Welcome back to Running Real Estate! In this brand-new series, the Ocean City Real Estate & Lifestyle Podcast, Ryan and Steven dive into everything happening locally, from the market to major events shaping the shore.In this episode, they cover three key topics you won’t want to miss:🏡 The Local Market Update – What’s really happening right now in the Ocean City and surrounding real estate market? They break down trends, buyer activity, and what it means if you’re thinking about buying or selling.📋 Ocean City Rental Rules & Restrictions – Big updates and increased enforcement are making waves. Ryan and Steven explain what’s changed, what it means for homeowners and investors, and how to stay compliant.🎶 Oceans Calling Music Festival – Who’s performing, what the event is like, and why it’s become such a game-changer for the area. They also dive into how events like this are extending the season, boosting rental demand, and positively impacting local real estate.Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or just love the Ocean City lifestyle, this episode is packed with insights to keep you informed and ahead of the curve!

Background on the Moratorium: For over a year, Ocean City has grappled with the regulation of short-term rentals, particularly affecting the R1 residential district and mobile home district. These areas, which encompass single-family homes and communities like Montego Bay, faced a ban on short-term rentals that was previously put to a referendum and ultimately overturned. In December, the council extended a moratorium on issuing new rental licenses, creating uncertainty for property owners.The Recent Council Vote: On February 17th, during a meeting that coincided with Fat Tuesday celebrations, the Ocean City Council made a unanimous decision to repeal the moratorium on short-term rental licenses. This pivotal vote means that property owners in the R1 and mobile home districts can now apply for rental licenses, a significant shift in policy that reflects the council's response to local demand and public sentiment.What This Means for Property Owners: With the repeal, property owners who wish to rent their homes on a short-term basis can now obtain the necessary licenses. The cost for a rental license is $196, and it is advisable for owners to secure this license even if they are not planning to rent their property immediately. This move not only legitimizes short-term rentals but also provides property owners with more options for generating income, especially during peak tourist seasons.Importance of Compliance: Along with the rental license, property owners must also acquire a noise ordinance permit to ensure they comply with local regulations. This is crucial for maintaining a good relationship with neighbors and ensuring a positive experience for guests.The Ocean City Council's decision to repeal the moratorium on short-term rental licenses marks a significant change in the local real estate landscape. Property owners now have the opportunity to enter the short-term rental market, which can be a lucrative venture. As this new chapter unfolds, it is essential for owners to stay informed about local regulations and to act promptly in obtaining their rental licenses to take advantage of the upcoming rental season!

The busiest listing week of the year is here at the beach — and it could be one of the biggest opportunities for buyers and sellers in 2026.As we head into February with Boat Show weekend, Valentine’s Day, and Presidents’ Day all lining up, this historically marks the unofficial kickoff to the spring real estate market in Ocean City, Maryland, and the surrounding Delmarva region.In this video, we break down:- Why this week matters so much for new listings- What buyers can expect as inventory increases- Why interest rates in the low 6% range are driving activityPredictions for real estate transactions in Worcester County, Wicomico County, and Sussex County, DelawareWhat sellers need to know as competition increasesWith pent-up demand, more inventory hitting the market, and interest rates stabilizing, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest spring markets we’ve seen in years.If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing at the beach, this is a must-watch.Like, share, and subscribe for weekly Delmarva real estate market updates.Reach out anytime with questions about Ocean City, Maryland, or the Delaware beaches.