Resources
Here is a concise summary of the links found on this site that will be helpful for you to reference:
DCM Erosion Article
KDH Map Revision
Boss Study Order Page
Shore Migration Maps
Letter of Map Revision
N.O.A.A. Tides and Currents
N.O.A.A. Shoreline Website
Please take the time to understand the basics of coastal geology and how it can affect development on Outer Banks beaches. If you decide to move forward, it is essential to consult with a broker who understands beach issues and their affect on Outer Banks property values, insurance and maintenance.
Gray Berryman is an outstanding resource. He has been part of the Croatan Surf Club since the beginning and has followed the changes in Kill Devil Hills and on the Outer Banks beaches closely for years.
I asked Gray to share some of his thoughts and advice for this piece:
“Each year I talk with owners who have invested in oceanfront properties on their own or with other agents without a full understanding of the risk that may be involved with owning beachfront property. One owner of a multi-million dollar home on a distressed beach actually asked me, “What does erosion mean?” Unfortunately for him, I met him after he had already purchased his
vacation home and the time to best answer that question had passed.”
“Shortly after beginning my career in real estate I heard a prominent geologist give a presentation at the Jockey’s Ridge visitors’ center about coastal geology. This presentation changed the way that I viewed our island’s beaches and my approach to real estate investing. The slides and diagrams detailing how sea level changes, barrier islands movements and storms can cause damage struck me as critical to explain to potential clients.”
“Real estate agents are expected to have an understanding of how homes are constructed and maintained, and in this market many agents are also able to help a client create a reasonable pro forma for an investment property. However, talking about beach erosion is often an uncomfortable subject and one that some agents avoid. For a variety of reasons agents and some buyers may choose to ignore the reality that some stretches of the Outer Banks are risky and should be avoided for new development and for long term investing. I make sure that all of my oceanfront buyer clients have a working understanding of the risk of oceanfront
properties, how to evaluate that risk, and how to choose properties with the lowest risk possible while meeting their needs.”
“As you become an Outer Banks owner you will be the leader of a team of people who will help you find, evaluate, rent, maintain, and enjoy your investment. Often the real estate agent you choose is an integral part of this team and a trusted advisor and
expert in a variety of fields.”
“Having educated, responsible clients is in my best interest and I continue to take the extra time to discuss important and relevant beach issues with clients. Over the years this strategy has proven to be successful. If you have questions and are interested in finding an agent who has a long term view of the Outer Banks, please feel free to email me.
Gray’s contact info:
Gray Berryman, Broker
ABR, CRS, e-pro, GRI, RRS, REALTOR®
Carolina Designs Realty
1197 Duck Road
Duck, NC, 27949
Office: 800-368-3825 x 240
Mobile: 252-573-9503
www.GrayBerryman.com
