The Hamptons real estate market is ultra-luxurious and unique, often drawing intrigue from around the country and around the world. After all, it consistently ranks in the top 10 most expensive zip codes in the United States.
But, where does the market stand currently and how can a motivated buyer or seller navigate it? Experts recently gave their insight and tips in The Hamptons Design Guide 2025 and here are a few of the questions they answered for your benefit.
Is it currently a buyer’s market or a seller’s market?
“The market has leaned toward sellers in recent years due to limited housing inventory with generally good rewards. With these transactions the buyer must feel that the price is justified.” – Terry Cohen, Hedgerow Exclusive
“I think this is a market that is absolutely about precise pricing. Whether it’s a buyer’s market or seller’s market, I don’t feel there’s specific leverage on either side. It’s really about it being priced appropriately. Values are very strong; they’re not going up or down.” – Kyle Rosko, Douglas Elliman
What do buyers want now?
“Quite simply, the least amount of work possible. People are not interested in doing work since this is a secondary market. They are looking for it to be as close to what they are looking for as possible, and as done as possible-turnkey.” – Kyle Rosko, Douglas Elliman
“Right now, clients are looking for something special, either a view or a location. They are looking for a value, which right now just doesn’t exist. There are some good properties out there that are sitting.” – Christopher Burnside, Brown Harris Stevens
“Specific waterfront communities are very popular: Amagansett Dunes, Southampton Shores, and Sag Harbor as a whole are extremely strong right now. Southampton Village has no inventory right now; it’s a solid market. Amagansett Lanes doesn’t have too much for sale either.” – Kyle Rosko, Douglas Elliman
What makes the Hamptons such an unusual and interesting real estate market?
“Because high-profile buyers and sellers prefer privacy, many Hamptons real estate transactions happen off-market. Insider access is essential to know about the most exclusive properties. Also, many buyers view the Hamptons as a great investment venue, capitalizing on soaring property values and the terrific, high-demand rental market. The market also reflects a rare intersection of old-money estates, passed down for generations, and cutting-edge modern mansions. It’s a unique blend of history, prestige, and contemporary luxury.” – Mala Sander, The Corcoran Group
“It’s a dream, first and foremost. It’s a place where people want to share a special moment with their friends, family, and beyond. It’s always been a place where people are inspired- the light here, the water surrounding us, the environment, the ocean and bays, and the diversity you can find here is very unique and very special. I’m from here, I’ve travelled all over the world, and I still look back at this place as uniquely one of the most beautiful places, by a lot. From Montauk to Southampton, having entirely different landscapes is something that is very special to this place. These are the dreamscapes people are creatively building their dream homes on. They have a lot of creativity and freedom that doesn’t exist in NYC, whether they love the bay, the ocean, or farmland here They can have this open palette to create.” – Kyle Rosko, Douglas Elliman