First Night Boston 2015! Where to Go and What to Do!

Believe it or not, it’s already time to usher out 2014, and welcome in 2015 into our lives! Tens of thousands make their own journey to Boston to celebrate the New Year in style. The theatre district, financial district, back bay, beacon hill, and west end all have many bars and clubs for those searching for a much more “festive” way to ring in the New Year. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxing night, or planning on coming into the city with the family, then this list below is perfect for what to catch in Boston!

First Night Boston 2015 is an annual celebration throughout the city of Boston that features entertainment for all ages. A collection of shows, festivities, musical performances and more, First Night Boston is the oldest New Years Eve celebration of its kind in the United States, and has spawned many similar events throughout the country. This year (like year’s past) features such as events as:

- 2 fireworks shows, 7PM on Boston Common and at the stroke of Midnight in Boston        Harbor

- The spectacular grand procession with marching bands, art cars, costumes and more

- All-day puppet festival at the Hynes Convention Center

- Ice sculptures all throughout the city and the public garden

- Live music at locations throughout the city during the night

Some essentials and a quick guide for the best night:

When: New Year’s Eve, December 31^st from 1PM to just past Midnight

Where: Copley Square, Downtown and Long Wharf

Cost: $10 (children under 4 get in for free)

How it Works: For $10 you get a button for your jacket, simply show that at various locations to get exclusive deals and access!

Public Transit: The MBTA provides trains that will run later than normal hours (until 2AM). The T (subway) will be free from 8PM – 2AM

Parking: Taking the T is best. If driving, the best parking garages are located around TD Garden and the Theater District.

For more detailed information visit the official site of First Night Boston 2015! 

A Thank You to All Who Donate This Holiday Season!

We are fortunate and lucky to have some of the finest and most dedicated employees in the multifamily property management industry. The dedication and hard work of Corcoran’s workforce goes beyond showing apartments and fixing a window leak. Employees at Corcoran properties throughout the Northeast and Georgia showed their holiday spirit by donating and collecting various toys, clothing supplies, toiletries, blankets, and much more for men, women, and children who are in desperate need of these items. Corcoran properties have been an integral piece in providing supplies to help Caritas Communities and all the fabulous work they do to give shelter to those in need.

100 Grandview Road in Braintree, MA is the corporate home for Corcoran Management and its affiliate companies. Also within the building is roughly twenty other local businesses, and for the past few years Corcoran and the neighboring business of 100 Grandview donate toys to the local Salvation Army. This year we were proud to say that the giant 4’ high by 4’ wide toy box was filled to the brim….along with an additional twelve bags stuffed with toys for boys and girls of all ages! The faces of the volunteers at the Salvation Army lit up when we delivered the toys last night.

A charitable spirit most certainly runs through the blood lines of Corcoran Management, and it can be traced back to the late John M. Corcoran, a founding member of Caritas and a pioneer in working to make life a little easier for those who have little to nothing. On behalf of the entire Corcoran family, we would like to thank all of those who donated and we wish a happy and safe holiday to you and your families! 

We are excited to announce the addition of two new apartment communities to the Corcoran Management portfolio! The Commons at Drum Hill and The Commons at Boston Road will soon be added to the award-winning array of Corcoran apartment communities throughout Eastern Massachusetts.

The Commons at Drum Hill is comprised of 108 apartment homes that all feature luxurious and aesthetic finishes. In addition to providing a comfortable and cozy apartment home lifestyle, Drum Hill provides residents easy access to major highways and shopping/retail destinations with its convenient Chelmsford location just minutes from the Lowell city line. Residents can get some studying done or enjoy their favorite book in the Wi-Fi appointed clubhouse. A seasonal swimming pool and sundeck are ideal for cooling off during hot summer days and the fitness center is perfect for breaking a sweat.

The Commons at Boston Road, the other new addition to the Corcoran portfolio, is located in the suburban town of Billerica. Boston Road runs North/South through the center of Billerica and gives residents an easy route to the shopping and dining of the Burlington Mall. Granite countertops, maple kitchen cabinetry, pergo flooring, private washers and dryers, and crown moulding grace each apartment home. A seasonal swimming pool, invigorating fitness center, Wi-Fi clubhouse, garage parking, and 24-hour maintenance are just some of the amenities at the community.

It is a pleasure to welcome all residents of these two fabulous communities to the Corcoran family. Those who call The Commons home can expect nothing but the finest in customer service and professionalism from our staff. We look forward to a bright future for these two properties!  For more information on The Commons at Boston Road & The Commons at Drum Hill please visit Corcoran’s officialwebsite.

Partnering to End Homelessness with Caritas Communities!

For nearly 30 years, John M. Corcoran & Corcoran Management Company have been a driving force in working to end homelessness and to provide stable and affordable housing for those who are less fortunate. CMC is proud to be a leading partner and sponsor of Caritas Communities, a non-profit organization that owns and manages 29 residential properties and homes throughout the Greater Boston area that offer a place for those struggling with homelessness to be able to call home. On Thursday November 13^th, Caritas held its annual end of the year fundraiser dinner and gala at the Sheraton Boston. As is the case with many non-profits today, Caritas faces challenges when it comes to fundraising and meeting the growing demand of those in need of emergency assistance. Last night’s dinner, like years past, was a tremendous success in raising money to provide shelter, food, educational programs, clothing, and much more for those in need.

Each year, at least two individuals whose lives have been changed for the better by Caritas deliver a speech in front of 800+ people, not an easy task for even the most confident of public speakers. The stories they tell of tragedy, abuse, neglect, and resiliency within their own journey shows the true meaning and importance of Caritas and the work they do.

Corcoran communities throughout the Boston area are currently accepting a number of items to be donated to the residents of Caritas Communities. Items that are in the highest of demand this winter season include winter clothing, socks, undershirts, soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, mouthwash, and face and hand towels. We would like to thank all who donate and continue to improve the quality of life for those who call Caritas home! 

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO LEARN HOW TO DONATE PLEASE CALL CORCORAN MANAGEMENT 781-849-0011 

Some Simple Ideas for Saving Space in a Small Apartment!

Apartments come in all shapes and sizes. As apartment homes continue to be on the rise throughout urban areas, layouts change and overall square footage appears to be shrinking. Why this new trend you ask? As more people continue to flock to cities around the country, demand for affordable apartments is on the rise. Smaller apartments present a cheaper option for young professionals to live in. To maximize the quality and space of your (smaller) apartment home, we provide a list below courtesy of BuzzFeed of ideas on how to get the most out of your space.

1. Place a curtain around the bed - it provides tranquility and gives a nook-like feeling to your sleeping quarters

photo credit: gravity-gravity.tumblr.com

2. If your workspace only needs a laptop, use simply a bookshelf instead of a desk - you can use a shelf near a bed or a table and it will serve as a natural desk

3. Use your TV as a "mental wall" to form a separation between your living space and bedroom area - combined with an accent wall this will give a perfect "invisible wall" feel to your apartment

photo credit: flickr - beachrepublic

4. Opt for sliding doors for closets and bathrooms - rather than the doors that swing out and take up space, you could choose doors that will slide for you and not tie up space

5. Put your sofa against the bed - aside from the space saving, you could line your flat-screen TV up so that while in bed you can also watch it. 

Lynnfield Commons: 2014 RHA Community of Excellence Award Winner

                      (Jessica Walsh, Jayme Petitjean, & Stephen McDonald)

In the industry of multifamily property management it takes a dedicated and cohesive team to create, achieve, and maintain success. Last Wednesday, the team at Lynnfield Commons in Lynnfield, MA was recognized by the Greater Boston Real Estate Board and Rental Housing Association as the 2014 Community of Excellence Award among communities 5-20 years old. The award is a culmination of a year's worth of hard work, problem solving, financial management, and resident satisfaction. 

During last week's ceremony at the annual RHA Fall Conference at the Hynes Convention Center, Property Manager Jessica Walsh and Leasing Consultant Jayme Petitjean were in attendance to accept a crystal trophy commemorating the award, a testament to their great team work and service to their residents. 

The Community of Excellence Award nominees are judged on financial, marketing, and customer service achievements. Below are the factors used to judge properties:

-Commitment to resident life

-Floor plan layouts and structure

-Maintenance schedules

-Community involvement

-Occupancy/retention rate

-Financial performance against market region

-Marketing strategy and materials

CMC would like to recognize and thank Jessica, Jayme, Stephen, and the rest of the crew at Lynnfield Commons for their continued strive for excellence and superior service for all residents at Lynnfield Commons!

One of Corcoran's Manager's Honored as NEAHMA Affordable Housing Professional of the Year!

We here at Corcoran are proud to announce that one of our own fabulous property managers was recently acknowledged as the 2013 New England Affordable Housing Management Association's National Affordable Housing Professional of the Year! 

Paula Malcolm, property manager at Stratton Hill Park, an affordable community consisting of 156 apartments in Worcester, was honored as this years recipient. The award goes to a professional in the multi-family affordable housing industry who has demonstrated comprehensive property or asset management skills along with a detailed knowledge of government programs, regulations and procedures applying to affordable housing.

After beginning her career at Corcoran in 2008 with no experience in property management, Paula mastered the role of Recertification Specialist with ease while working on her educational requirements to receive her NAHP in 2010. After serving as property manager at Brockton Commons, a challenging diverse affordable community in Brockton, Paula accepted the same position at Stratton Hill in Worcester, just a short drive from her home.

Over the last two years at Stratton, Paula has excelled in managing all aspects of the property from inspections, occupancy, budgeting and reporting to resident relations. She assisted the residents in helping to form their own "tenant's association" and maintains an active role in helping her residents.

A big congratulations to Paula on her outstanding achievement, and we wish her continued success and growth in advancing her career in the field of property management and with Corcoran Management. 

Happy Football Season!!!!!

The first Thursday after Labor Day has taken on a new meaning over the years, and in-turn, a holiday has been created on this fabulous day. Today marks the beginning of a twenty-one week odyssey leading up to a date with destiny in the Arizona desert in early February, this journey begins tonight as the NFL kicks-off! The defending champion Seahawks will defend their title against their rival NFC foe the Packers at 8:30 tonight in the Emerald City. While we won’t be offering advice on which Tight End to start on your bye week, we are giving you some good tips to enjoy your Sundays (as well as Thursday or Monday nights) to the max!

Food

AllRecipes.com has you covered for tailgate style platters to entertain a party of twenty or treat you and a couple friends. What’s the go-to: buffalo chicken dip. Utilizing a crock pot, shredded chicken, hot sauce, and your choice of cheese, buffalo chicken will never disappoint. If cooking in a crock pot look to prepare it well before kickoff as it can take up to a few hours to thoroughly cook. Another good dipping option to explore is guacamole.

Resources at Your Finger Tips

How many catches does Calvin Johnson have? Did Giovani Bernard outscore Shane Vereen? Fantasy football is now a billion dollar industry each year, and those who play it want the stats the minute they happen. When enjoying Sunday NFL action on your couch be sure to fully charge your cell phone, laptop, or tablet. ESPN, Yahoo, CBS, and many of the other top fantasy platforms all have mobile apps that let you see how you stack up against your friends.

The TV DOES Matter

If anyone ever tries to tell you that there is no difference between a 45” TV and a 50” you should simply look them in the eye, and shake your head in disbelief. When it comes to your Sunday football viewing pleasure you need every inch possible. As technology continues to grow and become more advance, it requires that consumers keep up with it. Higher aspect ratios and evolving screen dimension change every year now, and some older TV’s don’t have the capability to keep up and the game might look distorted. Cheap, yet technologically advanced TV’s can be bought for a reasonable price at retailers both online and in-person.

Cherish the next twenty-one plus weeks of football folks. We hope you enjoy the ride, we certainly will!

Boston.com Feature: 10 Questions Every Renter Should Ask!

Everyone knows renting an apartment or townhome is a tiring and long process that requires plenty of precision, persistence, and time devotion. Between taking the appropriate time to view different potential apartments, to gathering up enough money for potential deposits, the entire process is one that can be draining. But, for every renter, no matter what price range or location, there is a series of questions that should be asked to the landlord, broker, or leasing consultant.

Last week, Corcoran's own Razi Alavi, a leasing consultant at The Commons at SouthField in Weymouth was featured in Boston.com's real estate section. Razi, who is a seasoned leasing veteran at Corcoran shed some light on 10 questions that everyone should ask when renting an apartment.

You can read the full article on Boston.com in detail here, but here are a few highlights:

1. Utilities included? Many landlords will include some utilities, but in some cases they might include all of them. This helps keep bills organized and will lower the amount of bills you have to pay each month.

2. How much money is due up front? Security deposit, first month's rent, last month's rent, broker fee....the list of up-front costs can be steep, but in the end it could pay off by the time your lease runs up

3. Where is the nearest public transportation? If you don't drive to work, this question is a must-ask. Living in the city (Boston) presents great public transit options, in the suburbs however you might have to look a little harder to find a close T station or bus route

4. Do you allow pets? Whether you are bringing a pet or trying to live in an apartment that doesn't allow pets this question should be one of the first

5. Who can I call for maintenance? All Corcoran communities have at least one maintenance manager who is available 24/7 to tend to any maintenance related need. Individual landlords usually have their own contractor or will do the work themselves

6. Do you offer furnished apartments? Many who are re-locating from out of state locations will choose this as it saves the workload. While it may cost more, it could outweigh the cost of purchasing/renting your own furniture

7. Do you offer short term leases? It can be tough to find a short term lease, but look carefully around and you might be able to find one if your only going to be there for a short period

8. Is storage available? People LOVE to accumulate "stuff" and by stuff we mean literally anything. If you are bringing lots of clothes a storage unit could be an integral piece in keeping organized

9. Can I pay rent online? In today's day and age, this is necessary. It saves paper, time, and makes it easier on your residents.

10. What kind of parking is there? Parking fees certainly exist at some places. Check them out and see if it fits in your budget.

A Big Happy Birthday to Two Very Special Ladies!

Amy Misenti (L) and Vivian Simone

Last week, staff members and residents of Andover Commons in Andover, MA celebrated two very special birthdays. Amy Misenti (Left) recently turned 103 years young in June and Vivian Simone (Right) celebrated her 101st birthday back in February. 

Last week Amy and Vivian celebrated with their fellow residents and staff members at a dual-birthday party at the resident lounge room at Andover Commons. Property Manager Bethany Hollingworth and Resident Services Coordinator Eleanor Cox even reached out and invited immediate family members to attend the celebration. On behalf of everyone at Corcoran Management we would like to give a big congratulations to these two ladies! 

CMC Recognized as a Department of Energy Business Partner for Utility Data Gathering!

As utility cost and awareness rises year by year, it's integral for companies of all industries to invest and develop eco-friendly and sustainable business practices. That's never been more relevant for the multifamily industry than right now. Over the course of the last four plus year, sustainable new multifamily construction has boomed, and we are proud to announce that Corcoran Management has been honored as one of the leaders in this new initiative. 

There are many benefits to energy efficient operations in the multifamily industry. Property managers and owners can expect to see reduced operating costs, lower property consumption bills, better maintenance efficiency, and also knowing they have benefit of marketing and advertising a "green" community to future prospects and residents. 

Corcoran developed the first fully sustainable and eco-friendly apartment community in the Boston area back in 2008. Parkside Commons, located in Chelsea, is an LEED Silver community that consists of 238 apartment homes that feature a number of eco-friendly aspects such as:

-         Low amounts of VOC’s in paints, solvents, cleaning supplies, carpets, and adhesives

-         Dual-flush toilets

-         Low ozone-depleting chemicals in air conditioners

-         Drip irrigation to reduce in-ground irrigation

-         Low-flo devices on showers/sinks

-         Solar panels

Since developing Parkside, Corcoran has also built The Commons at SouthField Highlands which received LEED Silver status in 2013. The newest addition to the SouthField community, The Commons on The Green is aiming for the recognition of LEED Gold this coming year. To read more about Corcoran’s green practices visit our official website. 

What to Do in Boston This Coming August!

It’s crazy to think that only a few months ago we were spending countless hours shoveling out our driveways and stocking the fireplace, now we are more than half way done with summer! Even though the month of July is coming to a close, August is a fantastic month to be in the Boston area. Food festivals, outdoor performances, nature walks, sporting events, and much more, August is the perfect month to get up and go! Via Boston-Discovery-Guide.com

Shakespeare on the Commons – From Now until August 10th

Between now and August 10^th you and your family can bring a blanket, hors d’oeuvres, light refreshments to Boston Common and enjoy a Shakespeare performance. Tuesday-Saturday at 7PM will showcase the historic work of William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy Twelth Night. It’s perfect for the whole family and offers a relaxing, yet entertaining way to spend your summer nights. Visit their website for more info.

 St. Anthony’s Feast – August 29-31^st North End

New England’s largest Italian festival and one of the country’s oldest, St. Anthony’s feast takes place in the tiny old-english style streets of the North End. Endicott, Thatcher, and North Margin streets all close down and open up to hundreds of Italian eateries and thousands of spectators. Driving is NOT an option, but the orange line and green line run nearby to either North Station or Haymarket. For more visit the website for St. Anthony’s feast!

Mass Brewers Fest – Friday August 29^th, 6:30PM – 9PM – Seaport World Trade Center

For just $35 in advance ($40 at the door) you can sample 80+ beers from over 20 different Massachusetts breweries. Micro brews from all around the state will be on display here and you can sample every one of them! Enjoy live music as well as food including lobster rolls, Italian sausage, curry coconut shrimp, and hot dogs steamed in Harpoon beer (food is extra $). The trade center is just a short 10-minute walk from South Station.

New England Patriots – Preseason Football – Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA

The boys are back. While Tom, Revis, Jerod and the rest of the Patriots don’t kick off the real season until September 7^th in Miami, the Patriots will be hosting two preseason games in Foxboro. Preseason fun is great for the family as it’s usually at a discounted price and the weather is almost always guaranteed to be spectacular. Nick Foles and the Philadelphia Eagles come to town on August 15^th while Cam Newton and the Panthers make their way north the following week on the 22^nd. For tickets and more info visit www.Patriots.com 

Corcoran at NAA 2014 in Denver!

Each year thousands of managerial, marketing, leasing, and maintenance professionals from the multifamily apartment industry descend upon one chosen city to enhance and celebrate their knowledge at the National Apartment Association’s (NAA) Education Conference and Expo. Six employees travelled to majestic Denver, Colorado to represent Corcoran Management a the 2014 Conference.

 

NAA provides conference attendees the best education on multifamily practices as well as inspirational guest speakers and a  entertaining atmosphere. The NAA committee hit a grand-slam this year with its selections for the general session speakers. On Thursday, an NAA record attendee crowd of over 7,800 got to listen to the stories and words of inspiration from actor, comedian, and humanitarian Michael J. Fox. His tales of family, triumph, and continued fight against Parkinson’s Disease captivated the entire audience. Friday’s general session offered two speakers who many have seen on ABC’s “Shark Tank”: New York real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran and Kevin Harrington who is considered to be the founder of infomercials and a pioneer in the advertising industry. Both Barbara and Kevin relayed their stories of struggles and successes, both personally and professionally.

The multifamily industry has thousands of nationwide vendors looking to connect with their client base as well as expand their service and network. The trade show gave Corcoran employees a chance to meet and greet, vie for prizes and giveaways, and learn about the newest products in technology and productivity in the multifamily housing industry.

Aside from the educational experiences at the conference, Corcoran’s employees got to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the city of Denver and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The city offers tremendous nightlife, retail therapy, exquisite restaurants, and many other attractions. On Friday many took in the Rockies vs. Brewers game at Coors Field, considered one of the finest parks in Major League Baseball. 

Corcoran Management Seeking LEED for Homes Certification at The Commons on the Green

Eco-Friendly Living At SouthField: The Commons on the Green
Pursues LEED For Homes Certification

(Braintree, MA)  – John M. Corcoran and Company today announced that The Commons on the Green in Weymouth has elected to pursue a certification for the building under the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Homes program. The Commons on the Green, which will open later this summer, represents the completion of the second phase of the vibrant Commons at SouthField Highlands community.

In building The Commons on the Green, John M. Corcoran and Company implemented practical and measurable strategies and solutions focused on sustainable site development, water conservation, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. The Commons on the Green was designed to provide clean-living and minimize its impact on the environment. These measures include:

·         Use of low or no volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, sealants,   adhesives and carpets

·         Water efficient plumbing fixtures

·         Low E Windows to reduce the effects of the outdoor climate on interior   temperatures

·         ENERGY STAR light fixtures and appliances

·         High-efficiency tankless, hot water heaters

·         Eco-friendly cleaning products

·         Drought-tolerant plantings

During the construction process, John M. Corcoran and Company also applied best-use construction practices, including responsible waste management processes (recycling and reduced landfill waste) as well as close management of run-off from construction site to circumvent erosion and sedimentation in surrounding areas.

About The Commons on the Green

The Commons on the Green offers luxe eco-living in 72 beautifully designed apartment homes in Weymouth, MA at the vibrant 1,400-acre SouthField community located just 25 minutes south of Boston. Residents enjoy convenient commutes just minutes from Route 3 and walking distance to the MBTA Commuter Rail while taking advantage of SouthField’s array of open green spaces and bike paths.

About John M. Corcoran and Company

John M. Corcoran and Company specializes in the development and management of apartment communities and commercial properties delivering superior customer service and maintaining exceptional quality standards.  Corcoran-managed properties are characterized by thoughtful planning, welcoming interiors and luxuriant landscaping.  

The Commons on The Green, Model Apartment Now Open!

The newest in South Shore luxury apartment home living has officially arrived! The Commons on The Green, a new phase of the master-planned community SouthField, has officially finished construction of our model apartment home. This new phase, when completed, will encompass unique finishes and one-of-a-kind amenities you can’t find anywhere else on the South Shore. Bamboo flooring, bathroom double vanity sinks, granite countertops, custom kitchen cabinetry, crown moulding, and private washers and dryers will grace these apartment homes. Unique amenities include a private furnished roof deck, WiFi café and gameroom, invigorating fitness center, grilling patio with fire pit, as well as valet trash service.

Of course the new apartments on the green still embrace the same sustainable philosophies that earned The Commons at SouthField Highlands an LEED Silver certification from the United States Green Building Council. Recycled construction materials, low VOC paint adhesives, water efficiency plumbing fixtures, and Low E windows throughout the community all work together to promote a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle for residents and local wildlife. The MBTA’s South Weymouth Commuter Rail station is on-location at the property, and offers residents an easy and relaxing journey to and from work each morning.  

To keep up with all the happenings at The Commons “Like” us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter, or check out our official website!

Finding the Perfect TV for Your Apartment Home!

If you've ever walked into the electronics selection at your local Best Buy, odds are you've felt excitement, confusion, and certainly a sense of being overwhelmed when trying to decide which TV is the best fit for you and your apartment home. Over the last fifteen years styles and sizes of TV's have morphed from simple analog-based systems to advanced technologies including LED, plasma, high-definition, and the revolutionary 3D display. Trying to find the perfect match has never been harder. But thanks to the technology-savy people at CNET, one of the most informative technology media outlets on the internet, below is a quick guide to help you select the right TV for your watching pleasure!

Click here for the full article from CNET

1. Picture quality is not determined by the published specs

TV brands love to emphasize their “contrast ratio” in their advertising. In the end, these numbers have essentially no bearing on picture quality. “Viewing angles”, “MotionFlow”, “SPS” and other catchy phrases don’t bring any redeeming qualities to your viewing. It’s recommended to simply ignore any of these characteristics and to focus more on the bigger picture (no pun intended)

2. Bigger really is better

There are infinite amount of television sizes these days. The question is what should be considered the minimum for a given room in your apartment? The experts at CNET recommend a TV of at least 32 inches for a bedroom setup and at least 50 inches for a living room or main TV. Whether you are a hardcore sports fan, movie buff, or reality show guru, allocating your money for a larger TV is a smart investment and you will surely enjoy the extra inches.

3. Consider plasma

Back in the early 2000’s when television technology began to advance, it was thought that plasma was a step behind rival styles such as LCD and LED. Truth be told, plasma presents the best television quality, and while it’s lifespan isn’t as long as other styles, advancements in technology over the last ten years have improved how long the high quality of a plasma-based TV will last.

Buying a new TV (or two) for your apartment home is no easy and simple task. It’s a major investment that you’ll want to do lots of research for and rightfully so. With so many styles and brands on the market, its integral to pick the right one for you and your family’s viewing pleasure. 

The Boys are Back: 2014 Opening Day for the Red Sox!

It's been almost exactly five months to the day since Koji Uehara struck out Matt Carpenter to finish one of the most improbable and unlikely championships this city has ever seen. The 2013 Red Sox went from a group claiming "please don't hate us" to the most dominant team in Major League Baseball throughout regular and postseason play. After an offseason where Jacoby Ellsbury joined the hated Yankees and starting SS Stephen Drew walked away, the Sox are back and are ready to defend their title. 

The Red Sox open the 2014 campaign on Monday with a 3-game stretch in Baltimore. The champs will get the rings and acknowledge their fans for the first time this Friday during the home opener versus the Milwaukee Brewers. A strong core of players from last year's team remain including star hitters David Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia, and Mike Napoli as well as pitchers Jon Lester, John Lackey, and Clay Buchholz. Rookie sensation Xander Bogaerts comes in with a lot of upside but will certainly be under a microscope. 

To get you ready for all things Red Sox this coming season here are some links to useful websites for schedules, statistics, merchandise, tickets, and more! 

ESPN.com Red Sox team page

Boston Red Sox official ticketing website

Fenway Park - tours, parking, concession info

SoxProspects - statistics updated daily on top Red Sox future prospects

47 Brand Red Sox apparel 

Go Sox!!

Corcoran Management's J.P. Davis Featured on Channel 5's "Chronicle"

A Maintenance Manager's job is no cake walk, and often times a task can take long and strenuous hours to find a proper solution. Whether it's an apartment community, office building, restaurant, athletic complex, or an average home, trying to assess a problem and fix it requires precision, skill, and a strong attention to detail. Corcoran Management has had the privilege of employing some of the finest and most skilled maintenance workers within the multifamily industry. For the last three years, Corcoran’s maintenance technicians and managers have not just competed in the local NAA (National Apartment Association) Maintenance Mania competition. They have dominated the field. For the last three years Corcoran’s own J.P. Davis, a maintenance manager at Brockton Commons, has taken home the regional 1^st place prize amongst local competitors. J.P.’s fine work and superior performance have not gone unnoticed with local media outlets. WCVB Channel 5’s award-winning “Chronicle” recently did a piece on the Maintenance Mania competition, and J.P. was selected to be the feature interview of the piece! Although it is only a short piece (fast forward to around 2:40 for the start of the segment) J.P. talks about his work at Corcoran as well his success and love for the competition. To watch the rest of the feature just follow this link to the official website of “Chronicle”. For more info of Maintenance Mania visit their website. 

Making the Most of the Oscars!

Last year, 40.3 million people tuned into the Academy Awards telecast.  Some viewers tune in for the fashion, some are true fans of cinema, some attend viewing parties and others are forced to watch with their spouse!  No matter what category you fall under, we have a solution to make this year’s Academy Awards a bit more enjoyable:  Watch the Movies!  You will have a lot more interest in the winners and losers if you have actually seen the nominated films!

On March 2^nd Ellen DeGeneres will host the 86^th Academy Awards, this gives you a little less than a month to get out and see some of the nominated films!  The cold weather and approaching snowstorms makes it a perfect time to take refuge in your local theater.  To help you better decide which movies to see, and which ones to skip, below is a list of the films nominated for best picture as well as a brief plot description:

American Hustle – an all-star cast including Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Christian Bale and Jeremy Renner worked close to home - filming most of this film in Boston!  With multiple nominations this 1970’s-set story of a conman forced to work with the FBI explores the world of powerbrokers and the mafia.  This film is rated R. This film is sure to surprise you and make you laugh - Jennifer Lawrence does not disappoint.  Rated R.

Captain Phillips – Tom Hanks plays the lead role of Alabama commanding officer, Captain Phillips.  This movie is based on the true-story of Captain Richard Phillips and the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years.  This must-see film focuses on the relationship between Captain Phillips and the Somalian Pirate Captain that holds him hostage.  Captain Phillips is rated PG-13.

Dallas Buyers Club – actors Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto transformed themselves for their roles in this movie about the untold world of Americans living with AIDS.  Inspired by true events, the film focuses on the story of a Ron Woodroof, an electrician and rodeo cowboy living a care-free life that is blindsided with an HIV positive diagnosis and 30 days to live.  When he finds the lack of approved treatments in the US, Ron Woodroof crosses the border to Mexico with the help of his unlikely friend, he begins smuggling drugs into the US for HIV patients.  Both McConaughey and Leto have received multiple awards for their roles.  This movie is rated R.

Gravity – This is a great movie to see in an IMAX theater or in 3D.  Sandra Bullock and George Clooney prove it takes just two actors to make a great movie.  Their story of an astronaut and medical engineer stranded together in space is captivating.  Clooney and Bullock are tethered to nothing but each other in space.  We had our doubts about this movie, but it is worth seeing.  Rated PG-13.

Her – This we had to see out of curiosity, as it is a movie about a lonely, heartbroken man that meets and develops a relationship with ‘Samantha’ – a computerized friend.  Joaquin Phoenix delivers an award-winning performance in this film.  Her is rated R.

12 Years a Slave – A movie that barely has to mention that Brad Pitt is part of the film – it must be good.  This movie is based on the true story of Solomon Northrup, a free-man, sold into slavery.  The film follows his struggle to stay alive while maintaining his dignity, and his chance encounter with a Canadian abolitionist.  Rated R.

The Wolf of Wall Street – This movie is not for everyone – it has a strong R-rating.  It is long, and not shy on profanities or graphic scenes.  If you are okay with those elements – then go see this movie! Although it is long – the movie does not stop entertaining.  Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill give great performances portraying the rise of a wealthy stockbroker living the dream and then his falling; involving crime, corruption and the federal government.  This Martin Scorsese film is loosely based on a true story.

Nebraska – Hollywood veteran Bruce Dern stars in this story following a journey of an estranged father and son making a road trip from Montana to Nebraska to claim a “million dollar” sweepstakes prize.  This award winning film has a great sense of humor and was shot entirely in black and white.  It is rated R. 

Philomena – Dame Judi Dench stars in the story of a mother who had her son taken away when she was a teenage, inmate at a Catholic Convent.  In the movie, a journalist arranges a magazine assignment to follow the woman’s story.  It is a great story of two unlikely companions on this search to find her son.  Philomena is rated PG-13.

It is remarkable how many of 2013’s top films were based on true stories!  Pick one or two that sounds good to you and get out to the theaters!  After watching a few of these movies you may be inspired to host your neighbors for an Oscar party this year!

The Corcoran Super Bowl Prediction!

The mouth versus the mind. The two-man chess match between legendary Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, and Seahawks all-world cornerback Richard Sherman is the number one match-up fans will have on their minds when the two teams take to the field at MetLife Stadium Sunday night. After twenty weeks of hard work, preparation and execution, the NFL's top two teams are set to determine who will hoist the famous Lombardi trophy. 

While we wish we could watch our beloved Patriots chase another Super Bowl crown this weekend, we will still have the privilege of watching the two most talented and polarizing teams in the sport. The Broncos, paced by their prolific and record-setting offense, come into the Meadowlands with the greatest passing attack the league has ever seen. With a core of Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker, Knowshon Moreno, and former Patriot star Wes Welker, the Broncos have plenty of options for their quarterback to choose from. The Seahawks, the confident, hard-hitting and trash-talking bunch from the Pacific Northwest rolled through the NFC this season en route to the Super Bowl. Second year QB and leader Russell Wilson brings a mental toughness and poise that is rarely seen in a 24-year old. Of course all eyes will be on #25, Richard Sherman, the outspoken leader, and without doubt, the best shutdown corner in the league.

The unknown winter weather in the New York-New Jersey region serves as a important variable in each team's game plan and execution. Whether there is no precipitation or a blinding blizzard, we expect to see a game that will come down to one final possession in the fourth quarter. It is sure to be an exciting game and we can't wait until 6:37 Sunday night for the kickoff!

The Corcoran Prediction: 27-21 Seahawks

The Broncos will have a chance to take the lead with one minute left, however a Wes Welker drop followed by a Peyton Manning interception leads to a parade in downtown Seattle. 

Back to the Playoffs: 2014 Edition

Christmas shopping, Santa Claus, cold weather, and a Patriots home playoff game, those are the among the certain things in life this time of the season. Year-in and year-out the football club from Foxborough runs the table in the AFC East and is poised to be hosting a conference rival on a mid-January weekend. This years test, the upstart and ambitious Indianapolis Colts, led by superstar second year quarterback Andrew Luck. 

Polarizing temperatures, specifically those that were a direct result from last week's "polar vortex", won't be in play Saturday when kick-off commences at Gillette Stadium. The preliminary forecast is foreshadowing a game that will be rain-soaked with temps holding steady in the mid 50's, quite the opposite of last week's -20 degree game in Green Bay. Kickoff starts exactly at 8:15 P.M. so whether going to the game, enjoying it from a local bar, or just staying warm and cozy from the comfort of your home, be sure to tune in for what should be one of the more entertaining games we have seen this year.

If you’re looking for the perfect bar or restaurant to watch Brady and the boys try to pick apart the Indianapolis D, then take a look at our quick guide below on the best spots in Boston with the best T.V.’s!

1. The Harp - 85 Causeway St (right across from TD Garden)

Great food, great drinks, great times at one of Boston's favorite spots. Not only does The Harp feature numerous projection and LED T.V.'s throughout the bar, but their nightlife dancing and live music will not disappoint! 

2. Jerry Remy's Bar & Grill - 1265 Boylston St (Behind Fenway Park) or 250 Northern Ave (in the Seaport)

Whether you chose the location next to Boston's cathedral of baseball, or their brand-new seaport location with waterfront views, Jerry Remy's offers a great atmosphere for any game.

3. Coogan's - 2 Milk St (Financial District) 

Although not large, Coogan's present a lively and festive atmosphere which translates perfect for a Patriots playoff game. The best part of Coogan's is there affordable drink and food menu which offers great discounts on comfort food and beverages. 

GO PATS!!

Happy New Year!! Some Fresh and Thoughtful Resolutions for 2014

Now that the Holidays have passed and 2014 is already off and running, isn't it time you find yourself a new, and possibly out-of-the-box resolution idea for 2014? With a little help from the International Business Times' article here are some great suggestions to make the new year the best one yet!

1. Get specific about your weight-loss goal

It's one thing to say, "I want to lose weight." It's a whole other thing to say, "I'm going to lose weight by jogging Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and by only eating fast food once a month." Make specific goals for yourself. They don't have to be big; simply walking home from work instead of taking the bus is a step in the right direction. 

If you have a specific weight range you want to target, try drawing up a tailored workout plan to achieve that goal!

2. Get your finances in order - and keep them that way

First of all, don't spend money you don't have. Has that credit card balance added up? Shred the plastic. Making too many compulsive purchases? Realize you don't need half the stuff you think you do. Eating out too much? Get a cookbook and visit a grocery store.

Trouble tracking and documenting your spendings? Try Mint.com. It's a fun and free way to see your portfolio.

3. Clear out the clutter

Clutter and stress go hand-in-hand. That week's pile of mail on the dining room table is actually a bundle of stress. That staircase riddled with stacks of clothes, laundry detergent bottles in various states of emptiness, and workout gear? Also stress. Clear the clutter.

Take the time to purge your apartment or home of things that no longer serve you, and organize the things that do. Set up three large boxes in your living room. Separate everything by things to "keep," things to "donate" and thing to "throw away."

4. Be more positive

"Positive thinking doesn't mean that you keep your head in the sand and ignore life's less pleasant situations," Mayo Clinic notes. 

Being positive can do wonders for your psyche. It can also have a desirable effect on your overall health. Studies have shown a correlation between positive thinking and increased life span, lower rates of depression, better resistance to the common cold, lower levels of stress and better coping skills during adversity. 

5. Turn your smartphone off more often

Apps are addicting, games are fun, and has anyone else noticed how other people's face just aren't interesting as my smartphone screen?

If friends constantly call you out on your iPhone addiction, maybe your New Year’s resolution for 2014 should be to put the phone down and just…talk. We get it; the second that cell phone glows with a new message, it’s hard to stifle the intrigue. But really, it can wait. Engage with the people around you and pledge to give the messages and emails a rest.

6. Watch less TV

It’s simple: read more. Reading will expand your vocabulary, and give you something else to talk about at dinner parties other than the dog or the weather.

Maybe you’re not a novel kind of person. In the age of social media, where 140 characters seems like a lifetime of words, it’s hard to have the attention span for something with 300 or more pages. We get it. Instead, subscribe to a weekly magazine or two.

11. Get more fresh air

It’s important to get outside more often. According to Prevention, kids who get more “vitamin G,” a shorthand way of saying more time in green spaces, have less stress, perform better in school and have fewer ADHD symptoms.

Find ways to spend more time outdoors. Pick up gardening, or get a dog. A dog is as good an excuse as any to take a walk around the park. Or, find day trips you can do outside the city. Even a winery will do!

2014 is already full of bright and positive outlooks. If you’re looking to make the most of the year to come, just try one of these fresh ideas to springboard you forward in the coming year!