With a career spanning the East End’s luxury real estate market and numerous multi-million-dollar transactions, Bonita DeWolf brings extensive experience, a collaborative approach, and a deep appreciation for the Hamptons to Brown Harris Stevens. Newly joining BHS’ Sag Harbor office from Christie’s, Bonita began her real estate career with Dayton-Halstead and has built lasting relationships through her commitment to making every transaction a win for all involved. In this week’s Spotlight interview, Bonita shares why she chose BHS for the next chapter of her career, her outlook for the fall market, the philosophy behind her success, and much more.
Why did decide to join BHS for the next chapter in your career?
Choosing BHS for this next chapter in my life came after a very careful consideration of all the agencies on the East End and finding that the alignment of values here was the best. I have been very impressed with Bess F. and how she conducts herself in interviews and in public, and I think leadership like that is important in this ever-changing landscape. The management of the East End offices is incredible, and the marketing and support staff have been truly amazing. The agents are all so professional here and welcoming.
As we enter the Fall Market, what are you expecting in the Hamptons?
I think the fall market will be very vibrant. We have so many buyers waiting on the sidelines for more inventory to come onto the market, and they are ready to buy. I have been busy listing properties now and getting new listings ready to come to market after Labor Day. Most of the photographers I know are incredibly busy right now, which is a good sign. Also, in the fall, everyone knows it is so much easier to get around and into houses, so having your buyers come out after Labor Day can make the process of buying a house so much more enjoyable. The weather is nice, the restaurants are still open and easier to get into, and the pace is just a little less frantic.
Share a hidden secret of the Hamptons that everyone should know about and why you love it.
I am not sure if this is quite a hidden secret, but I love to go hiking on the part of the Hither Hills Trails that starts at the end of Navy Road in Montauk. You walk across a huge lawn with a dock and up into a terrain that often leads to seeing a seal or two sunbathing out on the rocks.
Share something few know about you.
That I graduated with honors in classical literature from UCSC. It’s sort of funny lately with the new movie about The Odyssey to think I read this first in ancient Greek. It actually makes me feel very gratified to know that this material is still so relevant that Hollywood keeps going back to the classics.
Having closed on so many multi-million dollar transactions over your career, what is a secret to success to share with your fellow agents?
I think the most important thing to remember is that even though your first duty is always to the client, the transaction is collaborative. You want to collaborate with your clients, the other agents involved, the attorneys, and everyone involved. This is a very competitive business, but the way to have longevity is to learn to work well with everyone, to treat each person with respect. You want to leave the closing table knowing that all felt it was a win-win. That way you build long-term relationships, not just a short-term, one-time transaction.
What is the most dog friendly spot or area in the Hamptons?
There are so many it would be hard to pick just one! We have one of the largest dog parks in the country right in Springs, and some of the most beautiful ocean beaches in the world. Right now, my favorite walk is to go to Maidstone Park in the morning with my dog Dutch and do a loop or two and then take a swim.
Best dinner spot on the East End to take a client and what are you ordering?
I love going to Bostwick’s on the Harbor. It’s relaxing and energized at the same time, and the sunsets are just awesome. You need to spend a little time there because they don’t take reservations, but that’s good for chatting and getting to know someone a bit better. The fish specials are always great, and I swear they stole my mother’s recipe for baked clams.
Share a photo in your camera roll of your phone that is meaningful to you and why?
I stopped into my office in Sag Harbor the first week I joined with my dog, Dutch. Philip, one of our managers, gave me my first BHS swag gift… in complementary colors!
Connect with Bonita at bdewolf@bhsusa.com.
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