Hamptons and North Fork home buyers are increasingly prioritizing state-of-the-art amenities for their investment, from infinity pools and spa-like bathrooms to expansive outdoor kitchens and tennis courts. Sustainability and technology are also at the forefront, with a growing interest in energy-efficient designs and smart home features that enhance convenience and security. As the summer progresses, the Hamptons’ market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driven by a clientele seeking not just a summer retreat but a sanctuary that epitomizes the elegance and exclusivity for which this region is renowned.
We asked a few of our favorite brokers and agents: Are there any occurring trends in Hamptons or North Fork real estate that you’ve noticed recently, particularly concerning amenities or property features buyers seek for their summer homes?
Judi Desiderio, Town & Country Real Estate
Outdoor features are just as important now as indoor features. Outdoor living rooms, dining rooms, and, of course, gourmet kitchens for when that celebrity chef comes to prepare a meal for your 20 closest friends — such fun!
Timothy Davis, The Corcoran Group
Blending indoor and outdoor spaces to be able to enjoy both rather seamlessly is a focus, as well as home offices or flexible spaces for this activity as part of one’s day. My son and his husband, who live and work in New York City, for example, often come out to our home on Thursday and work remotely on Fridays — why not?!
Mark Greenwald. Courtesy of Saunders & Associates
Buyers truly want a move-in-ready experience. Some of the amenities that were regarded as “extras” a few years ago are now more important and even critical to a purchase decision: professionally finished closets, outdoor kitchens, built-in spas, and home gyms, notably.
Susan Breitenbach, The Corcoran Group
One trend I have noticed recently is the increased desirability of library/office spaces. Builders and renovators are adding them since customers are asking for and using them, as remote work remains common. Additional requests I’ve recently received from clients are a second primary bedroom on the first floor, integrated indoor/outdoor spaces, and separate pool houses. At the high end, elevators and “spas” on the lower level, as well as casual media rooms/theaters, are in demand. Rather than being solely dedicated to storage and a home’s mechanicals, the bottom floor of a house is now often dedicated to wellness pursuits (gyms, massage rooms, saunas) and relaxing with family and friends — sometimes on a grand scale.
Greg Schmidt, The Corcoran Group
Over the last four years, my buyers have insisted on new or completely renovated homes. However, I now have a few clients who are either willing to do some work or even take on a gut renovation. They want to make the home their own and fulfill their specific vision. Buyers are still loving those things that bring everyone to the Hamptons market. That includes privacy, space (elbow room), pools, hot tubs, big gorgeous kitchens, outdoor showers, gracious indoor and large outdoor entertaining spaces, along with a good layout/flow inside the home. Bright natural lighting and lots of windows are still high on the list. I’ve also noticed that lately, home-seekers are more attuned to lush landscaping, pickleball courts, and screened-in porches (city buyers hate bugs). Lastly, I just had one client who insisted on buying a home that had access to natural gas.
Sheri Winter Parker, The Corcoran Group
Since Covid, home offices and gym spaces have become essential features in homes, but on the North Fork, there’s a growing trend where more people are seeking properties with pools. While pools are standard on the South Fork, they are increasingly desired on the North Fork as well. Additionally, most renters are looking for properties that include beach passes, highlighting the importance of convenient beach access for a complete summer experience.
Alexis Meadows, Douglas Elliman
Another trend this summer is the extension of purchasing power through less common, non-traditional avenues. Given the rates, timing, and moving parts within a client’s portfolio, more strategic deals are put into place. For example, lease-to-own contracts or 1031 exchanges offer the ability to secure a property while minimizing financial penalties. Capturing an opportunity in a secondary housing resort market with low inventory and continued high demand takes some finesse. There is always a way to reach yes, and it is often built around patience and knowledge on how best to maneuver in any market.
Jeremy Dunham, Compass
The North Fork’s affordability, less crowded atmosphere, and easier access to the city make it an attractive option for those looking for more value for their money. This accessibility could be especially appealing to buyers who prioritize convenience and a quieter lifestyle.
On the other hand, the luxury East End areas cater to buyers who have more discretionary income and are willing to invest in premium properties and amenities. The trend towards incorporating pickleball courts, finished lower levels with gyms and offices, and additional recreational spaces reflect a desire for upscale features and lifestyle enhancements among these buyers.
The shift towards first-floor primary bedrooms also indicates a changing preference for convenience and accessibility, catering to buyers who may want to avoid stairs or prioritize accessibility as they age.
Understanding these trends and preferences in both regions can help you better serve your clients and provide them with the properties and amenities that align with their lifestyle and investment goals.
