Photo: L.I. HOME
The summer season is still brand new here in the season of surf and sun in 2022, and that means you may still be in the market for a vacation rental home here on Long Island. It’s never too late to find one that suits your needs, but you have to act fast to find the right property—and you need to know the right way to approach your search.
As you dive into your search, licensed real estate salesperson Lisa Miglino of Signature Premier Properties suggests having a clear and concise checklist to help snag that perfect Long Island summer rental.
Location and Aesthetics
“First, know what kind of vacation home you want,” Miglino says. “A full beach house, a condo or an apartment? Do you want something on the ocean or bay, or maybe you’re interested in exploring Long Island wine country.”
Long Island can offer a variety of landscapes, each packed with different views, entertainment and ambiences. The most popular areas to look for a sunmer vacation rental home on Long Island are Fire Island, the Hamptons and Montauk, which is likely not surprising, But, there are other gems worth considering, such as Port Jefferson, Babylon, Captree, Greenport, Shelter Island, Long Beach, Great Neck, Cutchogue—with so much coastline along the ocean and the sound, the options are almost endless.
Cutchogue, for example, has beaches within walking distance of many waterfront properties, local farm stands and numerous farm-to-table restaurants and vineyards.
Check Amenities and Then Check Them Again
Not all vacation rentals are suitable for everyone. Checking the list of amenities included in the price will ensure that you have everything you need and that there are no surprises once you’ve settled in.
“Does the rental you are considering provide toilet paper and paper towels, or do you need to bring your own?” Miglino says. “If you plan on cooking your own meals, does the property have a well-equipped kitchen? Is there a barbeque? If not, can you bring one?”
These are just a few of the important questions one should ask before signing any agreement, Miglino notes. Additionally, do you need to bring linens and towels, or are they supplied? Are bicycles provided or do you need to bring your own? Are there trails or designated areas where you can ride a bicycle? Are games and other entertainment and cable TV (and those streaming services) included?
Are pets allowed? If so, is there an additional fee or security deposit required? How far is the property from the beach? Is there ample parking available? Make your list, and check it twice.
Know the Vibe
Additionally, since you might want to leave your vacation home and explore the area, you’ll want to know where the local restaurants, grocery stores, and shopping centers and entertainment spots are located.
“You should also have an idea of the atmosphere you’re looking for,” Miglino offers. Is it a quiet getaway or do you want to amp it up for a party vibe? “For example, there are many different areas on Fire Island, some are for a ‘young crowd,’ so do your homework.”
Finding the right property for your Long Island summer vacation—or staycation—is within reach, even this summer. Do your due diligence, and of course, turn to the real estate experts.
Check out our podcast interview with Signature Premier Properties here!
