Third Square Apartments (Boston, Cambridge, Peabody: sublets, lease, condos)

[sam75]

Does anyone know anything about Third Square Apartments in Cambridge (285 Third Street)? I'm moving to Boston soon and I am thinking of signing a lease there. On the expensive side but it looks like a nice place to live. Any feedback from locals appreciated.

[goyguy]

How long do you plan on being here? If you'll only be in town for two years or less, it might be worth considering. Otherwise I'd look elsewhere if I were you.
Here's why. That complex was intended to be condos, and had been marketed as such. Three dozen or so units were in the process of being sold when the developer pulled the rug out from under the prospective buyers. Fourteen would-be households have taken the matter to court - seems purchase-and-sale agreements had been signed and deposits put down that are not being honored. Unless one side backs down or agrees to settle, the nature of litigation is that it can drag on for years and years. And it's never a comfortable scenario when some apartments in a place are leased while others are owned. It usually means the owners got a raw deal and are stuck. That almost guarantees resentment and social factions. Who needs that where they live?
If you like Lego-looking and overpriced buildings that largely lack views, check out the "Watermark" on the opposite side of Third St closer to Kendall Station. There are also units available in a hideous-looking (to me) metallic green box with walls of windows on Sidney St just off Mass. Ave. It's a renter's market nowadays, so just about any complex or "community" should have units available. We're also headed into prime time for sublets.
Best o' luck!

[holden125]

Originally Posted by goyguy

If you like Lego-looking and overpriced buildings that largely lack views, check out the "Watermark" on the opposite side of Third St closer to Kendall Station.

Who doesn't?

Originally Posted by goyguy

There are also units available in a hideous-looking (to me) metallic green box with walls of windows on Sidney St just off Mass. Ave.

I bet you were not aware that the building of which you speak so poorly expresses modern humanity's unease with powerful but heretofore misunderstood psychological forces and marks a bold and decisive break with the hypocrisy of the past, calling all who pass it to surge forward into an uncertain but cautiously optimistic future in which all things metallic green will be recognized for their aphrodisiac qualities.

In sum, the greatest addition to the Cambridge architectural scene since Peabody Terrace.

[sam75]

Thanks for your message, goyguy. My initial posting in Boston is for 6 months, then I'm back home for 2 months, before another posting of 18 months. I have been offered a good deal (in my opinion) on a 6 month lease at Third Square, so I think I'll go with it. I'll keep your advice in mind and shop around when I'm looking for a place for my longer stay. I will have the advantage of being in Boston when I'm doing this.