Behind the Dunes News » Page 2 of 4 » Fire Island News & Great South Bay News

Roman shades, vertical blinds, and wooden shutters are just a few of the many types of window coverings people have in their homes. They are extremely popular, but how many people know the proper way to care for them?

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Don’t Be in the Dark When it Comes to Caring for Your Window Shades and Blinds

Posted on July 8, 2026

My Editor’s Window column in the July 3, 2026, edition of Fire Island News opens with the following paragraphs:

Fire Island Pines

Fire Island News Fourth of July Edition Hits Newsstands Ahead of the Big Weekend

Posted on July 1, 2026

Nantucket Window Shadings

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The Blind Spot: A Family Business in Babylon Village

Posted on June 27, 2026

After watching mortgage rates and inventory shift throughout the year, it feels like buyers are entering the June market with much more confidence and decisiveness. Over the past 60 days, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in activity and serious interest from buyers who are ready to move forward rather than wait for the “perfect moment.” Our market is also a bit unique compared to many others. While some areas may see some hesitation from buyers due to rates or limited inventory, our community continues to see strong demand. People are drawn to the lifestyle here, and many buyers seem to feel that if they’ve been dreaming about owning a beach house, now is the time to make it happen.

Behind the Dunes

After seeing mortgage rates and inventory shifts all year, are buyers entering the June market feeling more decisive, or are people still waiting for their “perfect moment?”

Posted on June 24, 2026

This Father’s Day falls on the First Day of Summer. It’s been a few years since that last happened, and because this issue also coincides with the Juneteenth holiday, we pause to consider the convergence of these events. Fathers, because we all have one, and sometimes more. The role they play in our lives charts our course. Juneteenth, because freedom is essential for all of us to thrive. And the first day of summer, because our lives revolve around the sun, as these warmer days are always the brightest and most fleeting.

Behind the Dunes

Juneteenth, Summer Solstice, and Father’s Day are Commemorated in our New Issue of Fire Island News

Posted on June 18, 2026

spectacular estate on secluded Water Island is on the market for the asking price of $6.25million.

Behind the Dunes

Famous Designer’s Water Island Mansion Hits Market

Posted on June 10, 2026

I don’t believe buyers are necessarily choosing one wellness amenity over space, or vice versa, because each community on Fire Island offers its own unique lifestyle and atmosphere. This distinction has always been part of the magic of Fire Island. From one town to the next, the experience can change completely — some buyers are drawn to vibrant restaurant scenes, social energy, and nightlife, while others are seeking an oasis of complete privacy, tranquility, and a true escape from everyday life. What makes Fire Island so special is that buyers can truly find the setting that fits their vision, whatever that may be. It could be prioritizing wellness, luxury, relaxation, location, and amenities, or countless other bucket list items. Whether a buyer is seeking quiet seclusion, coastal charm, or a more lively beach community, it can all be found on Fire Island.

Behind the Dunes

Fire Island has always had a reputation for exclusivity and escape. This June, are buyers prioritizing privacy and wellness amenities over space and traditional luxury features?

Posted on June 7, 2026

For clients still hoping to secure Fire Island properties ahead of peak summer, what opportunities remain realistic at this point? Are we primarily looking at last-minute cancellations, shoulder weeks, or are there still hidden pockets of availability?

Behind the Dunes

For clients still hoping to secure Fire Island properties ahead of peak summer, what opportunities remain realistic at this point? Are we primarily looking at last-minute cancellations, shoulder weeks, or are there still hidden pockets of availability?

Posted on May 30, 2026

It may have been a gray, damp Thursday morning, with shops still busy making final touches as Memorial Day Weekend loomed large on Fire Island, but things felt a little warmer as vibrantly colored editions of Fire Island News (FIN) graced with the cover artwork of Margery Gosnell-Qua were loaded off the water taxi and onto wagons, and delivery rounds were made in Fire Island communities multiple communities including Atlatique, Cherry Grove, Davis Park, Fair Harbor, Fire Island Pines Kismet, Ocean Beach, Ocean Bay Park, and Saltaire.

First Fire Island News of 2026 Rolls Off the Presses, and Stocked on Newsstands Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

Posted on May 21, 2026

From what I’ve seen, South Shore buyers have largely adjusted to the current rate environment. While borrowing costs remain elevated relative to the ultra-low rates of prior years, today’s buyers are demonstrating greater confidence and a willingness to move forward despite lingering uncertainty.

Behind the Dunes

Mortgage rates have dipped slightly compared to last year but remain relatively high. Are South Shore buyers adjusting to this new rate environment, or are many still waiting for rates to drop before making a move?

Posted on April 28, 2026

A little over 50 years ago, the Suffolk County Farmland Preservation Program was launched based on a first-in-the-nation concept: the sale of “development rights.” Then-Suffolk County Executive John V.N. Klein was pivotal in 1974 to the inception of that program.

Behind the Dunes

Suffolk County Legislature Unanimously Passes “Working Waterfronts” Conservation Bill

Posted on October 24, 2025

In July, I had the honor of being invited to Edith Mendelsohn's hundredth birthday celebration. While interviewing our Fire Island centenarian population is always important, this was a rare opportunity for our Behind the Dunes section. Mendelsohn built a livelihood around the Fire Island real estate market and has a lifetime of knowledge to share.

A 100-Year-Old Perspective on Fire Island Real Estate with Edith Mendelsohn

Posted on October 2, 2025

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