2008 September

Twitter Works and MLS Listings Now Free To Roam

By Anthony Longo 30 09 2008

So first of all, last weekend, I was forced (tech peer-presure) to sign up for Twitter, yet another social-media, web 2.0 so called “Must Have”. So its offical, “you can follow me on Twitter” - code name: CondoDomain, of course!

Well, now I can say Twitter actually works. Tonight I found out that the breaking “rumor” which I know has been in the works for a while looks like is finally a “GO” - says Social/PR Guru Cynthia Pang from Redfin Corp. I noticed on my Twitter tonight while I was signing off that Redfin has gotten notice that MLS is now allowing individuals to view property addresses and mapping coordinates without being forced to login.

Previous to this rule we were allowed to show much of the MLS property data, but were forced to keep street address and mapping behind a firewall / registration on any of our Boston MLS search pages.. Unlike other State - like in our Dallas Condo marketplace, we have not been able to show this much wanted data.

So as of tomorrow, we will be working on lifting our “mandatory registration” to access street address & mapping! This is a great move by MLS PIN who has been a great innovative Multiple Listing Service to work with!

We will make another shout-out as soon as we upgraded our system!

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Categories : Boston Condos, RE.TECH

Mandarin Oriental Boston Opens Next Week

By Jessica Anthony 29 09 2008

Finally…the Mandarin Oriental Boston officially opens next week!

Today’s issue of The Boston Globe, reports that this $300 million project signals a new level of wealth has arrived in Boston due to this new development, serving as solid proof that the amount of wealth in the city of Boston is in fact expanding.

According to the article, the fact that the units sold so quickly proves that there are enough people in Boston that can afford this level of service despite the current economy.

Not only is this proof that wealth is expanding in Boston, but there is a need for this level of luxury living.

The residences at the Mandarin Oriental Boston offer the highest standard in luxury living and world class amenities. Interiors of these units feature generous foyers, gigantic bathrooms with his and her units (couples will love the extra space), large dining rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows allowing for fantastic views of the Boston skyline, and sound proof windows among others. Owners of units at the Mandarin Oriental Boston were given the option of designing their own kitchen at Poggenpohl at its Newbury Street location.

Not to mention there are 12 units in the Mandarin Oriental that include an elevator with direct access to a private roofdeck.

Over 40 of the buyers it is no surprise that this new development is such an exciting new hot spot in Boston. Gucci, Freete, L’Espalier, Sel de Le Terre in addition to a world class hotel and services all under one roof have undoubtedly taken Boston to the next level.

There is no question that Boston is now in a new era of new developments. Competing with other major cities of the world, new construction in Boston is shooting for the top. Check out the new developments in Boston.

Search all Back Bay Condos

And be sure to check our blog for more developments on the Mandarin Oriental!

Source: The Boston Globe

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Categories : Boston Condos, Boston Lifestyle, New Developments, Super Luxury

Boston Condo Wire

By Erica Farthing 26 09 2008

Wondering where Tom has been nursing that knee injury (Sorry Tony, I had to) Well, it’s not his posh Back Bay condo. Our ACL tearin’ Adorable QB is spending his days…Shopping Spotted: Giselle and Tom walking the streets of NYC browsing and toting large shopping bags. Tom- Pats fans aren’t too pleased to see you go from QB to Queen Bee xoxo, E

…Read More

Yes, Bostonians I know it’s raining, but that isn’t stopping the Boston GreenFest 2008 from taking place in City Hall Plaza today and Saturday! Get in on the game of eco-friendly living because these days, it’s all about the urban green. Thanks Bostonist…check out the details

While we’re on the subject of “Going Green”, Celtics tickets went on sale today at 10am. Last year Boston sports rocked it out, so will this 2008-2009 season be just as eventful. Something tells me tickets may be a little bit harder to come by this year. Read more from our friends at The Beantown Bloggery for more information.

The Rumor mill is turning and on deck is Todd English…apparently our fav fab Chef is involved in a lawsuit regarding his Beacon Hill townhouse. The lawsuit is about dried-out pilings beneath his multi-million dollar Beacon Hill townhouse. To learn more, visit the Boston Real Estate Blog.

Speaking of our man Todd English, if you have not made your way over to Olives in Charlestown, I strongly suggest heading there this weekend! I recently dined there during Restaurant Week and it was absolutely delicious! While you’re at it, check out some of these Charlestown Open Houses this weekend.

42 Eighth Street #2507, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $359,000, Sunday 2-3pm

197 Eighth Street #701, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $475,000, Sunday 12:30-1:30pm

31 1/2 Mount Vernon #3, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $459,000, Sunday 2-3pm

30 Monument Square #403, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $485,000, Sunday 1-2pm

67 Green Street #1, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $512,000, Sunday 11:30am-12:30pm

Contact Us today to find out more about a Charlestown Condo

Stay Tuned for Boston Condo Wire every Friday on our Boston Blog

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Categories : Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Boston Condos, Boston Lifestyle, Charlestown

Just CondoDomain it…

By Anthony Longo 26 09 2008

Searching for Boston Condo information. Maybe some details on a specifice luxury development or loft. Possibly even some local data on a neighborhood or price/per/sq/ft. Just CondoDomain it!

Being a web-based real estate brokerage we are very intune with the SERP’s (SERP Definition = Search Engine Result Page) otherwise known as Google, Yahoo, MSN, AOL and the rest of the search engines.

Constantly changing our web strategy to optize for all of these search engines our website is very much saturated into the all of these SERPs. Google & Yahoo are very fast and effecieent search portals if you use them properly…but I am not going to get into that on this post.

CondoDomain.com is by far the most thorough set of downtown Boston real estate data & listings avaiable all in one spot…and Google knows this. Between our MLS feed’s our new development database and our robust street level blog platform, we aggreate more Boston condo data than anyone else!

A quick way to pull all of this data together on one page is to utilze google or as we cal it, “Just CondoDomain it”.

Here are some examples: The image below is on the results if you Googled for “CondoDomain 285 Columbus“.

Via our Analytics, other popular Google searches are:

For Lafayette Lofts - Google Search

FP3 Lofts - Google Search

Strada 234 - Google Search

Ritz Millenium - Google Search

For a full list of text links on all Boston New Developments check out our Sitemap.

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Categories : Boston Condos, Boston Lofts, Boston Real Estate, New Developments, RE.TECH

Getting Jazzy Wit It

By Jessica Anthony 25 09 2008

Starting tonight thru Saturday September 27th the Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival will be taking place in one of my favorite neighborhoods in Boston- the South End.

The Festival is located on Columbus Avenue between Burke Street and Massachusetts Avenue in Boston.

According to the official website, The 8th annual Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival—Boston’s most popular and largest outdoor festival—will transform the Hub into a musical, multicultural Mecca for jazz, world, blues and grooves, with concerts at various locations around the city. World-renowned superstars and treasured local artists come together on four stages in free and ticketed offerings that last year drew upwards of 70,000 people of all ages from every neighborhood in Boston and all over New England. More than 17 bands and 120 musicians will perform at the Berklee Performance Center (BPC), Cafe 939, and outdoor stages along Columbus Avenue.

This Festival is always an enjoyable time and a good reason to head over to the South End. With all of the great dining options available and different things to do, a great weekend is guaranteed in the South End.

Speaking of great options in the South End, there are dozens of Open Houses this weekend.

Check These Out-

700 Harrison, 2 Bd 1 Ba, $549,000

9 Hanson, 2 Bd 1 Ba, $549,000

104 Union Park, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $375,000

406 Columbus Ave, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $399,000

Contact Us for more information on South End Condos

For a complete list of all events, venues, and performers, Click Here

As always feel free to leave us comments, the CondoDomain crew loves to hear from you!

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Categories : Boston Lifestyle, South End

Great Eats in Eastie

By Erica Farthing 25 09 2008

In a conversation the other day in the always friendly North End, I started to talk with a nice gentleman concerned about his parking spot (We all know the horror tow stories that happen here!) Well, he mentioned he owned a pizza place in East Boston and I couldn’t help but investigate further.

The place is called Dough and its located 20 Maverick St, very close to the airport. According to one of the owners, their vision is Parish Cafe meets Upper Crust in a cozy neighborhood.

Offering pizza, pasta, and paninis, Dough offers free delivery to East Boston residents. Check out their website for more information.

Speaking of East Boston…According to an article out today in The Boston Globe, of the communities with sales listed according to Banker & Tradesman listed in the Sept. 22 issue, of the single-family sales in Suffolk County, two have posted an increase in sales transactions for the year-to-date: Chelsea and East Boston. In Chelsea, sales were up about 73 percent, from 11 in 2007 to 19 this year. In East Boston, sales rose about 37 percent, from 19 to 26. The rest of the communities listed had posted fewer sales so far this year, but many were not too far off their 2007 numbers.

The convenient location of East Boston to the airport and the downtown areas of Boston makes an East Boston condo a great choice for someone looking to enjoy city living at a smaller price tag. As this neighborhood continues to grow in both new restaurants and new condo developments, we will keep you posted!

Here are some cool properties we like…check it out

156 Porter Street, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $339,000

30 Haynes Street, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $223,000

3 Seaver Street, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $299,900

281 Webster Street, 2 Bd 1 Ba, $365,000

Contact us today if you have any questions!

search East Boston condos

Source: The Boston Globe

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Categories : Boston Condos, Boston Lifestyle, East Boston

Catch Zzzzs With A Two Bedroom

By Jessica Anthony 24 09 2008

It’s not just something you see on those old black and white television shows anymore- recent studies show that 23% of married couples sleep separately from one another. Whether the reasons stem from difficulty sleeping, restless leg syndrome, or loud snoring, to name a few, more married couples are seeking out more bedrooms, even if they are in fact, empty nesters.

It is becoming more and more common for couples to sleep in separate bedrooms. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes aka TomKat, are an example of a famous duo that sleep in separate bedrooms.

The bottom line is, when we are sleeping we simply do not want to be disturbed, and if that involves sleeping in your own bedroom- I see nothing wrong with that. It is hard enough for anyone these days to actually get an adequate amount of sleep, so why not make yourself as comfortable as possible in your own home?

Many relationship experts actually recommend that couples sleep separately in order to save the relationship if they are dealing with a Restless Bed Partner.

It was interesting to find out that builders are actually accommodating to this lifestyle change, and some new construction does in fact offer a second master suite.

Regardless of sleeping preference, fellow Bostonians can collectively agree that the amount of space in Boston condos is often limited, so it is a fantastic to find a Boston condo with adequate space. A possible alternative for those currently searching for a new condo would be to find one offering two bedrooms, a guest suite, or two combined units.

Here are some examples of Boston condos available with adequate space for you and your partner! Sweet Dreams!

463 Mass Ave, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $765,000

61 Prince St, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $749,000

25 Channel Center, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $669,000

80 Broadway, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $685,000

416 Marlborough, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $670,000

Contact Us today for more information!

Learn how we can save you thousands at closing.

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Categories : Boston Condos, Boston Lifestyle

Parris Landing Gem (Charlestown)

By Jessica Anthony 23 09 2008

Lately we have been spending a ton of time in Parris Landing over in the Charlestown Navy Yard. I think the hot summer month of August and great September we have had has led a lot of buyers looking for this great waterfront condominium development in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

One of the best looking units and best values we have seen over there is unit #4205. Check out the specs and photos on this Parris Landing condo.

Priced to Sell: $425,000

42 Eighth St
Unit # 4205
Boston, MA 02129

MLS # 70786149

Status: Active
Type: Condominium

Beds: 1 Bedroom
Bath: 1 (Baths)

Sq/Ft: 768
Price per Sq/Ft: $553.39
Condo Fee: $510 (monthly)
Taxes: $3,831 (annual)

Estimated Payment: $2,529

Renovated 1 Bed condo at Parris Landing. Granite Kitchen counter and Brkfst bar, SS appliances,Pantry,HD wood flooring, Bath has granite counters, marble flooring & shower, LR and MB have W to W carpeting. Deep walk-in BR closet with Cal Closet Sys. Addtl storage closet with Cal Closet Sys. 9Ft ceilings, Exposed Brick, Light and Airy, Custom Window Treatments & room drkning blinds, Ceiling fan in MB, Deeded covered pkg space with Valet, 12 Months Condo Fees payed by seller.

Listing includes one garage parking space!!!

Don’t love this listing…see all the listings for sale @ Parris Landing.

Listing Courteosy of Charlie Abrahams of WIlliam Raveis

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Categories : Boston Condos, Charlestown, Charlestown Navy Yard, Featured Listings

Back Bay Condo Deal Of The Week

By Anthony Longo 23 09 2008

Looking for that special deal on a Back Bay Condo? Well here is our pick for the Back Bay Condo deal of the week!

377 Marlborough St
Unit # 1
Boston, MA 02115

Price: $449,000

Beds: 1 Bedroom
Bath: 1 (Baths)

Sq/Ft: 605
Price per Sq/Ft: $742.15
Condo Fee: $100 (monthly)
Taxes: $3,812 (annual)

Estimated Payment: $2,214

Fabulous one bedroom in the heart of Back Bay situated on tree-lined Marlborough Street. This home features beautiful newer pergo floors, tastefully renovated cherry color kitchen cabinets with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, high ceilings and tons of closet space. Central a/c, alarm, and washer and dryer in unit. Newer bathroom with jacuzzi tub. There is a private patio and is a pet friendly building. Walking distance to Back Bay, colleges, shopping, public transit.

This condo also includes a parking space!!!

Buy through CondoDomain and get a Cash Refund of $6,225

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Categories : Back Bay, Boston Condos, Boston Real Estate, Featured Listings

Open House Season

By Jessica Anthony 19 09 2008

Got plans this weekend? Well Fall is here, most of the tourists have left the city, so it is the perfect time to explore and make time to visit a few Open Houses.

Open Houses This Sunday, September 21st…

Check These Out:

170 Tremont St, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $675,000, 11:30am-12:39pm

103 Beacon St, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $560,000, 12:30pm-1:30pm

25 Channel Center, 2 Bd 2 Ba, $669,000, 1:45pm-3:15pm

4 Charlesgate, 1 Bd 1 Ba, $659,000, 12pm-1:30pm

99 Warren Ave, 2 Bd 1 Ba, $649,900, 12pm-1:30pm

Want to find more Open Houses this weekend? Use our search site for more Open Houses

Click Here to search all Boston Condos

Have a great weekend everyone!

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Categories : Boston Condos, Open Houses

Boston Restaurant Happenings

By Erica Farthing 18 09 2008

Hello my fellow Boston Foodies! There has been a lot of bite size restaurant news this week, here is the run down…

I don’t know about you, but I absolutely LOVE watching Phantom Gourmet! Well, if you’re like me, you will be thrilled to know that the Phantom Gourmet Food Festival is coming to Boston this weekend! Set to be held near Fenway Park from 11am-4pm this Saturday. Check it out…fyi it’s a 21+ event.

Health nuts rejoice- The ban of the use of trans fats in foods at Boston restaurants officially took place this week. Unhealthy fats will no longer be allowed in any of Boston’s dining spots and those restaurants found violating the rule will be fined up to $1000…ouch!

Some say that East Boston is becoming what the North End was a few years back…proof of that theory is the opening of Ecco this week. A brand-new, upscale Italian restaurant located at 107 Porter Street, will feature small plates, large meals, and a diverse beverage menu. If you are familiar with Santarpio’s (and their pizza) you can easily find Ecco within walking distance.

If you’re looking to do something “different” this weekend, why not head over to Tangerino in Charlestown! This whimsical, Moroccan-themed lounge just revealed its $1.6 million expansion including- belly dancers, hookahs, cigar room (don’t worry there is a new state-of-the-art purifying system), and a Marrakech bar for private dining. Grab your magic carpet and head on over.

And last, but certainly not least! We all know that the Mandarin Oriental Boston is booming and the latest in this exciting development was the opening of both restaurants this week! Sel De La Terre and L’Espalier have officially opened their doors at this 800 Boylston St location.

Don’t hesitate to Contact Us for any questions and please feel free to leave comments! I love to hear from you!

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Categories : Boston Condos, Boston Lifestyle, New Developments

Happy Dane Cook Day

By Erica Farthing 17 09 2008

Yes my friends, it is true, today is officially Dane Cook Day…I’m not kidding.

Boston City Council dubbed today Dane Cook Day and celebrated with dozens of councilors and city hall employees asking this hometown comedian for his autograph. Ahh…it seems like just yesterday that he was in town filming My Best Friend’s Girl and I was asked to be an extra in the flick one night as I left my friends Back Bay condo.

Speaking of, the movie comes out this Friday. Should be a good one, especially since it was filmed throughout all of Boston. Personally, I can’t wait!

The scenes they filmed in Back Bay, Copley Square, Newbury Street, and Boston Common are sure to make you get a little excited! My how Boston is becoming more “Hollywood”.

You probably could get in on the action on the next movie set, just live in Back Bay.

Search All Back Bay Condos.

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Categories : Back Bay, Boston Lifestyle