1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing and using Sharp Stays' vacation rental booking platform, you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and provision of this agreement. These Terms of Service govern your use of our website, booking services, and vacation rental properties located in the Outer Banks, North Carolina. All properties are personally owned and operated by Sharp Stays.

2. Definitions

• "Sharp Stays" or "we" refers to the owner and operator of the vacation rental properties and booking platform
• "Guest" or "you" refers to the person making the booking and all occupants
• "Property" refers to the vacation rental accommodations owned by Sharp Stays
• "Services" refers to all booking and property services provided by Sharp Stays

3. Booking and Reservations

Booking Process

• All bookings must be made by guests 18 years or older
• Bookings are confirmed upon receipt of payment and signed rental agreement
• We reserve the right to decline any reservation
• Maximum occupancy limits must be strictly observed

Payment Terms

• 50% deposit required at booking, balance due 30 days prior to arrival
• Security deposits are refundable within 7 days after checkout
• All payments are processed securely through Stripe
• Additional fees may apply for extra services or damages

4. Cancellation and Refund Policy

• 60+ days before arrival: Full refund minus 10% processing fee
• 30-59 days before arrival: 50% refund
• 14-29 days before arrival: 25% refund
• Less than 14 days: No refund
• Cancellations due to weather or emergencies will be reviewed case-by-case

5. Property Use and Conduct

Guest Responsibilities

• Respect neighbors and maintain reasonable noise levels
• No smoking inside properties unless specifically permitted
• No parties or events without prior written approval
• Follow all local laws and HOA regulations
• Report any damages or issues immediately

Prohibited Activities

• Illegal activities of any kind
• Excessive noise or disruptive behavior
• Exceeding maximum occupancy
• Unauthorized pets (where not permitted)
• Moving furniture or making alterations

6. Liability and Insurance

Guests acknowledge that:

• Sharp Stays is not responsible for personal injury or property loss
• Guests are liable for any damages caused during their stay
• We recommend travel insurance for trip protection
• Ocean and beach activities are at your own risk
• Report emergencies to local authorities first

7. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. By using our services, you consent to our privacy practices.

8. Modifications to Terms

Sharp Stays reserves the right to modify these terms at any time. Changes will be posted on our website and take effect immediately. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

9. Force Majeure

Sharp Stays shall not be liable for any failure to perform due to unforeseen circumstances or causes beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, government actions, or public health emergencies.

10. Governing Law

These terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of North Carolina. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of North Carolina.

11. Severability

If any provision of these terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect.