Hamptons Real Estate: Talking Luxury With Angela Boyer-Stump of Sotheby's

Luxury Hamptons real estate specialist Angela Boyer-Stump, presently with Sotheby’s International Real Estate, has been in the business for the last 15 years and is an active Hamptons resident. “As a mother of 3,” she tells us, “down time is almost always at ‘The Cut’ at the end of Flying Point Road. We can frequently be found with paddle boards or surf boards in hand by day or sitting by a bonfire in the evening. Watching my kids learn an appreciation and respect for our local waters warms my heart.”

And her heart is clearly in the water as she explains, “I serve on the Board and am Secretary of the Southampton Yacht Club, an absolute favorite spot of mine. In addition to the Jr Sailing Program, we have a wonderful Adult Sailing Program.” Boyer-Stump, who lives in Southampton, also keeps an apartment in Manhattan and supports the community too, “My favorite fundraising events are the Peconic Bay Keeper and Strides for Life Annual Walk/Run. I actively participate with both.”

Angela Boyer-Stump of Sotheby’s International Real Estate. (Courtesy Photo)

The Hamptons market has the high-end luxury section with homes well over $7 million and the flip side with homes under $500,000, plus all of the great homes in between. Where are the buyers right now?
ABS: I have a multitude of buyers in various price points. In all of these price ranges, what I am finding is that buyers are very educated before they start to look. They come to me knowing what they want and typically bring with them with a good base knowledge on property transfer history, recent sales, and market trends. The web is truly incredible and a wonderful tool for buyers looking to purchase in 2013.

What is your forecast for the summer/fall real estate season in the Hamptons?
ABS: We have had an amazing 2nd quarter and the summer/fall transition is looking to be great as well. Many buyers that looked over the summer will be making final decisions through September and October. This, along with the buyers that have decided after renting all summer it is time to own a home, should make the home stretch of our 3rd quarter and the 4th quarter a banner year.

What is so special about the Hamptons real estate market?
ABS: The Hamptons are unique. We offer luxury homes that are also in demand on a rental side. While many buyers never wish to rent out their properties, the truth is, the ability to do such makes home buying a little less stressful. The safety net of knowing, should you get transferred for work or choose to summer in Europe, your home is easily rentable is very comforting.

What are the emerging trends in architecture?
ABS: Traditional homes with interior Modern Flair. 5,000 square feet of streamline design seems to be the desired size yet buyers want homes that are easy to manage and ones that work for today’s lifestyle. Not too formal but stylish.

How have buyers/sellers changed over the past two years?
ABS: Buyers and Sellers have more confidence today. Low interest rates and a slight up tic in the economy has helped the housing market make a comeback.

If “location” is the first rule in real estate, what is the second? Why?
ABS: Integrity and Honesty. Hopefully for obvious reasons but especially when selling or buying a home, it is important to have straight, clear facts. I can’t help you sell or buy a home if you don’t trust me.

When it comes to unique features and amenities, home in the Hamptons have it all. What are some of your favorites/amenities that really stand out?
ABS: As a water lover, docks and bulkheads are at the top of my personal favorite amenities. With the waterfront building limitations changing constantly, I have a true affection for properties that have these two items already approved and in place.

Which towns/villages are the most sought-after right now?
ABS: Amagansett and East Hampton seems to be the hot spots of the moment.

Tell us about some of your most memorable sales and what made them so. Was it the selling price, location, celebrity buyer?
ABS: I was working together with a developer that also happens to be a very close personal friend. I assisted her with the purchase of the property she chose to develop, watched her build a gorgeous home and through another very close friend matched buyer and sellers together. To have close relationships on all sides of the transactions made this experience one that was easy, fun and full of positive energy. It was a south of the highway home in Sagaponack that traded at full price. We are all still good friends and to this day, I can’t help but smile every time I drive by the property.

Tell us about one of your favorite listings on the market right now.
ABS: My favorite listing is one that is coming on next week…You are the first to hear about it. Two single and separate homes on Hook Pond…Waterfront of course, price on request. These homes are set in a picturesque on of a kind setting. Magical and Serene!