2018 was a competitive year for Boston real estate buyers, and it left many discouraged and resigned to renting. But over the last few months the market has changed, creating new opportunities for those looking for Boston condos for sale. Though interest rates are higher than they were at the start of 2018, there are a number of good reasons 2019 should be the year you buy real estate in Boston. Let's take a look.

Less Demand for Boston Real Estate

After several years of virtually unprecedented levels of demand, there's been a shift in the Boston real estate market, and it brings great news for buyers. Just a year ago demand was sky high, creating intense bidding wars and the expectation that buyers would pay significantly more than asking price. As a result, many buyers chose to look outside the city where prices are more affordable, or to continue renting. This buyer exodus has helped right the supply and demand imbalance that's been frustrating buyers for the last two years. 

An Increase in Mortgage Rates

Many real estate buyers get wind of rising interest rates and step back from the market. So, in times when rates are expected to increase, like they are projected to in early 2019, the population of buyers drops significantly and the number of days a house stays on the market increases. This environment balances negotiating power for buyers and sellers.  

New Residential Construction

Few other cities are seeing the kind of residential development that we're experiencing in Boston. What does this mean for buyers? You've got options, and they're good ones. In order to avoid commoditization, new condo buildings in Boston are distinguishing themselves in a number of ways - unique amenities, high-end features, distinctive designs and proximity to local attractions. Echelon, one of the newest condo buildings in the rapidly expanding Seaport District offers residents two signature outdoor pools and expansive sun decks as well as immediate access to renowned restaurants, recreational options and shopping. Watermark Seaport features a resident lounge with a billiards room and an innovation lab, Metro9 in Somerville has a unique industrial style and a roof deck with an outdoor television, and you can almost guarantee that any new condos in Boston will have state-of-the-art fitness centers, pet amenities and upgrades like stainless appliances, large windows and hardwood floors.  

Residential Tax Exemption

If you own a home in Boston, the city offers a residential tax exemption as long as you occupy the property as your principal residence. The exemption gives Boston homeowners a discount on their annual tax bill, essentially cutting the annual tax rate on a $500,000 home in half. Though the exemption isn't a new benefit for home buyers in 2019, it offsets most, if not all or more of the monthly payment increase caused by the recent rise in interest rates.  

In 2019 buyers can expect to see a greater inventory of Boston homes for sale, and because they will have significantly less competition than previous years, they'll have more negotiating leverage on the purchase price. So if you've been holding off on purchasing real estate in Boston, 2019 is your chance to take advantage of economic factors and changes in the market that will make Boston homes more affordable than they've been in years.  

For more information about Boston real estate, or to talk to an agent about what to expect from the home buying process and the 2019 Boston real estate market, just contact us. 

 

If you’re on the hunt for luxury rentals in Boston, you’re in luck - the city is flush with chic buildings that offer high-end finishes and luxury amenities, and there are more popping up all the time, each more fabulous than the last. But because there are so many options, those renting in Boston, especially those renting luxury properties, need to identify what they need most from an apartment and the building that surrounds it.  For some, luxury apartment building amenities and communal space might be the priority, while others might place a greater emphasis on high-end appliances, open floorpans and extra space for entertaining or a home office. But whether you’re looking for luxury rental buildings in The Seaport, Back Bay, The South End or Beacon Hill, you’ll have a number to choose from, so it’s important to know what they offer. Here’s a look at the details of some of our favorites luxury rental buildings in Boston.  

The Arlington

This luxury apartment building in Back Bay has original details like arched windows and ornate columns throughout, but modern apartment features like gourmet kitchens, marble baths, open floorpans and spacious customized closets.  Amenities include a fitness center and basketball court, a game room and a resident lounge.  

Neighborhood: Back Bay

Why we love it: The location.  The Arlington is perfectly located near the Boston Public Garden and Newbury Street, giving residents direct access to all the best Back Bay has to offer

One Back Bay

This optimally located Back Bay rental building has a classic, yet contemporary design and beautifully 

appointed homes - with gourmet kitchens, marble baths and a washer-dryer in every apartment.  Residents have access to amenities like a landscaped rooftop sun terrace, entertainment lounge, children playroom and state-of-the-art fitness center by Equinox

Neighborhood: Back Bay

Why we love it: These ideally located Back Bay apartments are pet friendly, and many have lovely views of Trinity Church.  

30 Dalton

This 26 story apartment building in Back Bay has 218 luxury one, two and three-bedroom units.  The building amenities are numerous - valet parking, in-home package and grocery delivery, 24-hour maintenance guarantee, the list goes on.  

Neighborhood: Back Bay

Why we love it: The Prudential Center, Boylston Street, Boston Symphony Hall and local conveniences like Whole Foods are just a short walk from the front door of 30 Dalton.  

Ink Block

This mixed-use community has both luxury apartments for rent and condos for sale.  Siena, the new condos at ink block are over 85% sold, and there are about 20 apartments available between now and the middle of December.  One of the luxury apartment buildings in Ink Block community offers upscale, spacious floorpans with floor to ceiling windows and open views of the Boston skyline, as well as sleek modern kitchens.  The second is a bit edgier with an industrial chic vibe and bold finishings, and the third offers refined finishes in a warm, flexible and functional atmosphere.  

Neighborhood: The South End

Why we love it: Ink Block is more than just a luxury apartment building, it’s a community with direct access to restaurants, nightlife, coffee shops, galleries, parks, shopping and transportation.  

345 Harrison

This South End apartment building offers true luxury living.  The studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments have high-end finishes like Italian cabinetry, keyless entry, quartz countertops and city views, and the building’s deluxe amenities are also practical - fitness center and classes, yoga center, Sky Deck, infinity pool, dog park, garage parking and more.

Neighborhood: The South End

Why we love it: In addition to an ongoing list of amenities, we love South End living, meaning a thriving arts community, a growing retail presence and some of the best restaurants and bars in Boston.

100 Pier 4

The first phase of the massive Pier 4 redevelopment project in The Seaport, 100 Pier 4 has 369 luxury apartments and 258 underground parking spaces.  The building rises 21 stories above the Boston Harbor and offers breathtaking views.  The apartments are complete with stainless steel appliances, walk-in closets and hardwood floors, and the building offers residents access to a sun deck with outdoor pool, a cutting-edge fitness center and world-class service.

Neighborhood: The Seaport

Why we love it: The Seaport is quickly becoming the hottest place to live in Boston.  It’s truly a one-stop shop for living, dining, entertainment, shopping and recreation (not to mention views for days), and it’s a short commute to any other neighborhood in the city. 

VIA Seaport Residences

This modern and chic luxury apartment building in The Seaport soars 20 floors above three levels of 125,000 square feet of retail.  There are studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments for rent, each with Nest Thermostats, foodie-inspired kitchens and a number of high-tech in-home features.

Neighborhood: The Seaport

Why we love it: These Boston apartments are the definition of hip and offer plenty of on site space for socializing - The Rise sip bar, the Status club, Vibe lounge, Taste private dining and Flix living room, not to mention the abundance of outdoor space.

The Benjamin

Also in the heart of the vibrant Boston Seaport, you’ll find The Benjamin, known for it’s high-end service (room service, door service and concierge services), as well as stunning views and a modern design.  The Benjamin is almost fully leased, but there are still some studio, one, two and three bedroom Seaport apartments for rent, all with high end finishes.  Amenities include a pool, fitness center, outdoor terrace, Sunset lounge, Skyline Club and pet VIP spa.  

Neighborhood: The Seaport

Why we love it: We said it before and we’ll say it again, the service offered at The Benjamin creates a truly luxurious and personalized living experience.  

Devonshire

This 42 story luxury apartment building in Downtown Boston is convenient to everything - the theater district, Faneuil Hall, The North end, infamous historical sites, public transportation, the Boston Common, the Public Garden and the Waterfront.  Many of the luxury apartments have balconies with panoramic views of the Boston Harbor and the city skyline, but they all have granite kitchen counters and brushed metal backspaces, porcelain tile floors in kitchens and baths, GE appliances, large closet and storage space, and laundry facilities on every floor.  

Neighborhood: Downtown

Why we love it: Because of it’s location, this is one of the most versatile luxury apartment buildings in Boston, convenient for residents who work anywhere in the city.  

Troy

Located in The South End, Troy Boston Apartments have 14 units available for rent, all of which feature sophisticated finishes.  These pet friendly apartments are just steps from  outstanding dining and entertaining options, bars, art galleries, boutiques and the SoWa Open Market.  

Neighborhood: The South End

Why we love it: Troy has not one, but two rooftop terraces with unmatched views of the city.  

One Canal

With a walk score of 98, this Downtown Boston apartment building has everything you’d expect from a luxury complex, and a few things you wouldn’t, like a rooftop swimming pool, a spin studio, electric car charging stations, a pet spa and cold storage for grocery delivery.  It also has a good variety of studio, one, two and three bedroom floorpans to choose from.

Neighborhood: Between West End and North End

Why we love it: This luxury building has 175 reviews on their website, totaling an almost perfect overall 5-star rating.  The staff are friendly and responsive.

The Towers at Longfellow Apartments

These Beacon Hill apartments are within walking distance to all T lines, the infamous restaurants of The North End, Mass General, TD Garden, the Museum of Science, and Boston Common. There are studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments available for rent, all of which have a large private balcony and views of the Boston Seaport.  In addition to the heated pool 24-hour fitness center, clubhouse with game room and underground parking garage, the building boasts 40 acres of green space as well as a number of other amenities.

Neighborhood: Beacon Hill

Why we love it: The list of amenities is extensive, but the building also hosts resident events, which give people the opportunity to socialize, network and build a strong neighbor community. 

Pierce Boston Condos

This building offers Bostonians both luxury apartments and condos in Fenway, a neighborhood that is rapidly becoming a premiere residential destination.  The 240 apartments at 200 Brookline Ave have floor-to-ceiling windows and soaring, panoramic views.  Residents can also enjoy luxury amenities like the rooftop pool, private yoga studio, fitness center, 24-hour concierge theater and arcade room. 

Neighborhood: Fenway 

Why we love it: This neighborhood is so.much.fun.  Residents have the best of city living right at their fingertips, but can also enjoy time in the great outdoors at the neighboring Emerald Necklace. 

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 these luxury rental buildings, new projects in Boston, the status of projects, availability of luxury rentals or anything pertaining to Boston real estate, please contact us.  

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!