Touring a Shore Home in Ocean City, NJ: An Open House and Inspection Checklist

1. Flood zone and elevation

• Which FEMA flood zone is the home in, and is there an elevation certificate? It drives your flood insurance cost.
• Has the home flooded before, and has it had flood insurance claims? New Jersey sellers must disclose known flood history.
• What is on the ground floor? Living space below the flood elevation can mean higher premiums and limits on future renovations.
• Where do the HVAC, water heater and electrical panel sit? Equipment set up high is a good sign.

2. Salt air and storm wear

• Look at outdoor HVAC units, railings, light fixtures and hardware for rust and corrosion.
• Check decks, stairs and outdoor showers for soft boards and loose fasteners.
• Ask the age of the roof, windows and siding, and whether they have been replaced since a big storm.
• Even new construction deserves a full inspection: salt air works on new materials too.

3. Waterfront homes

• What condition is the bulkhead in, and when was it last repaired or replaced? Bulkhead work is expensive.
• If there is a dock or slip, how deep is the water at low tide?
• Are there permits on file for the dock and any past bulkhead work?

4. Duplex condos and associations

• Ask for the master deed, bylaws, budget and insurance: who pays for the roof, the exterior and flood insurance on the building?
• Are there rules on rentals, pets or renovations?
• Is there a reserve fund, and are any special assessments planned?
• How is the yard, the parking and the outdoor shower split between the units?

5. Parking, rentals and day-to-day use

• How many cars fit on the property? Summer street parking near the beach fills fast.
• If the home has been rented, ask for its rental history and whether summer weeks are already booked for next year.
• Is the home registered as a rental with the city? See renting out your Ocean City home for the license and inspection rules.
• Where is storage for bikes, beach gear and outdoor furniture?

6. Costs to confirm before you offer

• The property tax bill and any condo fees.
• A flood insurance quote for this specific home.
• Utility costs, especially if the home is used year-round.

Our guide to what it costs to own a shore home walks through flood insurance and taxes in detail, and our guide to financing a second home or rental covers how lenders look at shore homes.