Brighton Apartments
How to prepare your Boston apartment for the winter
Winter is on its way, Boston.
Let’s face it, winters in Boston can be kind of rough, and meteorologists are predicting a worse winter than usual this year (don’t they always?). How do you prepare for the bitter cold that dominates the next few months? If you own a house, there are lots of steps you can take to winterize your dwelling, but what if you’re in a Boston rental property? I’m sure the landlords of Brighton apartments, Allston apartments, or even the property manager for a Bay Back condo wouldn’t appreciate it if you started ripping open the walls to put in more insulation. Luckily, there are still some things you can do.
Before doing anything to winterize an apartment, it would be a good idea to check with the landlord or property manager and make sure of what is acceptable and what is not. The first thing a tenant can usually do is seal cracks in window and door frames using caulk. Speaking of doors and windows, it’s a good idea to check the weatherstripping around them, too. If it looks worn or if pieces are missing, most Boston apartments have a maintenance superintendent who can replace it for you. If not, the landlord may allow you to replace the weatherstripping yourself–it’s relatively easy and you can get the materials at any hardware store.
Glass patio and french doors are not terribly common in a Boston rental property, but if you have them, they can be a big source of heat loss. Putting some weatherstripping along the door frame (or the space where the doors meet for French doors) can help to keep things cozy. Another good trick is putting clear plastic (available in kits like a 3M insulating kit) over windows or unused patio doors in the winter. Putting a draft sock (a tube stuffed with insulating material) along the bottom of exterior doors can help, too, and it is mobile enough that the door can still be used.
The outlets on the outer walls of an apartment sometimes allow cold air to get in. The best way to solve this is to get some insulating gaskets for outlets and light switches. They cost about a dollar for a multi-pack at the hardware store and they install in seconds with a screwdriver. If your landlord or other Boston property management team member allows you to make any of the changes discussed so far, ask them if you can deduct the cost of the materials from your rent–it never hurts to ask.
Perhaps the easiest way to deal with winter in Boston apartments is to reduce the area that has to be heated. Closing off vents in rooms that don’t require a lot of heat, like bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens (as well as any bedrooms that are not currently in use) can focus the heat more directly in the areas where it is needed. Another way to reduce heating area is to keep closet doors closed.
Finally, assuming you are in the process of moving, it would be a good idea to keep winter in mind when looking at Boston apartments for rent or even Boston homes for sale. Ask other tenants in the building or the real estate agent what the heating situation is like and what sort of modifications you might be allowed to make to improve it. Winters in Boston can get rough, and if you plan to spend the winter in a Boston rental property, you would be wise to do what you can to winterize it.
Top 5 Burger Joints in Boston’s Allston and Brighton Neighborhoods
That is a tasty burger.
When looking to rent a Brighton, MA homes or Allston, MA apartments, the first question on your mind might not be where to find the best burger, but the question might be high on your priority list when you move in and can’t find your kitchen gear. Here are five burger joints in the Allston and Brighton neighborhoods that will delight your taste buds and have you planning your return visit before you even pull out of the parking lot.
U Burger
U Burger, located at 1022 Commonwealth Avenue, is a funky little burger joint similar to a 5 Guys with absolutely the best burger selection conceivable, including veggie burgers, a spicy jalapeno burger and ever condiment you could wish for. The U Burger also offers take out and delivery to Allston apartments and homes.
Porter Belly’s
Porter Belly’s is a favorite among Brighton, MA apartment dwellers. Located at 338 Washington Street, Porter Belly’s is an Irish bar and local hang out for college students and young locals. While you wait for a mouth-watering burger and a beer, enjoy the live music, open mic night or watch a game on the plasma TV’s. Try the Buffalo Burger if you love hot sauce and blue cheese.
Eagle’s Deli
Eagle’s Deli at 1918 Beacon Street, is the home of the Eagle’s Challenge Burger. This is one huge burger and not for the faint of heart. Weighing over five pounds and topped with 20 pieces of bacon and 20 slices of American cheese, no one leaves hungery, and just in case the burger isn’t enough, it comes with a five pound side for fries. This is a must-visit place for Brighton, MA homes visitors and residents alike.
Moogie’s Sandwich Shop
Boston College students love Moogy’s Sandwich shop is a favorite for breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. Located on South End real estate, this restaurant has a cool chill vibe and prices that won’t leave you broke for the rest of the week. Not sure what kind of burger you are in the mood for? Try the Dumpster. The Dumpster is a third of a pound burger smothered in barbecue sauce, bacon, American cheese and chili. Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and condiments come on the side.
Brighton Beer Garden
Nothing goes better with a burger than beer. The Brighton Beer Garden, located at 386 Market Street, is a sports bar offering a nice selection of beef, veggie and turkey burgers as a part of its full menu. Non-burger lovers will enjoy their Big Salads and Mexican dishes, and eclectic sandwich selections. Go for the food. Stay for the trivia, karaoke and live music.
Begin your search for a favorite burger joint in the Allston and Brighton Neighborhoods with a trip to these five spots, then expand your search through the dozens of other restaurants available to area residents. You’ll have a great time and might be surprised by the unique variety of burger recipes out there.
Moving into your Student Apartment? Don’t Forget These Simple Tips
Moving into your new apartment as a student is an exciting time, but before you get to all the fun, make sure you take care of a few simple things.You will be glad you did later!
Tips for Moving Into Your Student Apartment
For security, check that all of the windows that can be opened also have locks, especially if you are on the ground floor. If any of the windows cannot lock, tell your landlord immediately.- Think about a fire escape plan and discuss it amongst your roommates. Know all of the doors and windows suitable for a safe exit from the apartment in the case of an emergency. Make sure that fire-escape windows are not screwed or stuck shut. If they are, have your landlord make them openable immediately.
- Learn where the gas and water shutoffs are. In the case of an emergency or a pipe burst, knowing exactly where to go to shut off gas or water can save lives or at least costly damage to the apartment and your personal property.
- Inspect the apartment and make sure that everything is as you expected and matches the contract. It is good to catch any problems that you may not notice immediately. It is not uncommon that a landlord did not tell you about a problem, either because they wanted to get a tenant or they did not know. If anything is unsatisfactory or does not match the contract, make a note of it and contact your landlord.
- If you and your roommates pay for utilities independently from the rent, record the meter readings as soon as you move in. Tell the utilities companies the readings and the dates you moved in. You would not want to pay for extra utilities that were used when you were not even occupying the apartment. While you are at it, give all of the names of the apartment’s occupants to the utilities companies to avoid any confusion with billing.
Back to School in Boston
Labor Day weekend in Boston is always classified by hundreds of college students moving into dormitories or apartments throughout the city. If you walk along the streets in Brighton, Brookline, Fenway, or Kenmore Square over the weekend don’t be surprised to see a lot of U-Haul trailers and students carrying all of their b
elongings into their new buildings.
There are more than 100 colleges in the Greater Boston Area contributing over 250,000 students to the city’s population just in Cambridge and Boston alone. The city’s biggest universities include Boston University, Northeastern University, Suffolk University, and Boston College. The influx of students in the fall attending these schools significantly contributes to the city’s economy – an estimated $4.8 billion annually. Not only do these students add to the economy of the area they also add to the atmosphere of the city. Despite being one of the country’s oldest cities, Boston has a very youthful feeling. Boston is the perfect place to live as a young professional.
If you’re planning on moving to the city contact a Phoenix Realty agent today to help you find the perfect Boston apartment!
Best Allston/Brighton Ice Cream Spots
According to meteorologists June is going to be a month for the record books – the unrelenting high temperatures in the Midwest and Southern parts of the country are beginning to spread to the Northeast. If you’re living in an Allston apartment without central air, or even an air conditioning wall unit, you may have to just crank those electric fans and literally sweat it out. To help beat the heat in the coming months here are a few frozen dessert spots in the Allston/Brighton neighborhood you should definitely check out:
1. Chill – This spot features deliciously creamy frozen yogurt as well as a multitude of hard ice cream flavors. There are usually only a handful of frozen yogurt flavors (original, strawberry, banana, and coconut); however, the many different toppings help enhance “fro yo” experience.
2. Athan’s European Bakery & Café – This hidden gem is locally famous for its gelato. If you’re looking to add a little “European” flavor to your frozen dessert this summer, you’ve got to try Athan’s. They make their gelato in their own workshop – from scratch! Each is unique in flavor and texture.
3. Mixx Frozen Yogurt – The delicious, creamy texture of the different types of frozen yogurt is just part of this spot’s appeal… What really sets it apart from many other places is the expansive list of flavors (and the fact that you can mix any of the flavors together). You could have strawberry, cheesecake, and cookies and cream all at the same time! This place is perfect for those of us who are more indecisive when it comes to our frozen yogurt.
4. 3 Scoops – If you’re living in a Brighton apartment you’ve got to check this place out. With over 47 flavors on their list there’s always something for everyone! And with the portion sizes you can guarantee the best “bang for your buck.”
If you’ve just moved to a Boston apartment for the summer and are starting to miss your small town ice cream shop from home, try one of these spots. Maybe you’ll find yourself with a new favorite ice cream shop! If you’re in the process of weaning yourself off of your hometown ice cream and making the move to an apartment in the city for the summer, contact a Phoenix real estate agent today to help with the search process!
Brighton-Allston Heritage Museum Celebrates Four Years
The Brighton-Allston Heritage Museum has two exciting events to share with those who reside in Brighton, MA apartments and Allston, MA apartments during this dreary winter season.
On Saturday, February 26, the museum will hold a fourth anniversary party at 20 Chestnut Hill Avenue, the address of the museum. There will be a wine and cheese reception held from 1pm- 3:30 pm for Allston and Brighton residents alike to enjoy.
Additionally, the Brighton-Allston Heritage Museum’s latest art exhibit, “Renew” will run through April 9th, so neighborhood residents should stop by to explore the gallery. “Renew” will show 55 art works by eight local artists, featuring landmarks and properties that are architecturally or historically significant through paintings, photographs, and mixed media presentations.
The Boston museum was opened on February 24, 2007 just outside of Brighton Center to mark the official start of Brighton’s year long Bicentennial celebration. The Brighton-Allston Heritage Museum was planned and organized by the Historical Society as a permanent institution to provide creative interpretations of the history of one of Boston’s most diverse and interesting neighborhoods.
The museum has two major exhibitions, including a permanent exhibition in Gallery A that highlights the historical themes that have contributed to the rich history of Brighton and Allston. The gallery is organized around six main themes: Early History, Transportation, Agriculture & Horticulture, Industry & Commerce, Suburbanization, and Institutional History. The second gallery, Inner Gallery, designated “The Winship Gallery” was established for accommodating a series of rotating exhibits.
The Brighton-Allston neighborhood has lots of great attractions and amenities to offer its residents; if you would like to find the perfect Allston apartment or Brighton home, please contact Phoenix Realty. One of our knowledgeable agents would be happy to assist you in your search for the perfect new home!
Featured Listing: Chestnut Hill Luxury Apartment
Located in Newton’s Chestnut Hill area, this amazing one bedroom apartment is fully loaded with every feature you can imagine! The modern kitchen is outfitted with over sized cherry cabinets, beautiful tile walls, a dishwasher, a built-in microwave, and a gas range stove.
The apartment also has wall to wall carpet, a walk in closet, and an in-unit washer and dryer set up. This Newton apartment is also pre-wired for cable, internet, and telephone and has a personal alarm system.
The apartment complex features a resident lounge with a kitchen, a state of the art fitness center, and a resident study with a fax machine and copier. The residents also have access to a beautiful heated outdoor pool, underground garage parking, and an onsite concierge. The D Riverside train is just a quick walk away, making for an easy commute to downtown Boston, Boston College, Boston University, and other area hot spots!
This is a great example of the Newton, MA real estate that we have available. Click here to view the listing and contact a Phoenix Realty agent to schedule a viewing!
Featured Listing: Cozy Alcove Studio
Located right on Commonwealth Avenue, this Brighton condo is a solid investment with fantastic rental history. It is on the third floor of a professionally managed elevator building. The studio has an alcove to provide a separate sleeping area and a separate eat-in kitchen (both are rarities for Boston studio apartments.) The main living space has beautiful hardwood floors throughout and well kept detailing on the walls and trims.
It is just steps from the MBTA B, C, and D green line trains, and has excellent access to both Boston College and Cleveland Circle. It is directly across from a beautiful reservoir and park.
This apartment is a fantastic example of the Brighton real estate that we have listed. To learn more about this Brighton condo, view the listing or contact a Phoenix Realty agent to schedule a viewing.
Halloween Events Around Boston
Now that it is almost the middle of October, there are some very important decisions to be made. With all of the parades, parties, and events planned all over the city, what are you doing for Halloween? These decisions are critical, and as there is so much to choose from – we’ve narrowed it down to a few great options in your neck of the woods. It’s much easier to stay local on Halloween; the entire city comes to life and the MBTA is always packed! So whether you have an Allston apartment or a Back Bay condo, there are some fantastic options for you.
Allston apartments are usually home to many of the cities college students and suburb transplants. Nicknamed “Allston Rock City”, the neighborhood is a hub of musical endeavors and young dreamers. Here are a couple Halloween events around Allston. (If you have a more residential Brighton apartment, these are worth the quick trip!)
- Halloween Pet Costume Contest
When: Sunday, October 24, 2010 3PM
Where: Unleashed by Petco (226 Harvard Ave)
What: A chance to dress up your pets and meet other local pet enthusiasts! There will be special prizes, animal treats, and light refreshments for pet owners.
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- A Night of Halloween Covers
When: Thursday, October 28, 2010 9PM
Where: Great Scott (Corner of Harvard and Comm. Ave)
What: Featuring local musicians, this is a night dedicated to covers of Halloween-inspired songs. Featuring Songs from The Misfits, Face to Face, Black Flag, Refused, and The Descendents.
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- Horror Business Halloween Party
When: Sunday, October 31, 2010 9PM
Where: Great Scott (Corner of Harvard and Comm Ave)
What: A night filled with an eclectic blend of music (Punk, Metal, Ska followed by a DJ), entertainment, and a raffle featuring prizes from local Boston companies (e.g. Narragansett, PUMA, Harmonix, Orchard Skate Shop, etc.)
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Fenway
The Fenway/Kenmore neighborhood is home to some of the best entertainment facilities in the city. With all of the bars, music venues, and colleges around the area, those with a Fenway apartment will have a hard time deciding where to spend their Halloweekend!
- 2nd Annual Halloween Ball
When: Saturday, October 30, 2010 8PM
Where: Lansdowne Pub (9 Lansdowne St)
What: This is sure to be a night filled with outrageous costumes, contests, door prizes, and live music from DJ Cutz and Bearfight.
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- Dark Arts: A Spirited Evening at The Gardner
When: Saturday, October 30, 2010 6:30PM
Where: The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (280 The Fenway)
What: An after-hours celebration with a spooky theme. Wine and seasonal hors d’oeuvres will be provided while listening to ghost stories from professional storytellers.
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Brookline
Brookline is much more of a community-focused neighborhood than the rest of the city. Most Brookline apartments are home to young families and long time residents. For this reason, most of the Brookline Halloween events cater to children, but are guaranteed fun for young and old.
- Pumpkinfest 2010
When: Sunday, October 17, 2010 12PM
Where: Lincoln School (19 Kennard Rd)
What: A fun family Halloween event filled with games, rides, delicious food, and a kid friendly haunted house.
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- All Hallow’s Eve
When: Thursday, October 28 7PM
Where: Coolidge Corner Theater (290 Harvard St)
What: Take an opportunity to experience the roots of Halloween – All Hallow’s Eve – with psychic medium Sirry Berndsen. Learn about the origins of the holiday and experience spirit channeling with a professional guide.
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Back Bay
Instead of hanging out in your Back Bay condo waiting for trick-or-treaters, take advantage of the great venues around the neighborhood. This Halloween there will be tons of spooky events going on around town, here are a couple that sounded neat.
- HalloweenFest
When: Saturday, October 24, 2010 10AM
Where: The Prudential Center (800 Boylston Street)
What: Boston’s best Halloween event for families with young kids! The event includes games, face painting, pumpkin decorating, costume showcase, ball pit and jumpy house, and performances by kids’ musicians, story tellers, and magicians. All proceeds benefit The Kid’s Fund at Boston Medical Center.
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- Wonderland
When: Saturday, October 30, 2010 8PM
Where: The Liberty Hotel (215 Charles Street)
What: Alice in Wonderland-themed party at one of the chicest Boston hotels featuring a live DJ, dancing, a costume contest, and a “Transylvania-chic” fashion show by designer Samuel Vartan.
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Still Looking for that perfect Boston apartment? Contact a Phoenix Realty agent to find your new home!
Featured Listing: Sunny Brighton MA Apartment
This featured listing is a sunny two bedroom apartment in on Commonwealth Avenue in Brighton, MA. It is a spacious upper floor unit with a covered back porch with an attached storage closet. The tiled kitchen comes fully loaded with a dishwasher, garbage disposal, and a breakfast bar off the galley.
A parking spot is included outside, which is a bit of a rarity for most Brighton apartments. Pets are allowed with no deposit required. Heat and hot water are also included in the $1,600 rent.
This is a great location, with access to the MBTA Green Line Trains and bus services.
Check out the listing or contact a Phoenix Realty Agent to find out more about this and other great Brighton Apartments.
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