So You’re Visiting Bethany Beach… and Dreaming of a Beach Home?

Here’s what to know if you’re thinking about building in Coastal Delaware.

Summer in Bethany Beach has a way of stirring something in people. Maybe it’s the sound of the ocean, the pace of the days, or the feeling that life is just a little simpler when you’re near the water. If you’ve ever driven around Bethany and Fenwick and thought, “I want to live here,” you’re not alone.

We’ve seen it year after year. Summer is when inspiration strikes, and visitors start asking what it takes to make a beach home dream a reality. Designing and building a custom home takes time. We typically work with clients 12-15 months before we ever break ground. That means if you’re dreaming about summers in your own home, now’s the time to start the conversation.

Whether you’re thinking about building a new home from the ground up or wondering if you can renovate what you already have, we’re here to help you explore your options.

First Things First: Do You Own Property?

We love a good dream. But when it comes to beach homes, the process starts with land. Our team works with clients who already own property and are ready to take the next step. Why? Because every lot in coastal Delaware comes with its own set of rules, setbacks, zoning restrictions, and design challenges—and we can’t offer accurate guidance without seeing the land.

If you do own property, Marnie can help you figure out exactly what’s possible on your lot. Whether it’s rebuilding, renovating, or starting fresh with a custom design, we walk you through what’s allowed, what’s realistic, and what’s going to give you the best return on your investment.

Renovate or Rebuild?

Many people come to us thinking they want to renovate their current beach home. That’s a great place to start, but once we dive into the existing conditions, zoning rules, FEMA regulations, and structural limitations, it often becomes clear that rebuilding is a better option.

The good news? We do this every day. Marnie and our team will walk you through the pros and cons of each path, so you can make an informed decision that fits your vision, your timeline, and your budget.

What Makes Building at the Beach Different?

Coastal construction isn’t your average build. From flood zone requirements, FEMA regulations to salt air-resistant materials and maximizing water views, there are unique challenges—and opportunities—that come with designing a home at the beach. We know the ins and outs of building near the ocean because it’s what we do every single day. From Fenwick to Bethany, we’ve built more than 35 oceanfront homes and over 150 custom homes with a deep respect for the land, the environment, and your vision.

Why Custom Might Be the Right Fit for You

Every family uses their beach home differently. Whether you’re dreaming of big family dinners, a bunk room for grandkids, or a pizza oven by the pool—a custom build lets you design every inch around the way you live.

Our homes are packed with thoughtful touches: dog wash stations, beach prep rooms, bunk rooms, sleeping porches, indoor/outdoor showers, and so much more. When you build with Marnie Custom Homes, you get a team that understands how to bring those dreams to life—with a little fun along the way.

Ready to Talk?

If you’ve got property and you’re ready to talk next steps, we’d love to hear from you. Marnie Custom Homes specializes in high-end, custom beach homes in Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island—and we build every home like it’s our own.

Browse our Showcase to see what we’ve been building lately, and when you’re ready, contact us to start the conversation.

Let’s turn that beach house dream into something real.

Design + Build: Marnie Custom Homes | Bethany Beach, DE