T
he Hamptons' Real Estate Tales: A Collection of Intriguing Stories

    As a seasoned journalist, I've had the privilege of delving into the fascinating world of Hamptons real estate. Over the years, I've encountered numerous tales that have left an indelible mark on my memory.

    Sagaponack's Secret

    In the lead-up to the 2008 downturn, one Wall Street mogul made a savvy investment in Sagaponack. He purchased a 15-acre farm, which included a quaint farmhouse and a sprawling mansion built by his demanding wife. The property was a marvel of opulence, with a long driveway that wound its way past the old farmhouse to the grand estate.

    However, things took an unexpected turn when the mogul encountered two strangers sitting on the front porch of the farmhouse. A heated conversation ensued, with both parties claiming ownership of the property. It turned out that the wife had secretly sold the farmhouse, leaving her husband in a state of bewilderment.

    High Society's Hidden Clauses

    Billy Joel once shared with me his experience purchasing a mansion on Further Lane in East Hampton from a member of New York's high society. The deed came with an archaic restriction: the property couldn't be sold to "Jews, Negroes or entertainers." Rather than challenge the clause, Joel had a well-connected friend buy and resell the property, effectively circumventing the restriction.

    Westhampton Beach's Finger of Disdain

    In Westhampton Beach, a homeowner built a peculiar window on his second floor, resembling a hand with four short fingers and one long middle finger. The gesture was a clear jab at his neighbor, who had complained about the new construction blocking their ocean view.

    Allan Schneider: A Real Estate Legend

    Between 1975 and 1991, Allan Schneider reigned as the leading figure in Hamptons real estate. His family crest adorned his suit jackets, symbolizing his English heritage. I once asked him to share an interesting story about real estate, and he regaled me with a tale of a small split-level home on Mitchell Lane that he had listed for $45,000 but was ultimately sold for the owner's desired price of $200,000.

    Villa Maria: A Nun's Retreat

    The sprawling waterfront mansion in Water Mill, Villa Maria, once served as a tranquil retreat for nuns. The Mother Superior took me on a tour of the property, which included the adjacent triangle where the town windmill now stands. The original owner, Irene Coleman, was a star of stage and screen who hosted wild parties at the estate.

    A Personal Story: A Killing in Hither Hills

    I once purchased a lot on Grant Avenue in Hither Hills with an ocean view and exclusive rights to half a mile of beach across Old Montauk Highway. I bought it for $2,500 in 1968 and sold it three years later for $5,000 – a tidy profit. Recently, the property sold for a staggering $1.3 million.

    Sagaponack's Barn Debate

    At a Southampton hearing, a man defended his old barn in Sagaponack, which was built too close to the property line but had been grandfathered in due to zoning laws. However, he had added a bow window that protruded 2 inches onto the neighbor's land, sparking a heated debate about the property's use as a guest house. The board postponed their decision, much to the frustration of both parties involved.

    These stories offer a glimpse into the complex and often humorous world of Hamptons real estate. From secret sales to hidden clauses, each tale reveals the unique character of this exclusive community.