Selling a home is an exciting transition, but it also requires opening your doors to the public. For sellers in New Hanover, Pender, Onslow, and Brunswick counties, this often means balancing the need for exposure with the unique risks of our coastal market. Whether you are selling a primary residence in Wilmington or a vacation rental on Topsail Island, protecting your privacy and property requires a proactive strategy.

The "Vacation Mode" Factor

Our area is unique because many potential buyers—and even casual lookers—are here on vacation. This relaxed mindset can sometimes lead to relaxed boundaries.

The "Tourist" Risk: In beach communities like Surf City or Oak Island, it is not uncommon for visitors to mistake a "For Sale" sign for an "Open House" invitation.

The Fix: Never rely on a simple yard sign to manage traffic. We recommend "By Appointment Only" riders for occupied vacation homes to prevent beachgoers from walking up the stairs unannounced.

Smart Locks vs. Realtor Lockboxes

If you are an investor selling a short-term rental (Airbnb/VRBO), you likely already have a smart lock. While convenient for guests, these can be a liability during the sale process.

The Issue: Previous guests may still have active codes, or "digital keys" might be floating around.

The Strategy: We advise transitioning to a strictly controlled Realtor-accessible electronic lockbox (Supra) during the listing period. These boxes track exactly who enters and when, providing a digital log of every agent and buyer who steps foot in your property—security that a standard keypad code cannot offer.

Privacy in the Age of Digital Tours

High-definition 3D tours are standard for marketing homes in our region, especially for out-of-state buyers. However, they can also inadvertently expose your personal life.

Depersonalize Digitally: Before the photographer arrives, remove degrees, medication, and family calendars from the walls. High-resolution cameras can capture names on prescription bottles or dates on a calendar, offering unnecessary data to identity thieves.

Secure the "Hidden" Valuables: Beyond jewelry, think about small, easily pocketed electronics. In a vacation home, this includes removing portable speakers, gaming consoles, and leaving "owner’s closets" strictly locked.

The Vacant Home Dilemma

Many sellers in our area list homes that are already vacant. In humid coastal climates, a vacant home is not just a security risk; it’s a maintenance risk.

Squatters & Unauthorized Use: "Off-season" emptiness can attract unwanted guests. Regular checks are essential—not just to ensure doors are locked, but to verify that the AC is running to prevent mold in our humid environment.

The "Lived-In" Look: If you have moved out, leave the electricity on and consider timed smart lights. A dark home on a dark street is a target; a well-lit home signals activity.

Your Next Step

Your peace of mind is just as important as your profit margin. At Aspyre Realty Group, we view safety as a critical part of our marketing strategy. We don't just put a sign in the yard; we implement protocols to protect your asset and your privacy from listing to closing.

Concerned about the logistics of selling your occupied or vacation property? Reach out to us for a private consultation on how we secure your sale while maximizing your exposure.