After this incredibly busy September rental season, one thing has become clear to brokers specializing in rentals – inventory is low. Or maybe, demand is just high. We did see a larger-than-average influx of students into Boston’s competitive rental market this year. And with a disconnect between market value and seller prices, with the resulting decline in sales inventory – purchasing a home in Boston is paradoxically more difficult these days. Making renting an apartment even more competitive.

That could change, in the future, however. One nice side effect of increased demand and insufficient supply is that people with real money sit up and take notice when hundreds of people flood the city, begging them to give them thousands of dollars, and they have to say “no”. If they were comfortable with that circumstance, they wouldn’t be as successful as they are, after all. And they’re taking action to ensure that they will not have to say “no” much longer.

So what are they doing?

Let’s start right next door to my office. This summer I had a great time finding parking on Brainerd Road every day, what with the wrecking equipment demolishing the run-down auto-shop building next door, followed by the usual progression of debris and soil on their way out, building materials on their way in, and cranes taking up the entire block as they lift steel beams into place. What’s it all for? New luxury highrise, here we come. Our contacts with the developer Mt. Vernon Company tell us we should expect roughly 100 high-quality units, one and two bedrooms. Based on the market and estimated quality of the units and building amenities, we expect these will come out for around $2000 for the one bedrooms and around $2600 for the two bedrooms. We’re hoping this project will be completed in time for September 2012 move-ins! Please let us know if you’d like to get on the waiting list!

Rendering of proposed building on 60-66 Brainerd Rd (Mount Vernon Co., Prellwitz Chilinski Assoc., BRA)

Mt. Vernon has also submitted a proposal for an additional 79 loft-style units to be built across the street from that project, displacing the warehouse that currently occupies that spot. The 1.2 acre site straddles the Allston-Brookline border, though the address of the property will be on Brainerd Road in Allston. The proposal is expected to be approved, and construction is estimated for completion in time for the September 2013 rental season.

On another front, Harvard University’s Allston Work Team recently gained approval for their two-stage plan for future developments in Allston. Stage one of the plan includes plans for new residences and retail outlets on Barry’s Corner, a new Health and Life Sciences center on Western Ave, and a desperately needed revamping of the existing Charlesview Apartments complex. The second stage will include development of Harvard’s new 36-acre Enterprise Research Campus on Allston Landing North, which may include a hotel and conference center reminiscent of Kendall Square. Harvard is currently in discussion with co-developers on plans to make housing available both to students and on the general market. Construction is planned to begin in 2013.

Artist rendering of the planned new Charlesview Residences complex (The Community Builders, Inc.)

The existing Charlesview Apartments complex on Barry’s Corner (which Harvard will take over for their project discussed above) will be replaced by a new sprawling Charlesview Residences complex being built on the former Brighton Mills Shopping Center in Allston.  The existing 213 units on Barry’s Corner will be replaced by 340 units which will include a wide range of apartment sizes and types, from one bedroom flats to four bedroom townhouses. The redevelopment plan also includes new streets and parks, facilities for community use, commercial space, and an underground parking garage that will accomodate up to 243 vehicles. The design has been carefully created to avoid regurgitating the community objections towards the previous development in the 1970’s, which residents criticized as an eyesore. The development has been designed to blend seamlessly into the community and stimulate the neighborhood. The unusual project has attracted a variety of non-traditional corporate investors, including most notably Google, Inc.

Moving into town, there are also several urban luxury towers pushing up new spots in the cityscape. AvalonBay Communities started construction last month on tevalon Exeter, located on the Back Bay’s Exeter Street. Avalon Exeter will add 187 new luxury units to the Prudential Center complex in the form of a new 28-story glass tower right next to the Lenox Hotel. Units will carry a wide array of sizes and prices. The 32 studios will start at around $1800, the 52 one-bedrooms will start at $2500, and the 83 two bedrooms will start at $3500. There will also be 20 penthouse apartments whose prices are yet to be determined. AvalonBay Communities also recently submitted a proposal for a 29-story residential tower on Stuart Street in Boston, to provide 404 luxury apartments of varying sizes and roughly 200 indoor parking spaces.

Downtown, a variety of new projects are proposed. Hayward Place will add 265 new apartments across from the Paramount Theatre. Another as-yet-unnamed development on Hudson Street will bring 345 units to Chinatown. Chinatown may also see another 381 units in the new Kensington Place development on Washington Street. And the Charles River Park complex plans to add another 500 units near the Boston Garden.

These new developments are exciting, especially amidst the miasma of a stagnant economy. With high jobless rates, new construction projects should find zoning and permit agencies friendly and accommodating, and with the rental season we’ve just seen, we can expect construction contracts to treat time as a valuable commodity. The real estate market is about to be injected with a large quantity of interesting new listings on the high end of the spectrum – we can’t wait to see what that does to the market as a whole!

The Business – Roast Beast

The Location – 1080 Commonwealth Ave, Allston MA

The Product – Custom built, high quality, roast beef sandwiches

It’s lunchtime, and my frenzy of phone calls and emails is suddenly interrupted by the roar of an angry stomach. It’s been neglected, because I’m a workaholic and just don’t know when to stop – but I know just how to soothe it’s fragile ego. For a serious meaty sandwich in Allston, it’s worth walking an extra two blocks to Roast Beast!

These guys do one thing, and they do it the right way. Roast Beef sandwiches. You pick the bread (try the onion roll!), cheese (how about some three-pepper colby jack!), sauce (don’t pick thermonuclear unless you are a professional), toppings, and size.

These guys use quality stuff, and they have a massive selection in every category. If you want a quick meal…fine, they’ll do that and it’ll be great. But if you really want to assemble a crazy awesome sandwich…get over there and expect to put some thought into what you really want to eat. They’re happy to let you sample anything, combine whatever, and everything available has been selected for your pleasure with a great deal of care and attention.

The place is also super friendly. The guys who work there are really cool, really nice and make you feel comfortable as soon as you walk in. And after you’ve come back a few times you’ll notice that they did remember you and what you like. And you will definitely be back – because at Roast Beef sandwich, a roast beef sandwich is not necessarily the same thing as a roast beef sandwich. In fact, you’d best take notes on what combination you ordered last time, because you’re not going to get the same sandwich again playing guessing games.

This week, go on and treat yourself to something spectacular. Spend some time, sample all the cheeses and sauces, really work with these guys so they can put together a masterpiece sandwich for you. You won’t regret it.

PS. Don’t forget to get a pickle.

For most men, staying groomed can be a real challenge. We generally hate shaving, and we hate having to fork over $30 for a haircut from an 80 year old barber who still speaks in the language of the old country. Thankfully, those of us in the Greater Boston area no longer have to worry about such problems anymore. For a one-time membership fee, we can join an all-in-one grooming Mecca located in the heart of Allston. The 379 Club provides the very finest in personal grooming services, including modern barbering, hand and foot detail, therapeutic massage and more. All in a luxurious and relaxed atmosphere with minimal waiting times. With Bronze, Silver, Platinum, and Gold memberships being offered, you can experience the 379’s unparalleled services, from unlimited haircuts and free drinks to personal chauffeurs and weekly hot stone massages.

Contact Omar, Shay, or Derek for more detailed membership pricing

Live Proper

Earlier today House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo outlined his plan to introduce a bill allowing two resort style casinos as well as limited slot machines at race tracks in Massachusetts.  This is similar, but at least not yet quite as heated, debate that is happening currently in the South.  Alabama is trying to legalize electronic bingo and casinos to hopefully recoup some of the money lost to neighboring lottery and casino friendly states.

Proponents of legalized gambling cite loss of income to neighboring states, job creation, and a way to finance better school system through taxation of these cash cows.

Those who are against legalized gambling mostly refer to the moral reasons for keeping casinos out as well as how casinos can tempt low income residents to spend the little money they have in a way that many consider irresponsible.

The Boston Globe has reported on Deleo’s bid to legalize slot machines and casinos.  The Globe also mentions Governor Patrick’s lack of a stance as he is up for reelection and many of his supporters oppose the idea of legalized gambling.

What do you think?  Can legalized gambling help with the aptly dubbed “blue collar depression”?  Are the moral sacrifices worth the potential job creation and greatly increased revenue to the state?  Let us know!

S&I To Go is easily one of the Proper staff’s favorite places for lunch.  Even though “To Go” is in the title, often times we prefer to eat in the quaint restaurant on Brighton Avenue.

The Lunch Special is really what has us hooked.  You can choose a soup, appetizer and entree for only $6.50.  You will not be able to find a better deal on authentic Thai food (See menu link below for more details, I personally enjoy the Wonton Soup, Chicken Wing, Drunken Fried Rice combination).

Best of Boston

Best of Boston had this to say about S&I:

Notwithstanding the beef tendon fire pot at Montien (still the hottest soup around, in both senses of the word), this unassuming Allston 12-seater is your first-class ticket to Bangkok. The Thai-language menu is filled with enough mild-mannered fare to sate even the most uninitiated of palates, while devotees can delight in rare finds like crispy double-fried catfish laced with whole sprigs of fresh peppercorns and volcanic som tums flavored with raw salted crab.

Although lunch is where S&I To Go really shines, it is truly a great value at any time.  The convenient location and delivery availability only make dining in or out an even easier decision.

To learn more about S&I To Go as well as to keep up with ongoing promotions make sure and visit the S&I Facebook page and the S&I Twitter.

Take look at the menu for S&I To Go and follow the map for quality, affordable and authentic Thai food!

View Larger Map

Usually when we do a spotlight on a Boston business it is a favorite place to eat, or maybe a local shop with interesting finds or great deals.  This time around it’s something different.  Better Off Bowling is a social bowling league with leagues in Boston, NYC, DC, and Philadelphia.  I really should let them do the explaining.

The Better Off Bowling Social Bowling League is a casual/non-competitive bowling league that helps bring together young professionals to bowl, socialize, and meet new people during the cold dark winter months.  The league is composed principally of individuals 21 to early 30’s and tends to be more about hanging out with everyone at the after-bowling bar afterwards than trying to bowl that perfect game.

The league exists in New York, Philadelphia, DC, and Boston.  The Boston league bowls at Lucky Strike Lanes in Kenmore and is composed of over 80 teams with nearly 700 members (6-10 members per team).  Bowling is only $58 total for 6 weeks of bowling (1.5 hrs every Sunday), which includes free shoe rentals, a mid-season bar crawl, and End-of-Season party with dancing and free kegs of beer!   That’s cheaper than bowling as an individual!

The next session registration will open ~Jan 26, and bowling starts Feb 21st.  To get more info and receive registration updates, join the Boston facebook group – Boston Social Bowling League.

Oh, and don’t worry, almost everyone is not much of a bowler.

What keeps so many people coming back to Better Off Bowling is the social aspect.  The bowling probably doesn’t hurt, but it is a great time and a great way to meet new people.

Original Chicago style Pizza and More!  Uno’s in Allston has a great selection of food for lunch, dinner and the times in between.  Starting with delicious lunch specials that include soup and salad, a menu that contains everything from Chicago Style Pizza to Steak and Shrimp.

You might not believe it because the food is so delicious, but Uno’s has been named the Healthiest Chain Restaurant by Health magazine.  With Gluten Free offerings, and zero trans fat, you can’t go wrong with their selection!

And not to mention my favorite part of Uno’s, the Snack Hour.  Sunday-Friday 4-7pm and 10pm to close they offer miniature sized appetizers starting at $1.99.  This deal is also good all day Sunday for NFL football.

Don’t forget to check out Uno’s Trivia in the downstairs bar every Tuesday night.  There is also always Free Darts and Foosball every night! Read the rest of this entry »

Coolidge Corner has everything you need, all within walking distance.  The section of Brookline known as Coolidge Corner is centered around the corner of Beacon Street and Harvard street.  There are plenty of boutique shops, eateries, and entertainment throughout the area.  Located on the Green “C” Line Coolidge Corner is very convenient to public transportation to and from the city

Continue reading to learn more about Cooldige Corner’s many attractions Read the rest of this entry »

This week in Hot Boston Deals, Proper Realty wants to help you Live Proper with discounts to Garment Valet, Boston’s premier laundry and dry cleaning delivery service, and AWOL, a fashionable and well-stocked Boston urban clothing boutique.

Garment Valet

Balancing a full course load and a social life in college is tough and time-consuming enough!  Who has time or energy to do laundry every couple weeks?  Garment Valet has offered the solution to keep your clothes smelling fresh without taking up your time.  Garment Valet will send a representative to pick up, wash-dry-fold and/or dry clean your laundry.  All you have to do is choose a service point, whether that be your dorm, apartment, house, or condo, enter in any special instructions, schedule a pickup and delivery time, and your laundry will be picked up and delivered washed, dried, and folded the very next day.

This is such an amazing service that Proper Realty teamed up with Garment Valet to save you 20% on your first order.  All you have to do is mention the coupon code: PROPERRG with your order!  What are you waiting for?  Get your laundry cleaned now!

http://www.GarmentValet.com

AWOL

AWOL stands for Addictive Way Of Life.  This is an addiction towards staying fresh, fly, and fashionable.  AWOL, located at 190 Harvard Ave., stocks the latest jeans, hoodies, shirts and sneakers from revered urban brands such as ALIFE, Crooks and Castles,  Nike, 10deep and The Hundreds.  AWOL is open from 11:30 AM to 7 PM Mondays through Thursdays, until 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays and until 6 PM on Sundays.  The store has an impressive Japanese influenced boutique layout and a friendly and laid back staff.  We, at Proper Realty, understand that this lifestyle is not easy on the wallet.  That is why Proper Realty has teamed up with AWOL to save you up to 40% on select items.  This is a perfect time to start working on your fall wardrobe while saving money!

http://www.AWOLBoston.com

We want YOU to Live Proper.  That means hooking you up and saving you money!  We know that a lot of money is spent on rent and fashion.  That’s why this week’s installment of Hot Boston Deals is going to save you money on rent, Halloween costumes/supplies, and hot street wear.

90% Off Select Apartments’ First Month Rent from Proper Realty Group

Come into Proper Realty Group’s offices located at 121 Harvard Avenue in Allston and mention this deal and you can save 90% on your first rent from select apartments.

10% Off Fast Eddie’s Halloween Supplies

Halloween is right around the corner and we know how expensive costumes can get.  So now you can take advantage of 10% off of Fast Eddie’s Halloween Supplies just by mentioning that you saw the Proper Realty Group deal!  Located on the corner of Harvard Avenue and Glenville Avenue.

25% Off Society Original Products Clothing

Boston’s own and one of the hottest streetwear brands, Society Original Products, wants to save you money so you can Live Proper.  You can now rock the latest gear that you see Kanye’s protege, Big Sean, wearing for 25% off retail price.

Hit the jump for more details on Society Original Product deals

Read the rest of this entry »