Always ask the landlord or realtor to clarify what is included in the monthly rent. Do not sign any lease until you have read it thoroughly and understand all of its provisions. Almost all property owners require the tenant to sign a lease for one year, committing the tenant to 12 months' rent unless a subtenant acceptable to the owner can be found. Leases usually start on the first of the month. Long distance calls are billed separately.
Adapters are available for purchase.
Unless you own these items, it is usually easier and more economical to purchase winter clothing once you arrive. Good quality used clothing is available at lower prices. Light-weight clothing is needed for the hot, humid summers in the Boston area. A great deal of used furniture is available in Cambridge. MIT's newspaper, Tech Talk, lists items for sale, as do various local papers.