Hamptons real estate agent Peter McCracken of the Corcoran Group has seen the inventory decline a bit over the past eight months on Shelter Island. However, he predicts a very active fall season, “New inventory always comes on the market in the fall as homeowners are enjoying their homes during the summer.” He went on to tell us that, “I think the popular stalwarts are Southampton and of course Sag Harbor. Shelter Island is hot right now as it offers low-key quietness and an abundant of waterfront areas perfect for all personality types such as canals, bays and beaches.”
What is a sure sign of a “Hamptons” or “North Fork” home?
A Hamptons home would be the traditional cedar shake with a gambrel style roof. A North Fork home would be a farm house on large plots of land. Shelter Island would be a mix of both styles, but our waterfront cannot be beat!
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Peter McCracken of the Corcoran Group. (Courtesy Photo) |
How have buyers/sellers changed over the past two years? For buyers, they are very savvy with all the information and statistics available on real estate websites, social media, etc. With the information available buyers are much more informed than they used to be. Sellers are more willing to make a deal happen rather than allowing their house to go stale on the market.
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?
Nothing ever surprises me to what features a home may have. What does surprise me is the lack of features a house might have: no central air conditioning, pool, not enough baths, etc. And they still want top dollar!
What is an easy way to increase the value of a property?
Get an inspection done on the house and fix/repair what comes up. Also the house must be clean and decluttered with reasonably manicured grounds.
What’s the most extreme thing you’ve done to make a sale?
I guess I am lucky! I always have a last resort in the back of my mind to get any sale complete, but have never had to use it. To me, that stems from being a good negotiator.
How important is ‘staging’ for a sale/rental?
Staging is very important. The house should be fully furnished or nothing at all. Also, a house should be decluttered of all personal photos and unnecessary items. This will make the house look cleaner and offer the buyer an opportunity to envision their own personal touches in the house.
What are the emerging trends in architecture?
Green and energy efficient homes. I’m also seeing architects and builders use modern touches and amenities while keeping the character and Old World charm of the home.
Tell us about one of your favorite listings on the market right now.
32 Hilo Drive on Shelter Island. It is a charming four bedroom house stocked with amenities, including a heated waterside pool, tennis court, deep water dock, central air conditioning. The view of West Neck Bay is also something quite special.
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