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Prospect analysisArchived
3505 Island Drive
Asking$740,000
North Topsail Beach · North Topsail Beach, NC · 3 bd · 2 ba · 1,252 sq ft · Built 2012
Underwritten as a short-term rental
Updated 3-bedroom coastal home on an oversized lot with strong historical STR performance and sweeping sound views.
This property offers a rare combination of privacy, modern updates, and proven short-term rental income, supported by high-confidence underwriting metrics. The investment thesis is anchored by a sizable lot, attractive views, and a history of $73k average annual gross revenue, though returns are sensitive to occupancy and seasonal demand.
Est. ADR
$461
Est. occupancy
62%
Gross rev / mo
$8,694
Cash-on-cash
19.8%
Airfolio market estimates · 25% down · detail in the underwriting panel.
Investment thesis
This North Topsail Beach property stands out for its large lot, unobstructed sound views, and move-in-ready condition, making it well-suited for investors targeting premium STR demand in a coastal market. The home’s historical STR performance and current bookings provide a degree of income certainty, while the high-confidence underwriting metrics suggest robust cash flow and a nearly 20% cash-on-cash return under modeled assumptions. The property’s appeal is further enhanced by flexible transition options, including a seller leaseback during peak season. The primary caveat is that returns are highly dependent on continued strong occupancy and ADR, which should be validated against evolving market conditions and local STR regulations.
Highlights
- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,252 sqft built in 2012
- Oversized 50x200 lot with privacy and sound views
- Modern updates including refreshed bathrooms and kitchen
- Covered parking and craftsman-style storage shed
- Historical STR use with $73k 3-year average gross revenue
- Nearly $30k in future bookings for 2026, transferable or managed by seller
- High-confidence underwriting: $8,694 monthly income, $3,049 cash flow, 19.8% cash-on-cash return (assumes 62% occupancy, $461 ADR)
- Attractive flood insurance premium, potentially assumable
Risks
STR permitting: verify local ordinance and zoning allow short-term rental at this address before offering. Not verified.
STR regulations and permitting should be verified for ongoing operation
Returns are sensitive to occupancy and ADR assumptions; seasonal demand swings may impact income
Higher price point requires sustained premium rental performance to justify investment
Older coastal homes may require ongoing maintenance; diligence on condition is recommended
Competition from newer or more centrally located inventory could pressure pricing
Buyer pool for higher-end STRs is smaller, potentially impacting exit liquidity
Market
North Topsail Beach is a coastal North Carolina market with established demand for short-term rentals, particularly for properties offering water views and modern amenities. The area attracts both vacationers and seasonal renters, supporting a premium rental strategy. While the market has demonstrated resilience, investor returns remain sensitive to regulatory changes and broader tourism trends. The property’s historical STR performance and current bookings provide a solid foundation for income projections, though ongoing monitoring of market dynamics is advised.
Neighborhood
The property is situated on a rare oversized lot, offering privacy and unobstructed sound views that are likely to appeal to vacationing families and groups seeking a tranquil coastal experience. The residential character and updated features enhance guest appeal, while covered parking and storage add operational convenience. While detailed location-specific demand signals are limited, the combination of lot size, views, and modern updates positions the property favorably within the local STR market. Confidence in neighborhood-specific demand is moderate, based on available context.
Underwriting notes
At a $740,000 purchase price, underwriting metrics indicate strong income potential, with an estimated $8,694 in monthly STR income and $3,049 in monthly cash flow, assuming a 62% occupancy rate and $461 ADR. The modeled 19.8% cash-on-cash return is attractive for the segment, driven by a 25% expense ratio and no management fee assumption. These figures are high-confidence, but returns are sensitive to occupancy and nightly rate performance, as well as ongoing operating costs. Investors should validate assumptions against current market trends and confirm the sustainability of historical STR income.
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