OCEAN CITY, N.J. (CBS) — Jersey Shore real estate experts are urging families to book their summer rentals now as demand for housing is expected to surge in the coming weeks.
Maria Kirk, who runs the 20-year-old website Shore Summer Rentals, said traffic to her site has increased 20% since the beginning of the year.
“As soon as the new year passes, the light bulb goes on and everyone starts booking,” Kirk said. “January was really strong and February was even better.”
The recent sunny skies are also encouraging people to view rental properties, she said.
“I feel like this year is going to be as good as last year, or even better,” Kirk said. “Last year was a little slow, but eventually we were all booked up.”
President's Day weekend is considered a big benchmark for families booking summerhouse rentals on the Jersey Shore.today @CBSP Philadelphiahow families are trying to save money on rent this year. pic.twitter.com/SYyZU1W52Y
— Brandon Goldner (@GoldnerTV) February 7, 2024
Mary Ann Madlack, who lives in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, said her family has already booked a summer rental in Ocean City.
“We didn't want to miss this opportunity and had very specific needs in terms of location, number of bedrooms, etc.,” Madrak said. “We were able to find a property that was right for us, and with a little planning and contacting various real estate agents, we were able to find the perfect location for us.”
Diane Wieland with the Cape May County Tourism Authority said more people are booking rentals through September.
“That's a good thing because we're trying to expand our marketing to pretty much all four seasons,” Wieland said.
But many people aren't as confident in the economy and are trying to save money, she said.
He said rental rates are at about the same level compared to last year.
“Increasingly, multiple families are coming together to rent larger homes or condos and combine to share the costs,” Wieland said. “Some people who take seven days may take four or five days.”
