Ever dream of owning a beach house?
Sounds so decadent, doesn't it? But if you do your research (and math) carefully, owning a beach house can make perfect sense for your family, both personally and financially. Not only will you have a place to call "home" for years to come - a solid investment in a vacation property can bring residual income to your portfolio.
You might just think of Ward Realty as a property management company. After all, our blog is usually dedicated to our fleet of gorgeous vacation homes, sharing our knowledge of Topsail Island, and helping you squeeze every bit of fun out of your beach vacation. But did you know we can help you purchase real estate here on Topsail Island?
In fact, it's our specialty.
Ward Realty is your one-stop Real Estate shop. We provide the most up-to-date real estate searches for homes, condos, land and investment properties. Our website is easy-to-use and updated by the official Realtor's database every 15 minutes.
Today we will introduce you to our sales team, explain why you will love working with a local agent, and explore some options for you to think about as you consider making an investment in your favorite vacation spot: Topsail Island.
Meet the Sales Team
Judy Carlton
“I enjoy working with people and will treat your venture as if it were my own. Coming from the South, I was taught that honesty is a must and strive to epitomize down home Southern hospitality."
John Toler
“...whether buying or selling, no one will work harder for you! I strive to live by that while also making sure my clients understand everything that is involved in buying or selling real estate on or near our beautiful Island.â€
Glynda Bradshaw
"My mission is to guide my clients with honesty, integrity, superior customer service and a specialized knowledge of what it takes to buy or sell property at the beach.â€
Steve Eschler
Steven has joined Ward Realty to focus on income producing properties on and around Topsail Island. His specialties include multi-family, retail, industrial and residential properties.
Why work with a local agent?
We know Topsail.
Our sales team has forged powerful connections with local lenders, contractors, inspectors and everyone else you need on your side. We have been assisting in real estate sales and development on Topsail Island since 1947.
Our agents can explain complicated, Topsail Island -specific considerations including:
- Flood zones
- Home Owners Insurance
- The Vacation Rental Act
- HOA Details
- Septic vs. Sewer
- Property Management (if you decide to rent your home)
- CAMA (Coastal Area Management Act) Restrictions
Purchasing a home on the beach (investment property or primary residence) requires much more due diligence than perhaps a home in your own town. For example, the land may be much more valuable than the home. Also, there are many environmental restrictions placed on dwellings on a beach. In other words, there are many reasons why you need an experienced realtor to guide you through a successful real estate transaction on Topsail Island.
Is owning a vacation home right for you?
Benefits and considerations
Owning your own vacation home on Topsail Island might be right for you if the following statements are true:
- You rent a home here every year (or more than once a year).
- You have extra funds for an investment property.
- You like the idea of renting out your home for extra income.
- Or, you want your vacation home all to yourself, or to share only with family and friends.
- You love the idea of creating memories in your very own beach home, year after year.
How do we get started?
1. Choose your Topsail town
Do you prefer to own in Surf City, near our shops, restaurants, and activities? Or do you want your beach retreat to be just that... off the beaten path with plenty of peace and quiet?
Read this blog to Tour the Three Terrific Towns of Topsail Island.
2. Browse listings in that town:
3. Determine your budget & home preference
Do you want oceanfront or soundside? Inland will save you money, and the size of the home certainly will. Do you want to buy an empty lot and build from scratch or purchase a turn-key property? Are you interested in updating a "well-loved" older home? Do you want a stand-alone property or a multi-family unit?
All of these considerations, along with your budget, will determine where and how you can make your beach house dream actually happen!
4. To rent or not to rent?
There is no rule that says you have to rent out your Topsail Island home. Reserve the right to keep the home for personal use, or to share with family and friends. You may even decide to make Topsail Island your permanent home as we have done! If you would like to use the home as an investment property, Ward Realty can help you out there, too. We take care of homeowners and their homes.
Need more?
Here is another blog post from Ward Realty that explains the journey from renter to owner.
If this is something you have been considering, browse the blog or better yet, just contact us. We can help!
Contact Ward Realty Sales at 910-328-3221.
