Oh say can you see...

85 Brainerd Road, Unit 211, Allston

Square footage 1,150

Condo fee $448 per month

Bedrooms 2

Baths 2 full

2009 taxes $2,600

Last sold for $287,000 in 2000

PROS Steps from both Commonwealth and Harvard avenues, this pet-friendly condo has its own cozy balcony off the dining room, but the fireworks viewing is from the common roof deck. The large living room is open to the dining area and kitchen, which has a breakfast-bar island and plenty of cabinet space. Both bedrooms -- one with en suite bath -- are huge, and there’s an in-unit laundry and one deeded parking spot. The building has a common courtyard and a popular outdoor pool, and it’s only a short walk to a local sports club. CONS The unit needs updating. CONTACT Dan Gorfinkle, RE/MAX Unlimited, Brookline, 617-820-8085, dangorfinkle.com

$429,000

501 Shawmut Avenue, Unit 5, South End

Square footage 635

Condo fee $265 per month

Bedrooms sleeping alcove

Baths 1 full

2009 taxes $3,861

Last sold for $215,000 in 2000

PROS This studio, with beamed cathedral ceiling and exposed brick, was renovated to maximize every inch of space. Its small but efficient kitchen has a breakfast bar, and the main living area is large enough for a desk and dining table as well as couches and chairs, with built-in storage in the bay window. The sleeping area, beneath the eaves, has a double closet, but the real gem is the adorable 15-by-7-foot balcony, with views toward the river. The place also comes with roof rights, though no deck has been built. CONS It’s a fourth-floor walk-up. CONTACT William Patterson, Coldwell Banker, Cambridge, 857-829-2449, cambridgerealty.citymax.com

$645,000

10 Museum Way, Unit 1624, Cambridge

Square footage 1,046

Condo fee $660 per month

Bedrooms 2

Baths 2 full

2009 taxes $2,919

Last sold for $619,000 in 2005

PROS This condo has spectacular views from every window: the Museum of Science, Charles River, and downtown Boston on one side, and all the way to the Somerville hills on the other. The main living space has plenty of room for a dining table, and the small kitchen is well planned. Both bedrooms are large enough to include an office area, and there’s an in-unit washer-dryer. The building is close to two T stops and has doormen, valet parking, and a concierge, as well as a fitness center with pool. CONS There’s no private outdoor space. CONTACT Henry Aime Amar, Coldwell Banker, Cambridge, 617-504-5913, nemoves.com