Sometimes, a visit is all it takes. For Romaine Gordon, a veteran Hamptons real estate agent, what began as a trip turned into a lifestyle—one that mirrors the charm and coastal elegance of her Nantucket roots. With a background in design and a keen eye for potential, Romaine helps clients see beyond four walls, offering both inspiration and strategy. Her successful background in interior decorating and design, including her own custom fabric line and involvement in prominent Hamptons and Greenwich showhouses, provided the perfect foundation for her transition into real estate.
See our conversation below.
What originally brought you to the Hamptons, and what have you found in the Hamptons community that has kept you here?
I wish I had a more original answer than “I came to the Hamptons for a visit, fell in love with everything about it, including how much it reminded me of home—Nantucket Island—and have been here ever since,” but that is the honest truth! The beauty of the landscape, the coastal architecture, the sense of community—it all resonated deeply with me. Over time, I’ve come to find not just a career but a real sense of belonging here. It feels like a perfect extension of where I came from, yet with its own distinct charm and vibrancy.
Where do you find your personal and professional drive? What inspires you?
I pride myself on being a natural problem solver. I actually enjoy the challenges that come with real estate—whether it’s navigating negotiations, finding the right fit for a client, or keeping a deal on track. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a transaction through from start to finish, especially when the outcome is a happy client in a home they love. That sense of purpose—and knowing that I can make a difference—is what keeps me inspired.
How do you leverage your design expertise to help clients see the potential in properties they might initially overlook?
Design is all about vision—being able to look beyond what is and imagine what could be. When I walk into a property, I immediately start envisioning possibilities, from layout improvements to aesthetic upgrades. A lot of buyers can’t always see past-dated finishes or poor staging, and that’s where I can help. My background in decorating helps me paint that picture for them, sometimes quite literally, and show them how a space can be transformed to suit their lifestyle.
What was the key to your success at Handy Lane?
The location and the homes themselves were fantastic—that certainly set us up for success. But I think what made a real difference was being able to convey the vision of what those homes would become. Some of them sold before construction even began, so it was crucial to help buyers understand not just the blueprint but the experience of living there. From finishes to envisioning outdoor spaces, I helped bring the future into focus, and that helped close those deals.
What advice would you give to buyers who are looking to purchase homes that may require extensive renovations?
Know what you want before you start. Renovations can be overwhelming and expensive, especially if you’re indecisive or make big changes halfway through. It’s also incredibly helpful if you can spend some time living in the home before making any major decisions. Often, the way people think they’ll use a space versus how they actually live in it can be very different. Taking the time to understand your daily flow can make for a much more successful and satisfying renovation in the long run.
Tell us about Lion’s Head—it’s a real-deal hidden gem.
Lion Head is truly one of those rare places. It’s peaceful, tight-knit, and feels like a step back in time in the best way. You’ll always see someone walking their dog, greeting neighbors, or heading to the beach via one of the many nearby access paths. I’ve spent countless mornings walking my dogs along the beach, collecting beach glass, and evenings watching sunsets that seem to outdo themselves night after night. It’s the kind of place that quietly captures your heart and never lets go.
Is it too late to find a great Summer rental?
Absolutely not! There’s still plenty of inventory out there. The key is to be flexible and work with someone who understands your needs. Whether you’re looking for a serene getaway or a lively beach house for entertaining, there are still some fantastic options available.
To learn more about Romaine, click here.
