There might be a way to do it, but tbh it sounds messy. You'd have to fully encase the sandwich or you'll have grounds falling out into the coffee. So you'll need a lip on the bottom filter to act as a vertical wall. Then you'll need a rubber gasket to get a tight seal on the bottom so grounds don't go around the edges and later get in your mug when you pour. The whole apparatus will undoubtedly be dripping as you take it out, so it needs to be done over the sink or trashcan.

At that point, might as well get a thermos.

When the grounds are compressed down on the bottom like that, you slow down the steeping really significantly. If you're super picky about coffee, this might not be good enough for you. For most people, it's fine and the coffee still tastes decent.

All of this is true, but you actually have to do it. I use the Coffee Gator insulated press, and it's just easy. Usually I pour the hot water, take the press and a cup back to my desk, start a zoom meeting, and press/drink/refill my cup throughout the meeting.

Depends on the kind of person you are. If you're thinking, "why are you so lazy? Just get the thermos." Then get a thermos. If instead you're thinking, "oh yeah, one extra step, I probably won't do it most of the time, and then I'll have to clean another thing." Then get the insulated press.

Biking there is basically asking to die

Get an insulated one. Game changer if you like multiple cups while lounging on a Saturday morning.

I'll use the nice looking glass press if I'm drinking coffee in the morning with my partner since we'll finish it all right away, but on my own an insulated press is amazing. Press, pour one cup, enjoy the cup, work a bit, pour another cup 30 minutes later and it's still as hot as the first pour. Truly underrated feature in a french press.

Good info, thank you. Though I know this happens all over Boston.

I think I just need something that cements the deal and ensures the person is able to pay rent. I'd be fine with $300 or something. It's two months. Not trying to make it a huge deal, but people have a tendency to just bolt, especially if all they did was show up and sign a piece of paper. A deposit feels like a far greater commitment.

I'm not in a position where I can just throw away $1800. Still in school, and for a long time (med school). Biggest risk to me is they don't show up as I'm moving to another apartment July 1st.