Brokers Go Green...Price Trends

Southampton - A pioneer in the Green Building movement, Cathy Bedard reigns proudly as the East End's first certified Eco-Broker at The Corcoran Group. This seasoned real estate professional, who specializes in marketing and advocating Green Building practices and alternative power sources, understands both the impact and benefits to homeowners when issues like energy efficiency, comfort, health and safety are addressed.

 

How long have you been involved in the real estate business in the Hamptons?

 

Cathy Bedard: I have been in the real estate business since 2005 when I became the Hamptons first certified Eco-Broker.

 

Some people feel that the Golden Age of real estate in the Hamptons has come and gone. How do you feel?

 

CB: That all depends on how you define 'The Golden Age' ! I think Real Estate in the Hamptons will always remain 'golden.' What I believe has come and gone are the days of easy borrowing and living beyond your means.

 

Looking at the profile of the local industry as a whole, what changes would you predict for the future?

 

CB: Our industry will be changed radically by technology in the next few years. To keep up to date and current a broker will have to become very tech savvy. Green Building will also become the norm in the not too distant future.

 

How do you feel about the fact there is no MLS (multiple listing service) in the Hamptons market?

 

CB: I have mixed feelings about the MLS issue. At the end of the day if it helps our clients than we should use it.

 

What price trends do you see for 2010?

 

CB: I believe the overall U.S. price trend will be to drop a bit more through the first half of this year before a rebound. However I do think we have seen the bottom for the Hamptons. Our 2010 summer rental season is starting and it helps to carry those who may have had to lower their prices.

 

What is your prediction for the 2010 rental season?

 

CB: We may have lost some monetary value on our Hamptons properties over the last few years but we haven't lost any beauty and allure to spend the summer here. Our summer rental business will be great.

 

Any final thoughts...?

 

CB: I would love to share my monthly newsletter The Greenhampton Report with the Hamptons.com readers.