Let Cape May be your happy place



You may wonder: Why Cape May? Cape May is one of the country’s oldest vacation resort destinations and it’s a National Historic Landmark due to its concentration of Victorian architecture. The Travel Channel (among other organizations and media outlets) recognized Cape May as one of America’s top 10 beaches. The peninsula has welcomed vacationers to her shores since the mid-18th century, and continues to enjoy the distinction as one of our nation’s premier year-round vacation destinations.

 

 

 

 

Cape May has many special features for you and your family to experience and explore. For instance, have you heard of Cape May Diamonds? They are little quartz pebbles, washed down from the Delaware River and you can find your very own on Sunset Beach and other beaches in the area. Grab your little ones and start a family scavenger hunt… for Diamonds!

 

 

 

 

There are so many great things to do in Cape May this spring. You can go on a 2-hour narrated sightseeing cruise around the island of Cape May on board of Cape May Whale Watcher, The skilled captains and crew will share lots of information about the area’s unique marine life and about the history of Cape May.

 

 

 

 

If you love birds, you might already know that Cape May is world famous for its bird watching, Monarch butterfly migration and natural history. You can embark on Cape May’s Wild Side Trolley tour to learn more about the diversity, abundance and history of this amazing spectacle.

 

 

 

 

 

If you are up for a great adventure with the whole family you should try the Cape May Family Treasure Hunt. The packet includes a clues sheet and a map that will take you on a self-guided discovery tour of Cape May.

 

 

 

For chocolate lovers, The Blue Rose Inn has planned a delicious event for you! Join them on Saturday, April 28th at 1:00 pm for their annual chocolate event… seven courses of chocolate desserts! You will learn from the chef himself, how they are created.

 

 

 

 

Another great way to spend your afternoon and learn about vinicultures by visiting Cape May County’s wineries on the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts’ “Cape May Wine Trail” trolley tour. The wine trail includes tours and tastings at Willow Creek Winery in West Cape May, Hawk Haven Vineyard and Natali Vineyards (both a bit to our north) and lunch at Carriage House Cafe and Tearoom at the Physick Estate.

 

 

 

 

 

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway weekend or just a few days away with your family, Cape May is the place to be. To book your spring vacation call Homestead Real Estate at 609-884-1888 or contact us via email: reservations@homesteadrealestate.net. If you haven’t reserved a property for your summer vacation, now is the time to do it. View all our properties online HERE.

Swing into spring with Homestead



It might not seem like it with this cold and windy weather we have been having here lately, but it is officially Spring! The sun is trying to peek out more and more each day and the days are finally getting longer and “brighter”. Everybody is so eager to get outside, and we are all looking forward to the beauty and colors of Spring. It’s so fascinating and invigorating to see everything come back to life: the daffodils, the tulips, and all the amazing spring flowers. The owners and landscapers are busy bees trying to get their yards ready, and if you are up for a walk in our beautiful and historic town, you’ll definitely enjoy the different patches of color.

 

 

If you want to think ahead and plan your summer vacation, now it’s the perfect time. We still have plenty of weeks available, and the rental team at Homestead is here to help you find your perfect rental. Cape May was a secret gem for so many years, and it’s already a tradition for so many families to come here every summer and create amazing memories. Now it’s YOUR turn! If you like Cape May, West Cape May, Cape May Point or even offshore, we’ve got you covered! We have plenty of options for everybody!

 

 

If you are looking to spend a few days down at the shore, here are some things for you to do. Starting Friday, April 6th, West Cape May Borough Hall is hosting the 2018 Cape May Film Festival where they will screen documentaries, local films and short films, or you can buy a ticket and take part in the “Murder Mystery Weekends” held and presented by East Lynne Theater Company. If films and murder mysteries are not your cup of tea, Cape May has plenty more for you! Stop by at Willow Creek Winery for their Fire Pit Friday where some of the area’s talented musicians are performing live, or stop by Nauti Spirits Distillery for their open Mic, where you can enjoy a delicious drink while listening to great musicians performing live.

 

 

Another fun activity for couples and families alike, are the historic trolley tours; there is no better way to get acquainted with Cape May and hear the stories about the nation’s oldest seashore resort. If you want to enjoy the best view in Cape May you will have to climb 199 spiraling steps, and trust us, it’s worth it! The steps will take you to the top of Cape May Lighthouse where you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape May.

 

 

Whether you’re looking to get away for a week or just for the weekend, the rental team at Homestead can help you find the perfect home! Contact us today at 609.884.1888.

Cold Weather. Hot Booking Season. Answer Cape May’s Summer Vacation Call!



With an onslaught of nor’easters and a daily, brisk wind, it hasn’t been feeling much like spring here in Cape May. But the reality is that Memorial Day weekend is a mere two months away. As often happens in our mid-Atlantic climate, the weather will likely take a quick turn towards sudden warmth. And with all the precipitation we’ve had this winter; spring is just bound to explode into a sea of bright, lush green. Be patient…it’s coming! Hot on the heels of spring will be summer vacation. Are you ready? Let Homestead help make this year’s Cape May vacation the best ever.

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May’s Victorian architecture, tranquil beaches, and expansive natural world are all aspects that help set it apart from the numerous vacation destinations that dot the New Jersey coast. We also feature stellar shopping experiences, unique dining establishments, numerous local events, and are a prime wedding destination! There are no shortages of reasons to pay us a visit, and there is no right or wrong place to stay here in town. Homestead has you “covered”, no matter where you might want to call home for your vacation. Let’s take a look at the options…

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May Proper is likely the place to be if you’ve never vacationed here before. It’s within walking distance to everything, even the beach. It’s that part of town that allows you to park your car when you check in and not move it again until you check out the next week. If “walk score” is important to you, this is where you want to be.

 

 

 

 

 

 

West Cape May is a tranquil, residential area of Cape Island that is home to many beautiful rental properties. Because it was developed much later than the historic district, many West Cape May homes are contemporary in style and feature a host of amenities at a valuable price point. If pets will be part of your vacation, you’ll especially want to look to the west end, as the larger properties and often fenced in yards allow for perfect pet friendly retreats. Much of West Cape May is still within walking distance to the center of town, but just be prepared for a bit of a longer stroll, especially to the beach.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May’s East End: Also known as “Poverty Beach”, the east end of Cape May is technically part of Cape May proper, yet it’s not right in the center of town. Most of its homes are within an easy walking distance though, and the east end is home to sprawling and beautiful homes that are well suited to multi-family vacations. If you’re looking for that “once every few years” type of very special vacation event, this section of town should be on your short list of locales to explore.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May Point: The most tranquil of all, Cape May Point is home to the famous Cape May Lighthouse and beautiful Cape May Point State Park. Its natural beaches and lack of businesses (there are only two, including the post office) make for an environment that is a welcome contrast to the bustle and noise of urban and suburban life. Cape May Point is also one of the top birding destinations in the United States, making it a wonderful choice if you are planning a late summer or early autumn vacation. If you’re sights are set on the point, just remember that you’ll need to bike or drive into town. While it’s still on Cape Island, the point is bit out of walking distance to the town center, especially in the heat of summer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Off/Shore, Bayside: Just off of Cape Island, the Lower Township, bayside area of Cape May County is gaining traction as an attractive vacation destination. It’s about a 5-10 minute drive from the center of town and guarded beaches. But the bay lends its own brand of vacation serenity, including gorgeous sunsets that are unparalleled in the area. The bayside is also residential, quiet, and typically offers a lower price point than homes at the center of the action. Wonderful pet friendly options exist on the bayside as well.

 

 

 

 

 

Whether you’re looking to reserve your own Cape May vacation, or having fun assisting someone with their planning, remember that the “booking season” is drawing short. Don’t let much more time pass before locking down your first choice of property and rental week(s). It might still be cold, but it’s time to jump on the rental market while the pickings are still hot. So contact Homestead today, and let us lead you to the Cape May vacation of your dreams!

 

 

 

Summer is calling..it’s time to answer.

 

 

 

 

 

Save the Dates and Set the Clocks! Spring Brings Fun in Cape May this March!



It’s a blustery but beautiful Friday here in Cape May, and while it still feels a bit like winter, spring is undoubtedly in the air. There’s a lot to get excited about here in town over the next few weeks, and you’ll want to be a part of the action. Here’s a few of our favorite events that are on the horizon…

 

 

 

What’s better than a tour of the famous Emlen Physick Estate? A FREE tour! On Friday, March 16th, the 2:00 pm tour of the estate will be free (with requested donation of a non-perishable food product worth $5 or more). Donations are much appreciated and support the Cape May Community Food Closet. So this is a great way to have some fun and support a worthy cause at the same time. This event is sponsored by Friends of the Physick Estate, and you can learn more about them here.

 

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, March 17th, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Cape May’s second annual Paddy’s Day Polar Bear Plunge! There will also be a 5k run/ 1 mile walk event for those looking for a less chilly outdoor experience!

 

 

 

 

 

March 16th-18th will bring the return of Sherlock Holmes weekend here in town. This is always an exciting event, but tickets are limited. Don’t miss out!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking to enjoy a bit of local talent? This Sunday, March 11th, you won’t want to miss “The Squares: From Cline to Cash & Beyond”. Featuring the beautiful voice of Homestead’s very own Debra Donahue, this talented trio is sure to present a fabulous rendition of the best of country music. The “concert only” ticket is $15…but why not make a night of it with dinner and a show at the Blue Pig Tavern? The combination ticket is just $36.99 for adults and $9.99 for children. NOTE: The Squares will also be making an appearance at Nauti Spirits Distillery on Saturday, March 17th, 2018 from 5:30 – 8:30 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to these special events, many favorite local standbys continue to take place and have returned for the season, including Fire Pit Fridays at the Willow Creek Winery, the Winter Beer Garden at Congress Hall, and (for a few more weeks), Roller Skating at Cape May Convention Hall.

 

 

 

 

 

Despite our excitement about these upcoming events, remember that there is no specific reason needed to come to Cape May! Often times the best visits are those which are unplanned. The spring season can be a great time to stroll around town and make plans for your summer vacation, or simply refresh your mind and body with a brisk beach walk or a jog along the promenade.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spring holidays are also a great time to be in town, and we’d like to remind you that here at Homestead we have plenty of off-season rentals to accommodate various budgets and time frames. Unlike the summer rental season-which by design must be more structured-off season rentals offer greater flexibility. The spring is a wonderful time because the slower pace of the season allows for effortless exploring, yet there’s still plenty going on! We hope you’ll join us in being a part of the fun.

 

 

 

REMINDER: Daylight Saving Time begins THIS WEEKEND, Sunday, March 11th. Don’t forget to set the clocks forward one hour and gain that extra daylight! And remember, this is also the time to change those batteries in your smoke & carbon monoxide detectors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Think Spring…But don’t forget about Summer Vacation!



In less than one week, it will be March! Spring really is just around the corner now, and this past week Cape May was treated to a few days of unseasonably pleasant weather. The warmth was a reminder of the season to come, and we hope it has also planted the seed that summer will be here before we know it. Reservations for summer rentals have been flowing in steadily…but there are still plenty of properties that remain available. If you’re thinking about booking, now is the time! It’s likely that you already know most of what’s required to book your Cape May vacation. But if this is your first time reserving, or even if you’re a seasoned renter…here are some of our best tips based on the most frequently asked questions posed to our rental team

 

 

 

1. How many people will be in your party? Sometimes, a property may be capable of sleeping more people than it actually advertises. This is normal, and the occupancy listed is the maximum amount of people that the property owner wishes to have stay in their home. So make sure to pay attention to the occupancy limit and select a property that’s large enough for your party.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Are pets coming with you? Homestead features a variety of pet friendly homes! Despite the occasional exception, “pets” refers almost exclusively to dogs for the purpose of our rentals. Many of our guests require a rental that is pet free, so there are no exceptions made if a property is NOT listed as being pet friendly.

 

 

 

 

 

3. What about Linens? Remember, the homes you will be renting offer bedspreads and pillows…but sheets and towels are almost never included. You can bring them with you if you’d like. But Homestead offers our own linen rental service right here on site…and it’s SO much easier. Add linens to your reservation when you book…or add them later. There’s lots of flexibility and the orders can be fully customized.

 

 

 

 

 

4. Cancellations are no big deal right? Well, yes, and no. If you cancel your reservation you are likely to be out any and all money paid towards it, unless the property re-rents for the cancelled week. And even then, a cancellation penalty applies. It’s always better to be safe than sorry and consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your vacation investment! Homestead offers travel insurance as an option on ALL of our leases, for your convenience. And it’s a great, “Cancel for any Reason” coverage.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Where in Cape May should we Stay? Ah, the fun part! Whether you like to experience a new area each year, or you always return to that same tried and true, favorite part of town…there’s no right or wrong way to do it! Decide if you want to be in Cape May proper (closest to the center of town), West Cape May (residential and peaceful vibe), Cape May Point (natural & tranquil, but further from attractions), or The Bayside (beautiful sunsets, pet friendly beaches, value). If you need help deciding which area is best for you, Homestead is always happy to provide more information.

 

 

 

 

So, as we move into this last weekend of February and eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring…it’s time to get serious about vacation planning. Don’t let it sneak up on you! Relax and reserve now. We’re here to help with each step of the way.

 

 

Cape May’s “Second Holidays” are Here!



As with many aspects of our lives, the happenings of Cape May follow a bit of a schedule. Mostly, this schedule pertains to the time of year that is upon us. A few months ago, December brought the peace, light, and excitement of the holidays to town. What followed was a bitter cold, “polarizing” January, with some enjoying the winter quiet and others desperate for spring’s return. So now, as we breeze through February, we can’t promise spring weather or desolate streets on the weekends. What we do welcome though, is Cape May’s mid winter holidays.

 

 

 

 

 

 

That’s right; President’s Day weekend and Valentine’s Day are almost here. For many, these holidays will not coincide with an extra day off, nor can we guarantee that there will be pleasant weather. The point, though, is that winter is on its way out! This particular time in February has long been regarded by locals as a reboot for the new season that is brewing. Businesses that have been shuttered for the past six weeks will begin to open on a limited schedule, and weekends will start buzzing again. Will you be a part of the action? Let’s take a look at what’s coming up…

 

 

 

 

 

On weekends, Cape May Trolley tours are in back in full swing! They’re always a fun way to explore the historic district…not to mention quite a romantic Valentine’s Day activity.

 

 

 

 

 

Roller skating at Cape May Convention Hall continues through the winter! Always a fun time for the whole family…this is an uplifting activity for when the gray weather starts to wear you down.

 

 

 

 

 

February 17th through the 19th, The Cape May Lighthouse will be open for tours. Walk off the winter blues by climbing the 199 steps to be awarded by panoramic views of Cape May and the majestic Atlantic Ocean.

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning this Friday, February 9, and continuing every Friday through the end of March, visit the Winter Beer Garden at historic Congress Hall. Stay warm by the fire pits and welcome the weekend in a laid back, cozy setting. The event time is 5 pm to 10 pm (and how nice that it’s staying brighter, longer in the evenings now!)

 

 

 

 

 

This Saturday, February 10th, pay a romantic visit to the Hawk Haven Winery for the annual “Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend”. Other dates for this event include February 11th, 17th, and 18th.

 

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, February 17th, The Cape May Wine Trail returns. Begin with a tasting at Willow Creek Winery, and then be transported via trolley to Natali Vineyards. You’ll even receive a souvenir glass as part of the day’s events. Once experienced, we’re sure you’ll want to explore more of Cape May’s area wineries when the weather warms and the season is in full swing.

 

 

 

 

 

Also on February 17th (and the 18th), there will be a “Crafts and Collectibles in Winter” event at the Cape May Convention Hall. The mid-winter show is indoors for a comfortable escape from the chilly air. Explore and purchase unique items from local and regional vendors in a fun and relaxing shopping experience.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday, February 18th is home to the annual Cape May Chili and Chowder Cook Off at the fifth floor Ocean Front Ballroom of Cape May’s Grand Hotel. This is always a fun time! It’s your chance to sample preparations of chefs from in and around Cape May, and then choose your favorites. Local vendors/artisans will also be featured, and a cash bar will be available. If possible, attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to help support food banks in and around Cape May. A portion of the event proceeds will also be donated to the same cause, and the cost is $10 per person with tickets available at the door.

 

 

 

 

 

So, even if you plan to visit Cape May this spring or summer, we encourage you to come on down and enjoy our “second holiday season” during this midwinter month of February. There’s so much to do and see… you’ll forget all about the winter doldrums. Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

 

Remember, plan ahead for summer now by reserving your Cape May Vacation! The prime season get’s going in just about 4 months…so make sure you lock in YOUR first choice rental.

 

 

 

 

Homestead’s 2018 Cape May Vacation Guide is HERE!



Happy winter everyone, and Happy New Year! Not feeling so happy about it? Well, with the bitter cold temperatures that have gripped the eastern United States over these past few weeks…we can’t say that we blame you! But here’s the good news…spring is coming, and here at Homestead, January has brought the production of Homestead’s Cape May Vacation Guide! The vacation guide is a longstanding tradition that is exclusive to Homestead’s services, and thanks to the amazing talents of our rental team member, Debra Donahue, this year’s version is THE most colorful, cheerful, and fun copy that we have ever produced. Why should you be interested in Homestead’s vacation guide? Let’s take a look…

 

 

 

 

 

Request a hard copy to be sent to you at no cost (limit 1 please!)

 

 

 

 

It’s FREE: That’s right. The guide is of no charge, and there’s even an electronic, PDF copy available. (and also printable!)

 

 

 

 

It’s Informative: Find out everything you need to know about our rental procedure. From the first inquiry made to our office, to the date you check out and book your vacation for the next year…our guide spells out all aspects of planning and reserving your Cape May vacation.

 

 

 

It’s Comprehensive: The Homestead Vacation Guide is NOT all about Homestead. Rather; there is a multitude of information about Cape May in general. This includes explanations of our town’s fascinating history, things to do while you’re here, and answers to that elusive question of what it is that differentiates Cape May Proper, Cape May Point, West Cape May, and Off-Shore locales.

 

 

 

 

It’s FUN: Check out the section about Homestead’s rental team and put the faces to names, browse through our properties “catalog style” and make notations of your favorites. And if you’re thinking of turning your Cape May vacation into a more permanent situation, you can peruse Homestead’s sales team and read a message from our broker. That way you’ll be outfitted with some preliminary information when the time to buy finally rolls around!

 

 

 

 

It’s colorful: The sunny yellow backdrop of this year’s guide is the perfect base for the fabulous artwork of local artist Jan Bendyna. Homestead has featured Jan’s work before, and this year we are proud to showcase a selection of her Cape May works as part of our guide’s front and back cover. The whimsical, color saturated portrayals of summer are perfect to brighten up the dreariness of the winter season.

 

 

 

 

Lastly, it’s Collectible: Okay, we’re not saying that our guide is going to become a collector’s item, but we do think it’s a fun idea to try and save a copy from each year. Let it serve as part of your Cape May memories, just like the fabulous photos that we’re sure you will be taking when you’re here on vacation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now, the question may be; “isn’t all of this information online?” The answer, of course, is yes. In this day and age, everything is always available online, and we certainly encourage you to visit and explore our fantastic website. But the vacation guide is simply an old fashioned option for viewing new and exciting information. It’s like reading your favorite magazine, home décor catalog, newspaper, etc. There’s just something nice about sitting down, uninterrupted, and browsing the print version of information. That’s the experience we are trying to capture with our guide, and we certainly hope you enjoy it.

 

 
Explore the electronic, PDF version of the guide! (It’s printable, too!)

 

 

 

Request a hard copy to be sent to you at no cost (limit 1 please!)

 

 

 

 

Disclaimer: Information contained within the 2018 Cape May Vacation Guide is deemed accurate but not guaranteed as of the date production, January 1, 2018. Information is subject to change. Always contact Homestead’s Rental Team for the most accurate information about Homestead rental properties, policies, and procedures. Thank you.

 

 

Ready or Not, Here it Comes…The Holiday Season begins in Cape May!



As we proceed into the final month of autumn here in Cape May, the weather has taken a brisk turn, and the fall foliage is peaking beautifully. There are few things quite so beautiful as a golden autumn sunset, or the seasonal colors of historic tree-lined streets, like Hughes Street or Columbia Avenue, just to name a few. And with Halloween behind us and the cooler weather settling in, the first vibes of holiday spirit are beginning to permeate Cape May’s landscape. Halls are being decked in Victorian Style, tree lightings are being scheduled, and of course, plans are underway for West Cape May’s annual Christmas parade!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is it too early to be preparing for the holidays? That depends on who you ask, of course. Here at Homestead, we think mid-November is just about the right time to begin the planning. This year, our beautiful office has been outlined with Christmas lights. The recent chilly nights coupled with the conclusion of daylight saving time have certainly tempted us to let there be light….but we won’t be unveiling the display until Thanksgiving. If you’re planning a holiday visit, be sure to add Homestead’s office to your list of holiday light sightings!

 

 

 

 

 

Speaking of seasonal lights, Cape May’s holiday preview weekend is coming up, and we think it’s one of the very best ways to channel the holiday spirit. Kown as the official outset of Cape May’s holiday season, events include an Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit, various themed trolley rides, and holiday tours of the magnificent Physick Estate. The annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony on the grounds of the estate will take place on Saturday, November 18th at 7 pm. Santa will arrive to flip the switch, so you won’t want to be late!

 

 

 

 

 

The holidays are rooted in tradition, and that’s especially true here in our Santa’s Trolley RideVictorian winter wonderland. Traditional, however, does not mean stale! Be on the lookout for Christmas displays that might appear a bit different from previous years; experience trolley rides that shed some new light on fond old memories, enjoy creating new memories by trying out a restaurant you may have never been to or attending a special holiday event. There are endless possibilities for making the season bright.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For those who might be finding holiday preparations more excruciating than they are exciting…we hope a visit to Cape May will help change your mind! However, there’s plenty going on around town that is not strictly Christmas themed. One such event is the Exit Zero International Jazz Festival. This semi-annual festival is popular among locals and visitors for its stellar lineup of award-winning artists. In fact, we think it’s the perfect way to relax before the hustle of the holidays really takes hold. The Jazz Festival will continue now through Sunday, November 12th.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May Beach House Vacation RentalsSo what’s going on at Homestead this time of year? A LOT! Yes, it’s technically the “off-season”, but for us, we’re already utilizing this time to plan for the summer of 2018. We’re working to continue offering our guests the best possible Cape May rental experience. We don’t settle for mediocrity in ANY aspect of our business…and neither should you when you’re looking ahead to your vacation planning. Remember that select Homestead rentals are available for off-season weekends, holidays, and even long-term winter stints. Whichever sort of property you’re looking for; rest assured that we’ve got you covered.

 

 

We’d like to wish everyone a wonderful weekend and a very Happy Holiday Season. Whether you’re keeping it low key or planning the biggest celebration you’ve ever had….we’re looking forward to being along for the ride!

 

We’d like to thank the fabulously talented Jan Bendyna for allowing us use of her work as this week’s blog cover photo! Check out more of her beautiful work!!

 

 

Halloween, Holidays, and Summer! Here’s what’s going on NOW and what to Look Forward to in Cape May…



It’s a beautiful Friday here in Cape May, and we hope you’re as excited as we are for the weekend to begin! While out and about during your daily lives, we suspect you’ve been seeing Christmas decorations creeping in from all directions. We love the holiday season here at Homestead…but we’re not in the habit of rushing it along. Soon enough we will be decking the halls and planning for the Christmas parade…but for now…it’s Halloween weekend! Let’s talk about seasonal events and the continuation of autumn festivities…

 

 

 

This evening, Friday, October 27, 2017, Cape May Point State Park will be hosting a Halloween event. A “fun for the whole family” affair, participants are encouraged to come in costume and bring flashlights. There will be Halloween crafts, a live animal show, and trick or treating on the nature trail. What a fantastic way to begin this festive weekend. Don’t miss it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We remind you that “Scarecrow Alley” continues on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate. Homemade scarecrows are on display, and you’ll have the chance to vote for your favorite. This event ends on Halloween, so this weekend is an ideal time to take a stroll on over and see it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, October 28th, the Cape May Zoo presents “Boo at the Zoo”. This annual event begins at 10-am and runs until 2 pm at the Cape May County Park, located just 11 miles north of Cape May. The FREE event is open to the public and visitors of all ages are invited to attend. Costumes are of course encouraged, and a costume contest will take place at 11 am. There will also be a entertainment, interactive games, and of course, candy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love our pets here at Homestead, so we’re excited that the Rusty Nail restaurant and beach bar has decided to hold their first annual Doggie Halloween Parade. The event will take place on Sunday, October 29th. Registration will begin at noon and end at 1 pm. The parade and subsequent judging will take place from 1 until 2 pm. So dress up your dog and head over for some fun. Numerous prizes will be awarded for the best costumes including the funniest, scariest, and best overall!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May cottage rentalsCape May’s Mid Atlantic Center for the Arts has been hosting numerous “Halloween Happenings” through the course of October, and there are only a few more days to take advantage of these exciting events. One of the best ways to experience Cape May in any season is to enjoy a guided trolley tour, and Halloween is no exception! The Cape Mayhem tour is especially fun, as it centers upon an explanation of the traditions, beliefs, and mysteries of the fascinating Victorian Era…an era in which Cape May is deeply rooted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last but certainly not least, mark your calendars for Trick-or-Treating in Cape May. City wide trick or treating will take place on Halloween night, this Tuesday, October 31st from 5 to 7 pm. Culminate the season with this old fashioned tradition. The best part of Cape May trick or treating is that children can enjoy their treats while adults are awarded the bonus of a beautiful walking tour of the area. It makes for an event that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Halloween will be coming to a close this week, but annual festivities remain well underway. Mark your calendars for these exciting happenings that are soon to come:

November 3rd- 5th: Sherlock Holmes Weekend (presented by Cape May MAC)

November 3rd: Fall Arts and Crafts Festival at Cape May Convention Hall

November 9th-12th: Exit Zero International Jazz Festival

November 17th-19th: Cape May Holiday Preview Weekend

 

 

 

 

 

As you enjoy these crisp and gorgeous autumn days, remember to be looking ahead to the summer. 2018 rental bookings are in full swing here at Homestead, and the way to beat the winter rush is to book now! Set your vacation plans in motion before the holidays and you’ll be able to relax this winter knowing that your first choice of vacation rental is secured.

 

 

 

 

We wish everyone a wonderful weekend and a safe, enjoyable Halloween.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thinking about Cape May? Think about Homestead too! Here’s Why…



As we quickly approach mid-October, we hope you’ve had the chance to enjoy some of the wonderful activities that have been taking place in Cape May‘s autumn season. We invite you to revisit our last post for exciting information about fall festivals and Halloween happenings that are continuing throughout the month! It’s truly a wonderful time to be here in Cape May.

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to the excitement of fall activities, this is always a perfect time of year to look ahead to next summer season. And here at Homestead, we reflect on the summer that has just concluded and discuss ways that we can continue to be the best source in town for your Cape May vacation rental! This coming week, members of our rental team will be attending the Vacation Rental Manager Association’s National Conference in Orlando, Florida. Homestead consistently attends this event every few years in order to maintain our place among the best in the industry…and we’re excited to see what’s in store this year.

 

 

 

 

 

In a world of ever increasing vacation rental options…why choose a real estate company for your rental? Better yet, why choose Homestead? There are lots of reasons. One, as we mentioned, is that we do strive to employ the latest technology in the industry. But…so do many other outlets. What, then, sets us apart? And why should you stay with us if you are tempted to explore other avenues for rentals? Let’s take a look…

 

 

 

 

Our Full Time Rental Staff: We employ a full time, 5 member staff year round and 6 days per week. That means that someone is always able to assist you. Phone calls are answered, emails are returned promptly, and we really listen to the needs of each of our individual clients and strive to meet those needs accordingly. It’s a level of personal service that does not typically exist when rentals are placed through a private source.

 

 

 

 

 

Cape May New Jersey Boat PaintingConsistency: Many of our guests have been renting with us for over 10 years! They may not always rent the same property or time period…but they continue to come back to us. Cultivating and maintaining a base of loyal guests is one of the more important aspects of our business…and we’re proud to say that we have been successful in this task.

 

 

 

 

 

Ease of Payment: While many fantastic things in life are free, we all know that vacations are not…at least not entirely. Homestead offers a wide range of properties tailored to varying budgets. And if you reserve your rental before December 1st, we provide you with a 3 payment plan-a nice convenience especially as the holiday season approaches. We also offer you the ease of making payments with a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover). And most importantly, Homestead DOES NOT pass credit card fees on to our guests. That’s right…you can pay for your entire reservation with a credit card and you will be charged no additional percentage for doing so. We also offer a travel insurance option for every lease, ensuring that you have the opportunity to protect your vacation investment.

 

 

 

 

 

Guest Advocacy: If needed, we will advocate for YOU, our guest: There are an exhaustive amount of measures in place to ensure that problems do not occur during or before your stay. Nevertheless, the vacation rental industry consists of a variety of “moving parts”, and the occasional snafu may occur. As rental agents, Homestead team members are legal representatives of our property owners…but that does not mean that we neglect the needs of our guests. If there is an issue at your rental property, our property owners know that they need to fix it, and fix it quickly! We work alongside a trusted property management company that helps us to expedite the repair of any problems quickly and efficiently. It’s a level of service that we feel is unmatched.

 

 

 

 

 

Amenities: Homestead’s state-of-the-art office in the center of Cape May has received many compliments from clients, guests, service reps, staff members, etc. But these are all just the icing on the cake, as the Homestead office was not built to be a showplace. Rather; think of it as the home base for your vacation rental. When you’re in town, we’re right around the corner if you need us. Our building also allows for our ultra convenient drive through check-in service, and our valued linen rental program. Need a conference room during your stay? Come here and utilize one of ours. Have a question about Cape May that’s not necessarily related to your property? We have the answer and we’re happy to provide it. If we don’t know, we will find out for you. We’re not just about rentals; we’re about helping you to have an exceptional experience here in Cape May.

 

 

 

 

As you enjoy the fall, look forward to the holidays, and begin to think about your vacation for next summer, keep in mind that if something looks too good to be true…it probably is! Don’t take a chance on your vacation. Remember to book with the company that cares about YOU. Remember to book with Homestead.

 

 

 

Happy autumn! And happy hunting for your 2018 Vacation.