Prior to the 1820s, the Back Bay was literally a saltwater bay that was used for mill operations. However, due to intense overcrowding in Boston as the city became a popular manufacturing and shipping hub, developers saw Back Bay as an area with a lot of potential for urban renewal. By the 1880s after large-scale landfilling in the bay there [...]
The majority of Boston apartments are on one of two rental cycles: September 1 – August 31 or June 1 – May 31. Historically, September 1 has always been the main moving day in Boston. This is largely due to the fact that Boston has a lot of colleges, and most students move in on September 1; but in addition to students, those that work in academic settings also tend to follow this rental cycle.
June 1 is the second most popular moving day. In addition to avoiding the September 1 moving rush, it also tends to be a popular time for those moving to Boston for new jobs.
While moving on and around those days can be more difficult logistically due to the number of others moving at the same time, these large turnover dates also mean that these move dates offer the largest available inventory - so you are likely to have the most apartment options if you are looking to move on either June 1 or September 1.
There are of course apartments that become available throughout the year. For example, full-service high-rise buildings offer more flexibility. These properties often offer leases that are not strictly for 12 months and they also offer leases that start and end in the middle of the month. So if you are looking in the winter, when inventory can be sparse, consider looking in full-service buildings.
See our current rental inventory here.
Beacon Hill is one of Boston's most historic neighborhoods, known for its charming cobblestone streets, elegant brick townhouses, and proximity to the Massachusetts State House. It is located in the heart of the city and is bordered by the Charles River, the Boston Common, and Back Bay. Beacon Hill is a highly sought-after neighborhood for [...]
September 1st, otherwise known as “Moving Day” in Boston, can leave many stressed and exhausted. Here are a few tips for a smooth moving experience:
Condo Move In’s/Out’s
If you live in a condo building, make sure all move in and move out policies are followed correctly. Contact the condo owner or management company directly. There may be [...]
Did you know one of Boston's most desirable neighborhoods used to be a swamp? It's true. In the mid 1850's, the area was wetlands, a tidal bay. Trains brought in gravel from places like Needham to fill in the 700 acres now known as the Back Bay. These days, the Back Bay is considered to be one of Boston's top neighborhoods, with its stately brownstones, quaint shopping and top-notch restaurants. Talk about places in demand, according to LINK, the Back Bay had 112 condo sales in Q4 of 2021 with an average selling price of $2,972,135 and an average price per square foot of $1,555 (12% higher than 2020).
It is perhaps the most walkable part of the City. The streets are a grid laid out in alphabetical order starting at Arlington Street. It's a short stroll to Fenway Park, Copley Place and the Prudential Center. In fact you can walk to all of the attractions in this area of the City, and it's one of the top areas in the City for bike riders.
Some of the most popular spots in the Back Bay:
Charles River Esplanade – Perfect for afternoon exercise, this State-owned park stretches in a 17 mile loop along the Charles River. It is one of Back Bay’s most popular spots when the weather warms up and is filled with playgrounds, hiking, and biking trails. You won't find a better place in the city for a picturesque run, walk, or picnic! Watch the sailboats or rowers out on the river. It's THE place to be for the annual 4th of July concert by the Boston Pops and fireworks show at the Hatch Shell.
Newbury Street - Running from the Public Garden through Brookline Ave., Newbury Street is best known for its high-end shops and restaurants. Still, there is something for everyone and it is a wonderful place to wander and spend an afternoon.
Public Garden - The famous George Washington statue is there to greet you as you enter the Public Garden at the end of Commonwealth Ave. It's one of the most photographed green spaces in the Country, let alone in Boston. Sit under a tree in the shade and read a good book, or maybe take the kids and enjoy a ride on the iconic swan boats, or pose for a picture by the Make Way for Ducklings statues.
Boston Public Library - This Library has over 23-million items, making it one of the largest collections in the Country. It includes pieces from William Shakespeare, Mozart and the personal library of John Adams. Historian David McCullough called it one of the five most important libraries in the United States. Grab a coffee and read a book or make a reservation to have an elegant 90 minute dining experience at the Courtyard Tea Room. Located in Copley Square, the Boston Public Library is a wonderful Back Bay treasure.
Boston and its suburbs are known for their rich history and historic (old) buildings. Whether you own or rent, chances are you have dealt with some form of drafty windows and doors during the cold winter months.
Here are a few easy fixes to keep the drafts away, and to help your heating bills from rising:
1. Apply indoor plastic insulation (easy to install on any size window with a simple blow dryer)
2. Lock windows and exterior doors, and apply weather stripping
3. Place an under-door seal or stopper
Whether you rent or own, now that we are entering cold winter months, there are a few things that might be helpful to keep in mind. Most people know to weatherproof and seal any drafty doors or windows, but there are a few other things that can help make winter months more comfortable and [...]
Famous for the St. Patrick's Day Parade and its Irish roots, South Boston has become one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the City. Located between the Seaport District, the South End and Dorchester, “Southie” has a fresh vibe mixed in with old school charm. Have a pint at one of the classic neighborhood taverns and take a stroll the beach. You can pretty much do it all in Southie.
The South Boston real estate market has experienced a steady climb and its rentals are constantly in demand. According to the latest quarterly report from LINK Boston, condo sales in South Boston are up 23% compared to a year ago and the average sale price per square foot is up 5% to $797/SF.
Things to Do:
Castle Island - A perfect place for a quick stroll or to spend the day. This 22-acre location offers endless activities for a day out of the house. Stroll around the harborwalk, watch the planes land at Logan Airport, take a swim, walk the dog or tour historic Fort Independence. It’s one of the more popular outdoor areas in the city with plenty of room to roam.
Lawn on D - Get some fresh air, surf the web with free WiFi and enjoy the wide assortment of games and light-up swings. A popular place to spend a relaxing evening.
Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant - One of the many award-winning eateries in Southie. If you want a great burger, this is your place. It won Boston Magazine's “Battle of the Burger” competition in 2019. If you’re in the mood for pizza, Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant can satisfy that craving too, winning Eater Boston's “Best Pizza in Boston” in 2014.
The Broadway - Just down the road from Lincoln you can find another popular hangout, The Broadway. It's known for always having a great atmosphere and widely recognized for its brunch and wood-fired pizza. A wonderful spot to hang out with old friends or make new ones.
The L Street Tavern - This place is quintessential Southie. A popular place to hang out and a tourist attraction, thanks to the movie Good Will Hunting. Come see where Matt Damon and Ben Affleck hung out and took some of their first steps to Hollywood superstardom!
Apartment hunting is an inherently daunting task for many people, regardless of the season or the approach you choose to take. Throw in inclement winter weather, and it only seems to become even more challenging. But that in itself can be a blessing in disguise, especially if you are hunting for a good [...]
Many renters are moving back into the City. With remote/hybrid work options being offered by many companies, home offices and outdoor space are highly sought after! Here are some of our exclusive rentals that offer one or both of these [...]