Back Bay’s on Fire, Beacon Hill is Pleasantly Warm

I know Back Bay’s real estate scene has been hot in the past, but this week it’s been, dare I say, enfuego. Yes, kiddies, the much chattered about Mandarin Oriental caught on fire this week (pictured at right).

Let’s hope the Boston Fire Department didn’t put it out the same way the Fed is trying to extinguish the subprime crisis; that is, by throwing wads of money at it.

So with all this mess, plus guns being pulled on other real estate bloggers (j/k) just over the Back Bay/South End line, I think I’m gonna stick to The Hill for today’s post, and focus on a warm – but not currently in flames – market: 2-beds.

With the neighborhood’s location and history to provide some security, no existing house to sell, and a buyer’s market unlikely to be beaten in the next few years, younger couples looking for a first home will be all over these places.

19 Revere St. #5 – $439,000
2 beds, 1 bath, 600 sq. ft.
While not the largest 2-bed on offer in the neighborhood, it does present a mercifully logical floor plan. The kitchen’s immense, and although you do pay in bathroom space, I think most people I know would be willing to make the trade. Throw in dogs, (it’s a condo), the quiet-as-can-be location and a common-access roof deck, and the place has an undeniable appeal.

9 S. Russel St. #5R – $489,500
2 Beds, 1 bath, 853 sq. ft.
Or maybe quiet isn’t your thing. The bustle of Cambridge Street brings with it walking access to Whole Foods, the fantastic sushi deals at Ma Soba, quality pub-style dinner and drinks at The Hill Tavern, or the build your own fro-yo at Cafe Podima. You’ll have to do without the granite-and-stainless kitchen that seems to be par for the neighborhood, but the nearly all-inclusive homeowners dues make it all ok.

18 Garden St, #5 – $610,000
2 beds, 1 bath, 920 sq. ft.
While Beacon Hill penthouses can be something of a hassle (narrow stairs, no elevators), this one looks like a true gem. Loads of skylights, a fireplace, cherry cabinets, exposed brick, all scattered across the the hellbent floor plan characteristic of these renovated Georgians. Plus there’s a private roof deck and central air to keep the summers relaxing in this unbeatable location.

Image: The Mandarin Oriental in flames. Her.Moves Flickr photostream, via Universal Hub.