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Outer Banks Flood Zones & Insurance Guide

Understanding flood zones is vital for your mortgage requirements your insurance premium is now determined by property-specific data through FEMA's Risk Rating 2.0.

The Three Primary OBX Flood Zones

Lenders use these zones to determine whether you are required to carry a flood policy as a condition of your loan.

X Zone (Moderate to Low Risk)

Ground elevation is typically 10+ feet above sea level. While lenders generally don't require insurance here, **1 in 4 claims** on the OBX come from X zones. On the oceanfront, most lenders will still require a policy regardless of this designation.

AE Zone (High Risk / SFHA)

Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is below 10 feet. Flood insurance is mandatory for mortgages. Structures should be elevated to meet local standards to keep premiums manageable.

VE Zone (Coastal High Hazard)

These zones face "velocity" flooding—meaning crashing waves accompany the rising water. VE zones are standard for oceanfront and some semi-oceanfront properties. Insurance rates here reflect the impact of wave energy.

The Reality: Risk Rating 2.0

The days of "one price for the whole zone" are over. FEMA now uses actuarial pricing that looks at your specific house. Even if two houses are in the same AE zone, their premiums will differ based on:

  • First Floor Height: The higher your home is off the ground, the lower your rate.
  • Distance to Water: How many feet your home sits from the ocean or sound.
  • Rebuild Cost: High-end luxury rentals with high replacement values see higher premiums.
  • Foundation Type: Open pilings (standard for oceanfront) are rated more favorably than solid foundations that obstruct water flow.

Local Elevation Standards (LES)

Because the 2020/2025 map updates moved many homes into X zones that still historically flood, towns like Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills have adopted "Local Elevation Standards." This means even if FEMA says you can build on the ground, the town may require you to be 8-12 feet high to protect your investment.

Verify Your Property’s Risk

Important: Homeowners insurance does NOT cover flooding. A separate policy (NFIP or Private) is required to cover rising water and storm surge.

Need a flood quote? I work with local OBX agents who specialize in "LOMC" (Letter of Map Change) and private flood alternatives. Call 1-800-647-1868.

More Ocean Front Aricles
OBX Beach Nourishment OBX Oceanfront Flood Zones OBX Oceanfront Rental Ownership
OBX Oceanfront Access OBX Oceanfront Erosion OBX Oceanfront Erosion Maps
OBX Oceanfront Views OBX Oceanfront Insurance OBX Private Oceanfront Beaches
OBX Oceanfront Dunes OBX Oceanfront Wash Ins OBX Oceanfront Maintenance

Below Are All Of The OBX Ocean Front Houses Currently For Sale

6 bd
6 ba
Panoramic views of the ocean and beach charm can be found in this oceanfront cottage located in Section O of the Ocean Sounds community. This home was custom built by Olin Finch, offering quality craftmanship and excellent floor plan. Home contains 6 bedrooms, 4 ensuites, 6 full bathrooms, game room, tiki bar and newly refinished exterior decks. Ground floor consist of a game room, full bathroom and bedroom with bunk bed sets. Second floor four master with two being upgraded to king size beds. Two of the master bedrooms have direct deck access, an oceanside hot tub and covered decks. Third level has majestic ocean views, spacious exterior decks, fireplace, kitchen and dining and breakfast seating. Community pool and tennis courts available!!!
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If you've been dreaming of a no-fuss beach cottage where the ocean is front and center, Dolphin Run delivers. This classic single-level home is a true Hatteras “beach box,” full of vintage charm and steps from the sand. The expansive oceanfront sundeck gives you big views over the dunes—perfect for soaking up the sun, catching the sunrise, or stargazing with your favorite people. Inside, you’ll find four bedrooms and two full baths—one is a private en suite off the queen bedroom, and the other is conveniently located in the hall. The open living, dining, and kitchen area brings everyone together, whether you're grabbing a quick bite or unwinding after a long beach day. The elevated laundry and storage room downstairs offers plenty of space for your gear, and the roomy, convenient outdoor shower makes cleanup a breeze after sandy adventures. There is also a fish cleaning table and grill for added convenience. Located in the heart of Hatteras Village, you’re right across from Teach’s Lair Marina—ideal for boating and fishing—and just a golfcart ride from local shops, galleries, and restaurants. Hop on a charter, explore the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, or take the free passenger ferry to Ocracoke. With nearby ORV beach access and paddleboarding at Sandy Bay, adventure is always close by. Whether you're looking for a nostalgic retreat or a solid oceanfront investment, Dolphin Run offers the best of coastal living in one of the most beloved villages on the Outer Banks.
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Oceanfront living at its best in the heart of Southern Shores! This impressive coastal retreat offers sweeping Atlantic views, direct beach access, and the kind of space and amenities that make the perfect rental home. With seven en-suite bedrooms, multiple gathering areas, and an elevator serving all levels, the home is designed for both comfort and convenience. The main living area is bright and open with vaulted ceilings, expansive ocean views, and a well-appointed gourmet kitchen featuring granite countertops and high-end stainless steel appliances—including a double oven, two refrigerators, and two dishwashers—ideal for entertaining large groups. Throughout the home, generous bedroom suites provide privacy and comfort, while a dedicated theater room and game room with wet bar offer plenty of options for indoor fun. Outside, enjoy true resort-style living with a private oceanfront pool, hot tub, spacious decks, and your own walkway leading directly to the beach. ALL DECKS WERE RECENTLY REPLACED and the top-level oceanside deck has been upgraded with Trex decking, offering added durability and long-term peace of mind. Perfectly positioned in a sought-after area, the home offers easy access even on busy summer weekends, a short walk to the bike path for walks, runs, or bike rides into Duck. Whether you’re seeking a luxury second home, a strong investment, or both, this Southern Shores oceanfront delivers timeless coastal appeal in one of the Outer Banks’ most desirable and convenient locations!
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8 bd
8 ba
Welcome to Casey’s Place, the kind of oceanfront home people wait years for on Hatteras Island. This stunning Salvo retreat has been meticulously maintained, beautifully updated, and consistently produces over $200,000 in annual rental income, making it an incredible opportunity for both investment buyers and those dreaming of their own oceanfront escape. From the moment you walk into the top level great room, the views completely steal the show. Massive windows frame the Atlantic Ocean from almost every angle while natural light pours through the home all day long. The soaring ceilings, warm hardwood floors, and relaxed coastal style give the home an upscale feel without losing that comfortable beach house vibe everyone wants. Step outside and it only gets better. Expansive oceanfront decks offer front row seats to sunrise mornings, rolling dunes, salty breezes, and nights filled with stars and the sound of the waves. There is plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax whether it’s morning coffee watching the surf or evening cocktails after a long beach day. The private pool area feels tucked away beside the dunes like your own little resort with a heated pool, hot tub, outdoor bar area, and direct beach access just steps away. The layout of this home was designed perfectly for large groups and repeat renters. Spacious ensuite bedrooms, deck access throughout, inviting gathering spaces, and thoughtful touches everywhere you look make this a guest favorite year after year. The oceanfront primary suite feels like its own private retreat with incredible views and a spa style bath. There’s even an ocean watch lounge with panoramic views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound, one of those spots where everyone naturally ends up at sunset. Pride of ownership shines throughout this property. The sellers have invested over $270,000 in recent improvements including a Fortified Roof, updated HVAC systems, tankless water heaters, refinished hardwood floors, updated furnishings and décor, pool heater, elevator updates, exterior trim and paint work, and more. This is not a tired rental house. It has been exceptionally cared for and it shows everywhere you look. Located in the heart of Salvo, close to the Salvo Day Use Area, Real Watersports, local restaurants, and some of the best kiteboarding and fishing on the East Coast, Casey’s Place offers everything people love about Hatteras Island. Strong income, stunning views, incredible condition, and a location renters return to year after year. This is the kind of property buyers wish would hit the market more often.
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This is Shore To Please—A Luxury Portfolio Asset with Unbelievable Cash Flow. The sprawling four-level estate stands as one of the most impressive and profitable vacation homes on the North Carolina coast, offering 23 luxurious bedroom suites—each with its own private bathroom with custom tiled showers . The main house includes 21 bedrooms, while the separate pool house adds 2 more suites along with a comfortable sitting room with TV and a stacked washer/dryer. The property offers 25 full bathrooms and 3 half bathrooms. With 16 King beds, 6 Queen beds, 2 Queen-over-Queen built-in bunk beds, and 2 sleep sofas, it comfortably accommodates up to 52 guests. A Savaria elevator offers convenient access for guests, groceries and luggage. Interior amenities are designed for both guest enjoyment and operational efficiency. Highlights include a custom wine room with a unique wine barrel table, a large recreation room with a pool table, foosball, shuffleboard, a bar / kitchenette, and multiple TVs. A dedicated cinema room with terraced seating provides an excellent entertainment option. 30 Smart TVs with streaming are available in every bedroom, great room, rec room, theater room, and cabana. Echo Dots are in all bedrooms, supported by eight wireless access points for reliable connectivity. Fully equipped kitchens, six wine chillers, three refrigerators, four dishwashers and a commercial ice machine add convenience, while the Demand Controller system and tankless water heaters improve energy efficiency and reduce operating costs. Outside, paradise awaits! The centerpiece is a massive 45’ x 21’ heated private pool with a spacious splash deck, perfect for cooling off or lounging in the sun. Two luxurious hot tubs add to the oasis—one on the pool house rooftop party deck offering sweeping ocean views, complemented with chaise loungers a picnic table and stainless cable railing. Multiple covered decks, some with direct bedroom access, plus an elevated dune deck, provide plenty of outdoor living space. Guests enjoy a private dune-top walkway to the beach, two outdoor showers, and multiple gas grills. With more than 22 parking spaces, the estate easily handles large groups. The views of the Atlantic surf are endless!...... Investment Highlights and Cash Flow Potential: What truly sets “Shore To Please” apart is its exceptional performance as a vacation rental investment. This property has consistently generated over $600,000 in gross rental income per year for multiple years, establishing a proven track record of strong revenue. By eliminating owner-use weeks and optimizing the rental calendar, annual gross income has strong potential to exceed $730,000. These figures translate into excellent net cash flow after typical operating expenses, thanks to high occupancy rates driven by its prime oceanfront location, large group capacity, and extensive amenity package. Full financial CASH FLOW ANALYSIS available. The combination of 23 en-suite bedrooms, resort-style amenities, and direct beach access creates year-round demand from large families, corporate groups, and special event guests. Low maintenance requirements, energy-efficient systems, and a turnkey operation further enhance profitability and minimize owner workload. In one of the Outer Banks’ most sought-after rental markets, this home delivers reliable, high-volume cash flow with significant appreciation potential. Shore To Please represents a rare opportunity to acquire a fully furnished, high-performing oceanfront asset with immediate income-generating capabilities. Whether as a primary investment property or part of a larger portfolio, it offers substantial returns through strong rental performance, operational efficiency, and a desirable location that supports consistent bookings and premium nightly rates.This estate provides the perfect balance of luxury accommodations and smart investment value in a premier coastal market. Offering both personal enjoyment and excellent cash flow!
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Welcome to Herbie’s, your classic OCEANFRONT beach cottage in the heart of Kill Devil Hills. This 4-BEDROOM, 2-BATH coastal retreat offers sweeping, unobstructed ocean views and the timeless charm of an Outer Banks getaway, all just steps from the sand. Wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy breathtaking ocean views from many rooms throughout the home. Spend your mornings on the screened porch enjoying the ocean breeze, or soak up the sunshine from the spacious sun deck that wraps from the back to the side of the home. Inside, the home features a classic and functional beach cottage layout designed with comfort and gathering in mind. The open living area and kitchen are centrally located, both positioned to take advantage of the ocean views. Durable tile flooring throughout the main living space makes beach living easy after long days in the sand and surf. The layout offers excellent functionality for families and guests alike. The spacious king bedroom features a private ensuite bath with a tiled shower, while the remaining 3 bedrooms share a second full bath with a tub. Sleeping arrangements include a king bedroom, 2 queen bedrooms, and a bunk room, providing plenty of space for family and friends. The septic permit is for 3 bedrooms; however, the home has long functioned as a TRUE 4-BEDROOM, 2-BATH property. Herbie’s underwent an extensive renovation in 2013 when the owners took the home DOWN TO THE STUDS. Major improvements included new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, doors, roof, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and more, blending classic beach cottage character with updated systems and finishes. The septic system was replaced in 2025. Centrally located in Kill Devil Hills, Herbie’s places you close to some of the Outer Banks’ favorite local spots. Grab your morning coffee from Ashley’s Espresso Parlour, treat yourself at Mom’s Sweet Shop, or easily explore nearby restaurants, shopping, and attractions. The convenient central location offers easy access to all the best of the Outer Banks while still enjoying the privacy and beauty of oceanfront living. Herbie’s has also proven itself as a STRONG RENTAL PERFORMER. After joining a new rental program in January 2025, the property generated OVER $100,000 IN GROSS RENTAL INCOME during its first year, even with owners reserving personal use time. Already, approximately $75,000 is on the books for 2026 with bookings continuing to come in. For additional rental information, reviews, and booking details, visit the rental website here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1316054910352994841?unique_share_id=838f619a-0c11-462a-8425-6fdaddeedfb2&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1779963015_P3xgkcbHdYKrSYD3 From its stunning ocean views and thoughtful layout to its strong rental history and unbeatable location, Herbie’s captures the essence of classic Outer Banks oceanfront living.
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Located on a 62' wide oceanfront homesite, The Lodge features 8 bedrooms and everything South Nags Head has to offer with a great location very close to Jeanette's Pier and Outer Banks Fishing Pier. Beautiful panoramic ocean views on the top level of this home and ocean views from 5 out of 8 bedrooms with a great floorplan and living spaces on all three floors. The ground level features a game room with a kitchenette with full size refridgerator and bar and two bedrooms. The mid-level includes 5 bedrooms, both east and west facing decks, and a TV room/den. The top level of this home is spacious and bright with an open floor plan, half bath, and large ensuite overlooking the beach. Plenty of room for everyone to gather outside with pool, kiddie pool, hot tub, and new in 2026 a beach walkway and observation deck. Close to shopping, resturants, Oregon Inlet, Pirate's Cove, and Manteo.
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Beautiful oceanfront cottage ideally located in the heart of Carova Beach. This turnkey property has been thoughtfully updated with major improvements, including new siding (2017), a fortified roof (2022), new septic drain fields (2022), a hot tub(2023), a water heater(2025) and all-new plumbing (2023). This home offers exceptional versatility, making it an ideal second home, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity. The three-bedroom layout is situated in an X Flood Zone, meaning flood insurance is not required. Upon entry, you are welcomed into a warm and inviting open-concept great room and kitchen, featuring cathedral ceilings and tongue-and-groove walls that capture the classic Outer Banks coastal charm. The south-facing primary bedroom includes an ensuite bath and private sliding door access to the oceanfront deck and hot tub area. The north wing of the home features two additional bedrooms, currently configured as a king bedroom and a bunk room, providing comfortable accommodations for family and guests. An attached garage offers excellent owner storage or potential to be converted into a recreation space. The ground level includes a concrete slab, creating a shaded outdoor gathering area perfect for summer enjoyment. From the home, a seamless transition leads to the elevated beach walkway to the dune, providing convenient and direct access to the ocean. Don’t miss this opportunity to own an affordable, well-maintained oceanfront property. Schedule your showing today.
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10 bd
10 ba
Where the wild horses roam free and the Atlantic Ocean meets 1.3 acres of pristine coastal privacy, you will find this spectacular ten-bedroom, ten-and-a-half-bathroom oceanfront estate. Located just 2.3 miles up the off-road beaches—a world away from the everyday, yet effortlessly accessible—this near 5,000-square-foot custom masterpiece was completed in 2018 to offer the absolute pinnacle of Outer Banks living. Showing like a brand-new home, the property has been meticulously maintained, featuring complete interior and exterior paint freshly completed in 2026, along with recently replaced HVAC systems to ensure total peace of mind. Boasting 60 feet of direct ocean frontage, the home delivers mesmerizing, unobstructed wave-breaking views to the east for breathtaking sunrises, alongside stunning sunset views over the Currituck Sound and its outer islands to the west. Designed flawlessly for grand-scale entertaining and total relaxation, the outdoor oasis features expansive east and westside decking that frames the panoramic views, leading down to a massive backyard pool area. This exterior retreat comes complete with a brand-new 2026 hot tub, a dedicated kiddie pool, a built-in grilling area, a gas firepit, and abundant lounge seating. Stepping inside to the ground level directly from the pool deck, you are greeted by a spectacular entertainment pub featuring a full wet bar equipped with an ice maker, microwave, refrigerator, and multiple flat-screen televisions. This space flows seamlessly into a spacious game room with a pool table, which sits adjacent to a private, dedicated movie theater room perfect for evening films and gaming. An elevator services all levels of the home, and this ground floor is rounded out by two luxury en-suite bedrooms, plus a third bedroom utilizing a shared full bath. The mid-level serves as an ideal secondary retreat, offering a large central gathering area, convenient dual stackable washers and dryers, and five spacious en-suite bedrooms, several of which feature beautiful custom tile showers. Ascending to the top level, you will be utterly memorized by the sweeping ocean views framed perfectly through a dramatic wall of windows. The massive living room features vaulted ceilings, an electric fireplace, and direct access to both the east and west decks. Nearby, the chef’s dream kitchen is fully loaded to handle large crowds, boasting dual refrigerators, dual dishwashers, a double wall oven, a stovetop range, premium granite countertops, and a large island with bar seating. Two grand en-suite bedrooms anchor this top tier, each boasting upscale tile showers and private deck access. Beyond its physical beauty, this property is a proven investment powerhouse situated securely in the coveted X flood zone, meaning no flood insurance is required. It has a highly productive history of grossing over $200k annually for the last several years, and the current 2026 season is already outperforming expectations with $215k in rental income already booked. For serious buyers looking for a transparent and smooth transaction, a comprehensive pre-listing home inspection is available for review. Whether you are seeking a lucrative rental machine to anchor your investment portfolio or a private family legacy estate, this Corolla gem is unmatched in both luxury and performance.
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5 bd
3 ba
Welcome to Sof'Shell, a 5 bedroom oceanfront home in Corolla, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. With FOUR levels of living space, brand new ocean-facing decks, ocean views, and fantastic rental income history, this home is unique in every way. And let's not overlook the wide, uncrowded beach out front that makes Corolla so special, and the established dune protecting the home and the coastline. Lovingly furnished and decorated for maximum guest experience, Sof'Shell brought in 96k in owner income in 2024 and in 2025, and has 71k already on the books for 2026. The ground level includes a living space with half bath that also opens to the outside shower. There's laundry and storage on this level also. The next level includes the main entryway, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. One of the bedrooms has an attached bath, with sliders that open to the ocean-facing deck. The other two bedrooms share a hall bathroom with large tile shower and double sinks. On the third level, you'll find the main living space that opens to the dining and kitchen. There's a large screened porch off the kitchen, ideal for outside dining, that also opens onto the uncovered deck. The largest of the bedrooms is on its own wing, with ocean views and the largest bathroom attached to it. On the other side of the main living space is another bedroom with sliders that open to the deck, and a full bathroom in the hallway. There are ocean views from the main living and dining space, or walk out onto the ocean-facing deck for even more views and a hot tub. There's plenty of space for deck chairs and bar tables on the deck, as it's a great spot to start your morning or wind down your day. Walk up the custom wood spiral staircase to the loft, for another living space and a cute catwalk to the top level deck, with amazing ocean views. There is space for everyone in this unique layout with 3 living spaces. Sof'Shell is a great place to call home as she is, she's already functioning as a rental investment and is completely turn key. But since she's located on prime oceanfront real estate, a new owner could maximize the financial investment even further by putting a larger structure in its place, as the neighbors did. If that is the goal of a new owner, this is a great option b/c you can get great rental income for months or years while you spend time designing your dream investment home. And as always, FREE PIZZA WITH PURCHASE, courtesy of the listing agent.
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Welcome to your oceanfront opportunity in the heart of Nags Head! This spacious 8-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom coastal home sits on prime oceanfront real estate with incredible potential for the savvy buyer. The top floor features an open-concept design that showcases spectacular ocean views, creating an impressive space for entertaining and relaxation. Generating $178,305 in owner gross rents in 2025, this property shows strong income potential! This well-maintained property features solid bones with room for your personal touches. Step inside to unobstructed ocean views and the thoughtfully designed open-concept layout perfect for vacation rentals. The top-level living room offers comfortable space to relax, while the kitchen boasts granite countertops and stainless appliances with ample dining options including breakfast nook overlooking the ocean, formal dining, and bar seating. The mid-level deck features a hot tub overlooking the pool and protective dune - perfect for unwinding. Spacious bedrooms and smart layout create the ultimate vacation experience. The lower level game room with wet bar provides easy access to the pool and beach walkover. Recent major improvements include a new roof (2021), new pool heater (2022), fresh interior paint and most bedding, updated flooring throughout most of the home, and living room windows. Most windows and siding are original, offering an excellent opportunity to update and personalize to your taste. Prime location near OBX Fishing Pier, Fish Heads, restaurants, shops, and Outer Banks Mall. This property offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and rental-readiness, with cosmetic enhancement possibilities to truly make it your own. Don't miss this chance to own prime oceanfront real estate with proven rental history and room to add value through updates! Please note: The rear pool fence has been replaced with wooden fencing since photos were taken.
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“High Seas” is an exceptional oceanfront retreat located in the Hattie Creef Landing subdivision in Salvo, uniquely positioned behind one of Hatteras Island’s strongest natural dune lines. Ideally set within the desirable FEMA X flood zone, the lowest risk classification not requiring flood insurance, this property combines coastal beauty with added security—making it a standout investment opportunity. Purchased last year and demonstrating a significant commitment to quality and maintenance the current owners invested $150,000. These recent improvements were aimed to ensure the new owners would be purchasing a property in peak condition. Copy link for 3-d walkthrough https://youriguide.com/27247_hattie_creef_landing_ct_rodanthe_nc/ Encompassing over 6,300 square feet, the home is thoughtfully designed to accommodate large groups while maintaining comfort and privacy. It offers eight expansive bedrooms, all with direct access to wide, multi-level wraparound decks. Six bedrooms function as upscale en suites with king beds and private baths featuring double vanities, while the remaining two share a spacious hall bath. Two additional half baths are conveniently placed to serve the main living and entertainment areas. Each bathroom is finished with detailed custom tilework, adding a refined touch throughout. The top floor is dedicated to gathering and taking in the views, featuring a vaulted great room filled with natural light and sweeping ocean vistas. A generous dining area easily seats 16, and the well-appointed kitchen is built for entertaining, complete with dual refrigerators, dual dishwashers, an ice maker, and a casual breakfast space. Just above it all, a cozy tower room provides a quiet nook for reading or unwinding. Entertainment is a central theme of the home, with multiple indoor spaces designed for fun and relaxation. The main game room includes billiards, a TV lounge, and a wet bar with kitchenette, while a second recreation space on the lower level offers ping pong, arcade-style gaming, additional seating, and its own full-size refrigerator. Step outside to experience resort-style amenities, including a private pool with a separate kiddie area and waterfall feature, all surrounded by a spacious sun deck and paver patio. A Tiki bar creates the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings, while a tucked-away hot tub beneath the home offers a more private place to relax. Consistently maintained and thoughtfully updated, “High Seas” has built a strong reputation among guests and delivers impressive rental performance. This high performing asset with a robust track record, generating an average of $215,000 over the last three years, is a turnkey property that offers both immediate returns and long-term value. In addition, while undergoing it's 2026 updates, "High Seas" was temporarily off the market for a large portion of late fall to early spring, possibly indicating even higher income totals are within reach. It’s a rare chance to own a premier oceanfront investment in the Outer Banks with proven success and enduring appeal.
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