Price Still Rules...Keep It Honest

Southampton - The Hamptons real estate market is known for luxury listings and in the case of Harald Grant, Senior Vice President, Licensed Associate Broker at Sotheby's International Realty's Southampton office, truer words are rarely spoken. With more than 20 years in the business, Harald has over $1 billion in sales and currently counts over $250 million in listings, including Bridgehampton's Two Trees Farm at $55 million, as well as listings under $1 million. His motto: Keep it simple and honest.

Harald Grant of Sotheby's International Realty. (Courtesy Photo: Sotheby's International Realty)

If "location" is the first rule in real estate, what is the second?

Harald Grant: Price!

What is your forecast for the fall/winter real estate season in the Hamptons and North Fork?

HG: We tend to be busy 12 months of the year, and I expect this year to be no different.

What is a sure sign of a "Hamptons" or "North Fork" home?

HG: Classic shingle siding with wood roofs and decks.

What are the emerging trends in architecture?

HG: Continuing reinterpretations of the classic Traditional homes.

Do you feel that the 'Golden Age' of East End real estate is over?

HG: Never.

How have buyers/sellers changed over the past two years?

HG: Everyone is more conservative and more knowledgeable of Real Estate.

When it comes to unique features and amenities, homes in the Hamptons and on the North Fork have it all. What feature has surprised you the most?

HG: Finished basements.

Which towns/villages are the most sought-after right now?

HG: Sagaponack.

What is an easy way to increase the value of a property?

HG: Paint.

What's the most extreme thing you've done to make a sale?

HG: Drop price.

How important is 'staging' for a sale/rental?

HG: Certainly, it can help.

Tell us about one of your favorite listings on the market right now.

HG: I have an historic, almost five-acre property on Wyandanch Lane in Southampton, with over 400 feet of waterfront on Old Town Pond, and it is spectacular, with huge upside potential. Very special.