Living in the Boston metro region is an incredible lifestyle with so much to do (second only to New York City in our eyes). The Atlantic Ocean sits just to the east of the city and there are 2 crescent shapes highways that go around the city. The inner highway is I-95 and I-90 heads from west to east into the city and I-93 cuts down from the north to the south. The outer highway is 495 which gets to much further areas that are more like 30 to 40 minutes into downtown. Deciding on where to live is complicated since commuting can be a time consuming event depending on how far you need to drive each day (or take the T Train). Some of the towns closer to downtown are Somerville, Cambridge (MIT University), Brookline, Watertown, Arlington, Lexington, Medford, Revere, and Everett. No matter where you choose to live, there is plenty of history nearby and downtown Boston is always bustlings at Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Boston Common and Harvard University are expensive to live near, but perhaps worth the added convenience they offer. The Charles River winds through town and Fenway Park has drawn huge baseball crowds for decades. We recommend starting your apartment search online at websites like Rent.com or Apartments.com. They offer a great selection of 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom units that are available. You can quickly see which complexes offer pools, parking, walk-in closets, modern amenities, easy commutes, fitness centers, and more. By talking to just a few apartment or property managers you should get a good feel for rent prices and availability in certain locations. Boston is one of the most expensive cities to live in, so you will need to shop wisely and find a rental that fits your needs and budget.
The cost of living is high in the Boston area, and 1 BR apartments will normally set you back $1500 or more per month. Below are listings for some Boston Apartment Rentals.
Here are some more resources to aid in your apartment shopping: Apartment Inspection Checklist - take this on your walkthrus and jot down notes. Avoid Renters Remorse: parking, noise, etc. Check this list.
Rules for Renting a Condo: Condos are a little different..
Your Credit Report: What is shows, what to look for.
Other nearby cities to include in your search are: Arlington, Belmont, Braintree, Brookline, Burlington, Cambridge, Canton, Concord, Lexington, Lynn, Malden, Marblehead, Melrose, Needham, Newton, Quincy, Reading, Somerville, Stoneham, Suffolk County, Waltham, Watertown, Wellesley, Winthrop, Woburn.
Buying a Home in Boston: Real Estate Brokers and Agents
When looking for a home, whether for a corporate relocation or just moving across town, it always helps to begin with MLS listings to get an idea of what is on the market and what your $$ can buy. Start with MLS Listings. Then find a real estate agent you trust and are comfortable with. Coldwell Banker Residential (617-266-4430) serves all the neighborhoods in the Boston region, aiding in finding a home or planning a relocation. Prudential Prime Properties is another well-trusted local name (617-570-0099), traditionally dealing in higher end properties. RE/MAX agent Jeff Persons covers the entire area as well. Get information on neighborhoods, schools, property taxes, etc. Check out the tools below:
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