OT Has anyone ever rented a beach house? A few questions! please!

[Tiggerlovinggrandma]

DH and I are thinking of renting a beach house for a week next summer. We live anywhere from 5-8 hours from the beach as it is now. Currently we go to Folly Beach, SC a few times during the summer months. We have never rented a house before so we have a few questions. Helping some of you can help us.

Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner?

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area?

What are current rates for a week?

How far in advance should you reserve?

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities?

Can you bring pets or is that a no no?

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house?

Thanks for any help you can give DH and I.

 

[kalc12345]

Yep we have rented houses before. It is the best way to go in my opinion!!


Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner? We rent through an agency

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area? We went to Harbor Island last year and LOVED it!! It is in Beaufort, SC. Also Fripp Island which is close to Harbor Island is wonderful as well. Our most favorite beach is The Isle of Palms in Charleston, SC. It is less than a 2 hour drive for us so we go there often. It is a very wonderful beach and it is nice and quiet. You are also close to Charleston.

What are current rates for a week? We paid around $1300 last year for a week at Harbor Island. It was a 3 bedroom house on the beach. But that was for off season...late Sept. We are home schoolers so we love that we can go during the off season and save money. Peak rates were over $2000

How far in advance should you reserve? We reserve a year in advance

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities? We go by ourselves

Can you bring pets or is that a no no? All the places we have stayed at had a no pet policy

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house? Can't think of anything. I do highly recommend renting a house over a hotel!!

 

[jackets9]

Check out www.vrbo.com. It is vacation rentals by owner. We have used them for the past 7 years when we have rented condos in Florida (most the Marco Island/Naples area). You will find a wide variety of rentals on/off beach, etc. We ususally go over spring break so I need to make a reservation at least a year in advance. If you go off season, you dont need that much lead time.

 

[rbork]

Rental agency or direct w/ owner? cheaper through an owner (friend) they didn't charge us the rental commission.

Oceanfront in obx is expensive depends on # of br etc...at least 4000 for highseason.

Book at least a year in advance.

Split the cost per family. Every family is in charge of an assigned meal. chores...every is supposed to do them but ends up not. They don't keep house like I do.

Pet are allowed in certain rentals. There is an extra fee usually and only 2 per house in certain rentals.

Vacationing w/ family can make or break it. I prefer to vacation by ourselves or at least in our own unit. Remember, people back out for various reasons. Be prepared to replace them or absorb the cost. Set limits on who can be invited..this neice, that nephew who decides to "bring a friend". Buy vacation insurance if through an agency. Have an agreed way to pick BR.... everyone pays, only 1 master etc... someones getting stuck w/ the twins on the ground level

Good Luck and Do what's right for you.

 

[mjkacmom]

I live in NJ, an hour from the beach, and since homes are SO expensive here (you can easily drop $2000+ on a condo rental for the week), we've only rented homes at the Outer Banks. Oceanfront homes seem to run about $1000 a bedroom in peak season, for amazing homes (lots with pools). Only certain homes will take dogs, but some do. We've gone with groups, and basically submit receipts for items used by all, and end up with a price per person (we also camp with a large group, and do this).

 

[angel23321]

Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner? We rent in OBX (outer banks), NC and we rent through an agency. It's just easier and gives me peace of mind if something goes wrong.

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area? We love the outerbanks. The beach is beautiful and depending on what area you go in, there is something for everyone. You can go down to Hattaress and be more secluded or stay in Nags Head and be more near things to do. Or go up to the 4x4 area in Corova. There is an area for everyone.

What are current rates for a week? It all depends on how big a house you want, when you go, how far back you are from the ocean. There are a LOT of factors.

How far in advance should you reserve? We reserve at least 9 months out so we have more choices to pick from.

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities? We go with friends but these are friends we have vacationed with at our cabin or at a rented beach house over and over again. We split the cost of the food and alcohol but that's mainly because we buy on base (we're military) and can get better deals. Sometimes we bring stuf we don't pay each other for.

Can you bring pets or is that a no no? It depends on the house. When we rent, we rent a pet friendly home because we both have dogs. Normally there are restrictions and you'll find a house that will take dogs before cats. We've paid a $150 pet fee when we've taken them.

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house? It's a fun experience. But choose who you go with wisely. You'll be in the same house with them for a week! Mind you, they are usually big enough to get away from each other or go off on your own.
If you're interested in the outerbanks go to obxconnection.com. It's a great website!

 

[minniebeth]

We just stayed in a beach house in NJ this summer and the friends we went with went through an agency. While we were there the owner came by for some routine maintainance and they spoke with him about renting through him directly for next year. Since we were great "tenants" he agreed, and will be a big savings. Most houses that rent with an agency, you will never see the owner, nor does the owner have the flexibility to decide which weeks they rent with an agency, but you never know if by any chance you do come across the owner, never hurts to speak directly to them!

We've done this in the past too, but what we did for groceries, meals, etc.
was split up a list of things to bring: each family was responsible to bring some of the basics like laundry soap, dishwasher soap, paper plates, napkins, cups, soda, cereal, condiments, buns, bread, etc. We broke the list up so that there were no duplicate things brought.
Then we put money into a kitty, started w/ a certain amount per family to cover the cost of everything else including food, beer, etc. We added through the week if we needed more. We had 2 WONDERFUL friends who cooked our meals, because it's their thing, but in the past, we usually take a meal to cook per family each night. Or you can just do easy grilling, etc. and all work together.

I think it's a lot of fun to go with other families, sure it's not always easy, but the fun way outweighs the little annoyances for a week!!

 

[Pirate1+Princess4]

We rented a condo at a nice quiet beach in NC last summer. There were many many houses available too. We chose the condo b/c we wanted a pool and not to cross a road to get to the beach. Most houses that were available when I was booking were too large or too small for us.

The condo worked well for us and we would do it again. Worst part was everyone arriving at the same time and finding luggage racks was impossible. We carried our stuff to the elevators and stairs ourselves.

When we return, I'll book well in advance (likely about 1 year) so we can get a house with a pool.

If you are a couple of families, it's a great a way to get a nice place for somewhat affordable rates. Most houses are being re-built to accommodate larger groups- like 12 - 14. We are a family of 7.

We used an agency and it was great. Do a search on the location in which you are intersted and you'll get a ton of hits/ads for local rental agencies. Many have photos of each property online now. I felt I really KNEW what I was getting when we rented ours.

 

[K and K's Mommy]

Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner?

We use an agency - Outer Beaches Realty

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area?

For three years in a row we have gone to Outer Banks in NC. We stay in Avon on Hatteras and pretty much just do the beach. We love it - so relaxing. We did take a side trip to Roanake this year. I have a fifth grader so he will study U.S. history this year!

What are current rates for a week? It varies so much, number of rooms, with/without pool, etc. I would suggest looking at websites.

How far in advance should you reserve? We must be in the minority. We don't plan our July vacations until about May.

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities? We go by ourselves.

Can you bring pets or is that a no no?Some houses allow pets. I've seen lots of dogs.

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house?You need to decide if you want a place that doesn't have much besides beach activities or one with a varied assortment of activities and shopping.

Thanks for any help you can give DH and I.

Have fun!

 

[laceemouse]

We own a home in Pensacola Beach that we rent out. We use an agency so that they can handle any problems that may arise. We are two streets from the ocean and sleep 10 people. Houses ON the beach are larger and cost a LOT more. We do allow pets, you just have to ask. Our house is gorgeous. Rent in the off season is much less than in the summer months. Our house is listed with VRBO and Paradise Beach Rentals.
We are here now and don't want to leave

 

[chrisw127]

We always go through an agency, usually 3-6 months in advance. I feel a lot safer with an agency, although I've heard you can get much cheaper rates from a private owner. When we've rented in Sea Ranch, which is in N. California, we've spent around $3000 a week on a three bedroom house with a view of the ocean. In North Carolina, we've rented at Topsail Island and spent about $2000 a week for a five-bedroom/five bath house with an ocean view. These are high season rates. The house in California was small but amazing. The NC house was a typical beach house.

We always buy travel insurance, especially here in NC because of the possibility of hurricanes.

 

[surfgirl]

We rent at the Jersey shore. I won't tell you the price b/c you'll be horrified. We are beach block, which we love... easy to walk back with kids, for 'fun fuel', for bathrooms, for freeze pops...

We don't split the cost of our rental with another family - instead, we have the house for 2 weeks and invite friends. We tell them their 'rent' is to be responsible for dinners (a combination of eating in and take out - we hate to go out with kids) and drinks. That has worked well for us in the past.

Another thought: we love to go for 2 weeks. Need the same amount of stuff b/c here we have to bring all linens. Also takes away the pressure if you get a few bad weather days. Our friends are invited for 3-4 days and we have different groups rotate in and out. Obviously more expensive, but it works well for us. (also we are close enough to home that if dh needs to work for a day or a few, he can do that).

 

[Charitycase20]

Here's my 2 cents worth about staying at the

DH and I are thinking of renting a beach house for a week next summer. We live anywhere from 5-8 hours from the beach as it is now. Currently we go to Folly Beach, SC a few times during the summer months. We have never rented a house before so we have a few questions. Helping some of you can help us.
We live on MD Eastern Shore, roughly 30 min from Ocean City but we vacation in the Outer Banks, NC!! Our kids are beach bumbs, but think going to the "beach" is going to a beach house in OBX.
Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner? We rent through a realtor, have used Midgett Realty, last year was Surf and Sound, we have already booked for August 2010 through Outer Beaches Realty.

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area? We always stay on Hatteras Island, either Frisco or Avon in NC. Although I have heard that Myrtle Beach is a nice area too, off season.

What are current rates for a week? We have paid as little as $600 for a week off season to as much as $3000 for next summers trip because its prime season.

How far in advance should you reserve? The earlier the better I find, and you can get some deals too.

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities? The past year and next year's trip, DH's family is coming from OK. Basically we are splitting the cost of the house, I will purchase meat and bulk items from Sam's Club and then we will go shopping after checking in and DH's family will pick up the cost of the rest of the groceries. Last year I did all the supper meals (I cook better than DH's mom and sis), lunch and breakfast was fend for yourself kinda affairs.

Can you bring pets or is that a no no? We brought our beagle last year, it was $75 more on the lease but next year we will board her with my mom, she doesn't really like the beach so much

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house?Have a good time and relax! It really is nicer than staying in a stuffy motel room.

Thanks for any help you can give DH and I.

 

[NotUrsula]

We pretty much never get oceanfront, I can't justify the cost of that. My criteria is that it much be on the beach side of the MAIN road, but if there is a little road/driveway that is traveled by residents only I don't mind crossing it to save a heck of a lot of money.

We do have to be walking distance to beach access, though -- REAL walking distance, which I define as <100 yards. I don't want to have to carry my toddler because it's too far for her to walk under her own power.

 

[MJAJmom]

We've rented vacation homes several times. It's much nicer with little kids and very helpful to have a place to cook. Lots of good inputs provided already. I'll just add a few other comments:

- be very aware of the dates for payments and the cancellation policies. Lots of dollars must be paid up front.
- Look carefully at the deposit amount and the amounts for cleaning. They also have a clause about how quickly they refund the deposit amount. Usually 30 days, but you end up having to chase them to get your deposit refunded
- agencies are more dependable than a private owner. Need to know who to call when something breaks or doesn't work, you want that person to be local.
- find out what they provide for toiletries and kitchen supplies. Some are fancy and provide shampoos, tissues, soaps, other places make you provide all the paper goods (paper towels, toilet paper, tissues)

Have a great trip.

 

[poohbear8]

Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner? We have done both, but in recent years we have used VRBO.

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area? We stay in North Myrtle Beach, all the way down by the pointe.

What are current rates for a week? We are here now, heading home tomorrow. We paid $900 for a 3 bedroom condo for a week. (VRBO) It's ocean front with 2 balconies. Mid August is the start of the lower price seasons here.

How far in advance should you reserve? As soon as you know where you want to go and if it's available to rent. This place I found back in May. All of July was booked by then.

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities? I have only done this once with family. I don't remember how we handled it.

Can you bring pets or is that a no no? It depends on the condo you rent.

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house? YES! Are sheets & towels included? If not, that's more to pack. Some places offer a a service you can pay for, but I think it's expensive. Is there a cleaning fee and how much is it? How much is the security deposit and when will it be returned? Does the pool have lounge chairs? We once rented a place that had no chairs! Not happy we had to go buy one.

Overall, we have been really happy renting condos. We always get ocean front and enjoy the extra space and the ability to cook some of our food and not have to eat out all the time.

 

[pyrxtc]

DH and I are thinking of renting a beach house for a week next summer. We live anywhere from 5-8 hours from the beach as it is now. Currently we go to Folly Beach, SC a few times during the summer months. We have never rented a house before so we have a few questions. Helping some of you can help us.

Do you rent through a rental agency or direct from the owner? I ahve always rented from an owner, one place on VRBO and one thru craigslist

Where are some nice locations for beach houses that are ocean front (not across the street) in the FL, GA, SC, NC area? Can't help you there since we just stay in MA

What are current rates for a week? I ahve paid $900 for a small 2 bedroom on the beach side on the street to $1600 for a large 4 bedroom (our current one since we like to ahve a lot of visitors

How far in advance should you reserve? First time ever, I book it about 8 months advance, then kept the same week yearly wiht the same person, when I changed rentals, we booked it only less than month out sicne it was a new rental place and they know that we want it for next year if/when they decide to do it again then

If you invite others along (friends or family) how do you split fees, groceries, cooking, chores, activities? I always invite others along. The whole reason we rent in MA and not further away is so that we can have lots of visitors and never charge them anything... it's juts a BYOB thing and they always chip in for soemthing anyways but never asked of them

Can you bring pets or is that a no no? I amke sure that my rental places allow pets. This new one wasn't sure about it but when our week was over, I knew I had changed his mind. My dogs were very well behaved and you coulnd't tell that they had been there for a week since we cleaned up so well

Is there anything else we should know about renting a beach house? ask what is included, linens, paper towels, toilet paper ? Ice cube trays? beach chairs? kitchen stuff?

Thanks for any help you can give DH and I.

AMke sure you talk to the person you are renting from, let them know anything you need to know and don't rent unless you get the answers you want.