Full Breakdown
Billy Joel's Centre Island Estate Sells for Record $28.75 Million
3/5/2026, 12:56:00 AM
Historic Sale of MiddleSea
Billy Joel's 26-acre waterfront estate, known as MiddleSea, has been sold for $28.75 million, marking the highest residential sale on Long Island outside of the Hamptons. The sale, announced by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Laffey International Realty on March 2, 2026, concluded a three-year listing period characterized by multiple unsuccessful attempts to sell the property. The estate features a 20,000-square-foot main house with six bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, along with luxury amenities such as a grand ballroom, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, a private bowling alley, and a helipad, which significantly reduces travel time from Manhattan.
Background on the Property
Billy Joel acquired the property in 2002 for $22.5 million and subsequently expanded it by purchasing adjacent lots, ultimately creating a compound that includes a guesthouse and a beach house. Initially listed for $49.9 million in 2023, the estate was later divided into three parcels to attract buyers. The main estate was eventually re-listed at a reduced price, leading to a bidding war among three interested parties.
Key Features of MiddleSea
The estate, located near Oyster Bay, boasts extensive amenities, including:
- A private beach with 1,500 feet of sandy shoreline
- A swimming pool and tennis court
- A private dock
- An eight-car garage
- A guesthouse with its own bowling alley
The sale price translates to approximately $1,438 per square foot, surpassing the previous record of $21 million for an estate in Old Westbury.
Official Statements & Responses
Emmett Laffey, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Laffey International Realty, described the sale as a "defining moment for Long Island real estate," highlighting the competitive nature of the bidding process. Joel has expressed that selling the estate does not mean he is leaving Long Island, stating during a New Year’s Eve performance, “Just because I’m selling that house, doesn’t mean I’m leaving Long Island.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the sale has been celebrated as a milestone, some critics have pointed out the challenges faced by high-end real estate in Long Island, particularly in attracting buyers willing to invest in properties at such elevated price points. The initial listing price of $49.9 million was seen by some as overly ambitious, reflecting broader trends in luxury real estate markets.
What's Next for Billy Joel
Despite the sale of MiddleSea, Billy Joel remains committed to Long Island, having purchased another property in East Hampton for $10.7 million in late 2023. His ongoing presence in the area suggests that he will continue to be a significant figure in Long Island's real estate landscape.
