Hampton Style - May 23, 2008 -

Welcome to Hampton Style's dedicated real estate section, home to one of our favorite passions. Who among us doesn't scan real estate ads and editorials on a daily basis, tracking the exciting highs and lows of this roller coaster market, or take time to daydream when looking at a singularly stunning property. Whether we're keeping tabs on our current investments or planning future real estate conquests, we understand the central place that real estate holds for all of us.

On the following pages are two features you can expect to see a lot of this summer. "Real Estate Smackdown" is our way of examining the region's common ground (the waterfront real estate of Georgica Pond v. Lake Agawam; the potato fields of Water Mill v. Sagaponack, etc.) and sizing up how they compare against each other. "Hamptonopoly" is our jaunty snapshot of real estate offerings in each of our East End towns, and we'll occasionally do likewise for New York City with a "Manhattanopoly" board game. Look for real estate "charticles" that chronicle at a glance what you can buy out here for $1 million, $5 million, $10 million and $30 million. And due to the remarkable success of last issue's "Real Estate Power Brokers" feature, we will be adding new realtor profiles in coming issues. It's an exciting time to be involved in real estate and this new section will be giving the industry every opportunity to shine.

-Kathy Rae
Publisher, Hampton Style

In their own words...
"We have seen an increase in sales activity over the last month or so (which is typical for this time of year). The Hamptons look so beautiful right now, many of our customers are very eager to get into their new homes, so once deals are made, they are moving along to conclusion at a quick pace."
-Aspasia G. Comnas, S.V.P. / Brokerage Manager, Sotheby's International Realty, Inc.

"This is probably the best time to buy in the Hamptons in five years. People that are new to the real estate market as well as investors can find favorable opportunities, especially in the Springs in East Hampton and Hampton Bays."
-Beau Hulse, Coldwellbanker Prestigious Properties

"After the recent shaking out the market, we're now all getting down to business. My barometer for the remainder of 2008 is reading High! Clear sunny skies are ahead! The local market has been very active in high-end sales and rentals this year-and there has also been activity in other ranges where, as ever, the properties are priced right."
-Dana J. Berger, Hamptons Fine Homes