In the world of Hamptons real estate, few names carry the weight and warmth of Laura Dalessandro. A powerhouse broker and trusted leader, Laura brings over two decades of experience to the table, along with a deep local knowledge that only a lifelong Long Islander can offer.
Specializing in luxury waterfront properties, she has built her reputation on Dune Road, but her reach spans the entire Hamptons, from Westhampton Beach to Montauk. To say she is a top-producing agent is true, but is incomplete: Laura Dalessandro is a community builder and mentor. And yes, she does have a million-dollar smile!
At the helm of the Laura Dalessandro Team at Saunders & Associates, Laura combines unmatched market insight with a hands-on approach that makes every client feel like her only client. Her background as the former Village Clerk for West Hampton Dunes—spanning 14 years—gives her a rare perspective on coastal regulations, property potential, and the rhythms of life by the sea.
Laura’s reputation and results are driven by a simple principle: relationships matter. So do the details. Whether you’re looking for a summer getaway or a forever home, she brings the same level of passion and precision to every deal. We sat down with Laura to talk about what inspires her, how she leads her team, and why waterfront living in the Hamptons is truly one-of-a-kind.
Your background includes 14 years as Village Clerk of West Hampton Dunes. How has that civic experience influenced your approach as a broker?
That experience gave me a front-row seat to the inner workings of coastal governance, zoning, and environmental policy—knowledge that most brokers simply don’t have. I’ve worked closely with engineers, attorneys, the Army Corps of Engineers, and homeowners on issues ranging from dune restoration to FEMA compliance. So when my clients come to me with questions about setbacks, flood insurance, or building approvals, I’m able to provide insight that’s grounded in real-world experience.
More than that, my time as Village Clerk instilled in me a deep sense of accountability. I don’t take shortcuts. I do the work, I know the rules, and I advocate fiercely for my clients’ best interests.
You’ve built a reputation as a Dune Road expert—what makes this stretch of coastline so special, and what should buyers know about owning waterfront property here?
Dune Road is unlike any other place. It offers a rare blend of raw natural beauty, privacy, and proximity to the water that draws people back year after year. What makes it truly special is the lifestyle—it’s not just about owning a home, it’s about waking up to panoramic ocean views, paddleboarding at sunrise, and hosting loved ones and friends with the beach as your backyard.
That said, owning waterfront property here also comes with unique responsibilities. From understanding flood zones and elevation certificates to navigating building regulations and environmental protections, experience matters. That’s where I come in. After decades of working on Dune Road and even serving as the Village Clerk of West Hampton Dunes, I help my clients anticipate the nuances and feel confident in their investment.
With over 20 years of experience in the Hamptons market, how have you seen the region evolve, and what stays timeless about life out here?
The Hamptons have evolved dramatically over the last two decades. We’ve seen the rise of luxury enclaves, year-round residents replacing seasonal ones, and a major shift in buyer expectations—especially after the pandemic. Technology and design preferences have changed, too—people want open floor plans, work-from-home setups, wellness spaces, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.
But what remains timeless is the essence of life out here: the connection to nature, the sense of escape, and the tight-knit community that makes even a second home feel like a true home. Whether someone is here for the summer or all year long, the Hamptons still offer that breath of fresh air and grounding presence people crave.
You lead your own team at Saunders & Associates. What does leadership mean to you in the context of real estate, and how do you foster mentorship within your group?
To me, leadership in real estate means creating a culture where everyone feels empowered, supported, and driven to be their best. I lead by example—with transparency, integrity, and a strong work ethic—but I also believe in lifting others up. I don’t see mentorship as a one-time conversation; it’s a daily commitment. Whether it’s teaching negotiation strategies, helping a junior agent through a tough deal, or celebrating a small win, I want my team to know they’re never alone in this business.
What I’ve learned is that when you invest in your team, you build a better business and better relationships, which translates directly to how we serve our clients.
What’s your strategy for staging and positioning high-end homes to stand out in the competitive Hamptons marketplace?
High-end homes demand a curated approach. I begin by understanding the story each property tells—its architecture, setting, and lifestyle value. From there, I work with top-tier stagers, photographers, and videographers to create a cohesive visual narrative that captures that story. When we show a home, we’re showing a dream.
Strategic pricing, compelling marketing copy, and precision-targeted digital campaigns are also essential. I leverage my deep local network and global platforms to maximize visibility. Every detail matters. Right down to the scent in the home during a showing. In this market, luxury is about experience, and my job is to make sure that experience starts the moment a buyer clicks on the listing.
You’ve worked with clients from all over—from buyers new to the Hamptons to longtime locals. How do you tailor your approach to meet such diverse needs?
Every client has a unique story, and I take the time to listen. A first-time buyer may need education and reassurance, while a seasoned investor wants sharp data and speed. Locals might be navigating emotional sales of generational homes, and out-of-towners often need community insights, contractor referrals, and ongoing support long after the sale.
I customize my approach based on what each client values most—whether it’s privacy, investment return, or building their dream home. Real estate is never one-size-fits-all, and I pride myself on being both a trusted advisor and a strategic problem-solver at every step.
What does “success” look like to you in this business, and what continues to drive your passion for the work after so many years?
Success, for me, isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about impact. It’s about earning trust, building long-term relationships, and helping clients make life-changing decisions with confidence and clarity. I measure success in the number of referrals I get, the thank-you notes I receive, and the sense of pride I feel knowing I’ve made a difference.
What drives me after all these years is the combination of challenge and purpose. No two days are the same, and no two clients are either. I love the problem-solving, the pace, the relationships. Most of all, I love helping people find their place in this special part of the world.
To learn more about Laura Dalessandro, click here.
