

The Charles Realty has had its finger on the pulse of Boston real estate for 34 years.  Our agents have unparalleled knowledge of the city and it’s neighborhoods, and oftentimes have access to information not yet made public.  For any questions about listings in the aforementioned buildings, other new projects in Boston, the status of projects, availability of new construction homes, or anything pertaining to Boston real estate, please contact us.