There’s a reason beach houses have been a popular vacation spot for generations. Earning fame in hit TV shows like The Summer I Turned Pretty, there’s a reason they are so beloved by vacationers. As a short-term rental host, this is a lucrative market. This blog post will explore the ins and outs of the best places to buy a beach home.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!

Why buy a beach house

Beach houses sound all good and dandy, but what are the deeper reasons for investing in one? Let’s look:

• For one, there is typically high demand and a consistent return on these homes. People like going to the beach. There’s a strong market for these homes. However, remember that it could be seasonal depending on where your beach house is located.
• Beach homeowners can typically charge higher rates for these homes. This is because they’re extremely popular, and frankly, people are willing to spend a little more on their beach vacation.
• You can benefit from your home! When you want a beach getaway…you already have a place to go!
• When doing your taxes, you have the opportunity for deductions and depreciation. Of course, this comes with its own set of rules that you’ll need to confirm your business qualifies for.

The best places to buy a beach home

While there are many great spots for a beach home, we’ve pulled together a few of our favorites from Relator.com.

1. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Over the last decade, Golf Shores, Alabama, has gained attention as a beach house destination. It offers white sandy beaches, golf courses, lots of family-friendly activities, and a lower cost of living compared to other beachfront destinations. We also suggest looking for properties near Gulk Sate Park as a lot of folks like to get out and explore that area in addition to enjoying a beach day.

2. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks, North Carolina, has always been a bit of an under-the-radar destination. It’s a really cool mix of quiet beach time, but still access to other outdoor recreational opportunities as well as some historic charm. Many hosts have found success owning properties near lighthouses. Or…maybe even turn an old lighthouse into a short-term rental! Ocean views are also a big money maker.

3. Wilmington, Delaware

Delaware is the largest city in the state. It’s in a perfect location, having the beach but still being close to major cities like Philly and Baltimore. You’ll find both locals and tourists come out to Wilmington. Additionally, there are many cool cultural things to do like checking out historic homes, visiting the Brandywine Zoo, or exploring the riverfront.

4. Grays Harbor, Washington

A particularly interesting option to explore for a beach house is Grays Harbor, Washington. It’s surrounded by opportunities for outdoor recreation. The economy itself is largely driven by the fishing and timber industries. Located in the southwest corner of the Olympic Peninsula, there are many chances to go kayaking, hike, and explore the seven major bodies of water in the area.

5. Michigan East Coast, Michigan

Michigan’s East Coast, specifically the coastal and popular beach towns of Traverse City and Grand Haven, offers a unique combination of natural beauty and economic stability for real estate investment. With its stunning views of Lake Michigan and a thriving tourism industry, this region has become a popular destination for both vacationers and new residents.

Tips for success

In addition to securing the location for your beach house, keep the following tips in mind:

• Include beach-themed amenities, such as beach chairs, umbrellas, beach towels, and other water-specific amenities
• Use Host Tools to help streamline your business. We can automate guest messaging, pricing, syncing your calendar, and more.
• In your house manual, show off your favorite local attractions to help with that local flair.
• Be sure to automate your cleaning crew so a guest never arrives to an uncleaned property.

Final thoughts

Beach houses are an amazing opportunity for a short-term rental business. With their beautiful location, they’re often in demand. Whether in North Carolina, Michigan, Alabama, or anywhere else listed above, it’s important to choose a location that aligns with your goals. Once you’ve nailed down your location, be sure to invest in Host Tools to ensure you’re making the most of your business while minimizing your workload.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!