East Hampton Oceanfront Sells For $45 Million

The tumult wreaked on so much of the world by the coronavirus pandemic could not put the kibosh on one wealthy buyer’s play to grab an oceanfront East Hampton estate.

The $45 million deal closed on Friday, handing off the Windmill Lane estate of corporate titan James Evans, who was the president of Union Pacific and at various times sat on the boards of directors of AT&T, Bristol-Meyers, Citicorp, MetLife and General Motors.

The property comprises two lots, totaling just under 7 acres, at 26 and 32 Windmill Lane, off Further Lane. There are two existing residences: a 5,500-square foot, five-bedroom, six-bath main house and a four-bed, two-and-a-half-bath guest house, designed for Mr. Evans by Zwirko, Ortmann & Hugo Architects and built in 1989. Mr. Evans died in 2015.

“Awaken to the sights and sounds of ocean waves rhythmically beating against your secluded, white sand beach. Repose nightly to spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic — a most picturesque and inspiring view,” the original listing swooned. “The opportunity to own the prestigious piece of East Hampton Village real estate that is 32 Windmill Lane awaits the discerning buyer.”

The property, which had originally listed for $55 million, also holds soaring re-development potential, with zoning allowances for a 12,500-square-foot house on the main lot and more than 18,000 square feet of living space over the two properties.

The listing had been the co-exclusive of Douglas Elliman brokers Paul Brennan and Martha Gundersen and Valerie Smith and Frank Newbold of Sotheby’s. The buyer, who has not been identified, was brought to the deal by Gary DePersia of Corcoran.

Ms. Gunderson noted that the lot is a rare one with as-of-right deeds for an oceanfront swimming pool and a north-south facing tennis court.

“It’s got a single dune, but is well protected because it’s something like 35 feet above sea level,” Ms. Gunderson said.

“It’s a very pretty property with very nice view,” Mr. Brennan said of the property. “And it’s private, you don’t see anyone around you.”