Students are finding it even more difficult to find an affordable apartment near campus in the Boston area. A high demand for rental property hurts students because landlords prefer to rent to professionals first.
A contributing factor to the tight market is the sale of condominiums as a primary residence rather than a rental unit. During the early 90's many condominiums were converted into rentals because the owner could not sell it. Today with a recovering economy and the low crime rate in Boston, families are returning to the city.
Since the end of rent control, the typical rent for most Boston renters has increased to 38% of earned income from 30%. Back Bay and Beacon Hill rents are now averaging close to $2,000 a month up from $1,550 in 1995.
Students can still find a good deal at Harbor Point. This unique waterfront property is located in downtown Boston adjacent to the University of Massachusetts. And NO FEES! One bedrooms begin at $1,065 and two bedrooms at $1,295 (rates as of 4/29/00) Call their rental office for availability and current rates at (617)825-2928.
Be careful of the following:
* Do not sign anything unless it is completely filled out - especially the address of the rental unit.
* Get a copy of everything that you sign.
* Only a licensed broker can charge a fee - not a landlord or sales agent.
* Do not pay the fee until you have signed the lease.
Moving Your Pet
Getting through the emotional stress of moving is difficult enough for adults and children. But what about pets, a species with whom we can't even level? Pet owners are often baffled by their pets' behavior during and after a move. Sometimes it's a personality change, a regression in housebreaking habits or a sudden unexplained illness. Even if you don't notice something that dramatic, there's no question that your faithful companion is feeling stress. How do you move your pet and keep the strain to an absolute minimum -- both to yourself and your beloved pet?
Is That Apartment Hazardous to Your Health?
When you sign a lease committing yourself to a unit in an apartment complex or building, you're agreeing to live in close quarters with strangers. You're also making the assumption that your building will be properly managed and maintained. That includes such factors as air quality and adequate pest control. As a tenant, you have rights, of course, but some of the most serious threats to your health -- such as carbon monoxide -- are ones you can't even see or smell.
Does The Landlord Have To Clean The Apartment Before I Move In?
QUESTION:What can I do about a landlord who promised a clean and newly painted apartment before we moved in, but didn't deliver? We have moved in because we had nowhere else to go, but I am concerned about our children's health and the total well-being of our family. Can I report the unhealthy living conditions to the health department? Please let me know of my legal rights or how to go about this problem in a dignified manner.
