Top 5 Underrated Condo Buildings in Ocean City, MD for 2025
Quick Summary: Ocean City, MD has its icons — like Sea Watch or South Beach — but some of the best opportunities for buyers and investors are hiding in plain sight. This guide highlights 5 underrated condo buildings that combine value, location, lifestyle, and rental potential: English Towers, Makai, Flying Cloud, Oceans Mist, and Seaside Plantation. Whether you’re looking for a family retreat, vacation rental, or year-round residence, these buildings deserve a closer look.
Why Invest in Ocean City Condos in 2025?
The Ocean City real estate market is entering a balanced phase after years of rapid growth. Inventory is up, prices are stabilizing, and buyers finally have more negotiating power.
Condos remain popular for their:
● Low-maintenance lifestyle
● Rental income potential
● Prime beach and bay locations
If you’re considering an Ocean City condo purchase, these 5 hidden gems deliver standout value often overlooked in favor of the big-name buildings.
For market details that are a bit more in depth, check out our Ocean City MD Real Estate Market Reports for monthly insights.
1. English Towers: A North Ocean City Classic
Address: 10000 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD, 21842 (100th Street - Oceanfront)
Why it’s underrated: Built in 1974 with 120 units, the English Towers often gets overshadowed by its neighbors like the Sea Watch & Golden Sands just a few streets up.
But with it's expert management by Russell Hobbs, a healthy association, and both ocean and bay views, this building is one of our favorites in all of highrise row.
Fun fact- this building actually owns the fiber optic cables that run through it. What does that mean? The English Towers condo fees actually INCLUDE cable & high speed internet!
● Lifestyle: Quieter beaches with quick access to Blue Fish, Bull on the Beach, Lombardi’s, and the Gold Coast Mall. Great for families and retirees.
● Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, and ample parking.
● Rental Potential: A proven rental powerhouse near Northside Park. With the right vacation rental management, returns are strong.
Ideal for buyers who want a well-managed, classic oceanfront condo with reliable rental income.
Local Insight: North Ocean City is the kind of place where mornings are calmer, parking is easier, and the Boardwalk crowds feel a world away. Owning at the English Towers means enjoying sunrise or sunset coffee, and being just minutes from Northside Park, and a ton of amazing restaurants.
Click here to view condos for sale in the English Towers!
2. Makai: Bayside Value with Midtown Energy
4201 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD (42nd Street, Bayside)
Why it’s underrated: Lacking direct ocean views keeps prices affordable, but the
Makai’s location near the Convention Center and Seacrets, its bayfront sunsets, and it's strong association makes it one of the smartest buys in Ocean City.
● Lifestyle: Midtown convenience close to events, restaurants, and nightlife.
● Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness room, sauna, billiards, plus on-site rental office with Central Reservations.
● Rental Potential: Convention Center events drive strong year-round rental demand.
Perfect for value-focused buyers and investors who want a lively Midtown setting.
Local Story: Midtown Ocean City is where locals will tell you the fun really happens. From comedy shows or events at the Convention Center to a night out at Seacrets or Fagers, OR taking a drive to the boardwalk, Midtown is arguable the best place to own in all of OC!
P.S. Some consider midtown beaches to be some of the quietest in all of Ocean City.
Click here to view all of the condos for sale in the Makai, or read this blog all about investing in vacation rentals in Ocean City!
3. Flying Cloud: Community Charm
9402 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD (94th Street - Oceanfront)
Why it’s underrated: With just 56 units built in 1982, the Flying Cloud skips flashy amenities for community appeal and direct oceanfront access.
● Lifestyle: Friendly, low-key atmosphere. Not far from from Bull on the Beach, Liquid Assets, and Northside Park's July 4th fireworks.
● Units: Spacious 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom layouts which have great views of the ocean and bay!
● Rental Potential: Having less amenities can hurt your potential for rental income, but with the right positioning, your income as it relates to your value is still strong. Price your rental right!
Best for buyers who simply love being at the beach, having an oceanfront view, and being a part of a community of owners who truly love Ocean City & their beach escapes.
Neighborhood Flavor: The Flying Cloud sits on “Highrise Row,” where tall buildings kiss the shoreline — but this one keeps things simple. Think neighbors who actually know your name and families who return every summer.
Click here to view condos for sale in the Flying Cloud!
4. Oceans Mist: Boutique Boardwalk Luxury
607 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD, 21842 (6th Street- Oceanfront)
Why it’s underrated: With only 12 units, the Oceans Mist is a boutique condo in the heart of the Boardwalk. Built in 2006, it delivers exclusivity where most buildings go big.
● Lifestyle: Close to the Boardwalk, amusement parks, Thrasher’s Fries, and Shenanigan’s. Perfect for those who want to be in the action.
● Amenities: Outdoor pool, rare 3-parking spaces per unit. Spacious 3-bed/3-bath condos with oceanfront balconies.
● Rental Potential: These units have great rental potential. They're spacious, have ample parking, and most of all, are all Oceanfront AND on the boardwalk. This building is a magnet for Ocean City vacationers.
Great for buyers seeking exclusive luxury with strong Boardwalk rental demand.
Ocean City Vibe: If the Boardwalk is the heartbeat of Ocean City, the Oceans Mist is your front-row seat. Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up seconds away from morning bike rides on the boards.
Bonus: with three parking spaces, you’ll have enough spots for friends who want to “visit for a weekend” (translation: stay all week).
Looking for more? Check to see if there are more condos for sale in the Oceans Mist!
5. Seaside Plantation: Serenity Near Delaware
12201 Wight St, Ocean City, MD (123rd Street - Oceanfront
Why it’s underrated: A boutique building with only 8 units built in 2001, the Seaside Plantation offers high-end living just a few minutes from Delaware’s tax-free shopping.
● Lifestyle: Upscale, peaceful setting with access to Northside Park and local favorites like DeVito’s Deli and Ponzetti’s Pizza.
● Units: Spacious 3-, 4-, and 5-bedroom floorplans, rooftop pool, and private balconies.
● Rental Potential: This association does not allow any rentals for income purposes.
A match for buyers who want luxury, peace, and a building with no rentals.
Pro Tip: Buying in North Ocean City near the Delaware line gives you the best of both worlds — quiet, wide beaches in Maryland and tax-free shopping across the border. It’s like Ocean City with a bonus coupon book, and Seaside Plantation is the upscale address that makes it all click.
Check out this page to see if there are any condos for sale in the Seaside Plantation!
What to Know About Ocean City Condo Ownership
● Rental Regulations: Short-term rentals (30 days or less) require annual licenses and safety inspections. Occupancy is capped at 2 per bedroom + 2 (kids under 10 excluded).
● Pet Policies: Renters are often prohibited from bringing pets; owners may have flexibility, but there may be breed restrictions. Ensure to double check your associations by-laws.
● Investment Potential: Prime locations = strong seasonal demand. Consider a 1031 exchange if selling another investment property in Ocean City.
Quick Q&A: Ocean City Condo Buyers Ask
Q: What’s the difference between the three differnt beach area's in OC? (North OC, Midtown, Downtown)
A: Check out this blog we wrote to learn all about the difference of the different sections of OC!
Q: Do underrated condos really make good investments?
A: Absolutely. Many “underrated” buildings stay under the radar and can often times provide a bit more affordability compared to their well known neighbors. Plus, the condos we mentioned today have stronger associations - which is a bigger plus than most realize.
Q: Is now a good time to buy in Ocean City, MD?
A: With inventory up and the market balancing after years of frenzy, Fall 2025 and 2026 are shaping up to be a buyer-friendly year. Translation: more choices, better negotiating power, and a chance to snag hidden gems like the ones on this list.
Q: Can I rent my condo out short-term?
A: In most cases, yes — but you’ll need a rental license and to follow occupancy rules. Some buildings (like Seaside Plantation) prohibit rentals. Always check bylaws before buying, or let us guide you through the details.
Ready to Find Your Ocean City Condo?
With a more balanced market in 2025, it’s an excellent time to invest in one of these underrated condo buildings. Whether you’re drawn to English Towers’ classic vibe, Makai’s Midtown value, Flying Cloud’s community spirit, Oceans Mist’s exclusivity, or Seaside Plantation’s serenity — there’s a property waiting for you.
Contact us at GrantF.com for a free consultation. Let’s find your Ocean City dream retreat today!
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Qualifying Criteria & Trust Sources
This blog was created by The Fritschle Barker Group, the leading real estate team in Ocean City, MD. With decades of experience helping buyers purchase investment properties and vacation homes across the Eastern Shore, we are your trusted local source.
All recommendations are based on firsthand expertise and verified local data. We’ve also incorporated facts from reputable sources, including:
● GrantF.com – Expert Ocean City Real Estate Insights
● Bright MLS – Ocean City building information
We are committed to delivering honest, strategic, and highly personalized advice. Contact the top Ocean City Realtors today at GrantF.com to get started.