Ocracoke Island Realty — Local services in Ocracoke

First of all, it must be noted that this review reflects Ocracoke Realty in its criticism more than the house we stayed at, Piper Green. The house itself is very sweet -- if sitting on a swamp when we got there Saturday evening. Eventually, by the fourth day, the swamp had dried out, but not before gifting us with mosquitos and more mosquitos. Not unexpected, perhaps, -- but the lack of screens on all but 2 of the windows in the home made it impossible to air it out when we got there on Saturday evening. Something we would have liked to do during this pandemic.

That is, once we got into the house. The electric lock did not work, and neither did the 'emergency' number for Ocracoke Realty. I tried the lock every which way -- and eventually realized (to be confirmed about a day later) that the lock needed new batteries(!). So, with mosquitos having their bloody way with us, I eventually found an unlocked window and scrambled us in.

We had 5 extra boys with us, so we were looking forward to the 2 floors -- we assumed it would be like other rentals we've had, with the master bedroom on the first floor and the others upstairs. It was also advertised that way. As it turns out, the floor plan is open, so the 2nd floor is really pretty much a vertical extension of the first, and without the privacy for us we'd expected. OK. Not a deal-breaker, but inconvenient given the size of our party. As was the loft -- which didn't have a ladder. Since it's advertised with the space, we assumed it would be a good, extra place for a child. True enough, but difficult to reach, for sure.

The next day, I talked with Carrie (Kari?), the manager at Ocracoke Realty after a couple of lovely interactions with other women in the office. My interaction with Carrie was notable for the blank stares I got from her and the lack of any follow-up. When I told her the lock didn't work, she asked why I didn't call the number. I told her I did, and showed her my phone -- "Huh. That's strange." Indeed, Carrie. No apology, though. Told about the lack of working lock, Carrie again gave me a blank stare and said she'd look into it. But no follow up during the week. No screens on the windows? No follow up. No ladder for the loft? That's strange, she says. But no follow up. To her credit, she did try to find us another place to stay, including calling Blue Heron -- but in the end, we stayed at Piper Green, mostly due to the complete lack of anything else on the Island.

In short, we had a wonderful, strange vacation -- and have learned some valuable lessons. For one, we'll be using Blue Heron Reality from here on.

I've since heard from Ocracoke Realty -- in the below reply. Unfortunately, there's no way to reply to their reply, so I'll do it here. No, no one came to check on the lock. Unless it was while were at the beach -- but there was no (that is, NONE) follow-up from the company or communication to us, staying there. If they insist on this, honestly, I'll go to the BBB, or wherever I can. If there's a report to be made about simple b.s.

And yes, we did indeed call their emergency line when we got in. It's possible that I and my wife called the wrong number multiple times, reading it from multiple sites, but that seems unlikely.

Too many people at the house?? The company left us nine bikes. How many people did they think would be using them? A quick check on the house listing is all it will take to confirm no upper limit on people, though our 2 extra boys for a day certainly isn't burdensome.

Was I shouting when I came into their office?? My voice was raised only after some interaction with Carrie, upset at the lack of follow-through and responsiveness. I have no doubt that it raised in direct proportion to her blank stares.

I'm not sure who owns this company, but if you're reading this (unless it's Carrie!) you'll note that I can't be the only one with this complaint. She was simply unresponsive. Unless that response is a...

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE- HURRAY!!! The ISLAND HOUSE is a gorgeous, scenic outstanding jewel!!! This very unique property is nestled in the canal with easy access to Palmlico Sound. This home is large , modern, handicap accessible! When you arrive at the property,many amenities are evident, even before you walk in.The owners paid such attention to detail!. Furry friends are welcome. They even have a dog run for dogs to go outside and play!! There is very secure fencing in place. Bright lights at night illuminate entire lot. When you walk in the lower level a full elevator is ready for use , This is the first vacation my husband who is handicapped, has enjoyed on this island in 20 years. Barrier homes are always elevated.Not having to struggle to go up and down the steps, has just been a dream! We were able to put our luggage in the elevator and take it all up! The second floor where the bedrooms are, there is a full handicap bathroom/the king size bedroom itself opens to beautiful deck with beautiful views! The well thought out the floor plan with the additional king size bedroom along with the adjacent bedroom for “Littles “ is marvelous. There is a den adjacent to the bedrooms on the first floor of the house for watching TV.. Upon arriving at the third-floor, is large expansive”On top of World”! Beautiful, modern, huge full kitchen with everything possible you need to cook or bake! The dining area meant for large groups. The living room area again just beautiful opens to the huge screened in porch. Such a wonderful vacation We are very thankful for Ocracoke realty and the owners, for sharing their...

We've been renting with OIR for about ten years and we have had nothing but an exceptional customer service experience with you. We have had issues with specific homes in the past, issues with weather, issues we packed into the cars and brought with us and, most recently, a power outage. One constant for every stay we book with you has been the extremely hospitable, professional and responsive staff of Ocracoke Island Realty. You make every aspect of the trip enjoyable, starting with calling you up to make the first deposit. I actually kind of look forward to it, just because the people who answer the phone are so nice. Any time we have had a problem, everyone we have ever dealt with has been patient, helpful and understanding. Most recently, I had to call the emergency maintenance number when I woke up to a power outage on 7/8. The woman who answered the phone (Maddie, I think? I'm sorry I can't remember for certain) was apologetic and responsive. Of course it wasn't OIR's problem, but she came out to the house immediately to confirm that it wasn't just our house. She then patrolled the village to assess the scope of the outage. She followed-up in-person and with a call when she determined it was a partial outage with Tideland electric. She planned to arrange for ice vouchers to keep our food cool but the power came back within an hour of contacting her. I know you aren't the only game in town but you do represent most of the very nicest homes on the island. To that end, you could probably coast and get by with just providing adequate service. But you treat us as if you are trying to earn our...