Merry day-after Christmas! It’s a bright 77-degree afternoon here on sunny Sanibel.

After our family dinner last night (about 6:30 p.m.), I took a ride down Periwinkle to see the holiday decorations. Viewing twinkling palm trees in December never gets old, with the Sanibel Community Church again this year adding to their spectacular display. There were only a few businesses open then, Huxters and 7-11 both had vehicles and lights on. Otherwise, it was an unusually quiet peaceful drive.

When teammate Dave came on-island this morning to do his Friday rounds, he remarked that he hadn’t seen this much traffic coming on (other than contractor vehicles) since pre-Ian. He said traffic was backed up on the causeway, past the boat ramp and that the waters surrounding the causeway probably had 100 boats within sight.

Grand dog Bella was with him, so after checking our listings, he looked for a beach access that was not packed to take her for a short walk. She loves the water! They stopped at the Buttonwood gulf-beach access, walking toward the Lighthouse. Looking both directions, he said he quickly counted 70 boats and said the gulf waters are beautiful with lots of folks enjoying it.

Watch Out For Winter

The weather this week has been more of the same sunshine and mostly blue skies with daytime temperatures usually high 70’s, some days into the 80’s. That could change the middle of next week with forecasters now predicting that New Years Eve could get as low as 49 degrees with daytime temps not out of the 60’s on both Wednesday and Thursday. Yikes! Time to get out the winter flip flops! Hopefully, it will be back into the 70’s by next Friday.

How’s The Island Real Estate Market?

The team and I are asked that question a lot. As much as we are want new listings and wish we could always say what folks want to hear, we try to always be honest even when it is hard to say that the market is “not good”.  It’s not, but some positives this year were:

• No storms
• Restoration from previous storms continued with more resilient properties now
• Plenty of accommodations ready for visitors, many brand-new
• Beach looking good, many renourished.

Some have asked, “Is the market improving?”

• With homes, it is stabilizing.
• With condos, it may continue to decline before it bounces back. In many cases, condo owners are dealing with less income, higher fees, community/contractor lawsuits, and other closing challenges. Add to that that there are fewer prospective buyers when there are not many visitors here.
• Vacant lot owners are finding that there just are not many buyers looking to build. Building costs are high and when adding the lot cost, it often exceeds the price of resale homes.
• Commercial is a mix. Some business owner are waiting for the islands to be busier before making a change or reopening. On Sanibel, there are 16 commercial properties for sale and just three closed sales this year. Thankfully, one was our listing and sale. No Captiva commercial activity this year.

So, 2026 will be another year of recovery. We look forward to more visitors looking to purchase and the return of the islands as a vacation-land. This real estate business always has cycles. Watch for an eventual upswing in 2026. If today’s traffic is any indication, it could be beginning.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week and will be closed next Thursday for the New Year holiday. The next Caravan meeting is the following Thursday, January 8, and will be for East-End properties.

Looking at residential activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been five new sales, two Sanibel homes, a Sanibel lot, and a Captiva condo.

During the same time, there were eight new listings and 12 price changes.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 19-26

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Colonnades #17 1/1 $299K, Sanibel Moorings #542 2/2 $749K, Somerset #A202 3/2.5 $1.995M.

1 price change: Sanctuary Golf Villages I #6-PH5 3/3 now $1.175M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Lighthouse Point #319 2/2 $575K.

HOMES

3 new listings: 243 Southwinds Dr 4/2.5 $1.495M, 9345 Dimmick Dr 3/3.5 $2.499M, 1332 Eagle Run Dr 5/5 $2.7M.

1 back-on-market: 1266 Par View Dr 4/4 $2.289M.

7 price changes: 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $775K, 4245 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 now $995K, 2449 Harbour Ln 2/2 now $1.375M, 720 Durion Ct 4/3 now $1.099M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1.695M, 1517 Sand Castle Rd 4/3.5 now $1.995M, 2667 Coconut Dr 3/3 now $1.995M.

2 new sales: 799 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $1.399M, 513 Lighthouse Way 3/3 listed at $2.27M.

3 closed sales: 531 Birdsong Pl 3/2 $513K, 720 Elinor Way 3/2 $1.05M, 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 $1.2M.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 967 Fitzhugh St now $200K, 2348 Wulfert Rd now $298K.

No new sale: 4733 Rue Belle Mer listed at $700K.

No closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Villas #2615 2/2 $839K.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas #5122 1/2 now $549K, Beach Villas #2322 1/1 now $595K.

No new sale: Bayside Villas #5340 3/3 listed at $969K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 15771 Captiva Dr 3/3 $9.5M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend & Happy New Year!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Counting down to the holidays, here is a photo that Teammate David took this morning at Lighthouse Beach when he was out on his rounds checking our listings. The white sand with the footprints almost looks like snow.

It was funny yesterday at our Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors Monthly Membership Meeting to hear those wearing their ugly Christmas sweaters complain they were too hot. Nothing like December in Florida!

The AC was turned on and all were happy. More of the same warm sunshiny weather – high 70’s/low 80’s is expected right through Christmas.

In more news from our meeting, guest speaker from the Captiva Civic Association encouraged members to also join their organization. Living on Captiva is not a requirement. In addition to social events, they are active in preserving the islands, including with strong stands about the environment and over development. Like Sanibel, they want to preserve their island charm and sense of community.

After the Caravan Meeting that followed, five west-end Sanibel homes were open for easy viewing. The next Caravan Meeting is January 9, East-End.

 Also, after the Caravan Meeting, island brokers met in roundtable with Association CEO Bill Robinson providing reminders and an update on MLS changes coming in 2026.

Our Realtors and Affiliate Members continue to work hard to get residents and visitors back, so it was discouraging to hear that accommodation managers are reporting that only about 50% of available properties are booked for Feb/Mar. That means plenty of vacancies still for this winter and many sweet deals being offered to entice reservations.

More Changes & Happenings

Lighthouse Cafe, 1020 Periwinkle Way, announced this week that they now will also be open for dinner. So, in addition to serving breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. they will serve dinner from 4 to 9 p.m.

Tarpon Bay Explorers, 900 Tarpon Bay Rd, beginning tomorrow, will again be offering their Nature & Sealife Cruises and Evening Nature Cruises. These have not been offered since pre-Ian. During these cruises around Tarpon Bay, on board covered pontoon boat, Explorer V, naturalists will explain the environment as attendees look for manatees, dolphins, and birds. Check their website for schedule and reservations, www.TarponBayExplorers.com.

Economic Summit – Plan Ahead for February 19

The island Association of Realtors has arranged for NAR Chief Economist Dr Lawrence Yun to come to the island in person and speak at an Economic Summit at The Community House on Thursday morning, Feb 19. The event is open to Association members and the public.

I have been a fan of Dr Yun for years. He does not just talk about the economy nationally and worldwide but also drills down to local areas. His predictions are “right on” too. We hope for a good turnout to hear him.

More Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate News

Looking at residential activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 5 new sales, all Sanibel homes. During the same time, there were 20 new listings and 13 price changes.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 12-19

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Mariner Pointe #733 2/2 $549K, Sanibel Moorings #1422 2/2 $639K, Lighthouse Point #216 2/2 $697K, Oceans Reach #2A4 2/2 $999K.

3 price changes: Sanibel Siesta #202 2/2 now $675K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 now $789K, Lighthouse Point #315 3/2 now $795K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

13 new listings: 1595 Bunting Ln 3/2 $649.9K, 4619 Rue Bayou 3/2 $899K, 717 Gopher Walk Way 3/3.5 $975K, 693 Emeril Ct 3/3 $1.199M, 1040 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.25M, 517 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 $1.349M, 4460 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 $1.35M, 1422 Sanderling Cir 4/3 $1.35M, 1172 Kittiwake Cir 5/3 $1.498M, 4452 Waters Edge Ln 3/3 $1.848M, 699 Anchor Dr 4/4 $2.75M, 1480 Angel Dr 3/3.5 $2.95M, 1520 Angel Dr 4/4.4 $3.195M.

7 price changes: 490 Marian Rd 2/2 now $649K, 1283 Par View Dr 2/2 now $895K.1139 Buttonwood Ln 2/2 now $939K, 458 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $984K, 702 Pyrula Ave 3/2 now $995K, 6076 Castaways Ln 3/2 now $1.5M, 6120 Henderson Rd 3/2.5 now $1.595M.

5 new sales: 611 North Yachtsman Dr 3/2 listed at $949K, 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 listed at $1.395M, 2479 Harbour Ln 4/3 listed at $1.395M, 1266 Par View Dr 4/4 listed at $2.289M, 5071 Joewood Dr 4/5.5.5 listed at $4.95M.

7 closed sales: 773 Cardium St 2/2 $750K, 1610 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 $779K, 1769 Bowmans Beach Rd 2/2 $800K, 5221 Old Banyan Way 3/2 $980K, 926 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $1.2M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 $1.325M, 2681 Coconut Dr 3/3.5 $2,100,800.

LOTS

2 new listings: 4019 Coquina Dr $485K, 4037 Coquina Dr $1.1M.

1 price change: 651 Donax St now $550K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Seabreeze #1255 3/3 $2.699M.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas #4112 1/2 now $530K, Bayside Villas #4216 1/2 now $530K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Merry Christmas!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Hooray, the islands had a couple of quick showers Sunday night and Monday. Perfect timing with no disruption to the successful island holiday events over the weekend, including the well-attended Luminary Strolls.

Since then, island temperatures have been back to daytimes in the 70’s, nights 50’s-60’s (degrees F) with mostly blue skies and sunshine. It may even hit 80 tomorrow. Gotta love that in December!

Florida Realtors 2025 Broker Summit

Monday and Tuesday, I joined 400+ Florida brokers, zooming into Florida Realtors 2025 Broker Summit. Moderated again this year by friend Mike Hughes from Naples, the first day concentrated on national real estate news.

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun presenting from Washington DC said it was a chilly 30 there. His tidbits on our state included:

·        What he considers a temporary price decline in the Florida market.

·        On the plus side, there are 11.3% more jobs in Florida now than pre-COVID.

·        Nationally, Florida is a top job-producing state.

·        Year-to-date, single-family home sales are up 1.6% in Florida.

·        Year-to-date, condo/townhome sales are down 6% in Florida, compared to last year.

Other Monday speakers included NAR Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn and NAR General Counsel Jon Waclawski. Then consultant Sherry Chris moderated a session called Broker Insights with tips for brokers provided by Christina Pappas President of The Keys Company, Gus Grizzard CEO of ERA Grizzard Real Estate, and Sean Frank Founder of Mainframe Real Estate. The use of AI continues to be a hot topic in all offices with it being used in a variety of ways, none to reduce manpower, but instead to increase productivity, streamline procedures, and improve marketing.

Day 2, also moderated by Mike Hughes, was more specific to Florida Realtors (FR), first with a session by FR General Counsel Juana Watkins. She said that though there is a lot less national anti-trust litigation, there still is some. There also is a lot of discussion at FR on required forms. Many new ones resulted from the NAR lawsuit, but FR already is reviewing those and others, with the goal of having fewer forms and retiring others. More details will be provided early next year. She referred to this as “dotting the i’s & crossing the t’s”, i.e. “buttoning up and suspender-ing” (in legal talk). (I got a kick out of that.). Juana said the FR legal hotline answered 70K calls this year. She encouraged more calls.

FR Chief Economist Dr Brad O’Connor shared his view on the Florida real estate market. He said:

·        Regarding active listings, inventory in Florida is returning to a more normal seasonal pattern.

·        Year-over-year, the number of Florida listings is up 10%.

·        In Lee County, number of listings is up 46%.

·        In Florida, the median sale price of single-family homes is relatively flat.

·        The median sale price of condos/townhomes state-wide has been falling for over a year, now down about 5%.

·        He thinks the Florida market is turning the corner for the better, though some coastal areas are lagging.

FR Senior VP for Public Policy Trey Goldman reporting from Tallahassee discussed the many real-estate related bills in the 2025 Legislative Session and those already in the works for the upcoming 2026 session. He also said that there now are 17 new homeowner insurance providers servicing Floridians. Citizens no longer is the largest.

FR Chair of RPAC Trustees Marilyn Pearson-Adams and FR VP of Government & Political Affairs Genessa Casanova spoke on the many real estate wins funded by RPAC dollars.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The local Association of Realtors had an East-End Caravan meeting yesterday. After the meeting, ten properties (the maximum allowed) were open for easy viewing, three condos and seven homes.

Next Thursday is the December membership meeting with guest speaker from the Captiva Civic Association. After that meeting, there will be a caravan of West-End open properties. Also after that meeting, a brokers’ round-table at the Association Office will gather input for 2026. I will participate.

Looking at residential activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been just four new sales, all Sanibel homes, like last week. There has not been a new condo sale since Nov 26.

During the same time, there were 25 new listings and 16 price changes.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 5-12

Sanibel

CONDOS

9 new listings: Blind Pass #A102 2/2 $549K, Blind Pass #D204 3/2 $735.7K, Blind Pass #E103 3/3 $735.7K, Sunset South #2A 2/2 $824K, Sunset South #3D 2/2 $895K, Pointe Santo #A45 2/2 $1.395M, Pointe Santo #E4 3/2 $1.65M, Pointe Santo #E44 3/2 $2.1M, Wedgewood #101 3/3.5 $3.195M.

5 price changes: Sandpebble #2E 2/2 now $494K, Sanibel Siesta #112 2/2 now $790K, Sundial #T204 3/2 now $1.485K, Compass Point #191 3/3 now $1.499M, Gulfside Place #115 2/2 now $1.695M.

No new sales.

5 closed sales: Colonnades #14 1/1 $225K, Sundial #D206 1/1 $485K, Oceans Reach #3A3 2/2 $930K, Sundial #T304 3/2 $1.05M, Sundial #N301 2/2 $1.075M.

HOMES

13 new listings: 935 Pecten Ct 3/2 $799K, 1040 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1..25M, 2479 Harbour Ln 4/3 $1.395M, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 $1.42M, 1508 Middle Gulf Dr 3/4 $1.495M, 9455 Coventry Ct 3/2 $1.525K, 5801 San-Cap Rd 2/2.5 $1.6M, 2480 Library Way 3/3 $1.75M, 1044 Fish Crow Rd 4/3,5 $2.25M, 1141 Paper Fig Ct 3/3.5 $2.75M, 5145 Joewood Dr 5/4.5 $3.25M, 1157 Bird Ln 3/3.5 $3.495M, 3767 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $9.495M.

1 back-on-market: 1674 Sabal Palm Dr 3/4 $1.999M.

5 price changes: 837 Casa Ybel Rd (multi-family) 2/2 now $425K, 1444 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $459K, 838/840 Rabbit Rd (multi-family) 4/2 now $739K, 771 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $739K, 915 Pecten Ct 6/5 now $2.15M.

4 new sales: 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $749K, 4221 Old Banyan Way 3/2 listed at $1.095M, 2319 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 listed at $3.247M, 859 Limpet Dr 4/3.5 listed at $3.495M.

1 closed sale: 3362 Barra Cir 2/2 $670K.

LOTS

No new listings.

3 price changes: 5648 Baltusrol Ct now $419K, 5642 Baltusrol Ct now $429K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer now $700K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

2 new listings: Sunset Beach Villas #2236 3/2 $1.425M, Beach Cottages #1403 2/2 $1.595M.

1 price change: Tennis Villas #3135 1/1 now $309K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Beach Villas #2433 2/2 $850K.

HOMES

1 new listings: 11529 Laika Ln 3/2 $1.65M.

2 price changes: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 now $1.075M, 15160 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 now $4.749M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Screenshot

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Wrapping up another sunshiny week on Sanibel and Captiva, forecasters predict more of the same warm weather is expected through next week. There has not been a drop of rain in days, but they say the odds are up to 55% on Monday. Bougainvillea and hibiscus are blooming just the same.

It is always fun to see holiday décor when weather is tropical. I heard from New England and Mid-West pals this week, all dealing with that white stuff, that causes many to come to Florida. The island welcome mat is open with more returning snowbirds and visitors expected this winter, ready to enjoy the many new and like-new accommodations and businesses that have opened since last winter.

Sanibel Re-Opening

Casa Ybel Resort beachside Thistle Lodge restaurant and bar, plus their Coconuts poolside bar and grill, both reopened this week.

Holiday Luminary Stroll

Tonight is Sanibel’s Luminary Stroll, followed by Captiva’s tomorrow night (Sat). Starting times have moved up this year, with both from 4 to 9 p.m. Hosted by the SanCap Chamber of Commerce, this is the 39^th year for this annual event.

Heading west along the Luminary trail, at The Heart of The Islands plaza, there will be more goodies, plus a hot chocolate bar. At Jerry’s shopping center, find Santa, plus caroling, photo ops, drinks, snacks, and hot dogs from the Boy Scouts.

The Sanibel Community Church will have a petting zoo, pony rides, and food, plus performances of Handel’s Messiah at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.

At Tahitian Gardens, Santa and the Grinch arrive by Harley at 5:30 p.m., followed by kids’ game. There will be holiday treats and other entertainment with live music, too.

The Periwinkle Place Shops will feature special sales and refreshments. Pinocchio’s again will be doing their roasted chestnuts.

There will be more luminary activities at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ with the Sanibel Music Festival kicking off its season with a free concert at 4 p.m.

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will have cookies, popcorn, beverages, goodie bags, and glow necklaces, plus live music, a bounce house, and Christmas carol sing-along.

The Village Shops also will have live music, food, and libations. While across the street at Islander Center, there will be more refreshments, desserts, and a coffee bar.

In addition to the shopping centers and churches, more Luminary fun is planned at: Bank of the Islands (treats, gifts, flashlights); Captiva Curio Cottage; Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille; Florida Trust Wealth Management (pizza buffet); Rachael Pierce Gallery; Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation at Puschel Preserve; Sanibel Historical Museum and Village (open house 3 to 5 p.m.); The Community House; The Grog Shop; Traders; and VCA Sanibel Animal Hospital (tours, pet photo booth).

Captiva – Tomorrow night offering similar holiday fun, treats, and freebies, the luminary bags will be out from ‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina, to Andy Rosse Lane, and to South Seas Resort. For more info, visit https://sanibel-captiva.org/luminary/

Florida Realtors 2025 Broker Summit

Next Monday and Tuesday, December 8 and 9, I will attend (by Zoom) Florida Realtors 2025 Broker Summit. With the real estate landscape shifting it will cover topics ranging from market trends and technology to risk management and regulation. Speakers include some personal favorites: NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun and Florida Realtors General Counsel Juana Watkins.

Florida Realtors is the state’s largest professional trade association with more than 238,000 members. This summit is offered to the brokers leading their member real estate offices. It should provide good insight into the new year.

Open on Christmas

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The island Association of Realtors had a West-End Caravan meeting yesterday. After the meeting, three Sanibel homes were open for easy viewing.

Looking at residential activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, just three new sales have been reported, all Sanibel homes.

During the same time, there were 10 new listings and 21 price changes.

Sanibel residential inventory is up to 408, with 246 closed sales year-to-date. Captiva has 75, with 24 closed sales.

The market is starting to shift, though from now through mid-January usually is slow for real estate sales with the busy holidays. I have not sold a home on Christmas Day since 2004, so overdue for that December action. The team and I bet that 2026 will be our best year since 2022.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Nov 28-Dec 5

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Sanibel Arms West #L2 2/2 $650K, Oceans Reach #4A2 2/2 $975K, Villas of Sanibel #A201 3/3 $1.395M, Sundial #R405 2/2 $1.43M, LaPlaya #3B 3/2 $1.895M, Sedgemoor #206 3/3.5 $4.995M.

4 price changes: Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 now $425K, Blind Pass #G102 2/2 now $649K, Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 now $695K, Sanibel Surfside #113 2/2 now $900K.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: Colonnades #18 1/1 $262K, Sandalfoot #4D1 2/2 $535K.

HOMES

3 new listings: 495 East Lake Rd 3/2 $664,950; 3990 Coquina Dr 3/2 $1.245M, 785 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.695M.

16 price changes: 1444 Sandpiper Cir 2/2 now $459.9K, 1390 Middle Gulf Dr #E (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $699K, 711 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $749K, 5869 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 now $750K, 548 Chert Ct 3/2 now $759K, 662 Donax St 2/2.5 now $799K, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $899,490; 4639 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2.5 now $975K, 1300 Par View Dr 4/2 now $987K, 1425 Causey Ct 4/3 now $999K, 1062 South Yachtsman Dr 3/3 now $1.199M, 736 Durion Ct 3/3 now $1.295M, 1390 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.395M, 706 Gopher Walk Way 3/4 now $1.585M, 5750 San-Cap Rd 3/2 now $1.775M, 1543 San Carlos Bay Dr 5/4 now $2.699M.

3 new sales: 1720 Elinor Way 3/2 listed at $1.099M, 355 East Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 330 Cowry Ct 5/4.5.5 listed at $3,999,999.

2 closed sales: 1043 Blue Heron Dr 3/3 $805K, 1321 Eagle Run Dr 3/3.5 $1.67M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1292 Par View Dr $469K.

1 price change: 5398 Osprey Ct now $295K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Before Thanksgiving turkeys were out of the oven, Christmas decorations popped up all over the islands. The next few weeks are always a magical time on Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Bright sunny weather continued without a drop of rain until it clouded over late yesterday in advance of a cool front that brought temperatures down into the low 50’s (degrees F) last night. Today it may only get up to 70 but beginning tomorrow (Saturday) and into next week, warmer days (low 80’s) again are expected.

Holiday Happenings

‘Tween Waters Tree Lighting & Celebration – Tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. is the annual ‘Tween Waters Inn and Marina Tree Lighting and Celebration. Parking there can be challenging, so be sure and check their website before heading out, unless you have a reservation. https://tween-waters.com/tree-lighting-celebration/ The celebration in addition to the tree lighting and over 200,000 synchronized holiday lights will feature fireworks over the gulf, snow falling from palm trees, live music, and laser lights.

Small Business Saturday – Tomorrow, Saturday, November 29, is being promoted as Sanibel’s Small Business Saturday with 30+island businesses encouraging visitors to make a day of it – to shop and dine before the Sanibel Tree Lighting. Many shops will offer raffle, gifts, and giveaways.

Sanibel Tree Lighting & Celebration – Sanibel’s tree lighting is at The Community Park, across the street from Sanibel Square, at 5:30 p.m. After the lighting, next door at The Community House, until 8:30 p.m. a holiday celebration is planned with free fun for all ages including entertainment with live music, food and treats, arts and crafts, photo booth, visits from Santa and friends, and more.

Holiday Luminary Stroll – It also is not too early to plan for the festivities next weekend with the islands annual Holiday Luminary Stroll. On Sanibel, it is Friday night, December 5, followed by Captiva on Saturday night, December 6. Both are from 5 to 9 p.m. On Sanibel, this year, the event is the grand finale of the City’s 50^th anniversary. In addition to twinkling lit paths and holiday décor, there will be lots of festive goodies, live music, and activities at businesses. There also will be a live Nativity and visiting Santa. If you haven’t experienced Luminary, you won’t want to miss it.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The islands Association of Realtors was closed for the holiday, but attendance at our Thursday morning Caravan meetings picked up last week. It’s a sign of more real estate activity. Next week there will be new West-End properties open for viewing after the meeting.

Looking at residential activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, six new sales have been reported, all on Sanibel: two condos and four homes.

During the same time, there were 10 new listings and 20 price changes.

On the commercial side, condo #D1 at Tree Tops Center, 1101 Periwinkle Way, came on the market at $415K.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Nov 21-28

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Lighthouse Point #214 3/2 $720K, Sanddollar #A103 3/2 $1.299M, Seascape #205 3/3 $2.695M.

4 price changes: Spanish Cay #A5 2/2 now $449K, Sundial #J304 2/2 now $795.9K, Heron at The Sanctuary 1 #2-A 3/2.5 now $1.155M, St Croix #4 2/2 now $1.549M.

2 new sales: Loggerhead Cay #363 2/2 listed at $775K, Sundial #T304 3/2 listed at $1.15M.

3 closed sales: Sundial #L402 3/2 $1.055M, Pointe Santo #E7 3/2 $1.1M, Tamarind #B201 2/2 $1.255M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1737 Serenity Ln 3/2 $680K, 698 Spartina Ct 3/2 $969.9K, 4400 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 $1.15M, 3284 Twin Lakes Ln 4/4 $1.195M, 505 Lighthouse Way 4/3.5 $1.699M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $6.489M.

2 back-on-market: 355 East Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.15M, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.175M.

8 price changes: 1444 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $467K, 1651 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 now $645K, 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/2 now $799K, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $899.5K, 3191 Twin Lakes Ln 4/2.5 now $1.799M, 6450 Pine Ave 3/3 now $2.275M, 1490 Angel Dr 4/3 now $3.475M, 1290 Bay Dr 3/2 now $3.49M.

4 new sales: 731 Durion Ct 3/2 listed at $999K, 1010 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 listed at $1.05M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 listed at $1.445M, 4353 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.45M.

3 closed sales: 5309 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 $735K, 5770 Pine Tree Dr 3/2,5 $925K, 9056 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $1.42M.

LOTS

No new listings.

4 price changes: 5398 Osprey Ct now $275K, 714 Durion Ct now $450K, 1746 Windward Way now $475K, 4741 Tradewinds Dr now $1.995M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Homes #27 5/4.5 $4.79M.

4 price changes: Tennis Villas #3212 1/1 now $299K, Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 now $485K, Bayside Villas #4118 1/2 now $495K, Tennis Villas #3132 2/2 now $649K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 58 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 $1,337,500.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Even better news is that this is the first hurricane season in ten years without a storm in the Gulf or making landfall in the U.S. That seems to have already prompted more real estate activity. Inventory is shifting, pricing are changing, more new listings are coming on the market, and our phones are ringing. Hooray!

Winter Wonderland Festival of Trees

To raise funds to support affordable housing on the islands CHR (Community Housing & Resources) is presenting this event today and tomorrow (November 22) at The Community House on Sanibel. Today until 8 p.m. Community Day offers a variety of family-friendly activities plus viewing of the 20 trees and 18 wreaths decorated by community members, non-profits, and business owners. Tomorrow from 5 to 7 p.m. there will be a ticketed social event with live and silent auctions for the trees/wreaths, plus paddle raise-up. For tickets to the Saturday event, visit https://sancapchr.org/festival-of-trees/.

More Openings & Special Offerings 

With accommodation reservations down, social media has exploded with ads from many providers offering discounts, free days, and other benefits for booking with them.

Casa Ybel Resort – Casa Ybel Resort manager JR posted a video saying that after three years, they have reopened – refreshed, reimagined, and ready to welcome visitors.

Island Time Wine – Island Time Wine at The Island Center, Unit #4, 2407 Periwinkle Way, had their ribbon-cutting and Grand Opening this week. This new boutique shop offers a 2000-bottle selection and also themed tastings and workshops.

Sanibel Island Golf Club – Under new ownership and following improvements, Sanibel Island Golf Club recently reopened their front nine to the public. Fancy new golf carts are available too.

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa – for 2026 bookings made before December 3, 2025, Sundial is offering 25% off and stays include their breakfast buffets.

Predictions for 2026

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Annual Meeting was last week, this year in Houston. My friend and Florida’s own Christine Hansen with C21 Hansen Realty in Fort Lauderdale is NAR 2026 President-Elect.

In addition to committee and business meetings, their Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun made some real estate predictions.

·        A 14% increase with home sales in 2026.

·        New home sales also projected to rise 5% next year.

·        Prices expected to climb 4% in 2026, supported by job growth and persistent supply shortages.

·        Mortgage rates should average around 6%, down from roughly 6.7% overall average this year.

North Sanibel Beach Renourishment Project Begins Monday

Next week, the City is starting a beach renourishment project designed to strengthen and protect the Sanibel shoreline between Blind Pass and the western edge of Bowman’s Beach Park. It will place about 300K cubic yards of new sand along the northern stretch of the island, covering the area from near the former Mad Hatter Restaurant to the western edge of Bowman’s Beach The sand will be collected from a hopper dredge from a state-approved offshore sand source located about 8.3 nautical miles west of Captiva.

Once the new sand is in place, crews will install native dune vegetation to stabilize the dunes and support wildlife. Work is expected to begin Monday, November 24 with the contractor working 24/7 to shorten construction time and minimize disruptions. Barring any weather or equipment delays, it is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The staging area will be at the former Castaways property on San-Cap Rd, plus the Blind Pass Beach Park parking lot which is closing tonight.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

Yesterday, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association Realtors had their monthly membership meeting. It had more attendees than I remember at any meeting since before the 2022 hurricane – standing room only. Guest speaker was John Talmage, Director of the Lee County Economic Development Office. His comments overall were very positive. Some included:

·        Lee County has 861K year-‘round residents, that number is expected to reach 1M in six years.

·        Lee County also has the most seasonal homes in the U.S. In 2^nd place is Cape Cod, followed by Naples.

·       “Bones of recovery are finally here”

·        $10B are invested today in Lee County

·        The County has ten new schools, and 11 health-care facilities.

·        He considers Lee County to be the R&D Center for hurricane hardening.

Following the guest speaker, the Caravan Meeting included announcements of three new sales, plus 10 Sanibel East-End homes were open and available for easy viewing.

Looking at the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, eight new Sanibel sales have been posted:  four condos, three homes, and a lot. None on Captiva.

During the same time, there were a whopping 21 new listings and 26 price changes.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Nov 14-21

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sundial #F305 1/1 $465K, Mariner Pointe #1083 2/2 $549K, Blind Pass #G205 2/2 $649K, Wedgewood #303 3/3.5 $2.5M.

6 price changes: Spanish Cay #A3 1/1 now $380K, Sanibel Moorings #1412 1/1 now $450K, Loggerhead Cay #264 2/2 now $849K, Kings Crown #212 2/2 now $875K, Sunward #102 2/2 now $995K, Sanctuary Golf Villages 1 #1-2 3/3 now $1.095M.

4 new sales: Mariner Pointe #312 2/2 listed at $399K (SanibelSusan listing), Lighthouse Point #319 2/2 listed at $599K, Coquina Beach #F3 2/2 listed at $749K, Sandalfoot #5D3 2/2 listed at $879K.

2 closed sales: Mariner Pointe #1023 2/2 $425K, Sealoft Village #105 2/2 $883,750.

HOMES

11 new listings: 740 Elinor Way 2/2 $899K 611 North Yachtsman Dr 3/2 $949K, 731 Durion Ct 3/2 $999K, 1010 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $1.05M, 1264 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.147M, 1076 Captains Walk St 2/2 $1.25M, 1987 My Tern Ct 3/2.5 $1.495M, 734 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 $1.595M, 460 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $2.295M, 4383 Gulf Pines Dr 5/4.5 $2.498M, 4725 Rue Belle Mer 4/4.5 $7,495M.

17 price changes: 1444 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $487K, 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $624K, 490 Marian Rd 2/2 now $699K, 1390 Middle Gulf Dr #E (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $724.9K, 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $749K, 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $749K, 771 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $789K, 838/840 Rabbit Rd (multi-family) 4/2 now $799K, 1105 Skiff Pl 4/3 now $860K, 4245 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 now $1.079M, 645 Pine Ave 3/3 now $1.275M, 330 East Gulf Dr 3/2 now $1.375M, 4353 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 now $1.45M, 706 Gopher Walk Way 3/4 $1.693M, 6440 Pine Ave 3/3.5.5 now $1.785M, 970 Victoria Way 3/3.5 now $2.29M, 848 Angel Wing Dr 4.4,5 now $2.85M.

3 new sales: 355 East Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 1890 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 listed at $1.495M, 1674 Sabal Palm Dr 3/4 listed at $1.999M.

4 closed sales: 653 Oliva St 3/2 $575K, 984 Black Skimmer Way 3/2 $800K, 1714 Atlanta Plaza Dr 4/3 $961,714; 213 Daniel Dr 4/3 $1.34M.

LOTS

3 new listings: 2372 Wulfert Rd $345K, 524 Lagoon Dr $549K, 466 East Gulf Dr $795K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 4801 Tradewinds Dr listed at $1.2M.

No closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

3 new listings: Tennis Villas #3224 1/1 $330K, Tennis Villas #3234 2/2 $749K, Gulf Beach Villas #2111 2/2 $1.15M.

No price changes, new, or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

3 price changes: 16309 Captiva Dr 6/4.5 now $4.75M, 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 now $4.9M, 941 South Seas Plantation Dr 3/3.5 now $9.45M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend & upcoming Thanksgiving holiday,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Locals were thankful for blue skies and sunshine again this week, particularly when nighttime temperatures dropped down into the 40’s/50’s (degrees F) early in the week. Turned my heat went on Tuesday morning and though there were reports of stunned iguanas off-island and further north, I didn’t hear of any here.

What I did see was folks wearing long pants, jackets, sweaters, and hoodies, while many on the bike paths often were in shorts and tank tops. Sometimes that distinguishes islanders from visitors/vacationers.

Daytime temps are now back into the high 70’s/low 80’s with 60’s at night. Forecasters predict the same for next week, with plenty of sunshine also expected then. Hopefully that continues into Thanksgiving week when many families will enjoy an island holiday.

More Re-Openings, Ribbon-Cuttings, & Restoration

• Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium – has relaunched their Great Hall of Shells. The Museum is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Great Hall of Shells on the 2nd floor features exhibits on Southwest Florida Shells, World Record Shells, and the use of shells in human history and culture. Tomorrow, Saturday November 15, the Museum is presenting Shells, Science, and Community Day – a full day of fun, new exhibits, and activities for all ages. Admission is FREE. There will be gallery talks by Science Director and Curator Dr. José H. Leal, guided tours of the Museum’s vast research collection of shells rarely seen by the public*, Keeper Chats by Museum Aquarists, Snail Search and Biodiversity Walks around the Museum grounds*, story-time readings for children, craft activities, a scavenger hunt, and more. See complete schedule of programs at org/community-day
• On Island – Yesterday the clothing shop On Island had their ribbon-cutting at their new location in The Village Shops, 2340 Periwinkle Way. Check out their fun island gear at OnIslandSanibel.com.
• Sanibel Boat Ramp – The City of Sanibel has announced the partial reopening of the Sanibel Boat Ramp. The ongoing Dock Replacement Project there began in September. While half of the ramp is now accessible, users are urged to exercise caution due to continued ongoing construction.
• Sanibel Community House Holiday Bonanza Arts & Crafts Fair – is this weekend. With over 30 artists (all inside), it is a signal that the holidays have begun when these events return to The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way. Free parking & free admission both Saturday November 15 (noon to 5 p.m.) and Sunday November 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Sanibel Fire & Rescue District Station #172 – The new fire station on San-Cap Rd is complete with move-in day this week, 1,141 days after Hurricane Ian destroyed the former building. Big thanks to the dedicated first responders who continued to serve the community from a temporary trailer during the rebuild.
• Seashells of Sanibel – had their Grand Reopening with ribbon-cutting yesterday. They have 44 units restored and ready to welcome guests at 2840 West Gulf Dr.

RSW Expansion Back on Track

The 2-phase expansion at Southwest Florida International Airport is the largest public works project in Lee County history. Phase 1 which involves consolidating security checkpoints and adding retail space is back on track (according to the “News Press”) after design flaws caused delays and cost increases. Phase 2, a $1.1 billion project, will add a new 14-gate concourse with enough room to support a total of 33 gates in the future, It is expected to be done by December 2027. The project is about 30% complete.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

Teammate Dave and I met with more prospective sellers this week, chatted with others, and continued to commiserate with colleagues about the “slow” market. It is not fun to tell owners that the average Sanibel home sale price is down 9% since last year, 17% since Hurricane Ian. We know that will bounce back eventually and advise buyers to purchase now.

The local Association Realtors had a West-End Caravan Meeting yesterday. Following the meeting, two Sanibel homes were open for easy viewing. Next week is the monthly membership meeting followed by an East-End Caravan. Guest speaker is John Talmage, Director of the Lee County Economic Development Office.

Since last Friday, just eight new island sales have been posted in the SanCap MLS, on Sanibel: two condos, four homes, and a lot, and a Captiva condo. During the same time, there were 16 new listings and 17 price changes.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

On the commercial side, 1149 Periwinkle Way #2 was listed this week for $1.1M. That was the location of John Naumann & Associates, then Berkshire Hathaway.

Also the former site of the original Cheeburger Cheeburger, the buildings at 2411 Periwinkle Way, closed this week for $225K.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Nov 7-14

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Spanish Cay #C2 2/2 $649K, Sandpiper Beach #106 2/2 $848K, Sanddollar #C103 3/2 $1.195M, Gulfside Place #115 2/2 $1.795M.

6 price changes: Spanish Cay #F2 1/1 now $380K, Spanish Cay #B3 2/2 now $510K, Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 now $559K, Sanibel Shores #A-1 2/2 now $564.5K, Lighthouse Point #315 3/2 now $850K, Atrium #306 2/2 now $1.85M.

2 new sales: Sanibel Arms #H2 1/1 listed at $340K, Sundial #N301 2/2 listed at $1.195M.

2 closed sales: Sundial #I101 1/1 $365K, Villa Sanibel #1B 2/2 $655K.

HOMES

10 new listings: 984 Greenwood Ct S (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $649K, 1224 Kittiwake Cir 3/2 $989K, 220 Daniel Dr 3/3 $1.195M, 824 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.349M, 1490 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.35M, 931 Snowberry Ln 4/4 $1.395M, 3351 Barra Cr 3/2.5 $1.55M, 2451 Blind Pass Ct 4/4.5 $2.395M, 1243 Anhinga Ln 4/4 $4.495M, 5079 Joewood Dr 4/4.5 $7.75M.

1 back-on-market: 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 $1.395M.

8 price changes: 2162 Egret Cir (1/2 duplex) 3/2 now $648.9K, 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $849K, 785 Rabbit Rd 3/2 now $849K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 now $869K, 720 Elinor Way 3/2 now $1.099M, 5425 Shearwater Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 now $1.39M, 1255 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 now $1.595M, 706 Gopher Walk Way 3/4 now $1.698M.

4 new sales: 1615 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed at $769K, 773 Cardium St 2/2 listed at $795K, 1464 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.35M, 1234 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 listed at $1.495M.

1 closed sale; 9439 Cotten Ct 4/4.5 $989K.

LOTS

2 new listings: 1653 Bunting Ln $400K, 1253 Par View Dr $449K.

1 back-on-market: 1801 Olde Middle Gulf Dr $5.999M.

2 price changes: 4801 Tradewinds Dr now $1.93M, 5085 Joewood Dr now $2.95M.

1 new sale: 565 Birdsong Pl listed at $274.9K.

No closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: Bayside Villas #5238 1/2 listed at $250K, Beach Villas III #305 4/3 listed at $1.95M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 now $5.5M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

We keep hearing about a cool-front soon coming to Florida, with forecasters predicting it will be here by Monday night when overnight temperatures may get down to 47 (degrees F). That could be chilly enough for stunned iguanas to be falling out of trees. Tuesday daytime temps could be only mid-60s, but shortly after, it is expected to be back to mid-70’s to low 80’s during the day – again perfect for enjoying the islands outdoor offerings.

Happy Halloween and if you are lucky enough to be on Sanibel/Captiva, I bet you are enjoying our first cooler temperatures since last winter. Forecasters thought it would go down to 59 degrees F last night with a high today of just 75 expected. Not to worry though, it is projected to be back to 80 by Sunday, after another week with plenty of blue sky and sunshine.

Halloween Décor & More

Yesterday, I took my annual pre-Trick or Treat drive around some of the island communities. I did not see as many decorations as in years past, but as always Gumbo Limbo had the most. With many families living there, it has always been the “go to” spot for kiddo Halloween fun. I also found some yard decorations up on The Dunes.

If you have not been in Gumbo Limbo in a while, the neighborhood is looking fresh. Their private roads have recently been repaved, and a couple of new stops signs have been added at intersections that did not have them previously.

Continued Restoration & Improvements

Kona Kai Motel at 1539 Periwinkle Way reopened with their ribbon-cutting yesterday. I was the selling agent when the owners purchased it in 2010 and their post-storm rebuild has made it better than ever. Offering accommodations including motel rooms, efficiencies, and suites, check them out at www.KonaKaiMotel.com.

Sanibel’s Shared Use Paths – On my travels down the length of the Gulf Drives, it was nice to see that the repair/repaving of the shared use paths have made it from the lighthouse all the way to in front of Pointe Santo.

Pointe Santo – Speaking of Pointe Santo, I received the launch of their new quarterly newsletter yesterday. It describes their new Paradise Pointe Pavilion next to the pool and advises that construction is beginning in the all-new Building F which will house the Pointe Santo Office and their signature children’s programs. This new building should be ready next year, in the meantime, the children’s programs are expected to return before the end of this year. News about where/when will be posted on their new website, www.PointeSanto.com.

Upcoming Events

Oodles of Nov/Dec Sanibel events have been announced. Here are a few:

Twilight Talks, Volunteer Opportunities, and Community Events for Sanibel Historical Museum & Village on their calendar: https://sanibelmuseum.org/

FISH Jog n’ Jam 10K/5K Race at The Sanibel Community House tomorrow, Nov 1 from 6 to10 a.m. https://fishofsancap.org/event/jogn-jam-10k-5k-race/

Shells, Science, & Community Day at the Shell Museum & Aquarium on Nov 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., https://shellmuseum.org/community-day/

BIG ARTS Film Festival Nov 14 &15, https://bigarts.org/event/film-festival-2025/

Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair Nov 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m, at The Sanibel Community House: https://sanibelcommunityhouse.net/events/month/2025-11/

Tween Waters Tree Lighting Celebration Nov 28 from 5 to 9 p.m., https://tween-waters.com/tree-lighting-celebration/

“Ding” Darling Archway Ribbon Cutting Dec 3 at the Refuge from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., https://www.captivasanibel.com/news/2025/10/ddws-reports-on-refuge-programming-andmore-94/

Sanibel Luminary Holiday Stroll Dec 5 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., https://sanibel-island.sanibel-captiva.org/events/details/sanibel-luminary-holiday-stroll-2025-42174

FISH Jog n’ JAM Concert Dec 6 at Tween Waters from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Purchase Tickets at https://jamwithfish.rsvpify.com/

BIG ARTS Community Chorus & Band Holiday Performance Dec 11 at 7 p.m.,  https://bigarts.org/event/chorus-bandholiday-performance/

BIG ARTS Holiday Open House Dec 19 at 5 p.m., https://bigarts.org/event/holiday-open-house/

Free Event – Holiday Family Film Night – POLAR EXPRESS at BIG ARTS on Dec 22 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets required: https://bigarts.org/event/holiday-family-film-night/

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The local of Association Realtors did not meet this week, but next Thursday is when our local Caravan Meetings return to a weekly “season” schedule and rotate again from East to West. Properties east of Rabbit Rd are considered for the East tour, while those west including Captiva are eligible for the West. The meetings are at the Association Office at 9 a.m. with Caravan tours to follow from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each tour is limited to ten properties.

Since last Friday, five new island sales have been posted in the SanCap MLS, a Sanibel condo, a Captiva condo, and three Sanibel homes. During the same time, there were 10 new listings and 23 price changes.

Seeing so many new listings and price reductions, reminds me of a post I saw earlier this week from a respected friend and Realtor (of 47 years). It covers real estate pricing in a nutshell, saying: “Your house isn’t worth what you owe. It isn’t worth what you need. It isn’t worth what you put into it. It’s worth what a buyer will pay today. Period.”

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 24-31

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Colonnades #18 1/1 $249K, Kings Crown #213 2/2 $825K, Sundial East #T304 3/2 $1.15M, Wedgewood #305 3/4.5 $2.695M.

1 back-on-market: Cottage Colony West #112 1/1 $499K.

10 price changes: Captains Walk #E2 2/1.5 now $329K, Spanish Cay #F2 1/1 now $385K, Spanish Cay #F7 1/1 now $399K, Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 now $435K, Tennisplace #B31 2/1.5 now $459K, Sanibel Arms West #J7 2/2 now $599K, Coquina Beach #A4 2/2 now $649K, Sanibel Surfside #233 2/2 now $839K, Heron at The Sanctuary #III-2B 3/2.5 now $849K, Sayana #102 2/2 now $899K.

1 new sale: Sealoft Village #105 2/2 listed at $895K.

2 closed sales: Sundial West #J404 2/2 $729K, Tigua Cay #489 3/3.5 $1.45M.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1748 Windlass Way 3/3 $1.295M, 1747 Serenity Ln 3/2 $1.595M. 732 Windlass Way 4/3.5 $1.8M, 5639 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 $2.995M.

9 price changes: 1457 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $569K, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $825K, 720 Elinor Way 3/2 now $1.125M. 1739 Jewel Box Dr 3/2 now $1.2M, 2755 Wulfert Dr 3/3.5 now $1.278M, 519 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 now $2.195M, 2681 Coconut Dr 3/3.5 now $2.195M, 4988 Joewood Dr 4/4 now $2.3M, 1730 Jewel Box Dr 4/3 now $2.849M.

3 new sales: 1610 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 listed at $799K, 1769 Bowmans Beach Rd 2/2 listed at $819K, 1047 Blue Heron Dr 3/3 listed at $880K.

2 closed sales: 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 $585K, 1226 Par View Dr 3/2 $940K.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 565 Birdsong Pl now $274.9K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

2 new listings: Tennis Villas #3117 1/1 $299K, Beach Homes #24 4/4.5 $4.85M.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas #5232 1/2 now $544.9K, Lands End Village #1602 3/3 now $2.694M.

1 new sale: Lands End Village #1618 3/3 listed at $2.45M.

1 closed sale: Marina Villas #603 2/2 $635K.

HOMES

No new listings,

1 price change: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/6.5 now $3.795M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating in or participated in these transactions.

Wishing you Halloween treats – no tricks!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan