When you think about Hills in Boston, two quickly come to mind - Beacon Hilland Mission Hill. Home to the state capital, numerous Suffolk University students and some of Boston’s most prominent residents Beacon Hill is perched atop the Boston Common and looks over most of Boston proper. Following that is of course Mission Hill a haven for college students and medical professions alike that study and practice in nearby areas such as Brigham Circle, Longfellow Medical Center, and the numerous universities up and down Huntington Ave and the Fenway.

But what if I were to tell you that another Hill was about to become an elevated South End. You might be trying to think of other Hills in Boston right? Pope Hill in Dorchester you might say? Nope. Okay, how about Dorchester Heights in Southie? Nope again. (But your get points for knowing what that section of Southie is called).

Try Fort Hill, located in Roxbury right behind Mission Hill. Wikipedia generously says this area was gentrified in the late 90’s early 2000’s, but in reality it has only within the last year become a hotbed of real estate activity. Most 1 and 2 bed condos are quickly bought up as first time home buyers have found affordability in the area.

The artistic community has set its focus on this area, quietly buying up the old Victorians and vacant city land renovating, as they did to the South End years ago, building by building.

Just last week the Globe ran an article talking about Jackson Square, which is located at the base of Fort Hill and how it plans to revitalize the T stop and add apartments and commercial development by selling the 9.5 scattered acres it owns in the area to developers who plan to pour over $250 million in improvements to the area.

If you’re having a hard time grasping this, think about the South End in the 70’s or South Boston in the 80’s and how people laughed at the thought of moving here due to the economic plight and crime these neighborhoods once fought. Today, both neighborhoods are extremely popular and valuable.

With a T stop, some amazing views, and easy access to the city via Columbus Ave it’s only a matter of time until Fort Hill is mentioned with the same regularity as Beacon and Mission Hills. Not mention its real estate values.

For more information on this posting please refer to:

Wikipedia  - Roxbury, MA

Boston Globe  - A New Look For Jackson Square

Any Questions? Send me and Email at James M

Filed under: Boston Real Estate Blogging