January is just about the quietest time on the Outer Banks. Most folks don’t equate the beach with freezing cold temperatures. People don’t want to drive on snowy roads to get here so a mid-Atlantic snowy forecast stops many folks from a weekend trip. Being quiet has many benefits. It’s much easier getting around on our roads, the restaurants are not crowded, and you can enjoy many locations on the Outer Banks in relative solitude. If you are here this month, then get out and enjoy the OBX. … Continue reading...
Outer Banks Bucketlist for December
Most people don’t associate the beach with wintertime. Even though it’s the beginning of winter on the Outer Banks, December is a great time to be here. Often, our first frost comes this month. The great fall fishing has tapered off and only rarely will there be a beach day where you will want to be in your bathing suit. Besides a few things that will help get you in the holiday spirit, this is the time of year to enjoy a few specific items here on the Outer Banks. Here’s our Outer Banks … Continue reading...
Outer Banks Bucketlist for August
There’s so much to do on the Outer Banks in August it was hard to pick just three fun things. The weather is usually cooler than July and the ocean is almost always warmer. Towards the end of the summer, the crowds begin to thin out as the beach begins the transition to the fall season. Sea Oats are at their full length and bear their fruit. Here are three fun things that should be on your Outer Banks Bucketlist for August. Take an Offshore Fishing TripAugust is a great month for an … Continue reading...
Southern Shores Living
Is Southern Shores, NC a good place to live? Southern Shores has the best of both worlds...great year round living and fabulous vacation living. There’s beach zone living with its smattering of classic flattop cottages and numerous classic vacation homes. A few folks reside here year round but it is mostly vacation homes. The beach zone can be roughly described as that area that is just a short walk to the ocean. And then there is many square miles of great primary residential living. Very … Continue reading...
What’s new on the Outer Banks? Spring 2023
Years ago, I was talking with a client about how things were changing on the Outer Banks. He was reminising about how he loved the way things used to be. He then said "That's why the Lord only gives us four score." Change is going to happen here weather we like it or not. The year 2023 is looking like the year of new businesses and old friends expanding. By our count there are five major projects moving forward at this time. Most, if not all of them should be opening in the next three to … Continue reading...
Is the Outer Banks a good investment?
We frequently receive inquires from potential buyers who want to purchase an Outer Banks property that has a positive cash flow. It’s amazing how many people today want to become landlords! In many places of the country, you can purchase a house, possibly make some improvements, and then have a tenant pay the mortgage and expenses. This is a great way to create wealth. So is the Outer Banks a good investment?You can use our vacation rental home calculator to determine if a specific house has … Continue reading...
Vacation Rental Homes on the Outer Banks
Not everyone looking to buy a home in the OBX is looking for their forever home. Many are looking for a rental property. When buyers decide to look for a rental property specifically, there are many additional aspects to consider. These aspects are different than a typical home buying process. The OBX vacation rental market is unique. Therefore, it is important for prospective vacation rental owners to understand the market and their options before making the investment.While Airbnb is … Continue reading...
Outer Banks Vacation Rental Income
Most Outer Banks buyers want to know about the vacation rental income available with a house. That income helps make homes here more affordable. Good rental income is a critical part of the information needed in most buying decisions. This article will help you better understand Outer Banks vacation rental income. Property Management Companies vs. Self management Most OBX vacation rental owners don’t want to be involved with the day to day management of the property. Local … Continue reading...
Solution to OBX Rental Income Dilemma
I think there is a solution to the OBX rental income dilemma. This article will explain this problem and provide a solution so that, hopefully, people don’t have to be in this position in the future. The problemAs of this moment no visitors are allowed on the Outer Banks. Local government is concerned that our limited health care facilities could quickly become overwhelmed by the pandemic. There is no set date when vacationers will be allowed back in. This could become a real problem for … Continue reading...
Outer Banks Insurance Primer
Questions about Outer Banks insurance are often the first thing buyers ask me when they start their home search here. Yes, homes can be insured for just about all types of events. It can be expensive and it can be fairly reasonable depending upon the property. This blog will provide you with some of the basics of insuring a home here. It’s likely we’ll go into more detail about each of these types of policies in the near future. Different Environment Different Insurance This coastal area has … Continue reading...