These 10 strategies will set you apart in the competitive Hamptons rental market and help ensure your property is in demand in 2025. By combining a mix of practical updates, high-end amenities, and a strategic partnership with a dedicated broker, you'll be well-positioned for success.
1. High-Quality Photography
- Why: In 2025, renters are digital-first, meaning they often make decisions based on photos alone. High-quality photography, showcasing the home’s best features, is non-negotiable.
- How: Hire a professional photographer who specializes in real estate and knows how to capture both the interiors and exteriors. Include wide-angle shots, drone footage (if applicable), and well-lit twilight photos to make the property look inviting both during the day and night. Make sure to highlight unique selling points, like an impressive foyer, chef’s kitchen, or spa-like bathroom.
2. Invest in Smart Home Technology
- Why: Luxury renters expect convenience and control. Smart technology enhances comfort and security, offering a seamless living experience.
- How: Install smart thermostats (like Nest), lighting systems, smart locks, security cameras, and home assistants (Alexa, Google Home) that guests can easily control via their phones. Mention these features in your listing to appeal to tech-savvy renters who appreciate the ease of a smart home.
3. Keep It Clean and Well-Maintained
- Why: Cleanliness is a major priority for renters, especially in a high-end market. A pristine, well-maintained home is crucial to attracting the right tenants.
- How: Ensure your home is professionally cleaned during the showing season. This includes not only regular cleaning but also detailing things like windows, baseboards, and the outdoor areas. Hire a cleaning service that specializes in luxury properties and schedule regular maintenance for things like HVAC systems, plumbing, and landscaping to avoid any issues.
4. Make the Property Easy to Access
- Why: Potential tenants expect convenience and speed when it comes to their search for a Hamptons summer rental. The easier it is for them to access the property, the more likely you are to book tenants.
- How: Make sure that, if it is a real estate agent showing your home, they have a key and alarm code to access the property. It is a very awkward situation for the agent and the potential tenant to show up at a property and not gain access. You can say goodbye to that renter!
5. Maximize Curb Appeal
- Why: First impressions are everything. A beautifully manicured exterior can make all the difference in piquing interest.
- How: Ensure your lawn and garden are in top condition. Trim bushes, weed flower beds, and maintain the driveway and walkway. Adding stylish outdoor lighting, a fresh coat of paint on the front door, and a welcoming doormat or seating area can all enhance curb appeal. Consider seasonal touches like planters or arrangements of flowers that reflect the time of year. If it a wintertime showing and there is snow on the ground make a path is cleared.
6. Heat the Pool
- Why: The Hamptons' rental market thrives in the summer, and renters expect a pool that’s usable no matter the weather.
- How: Install a high-quality pool heating system, like solar or gas heating, to ensure the pool is comfortable even during cooler evenings or early/late summer months. Make sure the pool is always well-maintained and clean, as nothing will turn renters off faster than a neglected pool.
7. Offer Flexible Rental Periods
- Why: Flexibility is key in 2025, as renters have varying needs—some want to stay for a week, while others prefer a season-long lease.
- How: Offer a range of rental options, from weekly stays to full seasonal rentals. Consider offering flexibility on the start and end dates for the right renters, as this can help secure longer-term guests.
8. Be a Squeaky Wheel with Your Agents
- Why: In a competitive rental market like the Hamptons, persistence pays off. Ensuring your agents are actively marketing your property will help you get noticed by the right audience.
- How: Regularly check in with your real estate agent to ensure they are marketing your property effectively. Provide them with updated photos, property details, and any seasonal promotions. A proactive attitude and open communication can help you get your property rented quickly and at the right price.
9. Design Spectacular Outdoor Spaces
- Why: The Hamptons are known for luxurious outdoor living. A spectacular outdoor space can be the deal-maker for many high-end renters.
- How: Create an inviting outdoor oasis with features like a heated pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, and ample seating areas for dining and relaxing. Make sure there are areas for shade and sun, along with lighting for evening enjoyment. Renters are looking for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience, so invest in quality furniture, cozy throw blankets, and stylish décor.
10. Do an Exclusive Rental with a Hard-Working Broker (MOST IMPORTANT)
- Why: A dedicated, experienced broker (like Bill Williams at Compass East Hampton) with strong local connections can help you secure high-quality tenants more effectively than relying on listings alone.
- How: Partner with an experienced, hard-working broker who has a proven track record in luxury rentals. By offering exclusivity to one broker, they will have a vested interest in finding the right tenant for your property quickly and at the best price. Brokers with deep knowledge of the market can also help you adjust your pricing and terms based on current demand and competition. This strategy can often lead to higher-end, vetted tenants and faster bookings. Doing an exclusive rental will double your chances of landing a successful tenant and lease.
