THE CONDO MARKET IN PALM BEACH AGENTS GIVE THE 411 ON WHAT IS AVAILABLE AND HOW FAST UNITS MOVE
BETHENNY FRANKEL SELLS HAMPTONS HOME PLUS MORE FROM NEWS ON THE EAST END REAL ESTATE SCENE
REAL ESTATE ROUNDTABLE
With several new condominium projects underway in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, we were curious about sales in both new developments and in prestitigous high-rises. Agents in the know explain.
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REALITY STAR’S HOUSE IN CONTRACT
Former Real Housewife Bethenny Frankel has found a buyer for her muchloved, landlocked home in Bridgehampton which she decided to sell after buying a waterfront property in the Hamptons.
BEHIND THE HEDGES COVER STORY
Bodenchak Design & Build’s latest project along the ocean on Napeague is redefining coastal modern luxury. Dawn Bodenchak, who is also one of the top producers at Sotheby’s International Realty, gives a sneak peek at this $20 million masterpiece.
MEANWHILE IN PALM BEACH
The season is coming to an end, but the real estate market in South Florida is still hot. An all-cash $73 million sale just took place last week, while a condo at The Bristol sold for double its price 5 years ago.
EDITOR IN CHIEF, BEHIND THE HEDGES
Taylor K. Vecsey • tvecsey@danspapers.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Marcos Ramos • mramos@schnepsmedia.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES
LONG ISLAND DIVISION
Stephanie Bitis • sbitis@danspapers.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF, DAN’S PAPERS
Timothy Bolger • tbolger@danspapers.com
PRESIDENT AND COPUBLISHER
Victoria Schneps • vschneps@danspapers.com
CEO AND COPUBLISHER
Joshua Schneps • jschneps@danspapers.com
EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Catherine Ellams • cellams@danspapers.com
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ROUNDTABLE REAL ESTATE
The 411 on the Condo Market in and Around Palm Beach
How is the condo market in the Palm Beach area these days? Great for retirees, people who want a pied-à-terre in South Florida or the buyer with a penchant for amenity-filled living without the headache of maintenance that a house brings, a luxurious condo has a lot to offer. With several new condominium projects underway in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, we were curious about the sales in both new developments and in prestigious high-rises. What are some of the issues coming up, and how are agents navigating them?
Sonja Stevens SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
PALM BEACH
These days, the condo market in Palm Beach and West Palm Beach seems to be slow, as so many of the older buildings have imposed high fees to conform with new standards for repairs and reserve funds that must be in place by law. The South Florida condominium market has always been a haven for “snowbirds”, and it is an easy way to be able to just lock the doors behind you, with no headaches, as opposed to a house, with all the maintenance and the worry about hurricanes in the off season. New development projects seem to be considerably more active and vibrant than what is selling in the older condominium buildings. West Palm Beach’s premier new developments are South Flagler House, Olara, Forte, Mr. C’s, Shorecrest, and Avenir. My clients have purchased in these buildings, and all for different reasons. Some are moving their family and businesses to West Palm Beach, some just wanted an extra pied-a-terre to be used for out-of-town family visits, and a few are buying with an eye towards retirement and downsizing. Of these different categories, all are purchasing in these buildings because of the superb amenities, restaurants, Epicurean Shops, and the fact they are brand new. It is all about being in a resort destination with fabulous weather, coupled with easy access to beaches, entertainment, shopping, and now a growing class A business center. Knowing your clients’ needs and delivering personalized service are the keys to defining yourself and creating your own competitive edge in this highly competitive real estate market.
NEW DEVELOPMENT SALES EXECUTIVE GLASS HOUSE BOCA RATON
The new development luxury condo market in Palm Beach County is performing very well these days, and it is arguably outperforming Broward and Miami.
The condo market in Palm Beach County is not immune to the current uncertainty in the market on a global level, but the fundamentals here are still solid. So, the slowerthan-usual selling season we are experiencing this year is viewed more as a blip on the screen than a market issue, and it is pre senting an opportunity to buyers who can see beyond the next few months. Unlike the counties south of us, inventory levels are not an issue. On the contrary, in places like Boca Raton, the inventory of new condos downtown is as low as it has ever been. So, the main issue is the state of the global market, which should stabilize in the coming months.
Dovi Ettedgui
THE CORCORAN GROUP PALM BEACH
The condo market in the Palm Beach area is thriving, driven by the growing interest in luxury living–with notable developments like Glass House and ALINA, to name a few. In East Boca, boutique luxury buildings like Glass House are seeing strong pre-construction sales, while Alina has achieved an impressive sell-out percentage since its completion. Both buildings offer buyers peace of mind, free from concerns like assessments or potential concrete restoration. The superior construction and exceptional service at these prop erties are key selling points. As for trends in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, both new developments and prestigious high-rises are faring well. The market for new developments is strong, with buyers attracted to the modern amenities, privacy, and effortless living. Established high-rises remain highly sought after due to their desirable locations and appeal. When it comes to navigating the opportunities and challenges of these new developments, one key consideration is finding the balance between luxury and functionality. Buyers are increasingly interested in properties that offer not only top-tier amenities but also a high level of convenience and lifestyle improvements. To help my clients make informed decisions, I prioritize understanding their unique needs and guiding them toward properties that complement their vision and lifestyle, ensuring a smooth and informed buying experience.
Katia Reisler
DOUGLAS ELLIMAN
The condo market in the Palm Beach area remains exceptionally strong, fueled by buyers seeking more than just a residence — they’re seeking a lifestyle. Whether it’s retirees, seasonal residents, or buyers looking for a second home, there’s a clear desire for elevated, turnkey living that feels like a vacation woven into daily life. Developments in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton — including Mr. C Residences, ALINA, and The RitzCarlton Residences — reflect this shift with thoughtfully curated amenities, in-building dining, wellness experiences, and elevated retail concepts. Buyers are gravitating toward properties that offer the feel of a private club: spa-like spaces, concierge services, and vibrant social settings. Sales activity remains strong in both new developments and prestigious high-rises, particularly those aligned with global brands and lifestyle-driven design. Agents are meeting this demand with elevated marketing — immersive video, curated presentations, and storytelling that brings each property to life, especially for international and remote buyers. Today’s condo buyer expects more than beauty — they want effortless access to experiences that enhance how they live, work, and recharge. In today’s market, luxury is defined by how effortlessly a space enhances your everyday life — and the Palm Beach condo lifestyle delivers that with precision and style.
Kathy Koch Pitlake
DOUGLAS ELLIMAN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SALES
ALINA RESIDENCES
BOCA RATON
The Palm Beach County condo market has never been stronger. Luxury buyers continue to be attracted to it and look for new construction. There continues to be an influx of buyers from all over the coun try, as well as local residents moving from single-family homes into condominiums. A number of full-time South Floridians have made ALINA Residences their home. Many of our Phase 1 residents, just delivered in April 2021, have purchased a second condo in Phase 2. We are currently more than 80% sold. Because there is so much new construction activity in the luxury condo market, consumers are shopping longer and searching in a wider geographical area. The development of branded properties has brought attention to some new, previously overlooked neighborhoods, as luxury buyers look for brand names that they recognize. The savvy ones also look at development teams with a history of delivering successful projects, and location has always been the number one rule in real estate. Consumers are well educated and have seen the bad press regarding assessments on older condos, and higher insurance premiums. Fortunately, ALINA Residences has brand-new, move-in-ready homes, so buyers can take possession of their sparkling condo immediately.
Brian Fairweather THE AGENCY, MANAGING DIRECTOR PALM BEACH
The South Florida condo mar ket has faced challenges re cently due to insurance issues and many buildings nearing 50 years old. While older proper ties still offer opportunities, ris ing HOA dues and assessments have led some owners to sell, especially after regulatory changes following the 2021 Surfside building col lapse. Despite these hurdles, new developments along the South Florida corridor offer promising opportunities. These modern buildings, free from the issues of assessments and restorations, appeal to both full-time and part-time residents. Full-time buy ers enjoy luxury amenities and proximity to downtown’s shops and nightlife, while part-time residents appreciate low-main tenance living without yard work. The influx of new projects, many nearing completion or just beginning, has sparked healthy competition among developers. This benefits buyers, as each new building aims to surpass the last in quality and innovation. A growing trend is the inclusion of health and wellness ameni ties, such as cold plunges, spas, yoga studios, and gyms, catering to the increasing demand for lifestyle-focused features. Overall, the South Florida condo market offers something for everyone. With so many options available, working with a knowledgeable real estate professional is key to finding a property that fits your needs and preferences.
Bodenchak Design & Build Elevates Hamptons Luxury with Oceanfront Masterpiece
Bodenchak Design & Build’s project along the ocean on Napeague will finish up this summer. The asking price is $20 million. Renderings from Rise Media
Bodenchak Design & Build, marrying modern sophistication and the sandy beach’s natural beauty.
Slated for completion over the summer of 2025, Dawn Bodenchak’s latest project offers an opportunity for someone looking for an exclusive location and a one-of-a-kind retreat.
Boasting 120 feet of private beach frontage, a
mizes the ocean views, as do expansive floor-toceiling walls of glass, an open-concept great room, anchored by a chef’s kitchen with premium appli ances, elegant stone finishes and seamless indooroutdoor transitions.
Originally offered at $19 million pre-construc tion, Bodenchak broke ground at 2128 Montauk Highway in late summer of 2023. The price has since been adjusted to $20 million to reflect the enhanced, high-end interior design.
Bodenchak has engaged Katie White of Katie White Interiors, a Bridgehampton-based firm, to take the design to the next level. “We picked finishes that feel both beachy and sophisticated,” she says.
There are five bedrooms, all en suites, including the primary suite, a true retreat all its own. It features a private, ocean-view terrace with an ocean-facing hot tub, and a spa-like bath. A junior primary suite can be found on the first floor, providing direct beach access.
Right off the family room and bar area, the oceanfront gunite pool features a swim current and retractable cover, surrounded by mahogany decking.
The state-of-the-art residence features in the home include smart home technology, Lutron lighting, Sonos sound, high-speed WiFi and 9 kilowatts of solar power for eco-conscious energy efficiency.
A long private driveway cuts through an otherwise untouched natural landscape, which only further enhances the sense of privacy.
Because of its location on Napeague, along a coveted stretch that blends seclusion and accessibility, the property is also a short drive to both Amagansett and Montauk’s hamlet centers.
“From the front of the house, you have stunning bay views, while the back opens up to an unobstructed oceanfront panorama. It’s the best of both worlds — close to the vibrant energy of Montauk and Amagansett for dining, shopping, and nightlife, yet set within a private oceanfront oasis,” Bodenchak explains.
Certainly, Bodenchak’s decades of experience in luxury real estate development mean she knows exactly what Hamptons buyers want in a home.
“Hamptons investors are smart,” Bodenchak explains. “They want coveted properties that will increase in value over time. With this estate, we’re delivering an unparalleled combination of location, craftsmanship, and design.”
At $20 million, 2128 Montauk Highway is more than just a home — it’s a masterpiece of design, a legacy property, and an investment in the future of
oceanfront living. This estate represents the pinnacle of Hamptons luxury, offering a unique blend of seclusion, sophistication, and stunning natural beauty.
PARTNER CONTENT
Dawn Bodenchak of Bodenchak Design & Build is also one of the top producers at Sotheby’s International Realty.
Lena Yaremenko
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Bethenny Frankel Finds a Buyer for Her Bridgehampton Home
By Taylor K. Vecsey
Bethenny Frankel has found a buyer for her longtime Bridgehampton house.
The Skinnygirl mogul turned beauty influencer, who just launched The List, is shredding her first piece of Hamptons real estate, after moving into a waterfront home in Southampton last year.
While the Bridgehampton home on Lumber Lane, along with an adjacent parcel she also owns,
is under contract, all involved in the deal are mum on the details.
Douglas Elliman agents Noble Black and Erica Grossman have been exclusively representing the dual listing since September 2024, when it went on the market for $5,995,000. Douglas Elliman did not return a request for comment.
The price dropped for the 0.76-acre property, which overlooks a 50-acre nature preserve, down to $5.295 million in December. Online records show it went into contract in February.
The main house offers 2,500 square feet of space with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Frankel recently gave the chef’s kitchen a makeover with custom millwork, high-end finishes and applianc es. The living room “seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living spaces,” and the dining area looks out onto the bluestone patio, gardens, heated gunite pool and spa, “connecting to the living room with a fireplace,” according to the listing.
The pool house features a lounge area and a half-bathroom.
Udo Salter/PMC/PMC
Bethenny Frankel’s house in Bridgehampton went into contract recently. Rise Media
Bethenny Frankel at FX’s Feud: Capote Vs. Swans at MOMA on Jan. 23, 2024 in New York.
The pool house, which fans of the Real Housewives of New York City may remember she used to have set up as a bar, offers a half-bathroom. The natural food chef, of course, also installed a full outdoor kitchen.
A guest cottage offers an additional 600 square feet of space, complete with high-end finishes, including a kitchen, living room, a washer/dryer, a bed and bathroom, as well as its only heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. There is also an attached garage.
The reality star turned beauty influencer purchased the main lot in 2013 for $2 million, along with an adjacent 0.19-acre lot for $650,000. It was one of her first major purchases after she sold Skinnygirl Cocktails to Fortune Brands’ Beam Global in 2011 for an estimated $100 million.
Amid what ended up being a 10-year divorce from her husband and a battle over their New York City apartment, her Hamptons house was shown throughout Frankel’s second stint on the Real Housewives and heavily featured Skinnygirl red décor — though much of that seems to have been toned down in the latest renovation.
Bethenny Frankel’s Love of Real Estate
During that time, she discovered a knack for buying and selling real estate.
Frankel also purchased “Morning Glory,” a historic house on Montauk Highway in Bridgehampton, at the end of 2017 for just over $2 million.
She relisted it the following year for $2.995 million and eventually sold it in 2020 for $2.28 million. In 2018, her real estate endeavors were even turned into a Bravo show, Bethenny and Fredrik, in which she teamed up with Fredrik Eklund of Million Dollar Listing fame.
Since then she has bought and sold and then bought again in Manhattan but moved full-time to Greenwich, Connecticut.
Behind The Hedges exclusively revealed at the start of Memorial Day weekend 2024 that the former reality star had purchased a new home on Shinnecock Bay. She paid $5.45 million for the shingled gambrel-style house in October 2023, and renovated it before moving in.
Throughout the summer, she shared glimpses of the house, which features 3,500 square feet of living space across three levels with four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The primary suite boasts a private deck that walks out to the pool area. A private pathway leads to the beach, where Frankel could often be found walking this summer.
Rise Media
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Meanwhile... in Palm Beach
$73M All-Cash Closing is the Second-Highest Deal of the Year on Palm Beach Island
By Taylor K. Vecsey
Douglas Elliman agent Jack Rooney closed a $73 million sale, the second-highest deal of the year on Palm Beach Island. The all-cash transaction for the home with di rect ocean views occurred quietly off-market.
“High-end clients are still flocking to the luxury Palm Beach market from Texas, California and the northeast,” Rooney tells Behind The Hedges phisticated clients want the ability to walk right in with their toothbrush and Tumi luggage and be done. The longstanding issue with the Palm Beach Market is a simple as a supply and demand issue. There is tons of demand and not a lot of supply and as far as the island goes they aren’t making any more of it.”.
Year in 2023, represented both the buyer and the seller in the transaction. Rooney did not comment on the buyer.
manse with a columned facade. Elias, who is the co-founder and CEO of Red Ventures, purchased it in 2020 for $37.25 million, though they live in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The 14,000-square-foot house offers eight bedrooms, 11 full bathrooms and four half bathrooms and was designed by Smith & Moore Architects with Marc-Michaels Interior Design.
The nearly three-quarter acre lot also includes a pool, a cabana and gardens.
Sir Peter Wood, an English insurance magnate who, at least at the time, lived next door, built the residence as as sepc house in 2018.
Rooney, who was Douglas Elliman’s Rookie of the
Billionaire Ric Elias and his wife, Brenda, were the sellers of the French Provincial-style stucco
$13 Million Home Lists in West Palm Beach at South Flagler House
A luxurious residence in West Palm Beach’s South Flagler House, a new ultra-luxe condominium developed by Related Ross with architecture by Robert A.M. Stern – his first residential high-rise in South Florida — is asking $13.1 million.
Residence Park 16 North, a three-bedroom, fourbathroom home, is the first luxury condominium designed by Cece Bowman, a veteran of the renowned Kemble Interiors who launched her eponymous firm in 2024.
South Flagler House will offer 108 homes, including penthouses and guest suites, across two limestone-clad buildings, The Park Tower and The Lake Tower, all with the luxurious aesthetic of Pembrooke & Ives. Construction broke ground in April of 2024 and residents are expected to move in by 2027.
Pricing begins at $6 million and ranges up to $73 million. Suzanne Frisbie of The Corcoran Group and Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group is leading sales for South Flagler House.
With two-to five-bedroom options spread
throughout each building’s 28 floors, the towers overlook Palm Beach’s Lake, Palm Beach Island and the Atlantic Ocean. Lifestyle amenities include on-site concierge services “surpassing those of the most exclusive private members’ clubs,” we’re told.
The 4,380-square-foot home at Residence Park 16 North features a modernized Palm Beach style with sophisticated details designed to complement the timeless waterfront locale of South Flagler House, the description says.
“With references to the area’s lush and verdant gardens and soft ocean blues, the apartment also features trellis details, pagoda-shaped door openings, light and modern area rugs, and colorful textured walls, encompassing a distinct – yet fresh –Palm Beach design sensibility,” it continues.
South Flagler House amenities will include a 25-meter lap pool with a sun shelf, a hot tub, poolside cabanas and men’s and women’s spas with vitality pools, ice plunges, steam and saunas, changing and locker rooms. There are also spa treatment rooms, a salon and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
For the sports enthusiasts, there is a pickleball court and lounge, a pilates studio, a golf simulator lounge, outdoor recreation lawns, a yoga studio and a private training studio.
Entertaining will also be a breeze with various indoor and outdoor lounges, a lounge with a catering kitchen, a commercial kitchen, private dining rooms and an outdoor dining patio. A wine-tasting room with wine storage lockers will be available.
There is even a dedicated space for children planned with an indoor playroom, a children’s lounge with a kitchenette, a craft room and an outdoor butterfly garden.
The biggest trade of the year reportedly belongs to the sale of two oceanfront lots that were last asking $177.8 million. Owned by William Lauder, the billionaire heir to the Estée Lauder fortune, the 2.8-acre property was originally listed at $200 million. The Wall Street Journal reported the property was in contract in February. If the deal closes above $170 million, it would set a record for Palm Beach.
Condo at The Bristol Sells for More than Double in 5 Years
A unit in The Bristol in West Palm Beach sold for $14.9 million, just five years after it sold for $6.9 million..
The corner-residence condo is located at 1100 S Flagler Dr #1401, which boasts direct ocean and Intracoastal Waterway views.
Samantha Curry of Douglas Elliman represented the seller in the latest transaction, and Antoinette Vigilante with Sotheby’s International Realty brought the buyer.
Public records show the buyer is coal heir John W. Rich Jr.
The 4,358-square-foot condo provides three bedrooms and five bathrooms, as well as an office and a spacious wraparound terrace. From the living room and dining area, the office and primary suite, there are spectacular direct ocean and Intracoastal views through 11-foot sliders/windows.
Impressive oversized (24-by-36-inch) large format Dolomiti marble can be found throughout. The condo also features motorized shades, and custom closets.
Inside the living area in the condo Shawn Hood Media
A rendering of South Flagler House Related Ross
The Berkeley offers unobstructed waterfront views from every residence, unmatched amenities, and curated experiences, seamlessly blending the elegance and sophistication of the finest residences in Europe and America.
Residents will enjoy a modern lifestyle combining urban sophistication with walkability to world-class arts, entertainment, shopping and dining. Your new home offers effortless access in and out of downtown West Palm Beach.
