The village of Sands Point is one of the most sought-after locales within the entirety of New York State, as well as one of the more prominent luxury real estate destinations in the Northeast. Sands Point real estate is large, luxurious, and optimized for those seeking a comfortable respite in a charming, all-residential area of Long Island. Before buying in this upscale North Shore neighborhood, here are some important things to know.
1. Sands Point is a small but affluent village
Sands Point has a small, affluent, and generally educated population of homeowners that enjoy modern luxury at a comfortable distance from nearby big cities such as New York. As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Sands Point had just over 2,700 residents split among fewer than 1,000 housing units. This implies a relatively small household size given the large and luxurious real estate available in Sands Point.
2. Sands Point is bordered by water on three sides
Waterfront property is one of the many attractive features that draw new residents and homeowners to Long Island. Located on the island’s North coast in the historic North Shore region, Sands Point sits right on the water, with a sprawling coastline on the north, east, and west sides of the village. Here you can find historic landmarks such as the over 200-year-old Sands Point Lighthouse. Sands Point has some amazing waterfront properties overlooking the Atlantic waters of Long Island Sound. At the southern border of Sands Point are the lovely settlements known as Manorhaven, Port Washington, and Port Washington North. With its location at the edge of a rugged peninsula with few structures other than home residences, Sands Point is a quiet and secluded area with an absolute minimum of through-traffic or tourism.
3. Sands Point is almost completely residential
While Sands Point is one of the most beautiful and luxurious places in which one could live, the village is not a commercial or recreational hub. All of the zoning in Sands Point is residential, as you can see in the “Permitted uses” section of the village’s code. There are simply no commercial or industrial areas within Sands Point. While this doesn’t make for much of a nightlife, the residential-only zoning is one of the major selling points. Sands Point has no noise or pollution from factories or businesses, and there are no garish strip malls or fast food eateries to tarnish the luxurious splendor of this village. There are, however, functional community spaces such as schools, houses of worship, and some fantastic golf clubs. There is also the historic Sands Point Preserve, a magnificent castle estate that stands as a monument to the village’s affluent history. Overall, the scenery of Sands Point is a wonderful complement to its breathtaking homes. Homeowners in Sands Point enjoy a quiet, comfortable lifestyle away from the bustle of neighboring areas.
There are also no duplexes or apartment complexes in Sands Point. Not only is all of the zoning residential; it is all dedicated to single-family homes. This adds to the exclusive, upscale feeling of the village and preserves the lavishness of its scenery. There are, however, some great condominiums for those who prefer the simplicity of Sands Point condos to the towering grandeur of its historic mansions. In addition to referencing the local code, you can read more about the unique features of Sands Point on the local government’s website.
Because of its solely residential design, Sands Point is a popular commuter town. Many residents of Sands Point commute to work, especially in nearby New York City. However, this does not equate to bad traffic, as only just over 50% of the population is employed, according to the 2020 U.S. Census.
4. Sands Point has some of NY’s most extravagant estates
You may have heard that Sands Point real estate is known for its fabulous luxury, but newcomers to the area should be prepared to see properties more akin to castles than single-family homes. However, Sands Point does also have more basic luxury options, but extravagance is the general theme in this neighborhood. Single-family homes tend to start a little below one million and go well up into the multi-millions. Condos, which offer luxury in a more compact format, tend to be some of the less expensive properties in Sands Point.
5. Sands Point has many historic properties
Sands Point has been a locale known for luxury and prosperity dating back into the early nineteenth century, although the history of settlement in this area goes back even further. Many properties in and around Sands Point were built and owned by wealthy financiers, industrialists, and tycoons of the Second Industrial Revolution and the years that followed. As such, you will find many great historic properties here. In addition, you will notice the ambient charm and antique beauty that infuses the entire North Shore area.
6. New construction is also available
Many of the early homes in Sands Point were built on large tracts of land far from other properties. While you can still find estates like this today, there is also plenty of new construction and modern property available. Single-family homes are built in a variety of styles, some more modern and others paying homage to the village’s historic character. Most condos are newer, reflecting a simple, chic, modern style. For more on the types of property available in Sands Point, you would be well-advised to consult with a local realtor.
7. Maggie Keats is the best local real estate talent
Maggie Keats is a North Shore realtor who specializes in Sands Point real estate, as well as properties in the surrounding area. Check out Maggie’s guide to Sands Point for additional information and current real estate listings. Maggie’s property listings include new and historic single-family homes as well as Sands Point condos. Maggie’s expertise and personalized attention have allowed her to build a prospering business from word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients, and she will also accept new clients looking to enter the North Shore real estate market. Contact Maggie Keats for the North Shore’s premier home listings.