Living on Martha's Vineyard? (rental, to buy, beach)

[Foxxpaws22]

I have wanted to live on Martha's Vineyard for a while now, so am beginning the planning stages. I'm not going to buy anything (I have rental options) I can start with a winter rental and go from there, and finding a job is not an issue as I work in a business that I can do online, so no issue there. I am guessing like here in SC, once summer is over it empties out on MV, but what is a winter like? I dont care about cold (its why I have Eddie Bauer, etc.), and don't need to be entertained (I do photography as a hobby, that will keep me busy). I am wondering how the islanders take to the "newbies" who turn up there beyond just a vacation. Any place is what you make of it, but was curious about impressions. I have a dog, so beach walking is good to do, following laws, etc. Is it overall somewhat "friendly" to newbies? Thanks for all info!!

[capecodcathy]

I've always found Vineyarders welcoming. I usually only go there in the off-season. Many people believe that MV, like Cape Cod, shuts down in the Winter. Not so.
I'd start here, though:
Martha’s Vineyard Life « Blog - Martha’s Vineyard Online
Check out the archives to the right of the page and you can get some good information from the locals.
Best of Luck to You!