It’s a common question faced every year. You’re browsing around the websites in Myrtle Beach (or any area really) and you are looking for deals — the “best bang for the buck” as they say.  You are faced with a quandary though. What is the BEST way to save money?  Should I reserve now, 6 to 8 months before our vacation? Or should I wait until it gets closer to time and book with a last minute deal of some sort?

Both have their pros and cons, let’s explore.

Booking Your Rental Early

You’re a planner, aren’t you?  Your quest is to find the ultimate vacation rental in Myrtle Beach for your vacation next summer. You want to make sure your trip is all set up and ready to go so you don’t have to worry about the stress of planning a last minute vacation. You have to make sure your family has scheduled time off work and you are going to have enough funds to pay for it at the time.  Sound familiar?

The pros of booking early opens you up to getting the best selection of availability.  Reserving a condo in Myrtle Beach isn’t like booking a hotel.  Hotel rooms are all decorated the same most of the time, so it doesn’t matter if you get unit 101 or 103.  Condos, however, are all individually owned. Each owner decorates their condo differently. Some take the time to really deck out their condo rental (like our Showplace Rentals), and you see some MAJOR differences between two units in the same building. (Read more about Condos vs Hotels) And truth be told, the best condo rentals book up quickly, every single year because of their “diamond in the ruff” mentality.

However, also keep in mind, that condos in general (no matter what or where) have been more sought after over the years in Myrtle Beach, as opposed to hotels.  So reserving early guarantees you your favorite rental unit.  While there may be no specials, deals or price breaks on early bookings, you ARE guaranteed availability and a booking for peace of mind.

Booking Your Rental Late

There is really only one true pro of booking your Myrtle Beach rental later in the season — discounts.  When it’s getting close to summer time,  there is still some availability left at condo rentals, not much, but it IS there.   Condo owners would rather have SOME income though, at a discounted rate, rather than no income at all, so that’s when specials appear.  Keep in mind though, you are NOT going to get pick of the litter when you wait until the last minute.  The longer you wait, the less likelihood that your condo choice will become available.

Final Thoughts

So, you should ask yourself, “What is more important to me? Price or pick?” Would you rather make sure you have secured and booked your vacation rental for next year? Or would you rather risk the chance of availability in order to get a deal closer to vacation time?  Either way you have it, you can always check our availability live by doing a search or start browsing our condo rentals.

Let’s face it, Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach are quite peaceful in the off-season. No traffic, nobody on the beach, no lines at attractions or restaurants, but you still get to take in everything the Grand Strand offers! You snowbirders know these little tid-bits, don’t you?  Ok, maybe I won’t spill ALL of your secrets of a successful winter vacation in Myrtle Beach, but even so, for those who haven’t yet tried North Myrtle Beach during the off-season, you’re missing out!

First off,  the term “snowbirders” refers to those who “flock south to Myrtle Beach for the winter” because of the mild climate, area activities and relaxed atmosphere. Some come every year and stay in the same condo, making sure they are booked for the next year before they even leave to go back north.  Some stay for only a month, and others stay from October to March (which is when our condos rent monthly for off-season winter.)   Yet, ALL of them take advantage of Myrtle Beach in the off-season.

The CondoLux winter monthly rates start at $800 for a month for a 1 bedroom condo, and include all the amenities you need to stay for the entire winter. The full kitchens are nice for staying home and preparing meals, and you can always sit on your oceanfront balcony and sip on hot chocolate under a blanket for those romantic evenings where the moon is reflecting on the ocean.

We could go on all day about what makes Myrtle Beach so wonderful in the winter, but wouldn’t your rather try it?  Take a minute to check out all the monthly winter rentals we have to offer in North Myrtle Beach, and if you want to be closer to the attractions in Myrtle Beach, you can view the winter monthly rentals in Myrtle Beach as well..  Who knows, maybe you’ll fly south to Myrtle Beach once a year as well!

Parking Passes are a very important part of your stay. We  strongly encourage all of our guests to display their parking passes that have been provided to them at all times.

Failure to properly display the parking pass(es) we provide you with, can and most likely will result in your vehicle(s) being towed at your expense.

Parking violations are in no way, shape, or form enforced or monitored by CondoLux. Parking Regulations are set and enforced by the individual Resorts in the area.

We absolutely do not want our customers to fall victim to this situation (being towed), so we’re going to do our best to provide you with the information you need to have a hassle and tow-free vacation.

HOW MANY PARKING PASSES DO I GET?

When you check-in, you will receive the amount of parking passes allowed for your individual unit (dependent on which unit you rent).

If you need more passes, please let us know how many parking passes you will need WHEN YOU ARE MAKING YOUR RESERVATION.

WHAT IF I HAVE VISITORS DURING MY STAY?

We will provide you with additional passes for your visitors, but this doesn’t guarantee them a parking spot — due to limited space.

If you forget to ask for visitor passes during your reservation, please feel free to come to the CondoLux Office to get more passed during hours of operation.

WHAT IF CONDOLUX IS CLOSED WHEN I CHECK-IN, AND I NEED MORE PASSES?

If you only asked for 4 parking passes during your reservation process, and you check-in after our hours of operation, we will only leave 4 parking passes for you. If when you get here you find yourself needing more parking passes, you must wait until our office is open the next day to get them. This is why we encourage our visitors to get an accurate number of parking passes they’ll need prior to their arrival, and ask for them during their reservation. We fully understand that you may have unexpected visitors during your visit, and we will do our absolute best to accommodate you.

WHERE SHOULD WE PARK IF WE DON’T HAVE PARKING PASSES?

DO NOT PARKING IN THE PARKING GARAGE IF YOU DON’T HAVE A PARKING PASS, YOU WILL GET TOWED. We would suggest using city-parking until you can come to the CondoLux Office and acquire more parking passes. You are responsible for understanding the regulations of City-parking as well.

SHORT AND SWEET SUMMARY: ALWAYS display your parking pass. If you don’t have one, please don’t park in the parking garage. If you need more parking passes, wait until we’re open and we will gladly get them for you =)

CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR OFFICE HOURS AND LOCATION

We’d like to take a moment and bring attention to a very important issue regarding parking regulations: ROOF-TOP CARRIERS.

As outlined in your Reservation Confirmation e-mail that you receive when you book your unit(s); there are certain parking restrictions that you need to familiarize yourself with prior to your arrival.

Roof-top Carriers

Vehicles with Roof-top Carriers do not meet the clearance height needed to utilize our condo’s on-site parking. Customer’s are NOT permitted to park their vehicle , or store their Roof-top Carrier at the CondoLux office if they choose to ignore this warning. Some properties have overflow parking space outdoors that vehicles with Roof-top carriers are permitted to use. Please check directly with the resort in question prior to your arrival for verification.

We are aware that there may be situations that require the use of Roof-top carriers for storage when traveling. Please understand that when bringing a Roof-top Carrier, you will be responsible for finding your own means of parking.

We strongly encourage all of our customers to familiarize yourselves with the Rules & Regulations stated on your Reservation Confirmation e-mail and also our Frequently Asked Questions page prior to your arrival to save yourself from any issues.

City parking is available for free of charge in North Myrtle Beach. All applicable rules and regulations are posted accordingly and are enforced by the city.

We sincerely appreciate your cooperation, and please feel free to call us if you need any additional help.

UPDATE  (June 14th, 2011):

Since promoting this post on our Facebook page, we’ve received a lot of feedback on this topic.  Our goal with this post was to simply make our customers more aware of issues that can arise when bringing a Roof-top carrier.  We’ve come up with a short list of solutions (with the help of our Facebook Fans) for those of you who have the “Roof-top Carrier Blues”

Solution #1)  Remove the Roof-top carrier prior to entering the parking garage, and simply storing it in your rental unit.

Solution #2)  Buy a Hitch-Haul instead. One of our Facebook Fans had this to say about her experience with a Hitch-Haul.

” A Hitch-Haul is added to the back of your SUV (trailer hitch). We had ours professionally installed on our Mini-Van. When you get to your destination, you can take the Hitch-Haul off and store it in your vehicle or condo. ” – Janet Stillman

Get more information about buying a Hitch-Haul

Solution #3)  Find alternative parking.

There could not possibly be a better time to take advantage of the available oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach. Housing prices are still quite low, as are mortgage interest rates. Many people interested in purchasing a second home or retirement accommodations find these Myrtle Beach condos perfect for their needs. However, the real estate investor is the true benefactor of these low priced oceanfront condos.

Many real estate investors purchase these beautiful homes to use as vacation rental properties. Myrtle Beach is one of the most visited areas in South Carolina, and in the Southeast. Near perfect weather, beautiful beaches and exquisite golf courses make Myrtle Beach the “go-to” place. Investors know that when an area is a popular tourist destination that accommodations will be needed.

Oceanfront condos will generate the highest rental income because of their perfect view. While the many amenities that are offered at the condominium complexes are an additional bonus, the unobstructed view of the ocean is what draws many to these accommodations. Ocean view condos are quite different than oceanfront condos, and while still in demand, can not command the same rental pricing.

The difference between ocean view and oceanfront is simple. An oceanfront condo has no obstruction between the condo and the ocean. When you look out the balcony window you have a complete view of the beach. An ocean view condo, on the other hand, still allows you to see the beach, but possibly from an angle or at a greater distance. Because of this slight difference, many people only consider oceanfront condos when looking for vacation rentals.

There are many reasons to consider Myrtle Beach oceanfront condos. Perhaps you have retired and enjoy the warm winter weather. Perhaps you have worked hard your entire life so that you could live the beach lifestyle you have always dreamed about. Maybe you are a savvy investor who knows how to become financially successful by taking advantage of low real estate pricing in one of America’s hot spots. Whatever your background or intention, you will be pleased with Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand area.

For information and a list of available oceanfront condos to buy, give the CondoLux Sales Department a try at 800-624-6418

There’s always time for rental time. Or so we always thought. The summer of 2010 was a record breaking year for the Grand Strand, with vacationers flocking to the beach by the tens of thousands. Three years ago, one couldn’t have imagined the influx that 2010 would bring to Myrtle Beach. Well if this summer is any indication of what is to come, then Myrtle Beach winter rentals are in for a wallop (which isn’t a bad thing at all). Although it may seem as if summer is still upon us, the harsh reality is: summer is over.

With the temperatures cooling off from moderate breezes and lower humidity levels, winter is the preferred season for many travelers looking for a warmer climate than their own, yet nothing extremely hot. Furthermore, winter prices for golf and accommodations are drastically lower than peak season prices while still maintaining very comfortable playing weather.

Myrtle Beach winter rentals from October to March are not only less expensive, but the excessive crowds aren’t present as well. Such an added relief knowing you won’t have hour and a half lines for dinner or traffic jams out the wazoo. However, one thing you will need to pre-book is your accommodations. While it is true that crowds levels are substantially less, pre-booking is necessary for a couple of significant reasons. For starters, pre-booking ensures that you obtain the best condo that suits you. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, condo rental specials are offered now and not a week prior when you’d like to arrive. The comfort in securing the place you’d most like to vacation in as well as getting a discount; one would contend that it makes no sense in waiting a month or two to book, when the best deals can be had now.

Learn more about many other Myrtle Beach rentals on CondoLux.net.

Saturday July 3rd- Broadway at the Beach will kick off the weekend right with a fireworks display beginning at 10:00 PM held between the Dragon Lair’s Bridge and the Main Bridge.

Sunday July 4th- Stroll down to the 2nd avenue pier in Myrtle Beach, right next to the all new Boardwalk and Promenade to witness the fireworks display beginning at 9 PM.

BB&T Field- Catch the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in action as they take on the Salem Red Sox at 6:05 PM. A fun-filled night, with jersey auctions, a Reggy appearance and a mini-flag giveaway is all scheduled. Following the game will be a fireworks show.

Cherry Grove Beach at the Cherry Grove Pier-  a fireworks display will be held around 9:30 PM.  Be sure to bring a blanket.

Broadway at the Beach- Between the Dragon’s Lair Bridge and Main Bridge will host a fireworks display beginning at 10 PM.

Barefoot Landing- Barefoot Landing will celebrate the 4th of July with a special fireworks show at 10:15 PM. Entertainers and plenty of children’s themed activities begin at 7PM.

Murrells Inlet- Visit Murrells Inlet for the 26th Annual Murrells Inlet 4th of July Boat Parade. The parade begins at high tide and last year over 125 boat entrants.

The Cherry Grove Pier in North Myrtle Beach

Barefoot Landing takes a twist on regular outdoor malls. Surrounding a 27-acre lake, Barefoot Landing takes advantage of beautiful scenery utilizing docks allowing you to easily maneuver throughout. Be sure to check out local shops such as Black Market Minerals and House of Style. Grab lunch at Greg Norman’s Australian Grille or travel back to the 50’s and eat at Johnny Rockets Diner. For the kids, the Alligator Adventure Park is a great hands-on experience while the Ghosts and Legends Theater caters to the more mature young adults. For the older crowd, the House of Blues and Alabama Theatre makes Barefoot Landing not only a great day spot but also a great evening night life experience.

Alligator Adventure at Barefoot Landing

For many vacationers of South Carolina, golf is always on the mind and North Myrtle Beach is no different. North Myrtle Beach golf packages are a visitor favorite with tons of courses to choose from. Barefoot Resort & Golf located right behind Barefoot Landing has 4 courses each with its own difficulty level. Another great course is Beachwood Golf Club. Perfect for all ages and experience levels Beachwood Golf Club offers amazing afternoon rates.

Dining is one of those rare vacation moments where the whole family actually gets to see each other. After a day at the beach or Barefoot Landing, try venturing a few miles north into Little River, South Carolina or Calabash, North Carolina. Here you’ll find good ole’ southern cooking at its finest. Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway in Little River, SC is Captain Juel’s Hurricane Restaurant. Watch fishermen haul in the fresh catch of the day while relaxing on Capt. Juel’s outdoor deck overlooking beautiful untouched marshland. Just five minutes from Little River is Calabash, NC. This small fishing town is known for its local hospitality and their cooking reflects this attitude. Ella’s of Calabash, voted “Best seafood in Brunswick County” Ella’s is a favorite with locals and vacationers alike.

Whether it is catching up on some much needed sun, playing a round with the folks, or dining at some of the best kept secrets on the coast, take a good look at North Myrtle Beach rentals when planning your next vacation.

A vacation hot spot for over 60 years, Myrtle Beach boasts plenty of shopping outlets as well as many fine department stores. With 14 million people annually visiting the Myrtle Beach area, it is no wonder that Myrtle Beach is the premier family vacation destination. Broadway at the Beach features 350 acres of shopping, dining, nightlife and even hotel accommodations. Stop in at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville for a quick drink or lunch as you peruse shops such as Retro Active-The 70’s 80’s & 90’s Store, River Street Sweets, and M.R. Ducks. When the sun goes down, that is when Broadway at the Beach comes alive. Celebrity square mixes four clubs all under one roof. Everything from country, to electronica can be found in four adjacent rooms. For shopping necessities, Tanger Outlet Malls is just the place to find bargains. Adidas, Gap, Kenneth Cole, Land’s End all can be found at Tanger with two convenient locations in the Myrtle Beach area.

Did you know that Myrtle Beach is known as the “Golf capital of the world?” Experience some of the world’s most challenging golf courses many of whom are designed to protect the natural habitat and wildlife indigenous to the area. With courses for all experience types Myrtle Beach offers year-round weather for golf with courses and greens created by world-famous architects such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, and Greg Norman.

Family fun is the focal point of Myrtle Beach with an abundance of activities designed to keep the whole family interested during your Myrtle Beach vacation. Ripley’s Aquarium, a Children’s Museum, miniature golf, and a NASCAR raceway, are all minutes away from your vacation hotel.

Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet

Pawley’s Island is the southern most part of The Grand Strand and is known as the oldest summer resorts on the east coast. Pawley’s Island continues to be known for its shoeless, carefree, laid-back life style, which includes crabbing in the adjacent creeks, fishing, the stories of ghosts, the rope hammocks and the unspoiled, unsophisticated, casual, delightful stretch of wide beach and sand dunes. A vast array of local eateries and specialty shops are sprinkled throughout. Be sure to check out Pawley’s Island Hammocks and the Crab Cake Lady shop. When choosing your next vacation destination, don’t hesitate to look within the Myrtle Beach area.

View the full article about the increase in Myrtle Beach vacation rentals here!

As a new resident of North Myrtle Beach, you’ll enjoy the friendliness and hospitality of your neighbors who also live and work here.  Even with all of the many exciting venues and attractions nearby, North Myrtle Beach moves at a slower pace and will truly give your family a peaceful environment to live.

North Myrtle Beach is consistently receiving awards for growth and quality of life.  That is why we believe North Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to relocate your family.  It is a perfect location to take a long walk on the beach, soak up the sun and scenery almost every day of the year and create memories which are full of life and meaning that will last a lifetime.

The cost of living according to the ACCRA composite index for the North Myrtle Beach area is 96.7, with 100 as the national average.  There are over 20,000 dwelling units in North Myrtle Beach; and this number is expected to increase 15 percent over the next five years.

The median cost of a new home is $192,400; with the median monthly electric bill around $112.  The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $560.  The median age of residents is 48 years, with more than 25 percent being college graduates.  The median family income is $46,052 a year.

With the housing markets finally ascending, North Myrtle Beach condos are the perfect accommodations to help you enjoy your vacation. Imagine awakening to the sounds of the ocean, preparing breakfast just the way you like it in your fully equipped kitchen, and then enjoying it out on your balcony as you take in the beautiful view of the Atlantic. As you look out over the sandy beaches and crystal blue water of the coast, you begin planning your day – no easy task with so many great activities and attractions located nearby. Maybe you’ll play a round at one of the nearby golf courses. Perhaps you’ll take a swim and spend a lazy day by the pool.

No matter what you decide, at day’s end you’ll return to the spacious luxury of your villa where you can relax and unwind in preparation for tomorrow’s adventures.

Oceanfront Myrtle Beach condos are parallel to the ocean, meaning you are facing the ocean while standing on your balcony. Simple as that. The building is not tilted, nor do you have a side unit that has a VIEW of the ocean.  When you look out your balcony door, the ocean is directly in front of you looking straight ahead.  You can look up one side and see the beach, and you can look up another side and see the rest of the beach. This added luxury is why oceanfront condos are usually more expensive – the view is spectacular.  The photo below is an example of an oceanfront condo rental:

Oceanfront Condo - Notice How the Beach is Parallel to the Balcony?

Myrtle Beach condo rentals that have an ocean view, on the other hand, might still have a very nice VIEW of the ocean, but your balcony might be on the side of the building, rather than in the front (or back, for that matter). These condos generally are less costly, simply because you are not paying for the view.  There is no difference in actual quality of the unit itself. You can still expect your tiled floors, jacuzzi tubs, and granite countertops – just not the view.  Keep in mind, there are other types of an ocean view condos as well. If there is a home or condo on the second row, there still might be a good view of the ocean – but you might need to walk an extra 100 feet or over the road to get to the beach.

Ocean View: You can still see the ocean, but it's not directly in front of you.

We have a wide assortment of both oceanfront and ocean view Myrtle Beach condo rentals. Summer is already booking up fast though. Don’t hesitate too long. The best condos are already sold out!