Renting in the Hamptons can be a daunting task, so we've taken the guess work out of the process for you. Here are the top 10 things you need to consider before plunking down cash on the East End. Please let us know your thoughts...
10. Know your hood.
Do you crave the quaint Americana that is Sag Harbor, or do you prefer the laidback vibe of Amagansett? Whether you yearn for the pristine beaches of East Hampton or you like the hipster scene in Montauk, be sure to research exactly where you are renting. All of the different towns in the Hamptons have distinct personalities, so it's important to find a place that vibes with you.
9. Respect the budget.
Everyone has a budget, and our advice is simple: stick to it. If this is a summer rental, there's no point in blowing your finances on 3 months of the year. It's easy to be seduced by a swanky (and ridiculously expensive) waterfront house, but fight the urge if it's not in your financial plan.
8. Who pays what?
When renting in the Hamptons, the landlord pays the broker fee. Let's keep it real, that cost is not so discreetly built into your lease. But if it makes you sleep better at night thinking that you're getting a freebie, go for it!
7. Who's (legally) invited?
With different town boards cracking down on share houses, you better make sure how many people can legally reside in the rental. Otherwise, you might find your lease voided and be on a Jitney headed back to the city.
6. Is Fido welcome?
Let's not forget about our four-legged friends. If you choose to conceal your pet, don't be surprised if your landlord slaps you with a heavy fine when little Fluffy scratches up the couch. Yes, this happened to one of our writers.
5. Dive in.
If you are a pool person, consider whether the pool is heated. No matter how much the temperature heats up, chilly water sucks.
4. The beach rules.
Do you want to go to the village beaches? No matter where you rent (even if you are spending a small fortune), a village beach pass might take divine intervention. Unless you own, they are extremely difficult to get. People have taken to putting fake permits on their cars. Be warned, those fines aren't cheap.
3. Sign, sealed, and delivered on the East End.
If you're renting in a hamlet (hello, Wainscott!), you need to get a box at the post office. Every situation is different, but most rentals require you to officially register with the US post office.
2. Keep it clean!
Trash pick up is not covered by taxes in most areas. Be sure to schedule maintenance with a private contractor. Or, you could take the DIY route and discard your rubbish at the dump, otherwise known as that weird area between Sag Harbor and Bridgehampton.
1. Put it on lockdown.
A good portion of the rental market operates on a word-of-mouth basis. Translation: if you find something you like, continue to renew it.
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