Buying in Ocean City, NJ
Buying a home in Ocean City, NJ
Whether it's a full-time home, a summer place or a rental that pays its own way, you get two local agents on your search, and a team that's still here after closing.
How it works
From first look to first beach day
- 01
Start with what you want
Full-time, second home or investment? Walk to the beach or a dock on the bay? We start there, so we only show you homes that fit. Thinking about one floor of a duplex? Read how duplex condos work and our condo buying guide.
- 02
Pick your part of the island
Each of Ocean City's neighborhoods feels different, from the quiet Gardens to the bayfront lagoons of the Riviera. We know them block by block.
- 03
Get your financing lined up
We'll introduce you to local lenders who close shore deals all the time. Try our mortgage calculator or affordability calculator first.
- 04
Run the real numbers
Graham started in the rental department, so you'll know what a home can earn before you buy it, plus flood insurance, condo fees and taxes.
- 05
Write an offer that wins
We price your offer with recent sales on that street, not a guess, and negotiate the terms that matter to you.
- 06
Inspect, insure and close
Inspections, the flood zone and elevation certificate, insurance quotes, title and closing, handled with people we trust.
After closing
We don't hand you keys and disappear
Closing day is when the real help starts. We plan to be your agents for every move you make on the island.
Help with the move
Movers, utilities, beach tags and the first-week details, lined up before you arrive.
Our own property management
Renting it out? Shore Homes Management handles rentals, check-ins and upkeep, season after season.
The pros we use ourselves
Contractors, inspectors, insurance agents and the good cleaners we trust with our own house. Just ask for the list.
Good to know
Buying in Ocean City: common questions
Is Ocean City a dry town?
Yes. Alcohol isn't sold anywhere in Ocean City, which is a big part of why it's known as "America's Greatest Family Resort." Many restaurants welcome you to bring your own.
Do I need flood insurance?
Ocean City is a barrier island, so much of it sits in FEMA flood zones, and lenders require flood insurance in high-risk zones. Ask for the home's elevation certificate early; it drives the premium. We'll get you real quotes before you commit. See what it costs to own a shore home for flood zones, insurance and taxes.
Can I rent my home out in the summer?
Many owners do, by the week in summer and longer off-season. The city has rental licensing rules, and we'll walk you through them. Our own management company can run the rental for you. Read our guide to renting out your Ocean City home.
Which neighborhood is right for me?
It depends on how you'll use the house. Want to walk to the boardwalk? Want a boat at your back door? Want quiet? Start with our neighborhood guide, then call us and we'll narrow it down together.
What is the market doing right now?
See the latest prices, sales and days on market in our Ocean City market report, or build a custom report for any street or neighborhood.
Ready to find your place on the island?
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll set up a search that sends you new listings the day they hit.