The Fenway / Kenmore area may be home to “America’s most beloved ballpark,” but Bostonians know that there’s a lot more to the neighborhood then the iconic home of the Boston Red Sox.  The 1.24 square mile neighborhood is bursting with vitality thanks to a unique blend of cultural institutions, universities, and the natural beauty bestowed by the Emerald Necklace - a chain of parks linked by parkways and waterways that spreads through Fenway/Kenmore and beyond.  Young professionals and students from nearly a dozen colleges and universities located in the neighborhood fill the many bars, restaurants and nightclubs lining the streets of Fenway/Kenmore, giving it a perpetually animated feel.  The neighborhood also attracts a cerebral and cultured population of Bostonians who  enjoy spending time at the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts and Symphony Hall.  It’s a diverse and dynamic area, and has a seemingly endless amount of entertainment making it an appealing neighborhood for those looking at Boston real estate.  

But like other neighborhoods in the city, real estate in Fenway/Kenmore is transitioning.  Not long ago the majority of housing was student-centric and affordable, but over the last several years a surge of new development has helped establish a prominent luxury real estate market in the neighborhood. Those looking for condos for sale in Fenway/Kenmore can expect to see prices that are approaching those of Back Bay real estate and condos for sale in The South End, and luxury condos in Fenway/Kenmore are now more common than those with basic features and amenities.  But for an area that has as much to offer as Fenway/Kenmore, it’s not surprising that demand has increased so significantly.  Here’s a list of the top 7 Fenway/Kenmore new construction projects that are adding to the much needed supply of new housing in the popular neighborhood.

Pierce Boston

(Source: www.bldup.com)

This behemoth project had to top our list, mostly because it’s one of the most prominent new construction projects in all of Boston, but also because it’s scheduled to be finished any day now.  Here are the details of what this 30-story luxury tower will contribute to luxury real estate in Fenway/Kenmore:

• A mix of 240 rental apartments and 109 condominiums
• 20,000 square feet of retail located at the tower’s base across the first two stories
• An underground parking garage will contain spaces for 80 cars
• Amenities will include a Levity Lounge on the buildings top level, as well as a sky deck with a kitchen and a gas fireplace and a sky top pool, a library, a fitness center and a private dining room

Fenway Center

(Source: www.bldup.com)

Another massive project underway in the neighborhood is Fenway Center in Kenmore Square.  The project will be constructed in two phases, with phase one expected to be completed in early 2020.  Here’s what this 1.1 million-square-foot development project will include:

• Five new buildings, including a 27-story tower above the Massachusetts Turnpike
• A total of approximately 550 residential units, 160,000 square feet of office space and over 50,000 square feet of retail
• 30,000 square feet of park and green space
• A seven-story parking garage will include 1,290 parking spaces
• A 12,000-square-foot air rights deck and landscaped pedestrian walkway will be constructed over  Yawkey Station as part of phase 1.  

Symphony Court Phase Two

(Source: www.bldup.com)

This luxury condo building in Fenway/Kenmore is sold out, but it’s worth mentioning because you never know when one of these homes will come back on the market.  Here are the details:

• 34 luxury condominium residences
• Amenities include a resident club room, an outdoor community terrace, a fitness center and garage parking
• Residences feature natural light, high ceilings and views of the Boston skyline
• A number of residences feature private decks 

The Harlo

(Source: www.bldup.com)

This 17-story, recently completed building offers luxury apartments to rent in Fenway/Kenmore.  With a convenient location, The Harlo “connects historic legacy with modern city living.”  Here are the features:

• 212 luxurious apartment residences ranging from studio to three-bedrooms
• Residences include elegant finishes like exposed concrete ceilings, quartz countertops, hardwood floors, oversized window and panoramic views of Fenway Park, the Charles River and Downtown Boston
• Select homes feature loft floor plans and private terraces
• Amenities include a long with a billiards area and open workspaces, a work and study area, private dining and entertaining space, a fitness center, a library and conference space.  
• Multiple private outdoor spaces including a yoga terrace, a fifth-floor outdoor terrace featuring cabanas, a fire pit and grills and a top-level sky deck with sweeping views of the Emerald Necklace, the Boston skyline and Fenway Park
• A two-level underground parking garage with 105 spaces and bicycle storage

839 Beacon Street

(Source: www.bldup.com)

Located steps from Kenmore Square, the upcoming apartments at 839 Beacon will have modern amenities but a classic brick-and-bay townhouse look.  These Kenmore Square rentals will also have:

• 45 apartment residents and 4,500 square feet of ground-floor retail
• Apartments will include 16 studios, 23 one-bedrooms, 4 two-bedrooms and 2 three-bedrooms
• Homes feature quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, vinyl plank flooring and in-unit laundry
• Amenities include a lounge, meeting room, fitness center, a dog washing station and a roof terrace featuring a kitchen facility on views of the Boston skyline
• 30 parking spaces with Zipcars available on site as well as electric car charging stations 

50 Symphony Road

(Source: www.bldup.com)

This recently approved building will include modern-contextual design and 20 condominiums for sale in Fenway.  Here are the details:

• First-floor residential space will be 6 feet above grade, providing privacy for residents
• 17 condominiums will be market-rate and 3 will be offered to buyers earning 80-100% of Area Media Income (AMI)
• The building’s basement will have parking for 11 vehicles
• All floors are elevator accessible
• Conveniently located to MBTA stations at Symphony (Green Line), Hynes Convention Center (Green Line) and Massachusetts Avenue (Orange Line)  
• MBTA Bus lines are just steps away
• Easily walkable to major Boston neighborhoods including Fenway, Copley, Back Bay and South End

Gateway Boston

(Source: www.bldup.com)

These high-end apartments in Fenway were completed a little over a year ago, but are a great option for renting in Boston.  The building is right in the heart of the Fenway neighborhood, and offers:

• 32 one and one plus-bedroom apartments
• State-of-the-art finishes
• Garage parking on site
• 4,470 square feet of ground-floor retail space

Residential new construction projects are seemingly ubiquitous in Boston right now - having a massive impact on real estate in The Seaport, East Boston and other neighborhoods that were ripe for rejuvenation.  Though Fenway/Kenmore is a well established neighborhood that isn’t seeing quite as many individual projects, new buildings like the Pierce are major-league (pun intended) and are capturing the attention of every Bostonian interested in Boston real estate and general buzz about the city.  One thing seems certain, with a number of new luxury housing options and a bright future of growth, buyers are going to be paying much closer attention to real estate in Fenway/Kenmore.  

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.  

 

 

One of the best things about living in Boston (arguably the best thing) is how full of life it is.  You could spend an entire month exploring the city and still miss some if it's best attractions.  So, as some of the most experienced real estate agents in Boston, we've made it a priority to acquaint ourselves with the city in every way, which hasn't been too difficult since our agents live, work and play in the neighborhoods they work in.  Whether it's a question about luxury condos for sale in Back Bay, the best Italian restaurant in the North End, pet friendly buildings in Fenway, or what Bostonians can expect from the massive amount of development in The Seaport, we have all kinds of answers.  But while our agents love exploring the city and gathering information for clients (a job perk for sure), we also like to consider the opinions of others around town.  So, we partnered with our friend Jessica Kane to get the details on The Improper Bostonian's list of the 9 Best Bars and Clubs in Boston.  Here's what Jessica had to say:

The Improper Bostonian, a lively, alternative newspaper serving the community, likes to develop lists of the best. An important "best list" from The Improper Bostonian addresses bars, taverns, and nightclubs in Boston.

If you are planning a trip to Boston, or if you live in or near the city and want to learn more about nightlife in your community, there are nine establishments that made the longer "best list" that are well worth a look.

Best Beer Bar: The Publick House

Although beer bars have been popping up in Boston at a rapid pace in recent years, The Publick House has been and remains ahead of the ever growing pack. The Publick House is described as the "sultan of suds" by The Improper Bostonian. 

The Publick House features over 30 styles of beer, served in over 80 bottles. In addition, the establishment offers its patrons an ever rotating selection of brew on tap. 

Best Cozy Bar: Anchovies

Anchovies is recognized as the best cozy bar in Boston. Anchovies is a dimly lit joint, that comes complete with a dark wood bar. It is a neighborhood tavern, that includes nick-knacks about the place, and bartenders who are generous in their pours.

Anchovies is a friendly spot, a pub that serves a large cast of regulars. In addition, Anchovies serves a full menu of delectable, authentic Italian food until 1:30 a.m. 

Best Dance Club: Royale

When it comes to Boston dance clubs, Royale is a survivor. Dance clubs in the city, indeed across the country, come and go in a flash. Royale is now in its seventh year, and no other venue has come close to taking the perch as the best away from this venue.

Royale is located in the Boston Theatre District and packs crowds in each and every weekend. Royale features a wide array of marquee DJs and EDM stars. In addition, the venue is outfitted with a tremendous light and sound system. Royale is also home to some great live concerts each year, thanks to its partnership with Bowery Presents. 

Best Dive Bar: Drinking Fountain

Who doesn't like a fun dive bar? And Boston has more than a few. With that said, Drinking Fountain is the best dive bar in town.

Drinking Fountain has been able to withstand the trend towards gentrification that has been sweeping the city in the past couple of decades. In addition, Drinking Fountain offers some of the most affordably priced drinks to be found anywhere in Boston.

Best Date Bar: The Gallows

Despite the establishment's name, The Gallows is regarded as the best date bar in Boston. The Gallows is a lively, vibrant South End gastropub. In addition to reasonably priced adult beverages, the establishment offers a nice selection of small plates. It is a perfect place for comfortable conversation, even well suited to that all important first date.

Best Gay Bar: Club Café 

In business for 30-plus years, Club Café remains the best gay bar in Boston. People still line up down the block to get in. This remains the case even as gay bars shutter as LGBT patrons venture towards partying in "mainline" establishments. 

Club Café offers the best cabaret stage in town. In addition, there is a lively dancefloor located at the rear of the establishment. 

Best Hotel Bar: Hojoko

If you are visiting Boston, or if you are a resident that wants to try out something not normally seen in a hotel bar, Hojoko is the place to go. The establishment is located in the trendy Verb Hotel.

The establishment features a vibrant décor not normally associated with a hotel lobby bar. The colorful décor provides a marvelous backdrop for the best sake selections found anywhere in Boston. Midnight snacks of ramen are served daily. On a seasonal basis, beverages from Hojoko can be enjoyed poolside.

Best Irish Pub: The Field

What would Boston be without its wonderful Irish pubs? There are plenty of them. And, The Field is considered the best.

The cash-only pub offers patrons pints of Guinness, pool, and darts. Keep in mind that The Field is not located in Southie, but in the Cambridge area (not necessarily where you'd expect to find the best Irish Pub). Because of its location, The Field attracts a truly eclectic array of patrons, people from all walks of life and a myriad of backgrounds. It is a truly friendly gathering place.

Best Jazz Club: Wally's Café

Wally's Café tops the list as the best jazz joint in Boston. Wally's Café, in its 70th year, is a Boston institution. 

The establishment has featured nightly jazz performances by veteran musicians and up-and-coming performers. There are early evening sessions at Wally's Café, followed by scheduled performers.

Jessica Kane writes for TIPS Alcohol Training, offering TIPS responsible alcohol service training online for both on and off premise needs.  

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 questions about homes for sale in Boston, or if you're looking for the most dedicated seller's agents in Boston, please contact us.  

 

Home to Fenway Park and the Boston Red Sox

Bordered by Mission Hill, Columbus Ave., and the Back Bay Fens, Fenway-Kenmore is the combination of four sections: East Fenway, West Fenway, Audubon Circle, and Kenmore Square. With a population of just over 40,000, this neighborhood is an average size compared to other Boston neighborhoods.

The Fenway-Kenmore area is commonly known for Fenway Park, the historic home to the Boston Red Sox, but there's more to this neighborhood than the Sox. This neighborhood is home to some of Boston's top cultural institutions including, the Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Symphony Hall. The culture, history, and arts make this neighborhood the perfect spot for the educational institutes in Fenway-Kenmore. This neighborhood is home to Boston Latin School, and various higher learning institutes.

Fenway-Kenmore stands out with its Citgo sign that can be seen from far away. Along with the notable Citgo sign, Lansdowne Street, is the center of bar life and Red Sox game attendees. The Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood has many undergrads, young people, and various other demographics making it a perfect place to live for people of all walks of life.

Some restaurants include: Cask 'n Flagon: (American) 62 Brookline Avenue The Citizen Pubic House and Oyster Bar: (Seafood) 1310 Boylston Street Sweet Cheeks Q: (Barbeque) 1381 Boylston Street Island Creek Oyster Bar: (Seafood) 500 Commonwealth Avenue

Some bars & pubs include: Eastern Standard Bar: 528 Commonwealth Avenue Boston Beer Works: 61 Brookline Avenue Jerry Remy's: 1265 Boylston Street Bleacher Bar: 82A Lansdowne Street

Be sure to let us know your favorite spots in Fenway-Kenmore by commenting on our Facebook! For more information on Fenway-Kenmore, feel free to message our Rental Agents directly at our new rentals Facebook page, Newbury Rentals.

For Fenway-Kenmore listings please visit our website http://www.thecharlesrealty.com/.

Sources: Boston.about.com Cityofboston.gov

2014 is upon us, and with it comes numerous lease openings in the Boston area. While people may find many reasons not to rent, but in today's day and age renting is something that should considered for the New Year. Below the Newbury Rentals team has come up with some reasons to consider rentals on January 1st.

More financially safe than owning a home

The economy has greatly influenced the housing market, and now is a better time than ever to rent. One of the largest costs avoided when renting is the mortgage. Not only is the cost of a mortgage avoided, but also the stress of large payments or having to remortgage. Other big costs avoided are property taxes, Homeowners Associate fees (doesn't apply to all), and homeowners insurance.

In addition, when renting you avoid the responsibilities of buying or selling a home. Another upside to renting is that it allows for people to save up money, pay off loans, and spend money elsewhere. In some cases renters today are renting more than one home allowing for them to have a vacation spot.

Access to urban conveniences

The majority of rentals are found in urban areas, which usually means everything is in a mile. Many necessities are within walking distances in urban areas. Not only are there numerous stores within a close proximity, but also many stores in cities cannot be found in suburban areas.

Some rentals have luxuries

Many luxury buildings and apartment complexes offer a pool, gym, and other amenities. It can come in handy especially in the cold winter months when any imaginable luxury is accessible right in your own building.

Less upkeep

There is far less upkeep involved when renting. Someone else does all the repairs when renting, a landlord or someone they hire will take care of repairs and replacements. When something breaks and it's in the contract that the landlord will fix it, then they are required to do so.

Social scene

When more than one tenant are living under the same roof, rentals themselves become great places for a social life. Rentals in urban areas are also close to some of the best nightlife spots, including bars, clubs, and restaurants.

For more information on rentals, feel free to message our Rental Agents directly at our new rentals Facebook page, Newbury Rentals or check out our site!

Sources:

10 Reasons To...

Top 10 Reasons to Rent Rather Than Own

6 Reasons to Rent

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

New developments in the Boston area are a great sign of a burgeoning economy and improving market. There has been a lot of attention surrounding the on-again, of-again project intended to cross the Mass Pike, called "Fenway Center." According to Curbed Boston, the development plans include "at least 550 apartments, plus retail and commercial space, at Brookline and Commonwealth avenues." The project intends to include four buildings, the majority of which will be built above the turn-pike.

Up until now, construction has been delayed due to hold-ups with an adjoining landowner. However, lead developer, John Rosenthal triumphed over these challenges. Since then, Rosenthal has progressed by buying a parking lot nearby on Landsdowne Street in partnership with The Boston Red Sox.

According to The Boston Herald, these actions signal big strides for the  $450 Million project, "set to break ground this year."

According to Fenway Center's  website www.fenwaycenter.com, the project is environmentally conscious and "plans to include one of the largest solar energy generation plants in the Commonwealth." It also will include a new commuter rail T stop and pedestrian access to Fenway Park, according to WBGH-TV.

And that's not all! The project anticipates creating about 1700 construction jobs and 200 permanent ones for Boston area laborers.

Rosenthal explained in his interview with WBGH that while there is a sky deck at Prudential and Copley, there hasn't been one to cross the turnpike in over 30 years. "Try to envision an overpass extending the bridge from Brookline Ave...west to Beacon Street..."

While building on air rights may sound complicated, Rosenthal asserted, "You have to create the land!"

You are now three weeks in to your new lease and probably finally feeling settled in your new apartment. You have probably seen your neighbors in the hallways or when you are exiting or entering your apartment building and just greeted them with a quick nod. However, now that you feel more comfortable it is time to possibly build some friendly relationships with the people that share your building, mail room, and maybe even laundry basement. Here are a few pointers for meeting new neighbors!

• Remember to smile
• Don't be afraid of small talk--while exiting or entering the building, in the laundry room, or in the elevator or on the stairs
• If there is one, join your building's committee--you'll definitely meet people and feel as if you have a say in the community and also be able to discuss common issues (such as issues with the landlord, etc.)
• If you're feeling bold, plan a building party---invite everyone!

You never know---after making these connections you could make a new friend, or even find a new roommate for next year!!

Good luck,

The Charles Realty

http://www.rent.com/blog/apartment-living-meet-your-new-neighbors/

http://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/?p=6211

Today is about highlighting a great building here in Boston with a whole range of condos and apartments.  We've rented several of the units and currently have a couple new listings that are expected to hit the market in The Braemore this week! We're excited and we just wanted to share a little bit about this wonderful building!

The Braemore is a former luxury hotel converted into wonderfully convenient condos located almost directly in Kenmore Square. Situated right on Commonwealth Ave you truly have access to all of Back Bay. Many of the units offer beautiful views of Fenway Park, the Charles River, and Comm Ave.  With Kenmore Square right there you have access to many fine dining options including the Eastern Standard, and Island Creek Oyster Bar. Beyond this, night life is not too far away with Fenway Park just a short walk away. You'll be living with the true Boston experience and taking in all of Back Bay!

We've already has some cold days this year! Even though it has warmed back up a bit (I promise you that this is only temporary), I can assure you that winter is coming. However, it is not too late to take some steps to prep your home for the cold months ahead.

1. Give your boiler a check up

Whether you like it or not, your heat is going to get turned on soon (if it hasn't been already). It's a good idea to get your boiler tuned up. It could add years to its lifespan! If nothing else, the filter should be changed between cooling and heating, which is not a difficult task!

2. Inspect chimneys!

Now is the time! Do not wait to have them inspected or cleaned if you use your fire place regularly throughout the winter.

3. Weatherstripping

If you're like me and live in an old building in Boston, you can actually feel the cold air blowing into your home from underneath doors and around windows. Get some floor snakes to go under your doors, and purchase some products to seal up your windows. Not only will you save money on heating, but you'll be so much more comfortable when it starts getting really cold!

4. Prevent ice damns on your roof!

"Seal air leaks. Shutting down air leakage is probably going to have the biggest effect, and it's the kind of thing you can do incrementally. The second would be adding insulation. If you have R18 insulation value, turn it into R36. This is where your energy audit will be helpful. And the third is making sure your roof is vented properly, if your house is designed to have a vented roof. Make sure your soffit vents aren't blocked, your gable vents are open." (Source)

5. Order a home energy audit

If you've been putting this off, now is the time to do it. They use an infrared gun to monitor heat leakage, and the process is so much more successful when it's cold outside. The results could help you save money and stay warmer this winter!

6. Prepare an emergency kit

Collect a flashlight, batteries, matches, food and water in case of an emergency. Also, collect the phone numbers of your local utility companies and tape them somewhere safe!

Let us know if you have any other suggestions to keep everything and everyone safe this winter!

Source

Source

This photo, submitted to Boston.com by John Harrington, in evidence that Irene was very present in the Back Bay. I hope that everyone who has been affected by the hurricane is recovering well. The first death in Massachusetts caused by the storm was reported this morning. Our thoughts go out to his family. It will be a team effort to recover from the storm, but after a disaster like this we can rebuild. Please share your hurricane stories with us, we'd love to hear them.