In April of 2022, a guest staying at the Sea Mist Resort of Myrtle Beach filmed a video of the property that went viral.
The resort has since changed its name to Beach Life Resort.
The viral video was an embarrassment for the hotel, as well as, the city of Myrtle Beach.
On May 1st, chances are another viral video event might occur. Guests who stay in rooms rented through third party sites will not be allowed to use the hotel elevators. Exceptions have been made for handicapped guests. However, all other 3rd party rentals will be required to walk the stairs, with luggage, that go as high as 16 stories.
The resort offers condo owners a fee of $450 monthly to provide use of the elevators and these amenities. The resort’s HOA is already charging these home owners a maintenance fee for the elevator and upkeep of these amenities, however.
SAID BEACH LIFE RESORT MANAGEMENT: This $450 monthly fee is strictly a Commercial Amenity Fee for your guests (should you choose to rent your unit out yourself)—or have a 3rd Party Property Manager lease your Unit.
Homeowners say they are being charged twice for the same amenities.
Beach Life Resort’s TIDES, DRIFTWOOD, and OASIS buildings feature 214 units that are individually owned. Many of these condo owners rent their properties through online travel sites including Home Away, VRBO, and others.
In February of this year, Beach Life Resort property managers Gary Weatherford and Bev Shrake sent out the following ultimatum for homeowners not renting directly with the Beach Life resort.
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ULTIMATUM SENT TO CONDO OWNERS
1-Come on board with Beach Life Resort and let us manage your property for you. The split is 60/40, you receiving 60% of the profits. Our goal is to keep cleaning costs down as much as possible. Cleaning cost is not split with the owner. This way, we can increase your room price and thus, more money will go to you. If you choose to come on board, you and your guests will have access to all amenities.
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2- If you choose to rent for 1 day or 365, you will incur an amenity fee. This includes owners who choose to rent their units out themselves– or – choose an outside 3rd Party Property Manager. This Fee is $450 per month and will allow your guests to have access to the Commercial Amenities. If you do not pay this amount, your guests will not have access to any Commercial Amenities listed above. (Please note, for some of you that have asked: Yes, of course, the elevator would be made available for one with a disability)
*Please also note: If you choose to take this avenue, you can recoup this fee by including an Administrative Fee in your Rental.
This is not an HOA fee. Your HOA fee only permits the Owner and Family to have use of amenities.
**THERE IS NO FEE IF YOU COME ON BOARD WITH BEACH LIFE PROPERTY
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The resort has over 800 rooms, suites, and condos onsite. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including oceanfront rooms, suites with kitchenettes, and condos with full kitchens. All rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning.
The Beach Life also has several on-site amenities that guests can enjoy. The resort features multiple pools including an oceanfront water park complete with slides and splash areas for kids. Other amenities include a fitness center, arcade games room, mini-golf course, and even an on-site cinema.
**If you live at Beach Life Resort year round and do not rent your Unit at all, you do not need to do anything.