May 13, 2009

Sustaining the Sustainable Sustainer in Sustainment...

Posted to Doug McCullough, The Broker's View, The Latest on Rentals, The Latest on Sales

No doubt you’re hearing one of these buzz words used several different ways: sustainable communities, sustaining industries, sustainment in agriculture, and you, the eventual sustainer. What does it mean to any of us, especially as it pertains to where we live or, for that matter, where we play?

Well, my humble and interpretive perspective tells me it relates to the quality of life in any community and, whether or not all the factors making up that community (economic, social and environmental) are allowing us to lead healthy, meaningful, and balanced lives.

If one of the myriad aspects of sustainability focuses on the ecological maintenance of the earth and its systems, then let’s consider the Hamptons as a “sustain-ably” viable option to live work and/or play.

Geographically, the Hamptons is comprised of wetlands, wild open fields, dense wooded areas, and of course, beautiful beaches. All biologically different, yet commonly possessing the essence of “sustainability,” namely, and in its broadest sense, the conservation and the natural promotion of plant and animal life.

Sustainability is a hot topic and certainly a politically correct movement; the merits of which far exceed my perspective and boundaries of this blog. One thing I can comfortably write about, is that there is no escaping the numerous conservation movements in the Hamptons, via efforts of both the Peconic Land Trust and the Group for the East End. They exist to embrace a conservation ethic which naturally promotes sustainability out here on the East end.

Whether you choose to live, work or play here, whether you’re a city person, a local, a native, a weekender, or part of the elite, the Hamptons has full or part-time homes, suitable for the sustainable minded renter or owner. Summer is quickly approaching, inventory is plentiful and opportunities abound. Call me to set up an appointment to privately view any one of the great properties featured in East Hampton, Springs or South of the Highway this season, or, for all four seasons.

Until then WDM…….

Posted By: Doug McCullough


Bookmark or Share


March 02, 2009

FAITH, HOPE, and... CLARITY

Posted to Doug McCullough, The Broker's View, The Latest on Sales

I read last week that the National Association of REALTORS® said sales of existing homes fell approximately 5%; the weakest showing since July 1997.

We’ve seen the median sales price plunge to approximately $170,000, down just about 15% from almost $200,000 a year earlier. It’s been the lowest price since March 2003 and the second largest drop on record, according to everything we read and hear lately.

Foreclosures are dominating the market - especially in distressed states like Florida, Arizona, Nevada and California. The REALTORS® group is estimating that about 45% of sales nationwide are foreclosures or other distressed property sales.

If you’re a glass is half full kind of person, that’s great news for buyers, who are paying the most affordable prices in years.

If we’re filling the glass completely, the combination of low interest rates and the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit, (tucked somewhere in the zillion page economic stimulus plan signed by President Barack Obama this month), makes for a killer combination.

OK, great…we’re on our way:

We have FAITH that the market will feel the boost with the tax credit - maybe by late spring or early summer.

We have HOPE that the government will resuscitate the housing market.

Now all we need is a lot more CLARITY on how the rest of the stimulus plan will get us out of this economic slump!

And, speaking of CLARITY, one thing I am crystal clear on is the property in East Hampton on Clamshell. There’s never been a better time to indulge your weakness for the finer things in life. Prepare to renew your FAITH in property investments and know that HOPE will definitely help float your kayak on Hands Creek, directly accessible from the backyard of this incredible home! See photos on my listing and shop for your swim trunks!

Until next time…WDM

Posted By: Doug McCullough


Bookmark or Share