New Construction in the Hamptons

As spring approaches, new construction remains strong in the Hamptons. According to many builders, construction quality has improved dramatically, people prefer to buy new rather than renovate, and prices will stabilize or even come down, as inventory from the building boom is still plentiful. Also due to required energy codes in the Town of Southampton, new construction homes in the Hamptons are some of the most energy efficient in the country!

John Kean of Kean Development Company, Inc. feels, “The Hamptons will always be a safe investment and we are optimistic for a strong upcoming season. Current design trends are heading toward a more modern/contemporary look. But not everyone is ready to dismiss the classic, seaside shingle home. A shingle exterior with the open approach of a contemporary interior is appealing. Decorative floors and ceilings are as important as walls, windows, and other appointments. Walls of glass opening completely onto outdoor dining and cooking venues and expansive Loggias with outdoor fireplaces, grills, and kitchens eliminate barriers between indoor and outdoor living. Automatic screens, shades, and doors are conveniently remotely controlled. Amenities include sun-shelves for sunbathing in the pool, private indoor bowling alleys, star-lit theatres for intimate movie viewing and putting greens on the roof or backyard.” He remarks, “With new construction, there is a defined starting point, ending point, defined budget, and cost. With renovation, it is an open-ended project without a concrete budget and many homeowners end up spending much more than originally intended. Green design is popular especially in the Hamptons where there is a well-educated populace financially, emotionally, and responsibly invested in the future.” John reflects, “It is incredibly rewarding when technology, comfort, and aesthetics come together seamlessly.”
New construction is very desirable in the Hamptons. Buyers want move-in ready homes with little hassle. With so many designs and amenities to choose from, you can customize your home to your own individual lifestyle. From outdoor kitchens to in-house gyms, rooftop putting greens to indoor bowling alleys, the choices are endless! New construction in the Hamptons remains a strong and secure investment.

Nicholas DeMarco of DeMarco Development exclaims, “New construction is definitely in high demand right now, with no shortage of building going on in the Hamptons. There is a trend in turnkey development, where the house is complete and conducive to a seamless transition. We also see an increase in modern architecture, revealing a ‘less is more’ approach. Utilizing floor-to-ceiling glass windows/doors, open floor plans, and proper site layout provides harmony from interior to exterior, especially for waterfront projects. As for traditional building, there is a transitional approach, where everything is more clean and crisp allowing the furnishings to layer the interior. High-quality kitchens, finished lower levels, outdoor dining/living spaces, and high-efficiency mechanical equipment are among the most desirable amenities. Green design is also popular, giving purpose to the design/floor plan.” He remarks, “Buyers seek move-in ready homes with zero hassle as they are busy and renovating takes time and energy.” Nicholas states, “At DeMarco Development, we’re expanding our vision further in 2016 with interior design and furnished speculative homes. Clients prefer to invest in tangible assets and high-end development in the Hamptons remains strong.”

Mary Giaquinto of Plum Builders, Inc. believes, “New construction is strong on the East End. Current trends diverge. There is a strong interest in the clean and powerful look of modern especially in interiors. But the market still likes the importance of traditional. All outside amenities including pool spas, pool houses, and landscape lighting are appealing. The expanded and well-finished lower level offers extra sleeping quarters as well as the in-house gym/health center.” She thinks, “Buyers want new, if they can afford it. Generally, new construction is still less expensive than renovation. Renovation typically involves the most expensive rooms in the house, i.e. kitchen and bathrooms, leaving only a small part of the house transformed. Also new construction with good architecture and well-executed interiors creates value that lasts, especially in a good location! Solar is routinely incorporated into new construction in Southampton Town in order to meet their energy code, and has gained in popularity among all homeowners.” Mary observes, “There is a lot of mediocre construction on the East End that frustrates buyers – so the future is bright for new construction!!”

Ed Hasemann of Lipsky Construction, Inc. remarks, “The mild winter has helped new construction move along well, especially South of the Highway. Particularly strong luxury market sales seen in the fourth quarter of 2015 are continuing into 2016. Properly done new construction remains the most sought after. A user-friendly, open, functional, and comfortable floor plan remains the most desirable trend with an open feeling between the interior and exterior spaces. Modern style homes are popular in the waterfront communities, while barn and traditional style homes will always be favored in farming communities. In both styles, clean lines and finishes, smart home technology, and a special location are sought after but not always found. There is not much in the way of Green design, with the exception of solar electric and geothermal heating.” He notes, “New construction provides more flexibility in laying out the ideal use of a particular property and integrating new technology and systems. By contrast, working within existing conditions sometimes is cost prohibitive.” Ed predicts, “There will continue to be a refinement of existing trends as people experiment with new colors, fixtures, hardware, furniture, and other similar design elements.”

Steve Pryzby of Farrell Building Company observes, “New construction is starting to slow as inventory from the building boom remains high. Architecture is moving to a transitional/modern exterior elevation while interiors continue on the modern side. Stucco and LCC roofs are popular on traditional homes. White is the hot color for shingles especially with black windows. Open floor plans and outdoor living spaces featuring covered porches, outdoor fireplaces, and pergolas are fashionable. Foldaway ‘Nano’ doors opening onto the back patio are extremely popular. Due to required energy codes, most houses constructed in the Hamptons contain many Green initiatives including solar panels, geothermal HVAC systems, LED lighting, and spray foam insulation, making them some of the most energy efficient in the country.” He notes, “Most people prefer new construction vs. renovation as construction quality has improved drastically, while renovation is more restrictive.” Steve expects, “New construction will continue to grow, but at a slower rate than the past two years. Prices will stabilize and even decrease, as inventory is still plentiful.”