How to Buy a Vacation Home on Long Beach Island and Navigate the Real Estate Market
- Nathan Colmer
- 1 hour ago
- 4 min read
Buying a vacation home on Long Beach Island (LBI) can be an exciting opportunity, but it requires a clear understanding of the local real estate market and waterfront property options. Whether you want a cozy condo or a luxury oceanfront estate, knowing what to expect in 2025 will help you make smart decisions. I’ll guide you through the key steps to buying a vacation home on LBI, focusing on market trends, property types, and working with local experts.
By: Nathan Colmer | LBI Real Estate Agent | The Van Dyk Group
Cell: 609-290-4293 | Office: 800-222-0131 | ncolmer@vandykgroup.com
Understand the Long Beach Island Real Estate Market in 2025
The LBI real estate market is diverse and competitive. Median home prices hover around $1.8 million, but you can find options ranging from affordable condos starting near $400,000 to luxury oceanfront estates exceeding $10 million. This wide range means buyers have choices depending on budget and preferences.
Inventory is limited, which means homes often sell quickly and sometimes above list price. Although prices have seen slight declines recently, the market remains stable with steady appreciation. Waterfront properties, in particular, offer strong summer rental income potential, making them attractive investments.
Knowing these market conditions helps you set realistic expectations and prepare for a competitive buying process.
Explore Different Vacation Property Types on LBI
Long Beach Island offers several vacation property types, each with unique benefits:
Lagoonfront and Bayfront Homes on LBI
These properties provide protected docking and are generally more affordable than oceanfront homes. They appeal to buyers who want water access without the premium price and/or have a desire to keep a boat in their backyard.
Offering direct views of the Atlantic Ocean, these homes come at a premium price but deliver unmatched scenery and beach access. They are ideal for buyers seeking a luxury vacation home experience.
Beach Haven West and Other Surrounding Waterfront Areas
These locations offer more affordable waterfront options across the bay. They combine water views with a quieter atmosphere and can be a good choice for buyers looking for value. While Beach Haven West is not on Long Beach Island, it offers many of the same benefits at a much more affordable price point.
Oceanside and Oceanblock Homes on LBI
These locations offer a short walk to the beach and typically retain their value very well. They perform very well in the summer rental market and have mass appeal to buyers in the LBI real estate market.
Homes on the bayside will usually trade at around 20% or more less than their oceanside counterparts, but they will usually have a longer walk to the beach and more exposure to flooding during storms. Bayside homes typically have a very nice view of the bay and the sunset, and they tend to be quieter than those on the oceanside.
Understanding these options helps you narrow down your search based on lifestyle and budget.
Work with a Local Buyer’s Agent Familiar with LBI Real Estate
Navigating the Long Beach Island real estate market is easier with a local buyer’s agent. A full-time agent like me, Nathan Colmer, knows the area well and can guide you through listings, negotiations, and paperwork. I often have access to off-market properties, such as exclusive new construction, which you won’t find online.
I can also provide insights into neighborhood trends, rental income potential, and property conditions. Their expertise ensures you don’t miss opportunities and helps you avoid common pitfalls.
Evaluate Investment Potential and Rental Income
Many buyers consider vacation homes on LBI as investments. LBI real estate properties tend to generate strong summer rental income, which can offset ownership costs. When evaluating a property, consider:
Rental demand in the area
Popular neighborhoods and waterfront locations typically attract more renters.
Seasonal occupancy rates
Properties with higher occupancy during peak seasons offer better income potential.
Maintenance and management costs
Waterfront homes and homes on LBI in general may require more upkeep, so factor these expenses into your budget.
By analyzing these factors, you can choose a vacation home that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.
Prepare for a Competitive Buying Process
Because inventory is limited, buyers on Long Beach Island often face competition. To improve your chances:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage before starting your search.
Be ready to act quickly when you find a suitable property.
Work closely with your agent to submit strong offers.
Consider flexible closing dates or other terms that appeal to sellers.
Being prepared and responsive can make a difference in securing your ideal vacation home.
Final Thoughts on Buying a Vacation Home on Long Beach Island
Buying a vacation home on Long Beach Island requires understanding the local market, exploring waterfront property types, and partnering with experienced agents. The 2025 market offers options for a range of budgets, from affordable condos to luxury oceanfront estates. Vacation properties provide not only a beautiful retreat but also strong rental income potential.
If you are looking to buy, sell, or invest in the LBI real estate market, contact me, Nathan Colmer, for expert guidance backed by years of local experience, deep market insight, and a proven track record in helping clients navigate LBI's unique market. My experience extends over 20 years of selling homes on Long Beach Island, with a special focus on second homes and investment properties. In addition to representing buyers and sellers, I personally invest in the LBI real estate market and can share my firsthand knowledge of this investment strategy. Whether you're searching for a vacation home, planning a wise investment, or ready to list your property, I can offer you personalized strategies and unmatched knowledge to help you succeed.
By: Nathan Colmer | LBI Real Estate Agent | The Van Dyk Group
Cell: 609-290-4293 | Office: 800-222-0131 | ncolmer@vandykgroup.com