Barefoot Resort has always been marketed heavily to second-home buyers and vacation rental investors. That reputation is accurate, but it is not the whole story. Over the past several years, a meaningful and growing share of Barefoot buyers have moved in full-time. What used to be primarily a second-home community is quietly becoming a real primary residence market for a specific type of buyer. Below is a practical look at why some buyers are choosing Barefoot as their permanent address and what to think about if you are considering the same.
Why Barefoot Works as a Primary Residence
Barefoot Resort is a specific product. For the right buyer, it fits primary residence life better than most expect.
Amenity Density
Golf, pools, dining, and social activity are all inside the community. Owners who value everyday amenity access have fewer trips off-property than they would in most Grand Strand communities. For a broader look at Barefoot's appeal, see our blog on why Barefoot Resort continues to attract buyers.
Private Beach Shuttle
Barefoot's private beach shuttle gives full-time residents direct access to the sand without the parking and traffic realities of driving to the beach every day.
Social Infrastructure
Barefoot has a real full-time resident community, not just a rotating cast of second-home owners. Book clubs, tennis groups, walking clubs, and social events run year-round.
Who Is Choosing Barefoot Full-Time
The typical full-time Barefoot buyer profile is fairly clear.
Retirees Downsizing From a Larger Home
Retirees moving from larger primary homes often value the amenity depth, single-level floor plans in many communities, and low outside maintenance profile. Barefoot lets them shift energy from home upkeep to lifestyle.
Empty Nesters
Empty nesters relocating to the Grand Strand often find Barefoot lets them enjoy the coastal lifestyle without owning a beach cottage or oceanfront condo. The community depth supports everyday life.
Remote Workers
Remote workers who want coastal Carolina but do not want to be right on the beach for daily reasons often find Barefoot works better than an oceanfront address. For background, see our blog on why remote workers are moving to the Grand Strand.
Retirees Coming From Florida
Some buyers move from Florida coastal markets to Barefoot as part of a broader shift. Barefoot's carrying costs are typically lower than comparable Florida gated communities. For background, see our blog on why buyers are choosing coastal South Carolina over Florida.
Product Choices Within Barefoot
Barefoot is not a single product. Buyers can choose based on their specific lifestyle needs.
Barefoot Resort Condos
Barefoot's condo inventory offers the lowest maintenance profile and the most turnkey lifestyle. Ideal for buyers who prioritize amenity access and simple living.
Barefoot Townhomes
Communities like Tanglewood, Blackwater, Clearwater Bay, and Heron Bay deliver more space and more privacy than typical condos while keeping the lock-and-leave profile.
Barefoot Single-Family Homes
Single-family Barefoot homes appeal to buyers who want a real house within a resort community. Yards, garages, and larger floor plans are on the menu here.
What Full-Time Buyers Should Weigh
Barefoot works well full-time, but there are considerations.
HOA Fees and What They Cover
Barefoot's HOA fees are on the higher end because the amenity package is more extensive. Match the fee level to the amenities you actually plan to use every day. For background, see our blog on understanding HOA fees in North Myrtle Beach condo communities.
Second-Home Owner Rotation
Barefoot still has a substantial second-home and vacation rental base. Full-time residents share amenities with a rotating cast of short-term visitors. Most owners are fine with this, but it is worth understanding before moving in.
Primary Residence Tax Treatment
Buyers making Barefoot their primary residence qualify for South Carolina's 4 percent primary residence assessment ratio, meaningfully lower than the 6 percent second-home rate. For background, see our blog on understanding property taxes in Horry County.
Location Relative to Everyday Services
Barefoot sits west of the immediate beach corridor. Grocery, healthcare, and daily services are all reachable, but the drive time matters more when you go every day rather than only on vacation weeks.
How Barefoot Compares to Other Primary Residence Choices
Full-time Barefoot competes with a few other Grand Strand options.
Barefoot vs Traditional NMB Neighborhoods
Traditional NMB neighborhoods deliver more residential character and often stronger year-round community feel outside a gated resort. Barefoot delivers more amenity access and a more curated experience.
Barefoot vs Inland Communities
Inland communities in Conway or Longs deliver lower carrying costs and more space per dollar. Barefoot delivers a resort-style lifestyle. Buyers who value amenity depth over cost usually pick Barefoot.
Barefoot vs Active Adult Communities
Active adult communities are age-restricted with a specific social profile. Barefoot is all-ages with a resort profile. For a look at the age-restricted alternative, see our blog on the best active adult and 55+ communities on the Grand Strand.
Key Takeaways
- Barefoot Resort has evolved into a real primary residence market for retirees, empty nesters, and remote workers who value amenity depth
- Product options within Barefoot include condos, townhomes, and single-family homes at different price points and lifestyles
- HOA fees, second-home owner rotation, primary residence tax treatment, and location relative to everyday services all deserve honest evaluation
- Barefoot competes with traditional NMB neighborhoods, inland communities, and active adult communities on different lifestyle vectors
For buyers who want an amenity-rich, curated everyday lifestyle within the North Myrtle Beach area, Barefoot deserves a serious look as a primary residence, not just a vacation home. The buyers making the switch tell me they have never regretted it.
About Greg Harrelson
Greg Harrelson is a seasoned Realtor® with more than 30 years of experience serving the Myrtle Beach and Grand Strand markets. As the founder of Century 21 The Harrelson Group, Greg has built his career helping buyers, sellers, and investors achieve success in every corner of the coastal Carolina real estate market. His expertise spans residential homes, investment properties, land development, and coastal condos. Known for his deep local knowledge, innovative marketing strategies, and commitment to personal service, Greg consistently helps clients reach their real estate goals while navigating the ever-changing market with confidence and precision.