Everything Under the Moon

Is there any difference in using sand by house vs sand from the beach or rain water vs sea water on the altar? Or does it really not matter?

It only matters if it matters to you.
What kind of offerings do you think you should make to deity? What is your magic worth to you?

The quality of your craft is a very personal thing. Like your personal hygiene, eating habits, and inner thoughts.

Do what YOU deserve.

If you take advantage of associations to aid your intentions, then different locations could bring added connections to a working but certainly is not required. Sand or dirt from the home gives a closer link to the hearth, and to the Crafter. Graveyard dirt carries the influence of ancestors, and of those who are in Other realms & not confined by physical limitations. Sand from a cross roads could symbolize the four directions all in one. If it came from a bank it might contribute to a prosperity spell. Beach sand and sea water have associations with water properties and mystic lunar associations. Storm water carries extra dazzling power, whereas gentle rain water carries nurturing and well water from the underworld links to other realms that can assist clairvoyance. As an altar accessory, these influences can set the stage, and help focus intent. It's a little something extra, but not required, of course. Colored sand can be found at hobby shops, pre-washed sand is sold in garden centers.

I used to bring home sea sand from seaside travels and was a pleasant energy....also bring stones.
These days is sand for birdcage, shop bought, as a substitute. No idea where they get it, has added fine grit and aniseseed aroma, no energy and color it using food coloring.