As an experienced real estate broker, Cathy’s extensive knowledge of market data deepens her understanding of the Hamptons market and enables her to assist her customers and clients in realizing the highest returns on their real estate investments. Customers and clients appreciate that they can rely on Cathy to provide objective counsel, even it if means advising someone when a move is not in their best interest. As a skilled negotiator with a mastery of detail, Cathy guides her clients throughout the entire transaction.
How long have you been involved in Hamptons real estate? How did you get your start in the business? And how did previous experience prepare you for this work?
I’ve been in real estate almost 20 years. After years working for a global advertising agency and principal of my own agency, I was looking for a career change. The skill set that made me a successful advertising person is the same skill set that’s important in real estate – listening to our clients’ wishes, understanding and caring about their needs, and delivering for them.
What changes have you seen in the market here?
It’s been dramatic. I began in the business near the end of the market’s rise, then fall, in 2008. I’ve seen the market go up and down, but nothing as white hot as the market has been the last two years. This is the first time in my experience that demand for Hamptons housing has outstripped the supply of available homes and property.
What’s your business like now? Sales? Rentals?
Sales are struggling – it’s hard to find the right homes for people because inventory is so limited. We need more owners to take advantage of the strength in the market. The rental business is more productive now.
Which areas do you cover and which are most active now?
All areas are active now. I cover primarily Southampton to Amagansett. The most active part of the market is wherever there’s something to buy, sell or rent at the right price for the customer or client.
What do you think is an upcoming area in the Hamptons?
The East Hampton Springs and Hampton Bays areas are seeing increased activity as homes, while realizing higher prices than ever, are still more reasonably priced than in other areas.
What are your buyers looking for?
New construction, ideally. Whether new construction or not, everyone wants space to use as a home office and they want multiple gathering spaces inside and space to enjoy the outdoors.
What’s the best piece of advice you could give a seller now? A buyer?
For a seller: If you’re thinking of selling in the next couple of years – sell now. This is the strongest sellers’ market ever.
For a buyer: Don’t be reluctant to make an investment in this market. The Hamptons is a unique market, and has always proven its value.
What is the most personally satisfying part of your work?
I love meeting new and different people and understanding their needs. The best thing is putting the right people in the right house, whether it’s for a rental or sale.
This work is a dynamic business with a lot of moving parts. No two sales are alike, no two properties are alike – there’s always more to learn.
What do you like to do in the Hamptons outside the office?
I love to go to the beach all year ’round, especially the beach at the end of Ocean Road – it’s the one closest to me and, I love to watch the sunsets at Long Beach or over the fields of Bridgehampton. Nothing’s better than dinner with friends or family – at one of the many restaurants here or cooking at home. I still love going back to NYC where I lived for so many years…all it offers is energizing and fun.
Do you have a favorite restaurant?
I have a few favorites, but those I love the most are on the water or have a water view.
Are there any community organizations or charities you’d like to mention that you are involved in?
I’m on the board and currently serving as Secretary of the Ellen Hermanson Foundation. Our mission is to provide access to state-of-the-art breast health care to people on the East End.
View all of Cathy’s listings and sales history here or email [email protected]
