REAL ESTATE

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Former owners Consuelo Vanderbilt and then the rich German industrialist Dr. Otto (owner of the largest mail-order business in Europe) were both sticklers for detail, right down to the bulletproof glass. Von Wrede, who arrived here from Germany, vouches for the European feel of the estate, including wooden floors and panels imported from a French chateau and authentic fireplace mantels. With nine bedrooms and as many bathrooms (including two half-baths), family, staff or guests can enjoy the ambiance of a more genteel age, including the heated pool, rose-vine-covered tennis court and very private grounds. The purchase price also includes a full kitchen renovation and two-car garage.

Ursula Reimann of Sotheby's notes the growing number of wealthy Europeans here in the summer. She plans an international marketing approach for her new $18 million listing on Mecox Bay in Bridgehampton, steps from the ocean. The Mediterranean-style, custom-built home was based on elements of design found on the coasts of Spain and France with oversized leaded windows providing views of the tiled pool and bay. The interior flows through curved porticos with oversize terra-cotta tile floors and handcrafted wrought iron. Neutral walls and a carefully designed lighting system showcase a great art collection (not included). Again, it is the landscaping that bursts in color with hibiscus, lavender and a whole garden of wild berries that makes a great summer selling point.

Billionaire (and noted investment banker) Herb Allen is offering his former guesthouse, across the road from his much larger main house on Gin Lane, in Southampton for $20 million.