Real Estate Redux – HRES Speaks with Debra Scott

Debra Scott has lived on the South Fork on and off since her first summer here in the 1970s, when she was an au pair. She later worked as a waitress at the original Bobby Van’s when it was where World Pie is now, and of course, served all the literary lions of the day. She went on to her own successful writing career, often penning pieces about life on the East End. After working in real estate here in the ‘90s, she recently returned to the fold. “I am fortunate to know the beauty of the area so intimately, and privileged to know so many of the fascinating and accomplished people who call the Hamptons home.”

What’s your favorite part of a Hamptons’ house?
The South Fork is catching up with the Southwest and focusing on outdoor living where decks and patios are furnished with everything from sofas and dining tables to kitchens and fireplaces. Since we spend so much time indoors in winter it’s the ultimate luxury to spread outside in summer.

Favorite winter hangouts?
Baron’s Cove is my new go-to place. Their Happy Hour is the best deal around, and the bar food is off the charts. The sofas in front of the fire at The Living Room are ideal for a morning coffee meeting, and I’m a sucker for the mind-boggling shaved cauliflower at the Topping Rose House.

Favorite Hamptons’ architecture?
I love what I call “Modern Historic,” authentic antique houses that maintain much of their exterior integrity while encompassing up-to-date ceiling height and transparencies for interiors flooded with light. It’s a wonderful alternative to tear downs.

Favorite Pastime?
Cooking. It’s more a passion than a pastime. It’s an outlet for my creativity and a festive way to gather family and friends.

Real estate background?
This is my third incarnation in real estate—first in Manhattan at Whitbread Nolan followed by working for Vicky Bagley in D.C. then for Braverman Newbold Brennan in Sag Harbor in the ‘90s, before they were bought by Sotheby’s. Writing a real estate column for the East Hampton Star reawakened my interest.

Why have you returned to real estate?  
The balance of right brain-left brain appeals to me. An agent needs to see the potential of a property, and be able to point out how it can be accomplished. As an interior design aficionado – I’d rather buy a vintage sconce than a new pair of shoes – I enjoy sharing my vision with clients.

Favorite artist?
Fairfield Porter’s familiar local landscapes make you feel like you’ve come home.