Pets

Most rental companies on Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach, NC offer at least some properties that are pet-friendly. If you feel it is necessary to bring your pet with you, make sure to ask for the rental company's specific pet policy and whether or not the property you are looking to book is indeed pet-friendly before you book your accommodation. Each company will have clearly spelled out policies, and rest assured these policies are strictly enforced.

Among the concerns with pets should be the issue of fleas, as they present a major problem during the warms months. Fumigation and pest control will take a chunk out of your deposit, so please be conscious of your pet’s condition. If you decide to roll the dice and ignore pet policies, some agencies will demand your immediate dismissal.

If leaving your pet at home isn’t a possibility and you can't find a property where pets are allowed, local kennels and “doggie daycare” services will look after your cherished companion. The rental agencies should be able to provide you with contact information for these services.

Do you prefer the waterfront or the oceanfront? This is an important question to consider as rates for properties located on Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach, NC increase with proximity to the water. While a beachfront home offers scenic views and an easy commute from your door to the waves, a different location, while just as convenient, might save you a bundle.

During your stay, you can expect to have the basic appliances supplied by the owner of the property. Most rentals offer cable, telephone, heat and air, and come fully furnished. Dishes and cooking utensils are almost universally provided, but checking with your rental agency is always a good idea before setting out on vacation. Certain spots also offer activity centers such as gyms, swimming pools, tennis courts and other forms of recreation. More often than not, guests are required to supply their own sheets, towels, cleaning supplies and beach gear. Your rental agency should have a detailed checklist of items you will need during your stay.

Almost anything too cumbersome to bring along (bicycles, kayaks, etc.) can be rented for a small fee. See our Sports, Fitness and Parks or Watersports sections or ask your rental agency for details on which businesses offer these services.

As should be expected, there are rules to follow when renting a beach home from a rental agency on Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach or Sunset Beach, NC. The majority of these properties are second homes for their owners, and renting them out means trusting their agency to choose responsible renters. Each agency has specific policies, and vacationing parties should make themselves aware of these policies and their consequences.

Many agencies require the minimum age of renters to be at least 21, however some extend that limit to 25, often excepting married couples under that age. Be sure to check with your particular agency prior to setting your heart on a vacation home. Large groups of young renters can often encounter resistance due to damage concerns. House parties are discouraged and many rental agreements prohibit them altogether, especially at these small, quiet beaches. Breaching this area of your contract can easily result in the forfeiture of your deposit and the instant termination of your rental agreement. The bottom line is: be respectful of other people's property, privacy and peace and quiet.

While cleaning services are offered upon checkout for a fee, the agencies expect you to leave no trace of your visit just like you would if it were your own home. Often times, a portion of your deposit goes to these services should you fail to leave things as you found them, and the agency is at liberty to determine the amount of these fees.

While most people own cell phones, most of the area properties have a telephone for your use. Responsible use is expected and often agencies will block outgoing long-distance calls to prevent abuse of phone service.

Vacation rental prices fall in a wide range from $700 to $10,000 (or more) a week, depending on your choice of accommodation, location, luxury factor and season. The Brunswick Beaches Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach, NC) offer a broad array of less-pricey accommodations, but also have their share of high-end properties.

Most agencies require a deposit, and there are various stipulations in the agreement with which you need to be familiar. For example, a state/county tax of 7 percent and, depending on the location, a room tax ranging from 1 to 6 percent are added to the cost. A deposit of 50 percent is generally required to confirm reservations. Major credit cards are usually, but not always, accepted. Check with the individual rental agency for required methods of payment. Some accept personal checks provided they arrive 30 to 60 days in advance of your arrival. Rental rates are subject to change without notice. Winter rates may be significantly less.