2
July
2012

Mass home sales on the rise, outpaced by condo sales

Filed under: Boston Waterfront Condos, Boston Waterfront Luxury Buildings, Boston Waterfront Real Estate Market, CL Waterfront Properties NEWS, Waterfront Boston. • Tags: , . By

Condominium sale prices rose in May to 50% above the same month last year

Image of Boston skyline from a condominium deck

Condo Sales On The Rise

With home prices on the rise as the housing market recovers, Mass single family homes saw a 35% increase in average sale price this May, as compared to the same month in 2011. Great interest rates and prices still on the rebound mean that opportunity is in the air for MA home buyers. The news is even better for sellers, especially those looking to market a Boston waterfront condo. Condo sale prices rose 1% above their level at the same time last year, slightly above the statewide average price for single family homes – which is quite rare.

According to the Greater Boston Real Estate Board, condo prices here in the city saw an even greater jump, showing a 4.4% increase over last year.

Coupled with the lowest inventory on market in years (a trend that has continued in eight of the past nine months), this is a great sign of a recovering market, and a welcome change for sellers – and for us! Year-to-date, CL Waterfront has sold as much property so far in 2012 as we did in all of 2011.  With over $55 million already closed or under contract, CL Waterfront continues to lead the market in 2012. To find out more or schedule a showing of one of our exceptional Boston waterfront condos, contact CL Waterfront Properties today.

20
June
2012

OpSail Boston 2012 Coming To Our Harbor Soon

Filed under: Battery Wharf, Boston Waterfront Events, Burroughs Wharf, Lewis Wharf, Lincoln Wharf, Union Wharf. • Tags: , . By

Tall Ships Coming To Boston Waterfront To Celebrate And Educate

Tall Ships Coming Back To Boston Summer 2012

Tall Ships Coming To Boston Summer 2012

Operation Sail, Inc. (OpSail), a national non-profit organization, will be bringing tall ships to Boston this summer! This summer’s festivities will be a celebration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Star Spangled Banner. The ships will sail into Boston on June 30th and depart from Boston on July 5th.

When asked about this summer’s activities, Jose Fuentes, Chairman of Operation Sail, Inc. said, “Partnership with U.S. Navy in this magnificent international Waterfront spectacle in Boston will showcase the character-building aspects of sail training and why it is so important to preserve our maritime heritage”.

The two primary locations for the ships will be Fish Pier, located in the Seaport District, and the Charlestown Navy Yard. As these boats sail along Boston’s Harbor, various activities will be held along the Boston Harborwalk.

Aside from Fish Pier and the Navy Yard, the best locations for viewing the tall ships will be Battery Wharf, Burroughs Wharf, Commercial Wharf, Lewis Wharf, Lincoln Wharf, and Union Wharf.

For any questions regarding the OpSail tall ships program or Boston’s Waterfront Wharfs, contact CL Waterfront Properties today!

19
June
2012

Market Conditions Improved

Filed under: Advice for Home Sellers, Boston Waterfront Real Estate Market, CL Waterfront Properties NEWS, Luxury Real Estate, Waterfront Boston. • Tags: , . By

The real estate market is showing strong signs of improvement entering the summer months. A recent Wall Street Journal report shows that median asking prices nationwide have increased 3.2% over the past year and are at the highest they have been in over 2 ½ years. The increase in asking prices has been justified by a significant decline in days on market, which has decreased an astonishing 9.8% since last year. Over the past several months at CL Waterfront Properties, LLC, our sellers have been directly experiencing the benefits of the changing market conditions. Sellers have been able to list their properties for their desired price and have seen their homes sell quickly. To obtain the highest price per square foot for your home, contact CL Waterfront Properties, LLC.

14
June
2012

Waterfront Properties in Boston Market Update!

Filed under: Battery Wharf, Boston Luxury Condos, Burroughs Wharf, Commercial Wharf East, Harbor Towers, Lewis Wharf, Lincoln Wharf, Luxury Real Estate, Mariner, North End Boston, North End Waterfront Condos, Prince, Rowes Wharf, Union Wharf. • Tags: , . By

2012 Real Estate Stats for Waterfront Luxury Buildings

The local real estate market has been very active during the past six months. Much of this action has taken place here on Boston’s Waterfront. Below, find a table that displays the average price per square foot for some of the more popular buildings along the Waterfront:

Property Avg. Sale $/sq.ft. (past 6 months)
Battery Wharf 915
Burroughs Wharf 1,115
Commercial Wharf 783
Harbor Towers 513
Lewis Wharf 731
Lincoln Wharf 540
Prince Building 657
Rowes Wharf 896
The Mariner 882
Union Wharf 780

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some details on our beloved Waterfront buildings:

Battery Wharf:The Residences at Battery Wharf consist of 104  apartments. Battery Wharf is the home of the Luxury

Battery Wharf

Battery Wharf

Fairmont Hotel and enjoys full services, a fitness center, fine dining and Exhale Spa. This property is located on Boston’s Harbor, steps to the historic North End and minutes to Downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall, The Garden and all major transportation points. Battery Wharf, which got its certificate of occupancy in 2008, has only four original units left to be sold.

Burroughs Wharf: Burroughs Wharf, built between 1989 and 1993, is conveniently located at the edge of Boston’s harbor, steps from the historic North End and adjacent to the new Fairmont Hotel. Burroughs Wharf has 69 apartments located in two buildings. Amenities include at least one garage parking space and 24 Hour Concierge. Marina slips are available as well as a water shuttle to the airport. Burroughs Wharf, with its ceiling-to-floor glass windows, is known for its spectacular views of Boston’s harbor and skyline. Burroughs Wharf’s price per square foot currently sits at $1,115/sq.ft., but this does not include a 1573 square foot totally renovated home that is currently under agreement for approximately $1,400/sq.ft.

Commercial Wharf: Commercial Wharf is a five-story granite building consisting of 94 units. Built in 1832 for warehousing to and from the Far East, this property was converted into condominiums in 1978. This property is best known for its purest views of Boston’s skyline and harbor. There is Exclusive-Rights parking. It is also the home for the Boston Yacht Haven, and marina slips are available. Two stunning penthouses recently sold for over $980/sq.ft. This strong activity, coupled with the newly upgraded hallways, has made Commercial Wharf one of the hottest buildings on the Waterfront.

Harbor Towers: Harbor Towers I and II were designed by I.M. Pei in 1972 with an eye toward capturing the finest views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline from each unit. There are 312 units in each of these 40-story buildings with eight units on each floor. Services include 24-hour gated security and concierge, seasonal harbor-side swimming pool, renovated and furnished lobbies and on-site management. Harbor Towers has multiple units that are currently under agreement. When these homes close, the average price per square foot for these towers should experience an encouraging jump.

Lewis Wharf:  Lewis Wharf was built in the 1830’s as a major shipping warehouse and converted to condominiums in 1973. There are 90 residential units on four floors and 41 commercial units on the first two floors. These apartments, reminiscent of their historic beginning, have high ceilings, bricks and beams, and most have fireplaces. Building amenities include 24-hour concierge and security, two elevators, a luxurious swimming pool, beautiful gardens and the only rooftop common laundry room in the city with panoramic views of Boston. Rental parking is available. Lewis Wharf, the first building to be condominiumized along The Waterfront, continues to be a desirable building for any buyer. 

Lincoln Wharf

Lincoln Wharf

Lincoln Wharf: Formerly the MBTA Power Station, this Historic brick Waterfront building was built in 1901 and converted to condominiums in 1987. This lovely elevator building’s amenities include a 24-hour Concierge, a Fitness Center, an interior Atrium, a lending Library, a Function Room and a Harbor-side Garden. Lincoln Wharf, known for its spacious residences and Harbor views, is located on the primary footpath of the Waterfront between Battery Wharf and Union Wharf, adjacent to Burroughs Wharf, and is just a few steps from The Historic North End, Downtown Boston, and all major transportation points. Lincoln Wharf had 16 sales last year and was recently featured on Chronicle for its role as a “recycled” and revitalized building along Boston’s Waterfront.

The Prince Building: Converted to condominiums in 1974, The Prince Building in an elevator building with 42 condominium units with garage parking. This Historic Building was originally built in 1917 and was the site of The Prince Macaroni Company pasta factory. The Prince Building, known for its dazzling views, is situated on the primary footpath of the Waterfront across the street from Commercial Wharf East and Lewis Wharf and just steps from The Historic North End, Downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall and all major transportation points. This dynamic location is also close to the Christopher Columbus Park and The Rose Kennedy Greenway. Many of the East facing homes at the Prince Building feature spectacular Harbor views. Recently, a corner East facing penthouse sold for $668/sq.ft.

Rowes Wharf: The Residences at Rowes Wharf consist of 100 apartments and were built in 1987. They are a unique combination of quality craftsmanship, expansive water views and superb luxury hotel amenities. There is 24-hour concierge services, valet or self-parking, access to the Rowes Wharf health club and pool, and a marina. For the record, the price per square foot last year was $1,063/sq.ft. and was the highest on The Waterfront.

The Mariner: Converted to condominiums in 1984, The Mariner is a concierge building with 105 residential condominiums with garage parking. Formerly one of the waterfront warehouses, this building was meticulously renovated to showcase its maritime history. This property, known for its fabulous views, greenhouse windows and some of the largest decks on Boston’s Waterfront, also has a fabulous common roof deck with 360 degree views of the Boston Harbor and City Skyline. The Mariner is located on the primary footpath of the Waterfront and is across the street from Union Wharf and steps from the newly developed Battery Wharf and The Fairmont Hotel. It is also steps from the historic North End, downtown Boston, the Financial District, Faneuil Hall and all major transportation points. The Mariner features a spectacular home with one of the largest deck/garden on The Waterfront which recently sold for $1,269/sq.ft.

Union Wharf: Union Wharf is considered one of the most prestigious addresses on The Waterfront. These beautiful granite buildings were built in the 1830’s as warehouses and were converted into condominiums in 1978. This prestigious property is best known for its loft-like, brick-and-beam apartments, beautiful landscaping and “residential-like” feeling. This wharf is comprised of two granite buildings and 23 three-level townhouses. It consists of 89 units, of which 71 are residential and the remaining 18 are commercial/residential. These high-end buildings have 24-hour gated parking, full-time, on-site maintenance, a sea-side heated swimming pool, guest parking and marina slips. Union Wharf features a breathtaking penthouse that recently sold for $1,053/sq.ft.

11
June
2012

Extraordinary Waterfront Penthouse Featured in Boston Homes

Filed under: Boston Luxury Condos, Boston Luxury Real Estate Market, Boston Waterfront Condos, Boston Waterfront Luxury Buildings, Boston Waterfront Real Estate Market, CL Waterfront Properties NEWS, Featured For Sale, Luxury Real Estate, Rowes Wharf, Waterfront Boston. By

Penthouse 7 at 20 at Rowes Wharf is Available for Sale

The especially designed fireplace faced with black marble extends from the wall to create a breakfast bar peninsula in the kitchen.

Fireplace faced with black marble extends from the wall to create a breakfast bar peninsula in the kitchen.

“It’s a wow!”

Penthouse 7 at 20 Rowes Wharf, a uniquely customized home like no other, was recently featured in the Boston Homes June 2-8 2012 issue.  Listed for $2.199 million, this redesigned penthouse boast two balconies with views of the Boston Harbor, a luxurious master suite, a guest suite, 10-foot high ceilings, shining marble floors, and an effortless flow from room to room.

The current owner of the property completely transformed the unit into a flawlessly designed, immaculate open space.  Clever touches, like a wood-burning fireplace faced with a custom black marble mantel and surround that wraps around a wall to create a room divider and breakfast bar peninsula in the kitchen, enhance the open layout and utilize the space in a smart stylish ways.  The kitchen is has top-of-the-line appliances including a Gaggenau induction cooktop with matching hood.

The master bedroom suite is a spacious 22 feet long with a walk-in-closet and private balcony.  The en suite marble bath is stunning, with a luxurious steam shower and whirlpool tub.

20 Rowes Wharf Penthouse 7 Master Suite

Master suite with private balcony

An  opaque glass wall divides the master bedroom from the tub, filling the room with natural light from the private balcony, while also providing privacy.

The Residences at Rowes Wharf offer luxury services to all residents, such as 24-hour concierge service, valet garage parking and access to The Rowes Wharf Health Club, pool, spa, a Water Shuttle to Logan Airport, a marina, room services and more.

Rowes Wharf is situated on the center of Boston Harbor and across the street from The Greenway, The Financial District, and steps from Faneuil Hall, World Trade Center, and Historic North End.

For more information about Penthouse 7 at 20 Rowes Wharf, please contact Carmela Laurella today to schedule a showing.

 

7
June
2012

Harbor Garage Project Withdrawn

Filed under: North End Boston, Waterfront Boston. • Tags: , . By

Proposed by developer Don Chiofaro, the plan to replace the Harbor Garage in the North End with a twin set of skyscrapers, was officially withdrawn after 3 1/2 years of debate. Chiofaro’s $1 billion project exceeded the city height limits, putting him  at odds with Mayor Menino from the start. A revised version was submitted in 2010, however, it  still exceeded the height limits. This week Chiofaro wrote to the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) to have the project repealed.

The Harbor Garage will be replaced by Chiofaro's project. Picture courtesy of the Boston Discovery Guide.

Chiofaro and co-founder Ted Oatis are now working directly with the BRA in hopes of creating something that is beneficial not only to their company, but also to the nearby North End and Waterfront neighborhoods, and the city as a whole. The BRA is pleased with the project’s progression forward, now that it has the  proper assistance. The result of their collaboration is sure to have a positive impact on the homes and businesses surrounding in the area.

To read the full article on this project Click Here.

1
June
2012

Let the Festivities Begin!

Filed under: Boston Waterfront Events, Events, North End Boston, North End Events, Things to Do in Boston, Waterfront Boston. • Tags: , . By

Every summer the North End community celebrates and pays hommage to various honored Saints.  This is a great time for friends, families, locals and visitors to shop, eat, drink, play games, and enjoy live music. It is basically one big block party or carnival, right in the streets of the North End.  You can enjoy Italian food, visit different vendors with Italian-themed gifts, and play carnival-type games. To learn more about this event or to buy/rent a home in the wonderful North End/Waterfront neighborhood, please contact our office today!

North End Feast! (Photo courtesy of Matt Conti)

2012 North End Feast Schedule

North End Italian and Religious Festivals – Processions & Feasts

June 3, 2012 – Santa Maria Di Anzano 2:00 pm Procession only – St. Leonard Church, Hanover & Prince Streets (First Sunday of June – 2012) AnzanoBoston.com

June 10, 2012 – Saint Anthony of Padua 2:00 pm Procession – St. Leonard Church start (Hanover & Prince Streets) 4:00pm Blessing of the Children (Nazzaro playground with food/drink)

June 24, 2012 – Saint Padre Pio 10:30 Italian Mass – St. Leonard Church 11:30 Procession only – Hanover & Prince Streets

July 8, 2012 – Madonna delle Grazie 2:00 pm Procession only (2012 NOT CONFIRMED)

July 15, 2012 – St. Rocco
1:00 pm – Procession only – Hanover St. (2012 NOT CONFIRMED) July 27 – 29, 2012 – St. Joseph’s Feast Battery & Hanover Streets (1:00pm Sunday Procession) (Last weekend in July.) StJosephsBoston.org

August 3 – 5, 2012 – St. Agrippina di Mineo Feast Battery & Hanover Streets (1:00pm Sunday Procession) SaintAgrippinaBoston.com

August 10-12, 2012 – Madonna Della Cava Feast Battery & Hanover Streets (1:00pm Sunday Procession) (2nd weekend in August) MadonnaDellaCava.com

August 16 – 19, 2012 Fisherman’s Feast of the Madonna Del Soccorso di Sciacca Fleet, Lewis & North Streets (1:00pm Sunday Procession) FishermansFeast.com

August 24 – 26, 2012 – Saint Anthony’s Feast
Thacher, Endicott & N. Margin Streets (Last weekend in August) (12:00 pm Sunday Procession) StAnthonysFeast.com

August 27, 2012 – St. Lucy’s Feast Thacher & Endicott Streets (5:00pm Monday Procession) StAnthonysFeast.com/SaintLucy.html

September 9, 2012 – Santa Rosalia di Palermo 1:00 pm – Procession only – North Square

29
May
2012

Boston Waterfront Pools

Filed under: Advice for Home Buyers, Boston Luxury Condos, Boston Waterfront Amenities, Boston Waterfront Condos, Boston Waterfront Events, Boston Waterfront Luxury Buildings, E. India Row, Harbor Towers, Lewis Wharf, Luxury Real Estate, North End Amenities, North End Boston, North End Events, North End Luxury Condos, North End Waterfront Condos, Things to Do in Boston, Union Wharf, Waterfront Boston. • Tags: , . By

Where to Relax and Beat the Heat in Boston

Summer is on the horizon and the warm and sunny weather is back!

If you live in the North End or Boston Waterfront neighborhoods, you can use the Mirabella Pool at Harbor’s edge to cool off.  If you’re lucky enough to live at Harbor Towers, Lewis Wharf, or Union Wharf, those properties have their own pool for residents and their guests to relax and cool off at.  Many neighborhood pools will be open this weekend!

Listed below is some helpful information about the best places to swim in Boston:

 

Mirabella Pool (public)

Mirabella Pool Boston Public Swimming

Mirabella Public Pool

Mirabella Pool is an outdoor, public pool located in Puopolo Park in Boston’s North End looking over Boston Harbor.  Open to both Boston residents and visitors alike, there is also a shallow spray pool for toddlers and small children.  Bathroom facilities are available within the recreational center on-site.  Swimming lessons are available for children twice weekly, and are only $5 per lesson, and you can pay as you go!

OPENING DATE: June 23rd
CLOSING DATE: September 5th

PRICING:

You can sign up for a pool pass at the Nazzarro Community Center in the North End (617.635.5166)

  • Children under 6yrs. old:     FREE
  • Children 6-12yrs. old:          $5
  • Youth 13-20yrs. old:             $10   (only $5 if pre-registered)
  • Adults 21-61yrs. old:            $15   (only $10 if pre-registered)
  • Seniors 62yrs. old+:             $5
  • Guests:                                   $3/day   (must be accompanied by at least one adult member)

POOL SCHEDULE:
Sunday -Saturday:  11am-8pm  (before July 31st)
Sunday -Saturday:  11am-7:30pm   (July 31st – September 5th)
Lap Swimming:  7am -9:30am daily

ADDRESS:
Puopolo Park / Mirabella Pool / Steriti Memorial Rink
475 R. Commercial Street
Boston, MA 02113

 

Harbor Towers

Harbor Towers Boston Swimming Pool

Harbor Towers Swimming Pool

The Harbor Towers are two 40-story luxury condominium buildings located along Boston’s Waterfront.  Homes range from one-bedroom to spacious penthouses, many with balconies and amazing views of Boston Harbor and Downtown.  The Harbor Towers boast extensive open space at the water’s edge, a marina, and an outdoor swimming pool for residents and their guests!  

OPENING/ CLOSING DATE: Seasonal

PRICING: FREE for residents and their guests

ADDRESS:
Harbor Towers
65/85 E India Row
Boston, MA 02110

 

Lewis Wharf

Lewis Wharf Boston Swimming Pool

Lewis Wharf Pool

Lewis Wharf was built in the 1830s as a major shipping warehouse and converted to luxury condominiums in 1973.  Lewis Wharf boast a beautiful Harbor-side swimming pool.  Bring a friend & enjoy the stunning views!

OPENING DATE: Memorial Day
CLOSING DATE: Labor Day (or a week or two later, depending on the weather)

PRICING: $100 per person with guest

ADDRESS:
Lewis Wharf
28 Atlantic Avenue
Boston, MA 02110

 

Union Wharf

Union Wharf Boston Pool

Union Wharf Pool

Union Wharf was built in the 1830s as a warehouse for imported shoes and was converted into condominiums in 1979.  Residents of Union Wharf and their guests can enjoy the warm weather in this gorgeous seaside swimming pool for free!

OPENING DATE: Memorial Day Weekend
CLOSING DATE: Columbus Day Weekend

PRICING: FREE for residents and their guests

ADDRESS:
Union Wharf
343 Commercial Street
Boston, MA 02109

25
May
2012

USS Constitution Welcomes Families To “All Hands On Deck”

Filed under: Boston Waterfront Events, Charlestown MA, Charlestown MA Amenities, Charlestown MA Events, North End Events. • Tags: , . By

Boston Harbor Landmark Open For Memorial Day Event

Memorial Day Boston USS Constitution

A child enjoys activities aboard the USS Constitution Museum; image courtesy of NorthEndWaterfront.com

The USS Constitution, America’s oldest commissioned warship and an icon of the Charlestown Navy Yard, welcomes families aboard this weekend for an interactive educational program called “All Hands On Deck”. Young and old alike can learn about the lives of the sailors who worked this famous battleship from USS Constitution Musuem staff, and can participate in various activities. Kids will enjoy learning how to march like a Marine in a military procession – and demonstrations of period Naval memorabilia are sure to fascinate all ages.

Demonstrations, hands-on craft activities, and more will be held from May 26th to 28th, with the Musuem open from 9am to 6pm all three days. A new exploratory activity called “Mutinous Expedition: A Quest Based on Honest Truth” will be open to all as part of the weekend’s events.

To find out more about Waterfront events honoring our fallen heroes and other ways to spend time in Boston’s historic Waterfront this Memorial Day weekend, contact the local experts at CL Waterfront properties today.

 

For more information visit:  http://www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org

24
May
2012

Book Sale to Support North End Library A Great Success

Filed under: North End Events, North End Luxury Condos. • Tags: , . By

Sidewalk Sale Benefits Library Programs

Friends Of The North End Branch Library Book Sale

Books for sale on Parmenter Street; image courtesy of NorthEndWaterfront.com

This past Saturday, May 19th, the Friends of the North End Branch Library held a fundraiser to benefit Library programs. Books and DVDs donated by locals and other patrons of the Library were sold at the entrance to the building and along the sidewalks of Parmenter Street, and with ample foot traffic, the event was a resounding success.

Neighborhood events such as this are just part of the sense of community that makes the North End and Waterfront such great places to call home. To find out more about the area and the North End condos available now, contact the local experts at CL Waterfront Properties today.