Recent photo of a belted kingfisher from our friend, Scott. He always comes through when a photo is needed. Thank you, Scott.

It has been another week of wonderful weather on sunny Sanibel and Captiva. More warm temps (low 80’s) are expected in the days to come, with a few showers possible too. As the Florida drought continues, we are thankful for every sprinkle.

Periwinkle traffic remains heavy and the shared-use paths busy. It also is wonderful to see more island visitors returning and enjoying springtime here. With additional occupancy, comes more real estate activity. Not a lot more, but a little. The SanibelSusan Team is grateful for that and offers some advice below for owners.

If You Are Thinking of Selling

Being a Realtor for more than 37 years, one might think they have encountered every hiccup possible with getting a sale closed. Nope, there is always more to learn and since the recent storms, there have been new glitches to overcome. If you are selling or thinking about it, here are few items to consider so last minute frustrations are avoided. We want everyone to have a smooth transaction from start to finish.

Legal Property Owner – Listing and sale documents need to be signed by the legal owner(s) of a property. The Lee County Tax Appraiser website, LEEPA.org has property info. Though the info is not guaranteed, anyone can look up a property address, check when it sold and then follow the link to the deed recorded at the County courthouse. Other than by individual(s), a property owner could be a trust, a company, limited partnership, etc.

Trust, Company, Partnership Owners – Being a trust trustee or company manager does not always mean that individual has the right to sell a property. Before a title company issues title commitment, they check to be sure title is clear. They ask for trust and company documents for their underwriters to review. Sometimes, a trust allows a trustee to manage a property and handle financials but requires agreement of beneficiaries to sell. Also with an LLC or company required to file an annual report, the company needs to be active with required reports filed. Easy to check company records at Florida’s SunBiz.org.

Permits – With the Florida “As Is Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase” if a Buyer identifies open permits or work that required a permit, the seller is to cooperate and assist. To check for permits, go to the City website at MySanibel.com and look up the address. Sometimes an owner thinks if work was accomplished and a contractor paid, the permit is closed. Not always, particularly with all the restoration work and emergency permits issued in the last few years. If a final inspection was not performed, the permit may not be closed. Always check to be sure permits are complete. If they are not, contacting the contractor or hiring a new one and reopening the permit may be necessary. Check with the City for the easiest way to rectify. They are helpful.

Community Special Assessments – Particularly with condos, there have been more special assessments in recent years. Those may be for repairs, insurance, engineering studies, reserves, payback of SBA (Small Business Administration) loans, etc. Like with a City sewer assessment, usually community special assessments must be paid off when a property closes, even those that have payments spread out for multiple years. However, associations do not all have the same requirements so be sure to know what your property/community obligations are.

Liens – Some associations and properties also have liens filed against them that are related to lawsuits, contractors that were not paid/or dismissed, etc. In some cases, an association will not agree to a sale unless funds are withheld to satisfy liens.

Insurance – Be prepared to provide your Realtor with the contact info for your insurance agent, the types of insurance you have (homeowners, wind, flood) and the annual cost for each policy. If you have a new roof, windows, and doors or repairs to them, you also should have a new Wind Mitigation Report if you have wind coverage. This info helps a buyer understand ownership costs. Many buyers want to continue with the same insurance provider if you are happy with them. Also, most flood policies are assumable if a seller is willing.

Property Disclosures – Florida is a full-disclosure state, meaning if there is anything that affects a property value, it needs to be disclosed. The SanibelSusan Team is known for providing good details, so please be prepared to complete a Florida Realtors Seller Property Disclosure which covers such topics as appliances, flooding, termites, plumbing, roof, pool, HOA/COA, roads, claims, etc.

Where Has SanibelSusan Sold?

Those thinking of selling sometimes ask me where I have sold the most. With a name like SanibelSusan, it definitely is in Sanibel. Though with successful sales all over the islands, it is in the communities or complexes that have the most properties or where I have owned personally where I have sold the most.

When I again got this question this week, I looked up where I have had ten or more completed transactions. The communities are listed below and show the number of sales closed in each to-date:

·         Mariner Pointe                                  42          (Owned/lived there)

·         Sanibel Estates                                24          (Currently own/live here)

·         Sundial                                              24

·         The Dunes                                        20

·         Loggerhead Cay                              19

·         Spanish Cay                                    19

·         Gumbo Limbo                                  17          (Did a flip there)

·         Pointe Santo                                    17

·         Shell Harbor                                     17

·         Sandalfoot                                         15

·         Beachview Country Club Estates   13          (Owned/lived there)

·         Seagull Estates                                12

·         Lighthouse Point                              11

·         Gulfside Place                                  10

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Yesterday was a Wast-End Caravan Meeting at the Association of Realtors, after which just a single Sanibel home was open for easy viewing. Next Thursday is an East-End Caravan Meeting.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 16 new sales: nine Sanibel homes, four Sanibel condos, two Sanibel lots, and a Captiva home.

During the same time, there were 12 new residential listings and 16 price changes.

Our commercial condo listing at 1640 Periwinkle Way, Lime Tree Center #4, also went under contract this afternoon.

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Mar 20-27

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sandalfoot #3D2 2/2 $650K, Sanibel Moorings #1521 2/2 $749K, Sandalfoot #1D3 2/2 $1.135M, Island Beach Club #P5D 2/2 $1.495M.

1 back-on-market: Gulfside Place #310 2/2 $1.299M.

5 price changes: Coquina Beach #4A 2/2 now $599K, Lighthouse Point #214 3/2 now $659K, Shell Island Beach Club #7A 2/2 now $799K, Sunward #102 2/2 now $930K, Sundial #K303 2/2 now $1.449M.

4 new sales: Sundial #C307 1/1 listed for $499K, By-the-Sea #B202 2/2 listed for $500K, Bayview Village #1A 3/3 listed at $995K, Gulfside Place #105 2/2 listed for $1.189M.

7 closed sales: Mariner Pointe #713 2/2.5 $335K (SanibelSusan listing), Cottage Colony West #101 1/1 $450K, Sanibel Shores #A1 2/2 $550K, Sanibel Surfside #223 2/2 $765K, Sundial #K103 2/2 $893K, High Tide #C201 2/2 $950K, Gulfside Place #125 2/2 $1.51M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1314 Tahiti Dr 3’2 $579K, 240 Southwinds Dr 4/3 $899K, 1751 Jewel Box Dr 4/4 $900K, 1400 Albatross 3/3 $1.125M, 5427 Osprey Ct 3/3.5 $1.795M, 3324 Saint Kilda Rd 4/4.5 $3.95M.

1 back-on-market: 742 Nerita St 3/2 $1.55M.

8 price changes: 1972 Roseate Ln 3/2 now $599K, 9225 Dimmick Dr 4/2.5 now $750K, 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/2 now $750K, 1417 Causey Ct 3/2 now $980K, 1450-1460 Court Pl (multi-family) 5/4.5 now $995K, 3131 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $1,075,999; 3990 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $1,098,500; 1114 Seagrape Ln 3/2 now $2.895M.

9 new sales: 4560 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 listed for $599K, 1595 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed for $599K, 5307 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 listed at $750K, 2417 Wulfert Rd 3/3 listed for $1.699M, 1517 Sand Castle Rd 4/3.5 listed for $1.995M, 985 Oyster Ct 5/4 listed for $1.998M, 918 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 listed for $2.595M, 1133 Golden Olive Ct 4/3.5 listed for $3.5M, 1552 San Carlos Bay Dr 4/3.5 listed for $4.695M.

9 closed sales:  2162 Egret Cir (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $435K, 5892 San-Cap Rd 3/3 $487.5K, 1019 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $975K, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 $1.15M, 417 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 $1.25M, 821 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 $1,316,500; 290 Southwinds Dr 4/3.5 $1.4M, 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 $1.4M, 865 Birdie View Pt 4/4.5 $1.75M,

LOTS

1 new listing: 2605 West Gulf Dr $2.8M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 1321 Seaspray Ln listed at $799K, 4155, 4163, & 4171 West Gulf Dr listed at $14M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

 No new listings.

3 price changes: Beach Villas #2615 2/2 now $825K, Lands End Village #1647 2/2 now $1.475M, Lands End Village #1641 2/2 now $1.695M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Marina Villas #601 2/2 $649K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11536 Wightman Ln 4/3 $1.999M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 38 Sea Hibiscus Ct 2/2 listed for $1.6M.

1 closed sale; 11550 Paige Ct 5/5.5.5 $5.95M.

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.

SCCF aerial looking toward causeway on 03-09-2026

Skies are a little cloudy today, with a few showers expected by Sunday and Monday, then a chilly day on Tuesday when a high of only 66 degrees F is forecast. Hopefully that is the last day of winter temperatures, as by midweek it should again be back in the 70s/80s.

Florida is experiencing a severe drought, so rain is needed. Weather predictors say there could be a rain pattern shift late summer with models pointing toward development of El Nino. When El Nino forms, our rainy season often gets a boost from increased tropical moisture, but fewer named storms (fingers crossed on that). If that pattern materializes, it could gradually chip away at the drought.

Droughts can persist for years, but when weather patterns shift, recovery can happen quickly. For Florida, the near-term forecast still points to dry conditions.

More Restoration/Recovery News

Caloosa Shores Bridge – The 24 properties in the private community of Caloosa Shores has celebrated the opening of their new bridge which reconnects them to Wildlife Dr. A team of volunteers organized engineering, permitting, and construction, and raised nearly $1M to rebuild after their original entrance was destroyed by Ian. Since 2022, the Refuge provided a temporary in/out route for them through the Refuge. Their HOA is so thankful.

Kings Crown Pool – Many condo associations have struggled getting their pools restored following Ian. The pool at Kings Crown, 2721 West Gulf Dr, recently reopened to the delight of its 54 owners.

Sanibel Fishing Pier – At its March 3 meeting, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve a transfer of $2,148,209 from Tourist Development Tax reserves to the Beach and Shoreline Fund for the reconstruction of the fishing pier at Lighthouse Beach. Sanibel’s remaining FEMA funding is insufficient to cover the project costs, so this is a step in the right direction in getting the fishing pier back in operation. Hopefully, this means the repair project will go out for bid soon. (You can see what remains of the pier in the main pix above.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Yesterday the West-End caravan meeting at islands Association of Realtors featured Broker Jay Richter from John R Woods Realty with “Tips and Tales”. Following the meeting, seven listings were open for easy previewing.

Next Thursday is the Monthly Membership Meeting with a Vacation Rentals Panel presenting an update and an East-End Caravan following the meeting.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 18 new sales, all on Sanibel: 10 homes, seven condos, and a lot.

During the same time, there were 12 new residential listings, 1 back-on-market, and 34 price changes.

On the commercial side, a combo listing of the two motels/hotels at 706 and 720 Donax St (Palmview and Sandpiper Inn) came on the market this week for $5.3M.

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 Mar 6-13

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Blind Pass #E104 2/2 $475K, Loggerhead Cay #452 2/2 $759K, Sanibel Arms West #D3 2/2 $859K, Sundial #R305 2/2 $1.285K.

1 back-on-market: Sundial #G306 1/1 $575K.

9 price changes: Spanish Cay #F7 1/1 now $299K, Tennisplace #B31 2/1.5 now $454K, Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 now $479K, Sundial #C307 1/1 now $499K, Lighthouse Point #214 3/2 now $669K, Sunset South #2A 2/2 now $799K, Sunset South #3D 2/2 now $860K, Sunward #102 2/2 now $980K, Nutmeg Village #109 2/2 now $1.075M.

7 new sales: Cottage Colony West #117 1/1 listed for $475K, Sandalfoot #1B3 1/1 listed for $575K, Sand Pointe #122 2/2 listed for $599K, Oceans Reach #2A4 2/2 listed for $999K, Sanctuary Golf Villages #1-PH5 2/2.5 listed for $1.075M, Sanddollar #B303 3/2 listed for $1.445M, High Tide #B101 3/2.5 listed for $1.95M.

3 closed sales: Blind Pass #F104 2/2 $420K, Sundial #J304 2/2 $731K, Sundial #A406 1/1 $800K.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1813 Long Point Ln 4/2.5 $750K, 746 Cardium St (multi-family) 4/2 $900K, 4534 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 $989K, 3702 Coquina Dr 4/3 $1.05M, 1089 Skiff Pl 3/2 $1,347,500; 3708 Agate Ct 3/3.5 $1.375M, 2297 Wulfert Rd 5/5 $3.375M.

17 price changes: 446 Lake Murex Cir 2/2 now $599K, 9225 Dimmick Dr 4/2.5 now $794K, 686 Emeril Ct 3/2 now $899K, 698 Spartina Ct 3/2 now $899.9K, 1113 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $974K, 1103 Captains Walk St 3/2 now $1.049M, 1666 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $1.239M, 1360 Jamaica Dr 3/3 now $1.365M, 9455 Coventry Ct 3/2 now $1.495M, 785 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 now $1.595M, 3354 Barra Cir 3/3 now $1.774M, 5810 Pine Tree Dr 4/3 now $1,889,999; 1489 Middle Gulf Dr 3/4.5 now $2.195M, 4972 Joewood Dr 4/3.5 now $2.375M, 896 Limpet Dr 3/3 now $2.395M, 1543 San Carlos Bay Dr 5/4 now $2.499M, 505 Kinzie Island Ct 5/4.5 now $4.35M.

10 new sales: 1611 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 listed for $579K, 838/840 Rabbit Rd (multi-family) 4/2 listed for $699K, 566 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed for $799K, 4731 Ruelle 3/2 listed for $1.049M, 556 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed for $1.09M, 205 Daniel Dr 4/3 listed for $1.275M, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.149M, 1062 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 listed for $1.199M, 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 listed for $1.589M, 4383 Gulf Pines Dr 5/4.5 listed for $2.498M.

3 closed sales: 910 Fitzhugh St 4/2 $385K, 732 Windlass Way 4/3.5 $1.475M, 1326 Seaspray Ln 4/4.5 $2.2M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1016 Fish Crow Rd $665K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 2563 Coconut Dr listed for $1.349M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

 No new listings.

7 price changes: Bayside Villas #4112 1/2 now $489K, Bayside Villas #4216 1/2 now $489K, Bayside Villas #5120 1/2 now $499K, Gulf Beach Villas #2117 1/1 now $610K, Gulf Beach Villas #2121 3/3 now $1.249M, Beach Villas #2236 3/2 now $1.395M, Lands End Village #1656 3/3 now $1.895M.

No new sales.

1 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3111 1/1 $290K.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 now $6.6M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale; 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 $1.05M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Wishing you a lucky Friday the 13th,

Photo from SCCF’s weekly water conditions report, taken yesterday (3/5/26) at Lighthouse Beach

It has been another week of wonderful sunshiny weather on Sanibel and Captiva with most islanders looking forward to pushing the clocks ahead on Sunday so longer evenings may again be enjoyed before sunsets.

Since yesterday, the Shell Fair at The Community House has generated some traffic delays on Periwinkle, but attendees delight in having this special event back there. Reports are that it is better than ever. It also was especially nice to see that some friends’ entries have earned blue ribbons.

New buildings at By-the-Sea 03-06-26

Other things noticed on my travels this week include progress at the new buildings going up at By-the-Sea. Similarly on Captiva, I saw new construction at Ventura Captiva.

The grapevine also says that Mucky Duck could be reopening soon, though there is no definite date yet.

Other recovery/restoration continues with new landscaping going in along West Gulf Dr at Island Inn.

With it being high season, there are more visitors on island, but you will see in the real estate scoop below that with the number of new sales barely keeping pace with the number of new listings, inventory Is not decreasing and price reductions are plentiful. It remains an excellent time for buyers to take advantage of the many offerings this winter.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Yesterday a morning meeting at The Association of Realtors featured guest speaker, Tony Lapi, President and Chairman of the Board of Sanibel-Captiva Beach Resorts. Following the meeting, an East-End Caravan featured 10 listings for easy previewing. Next Thursday is the Association’s monthly membership meeting, followed by a West-End Caravan.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 15 new sales posted: eight Sanibel homes, six Sanibel condos, and a Captiva condo.

During the same time, there were 16 new residential listings, two back-on-market, and 36 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 Feb 27-Mar 6

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sundial #H208 2/1 $525K, Blind Pass #F206 2/2.5 $597K, Sandalfoot #3C3 2/2 $749K, Sanibel Surfside #212 2/2 $1.15M.

1 back-on-market: Cottage Colony West #117 1/1 $475K.

11 price changes: Captains Walk #D1 2/1 now $329K, Lighthouse Point #214 2/2 now $689K, Sayana #102 2/2 now $795K, Sanibel Surfside #113 2/2 now $850K, Oceans Reach #1C4 2/2 now $975K, Villas of Sanibel #A201 3/2 now $1.195M, Pointe Santo #E6 3/2 now $1.25M, Tantara #101 3/2 now $1.35M, Atrium #207 2/2 now $1.592M, Seascape #205 3/3 now $2.195M, Seascape #102 3/3 now $2.399M.

6 new sales: Cottage Colony West #101 1/1 listed for $485K, High Tide #C201 2/2 listed for $1.049M, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #6-PH5 3/3 listed for $1.175M, Kings Crown #201 2/2 listed for $1.349M, Sundial #O206 2/2 listed for $1.495M, La Playa #3B 3/2 listed for $1.895M.

4 closed sales: Sandpebble #2E 2/2 $465K, Sanibel Siesta #105 2/2 $535K, Sandalfoot #1A2 2/2 $775K, Oceans Reach # 1D1 2/2 $1.02M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1972 Roseate Ln 3/2 $629K, 4562 Bowen Bayou Rd 2/2 $649K, 6093 Henderson Rd 3/2 $898K, 668 Anchor Dr 3/2 $1.275M, 779 Pyrula Ave 4/2.5 $1.3M, 1460 Middle Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $2.395M.

1 back-on-market: 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 $1.589M.

22 price changes: 1657 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 now $664K, 1377 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 now $799K, 1105 Skiff Pl 4/3 now $799K, 1065 Fish Crow Rd 2/2 now $899K, 697 Spartina Ct 3/2.5 now $999.5K, 4731 Ruelle 3/2 now $1.049M, 2548 Wulfert Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 now $1.095M, 693 Emeril Ct 3/3 now $1.127M, 1422 Sanderling Cir 4/3 now $1.25M, 952 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 now $1.295M, 1310 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.299M, 3351 Barra Cir 3/2.5 now $1.374M, 1682 Sabal Palm Dr 4/2 now $1.379M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1.495M, 742 Nerita St 3/2 now $1.55M, 1159 Junonia St 3/3 now $1.595M, 1233/1235 Middle Gulf Dr 4/3 now $1.75M, 4452 Waters Edge Ln 3/3 now $1.794M, 2667 Coconut 3/3 now $1.875M, 1044 Fish Crow Rd 4/3.5 now $2.175M, 1730 Jewel Box Dr 4/3 now $2.499M, 1581 San Carlos Bay Dr 4/3.5 now $3.299M.

8 new sales: 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed for $869K, 1224 Kittiwake Cir 3/2 listed for $899K, 251 Southwinds Dr 4/3 listed for $950K, 1019 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 listed for $1.275M, 821 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 listed for $1.439M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 listed for $1.495M, 290 Southwinds Dr 4/3.5 listed for $1.595M, 848 Angel Wing Dr 4/4.5 listed for $2.699M.

8 closed sales: 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $715K, 1041 Blue Heron Dr 3/2.5 $868K, 458 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $935K, 1970 Wild Lime Dr 4/3 $1.179M, 788 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.6M, 1139 Seagrape Ln 3/2 $2.05M, 519 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 $2.1M, 1212 Isabel Dr 3/3 $2.97M.

LOTS

3 new listings: 401/393 Raintree Pl $500K, 933 Strangler Fig Ln $775K, 5706 San-Cap Rd $899K.

No price changes or new sales,

1 closed sale: 1755 Jewel Box Dr $749K.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Seabreeze #1253 3/3 $2.699M, Seabreeze #1252 3/3 $2.95M.

1 price change: Tennis Villas #3233 2/2 now $595K.

1 new sale: Marina Villas #601 2/2 listed for $699K.

2 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3235 1/1 $300K, Beach Villas #2523 1/1 $525K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 15153 Captiva Dr 3/3 $5M.

2 price changes: 15301 Captiva Dr 4/3.5 now $3.995M, 16309 Captiva Dr 6/4.5 now $4.25M.

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 & please contact The SanibelSusan Team if we may help you,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

A favorite winter beach pix by JMA Photography

Some were grumbling again this week (Monday through Wednesday) when waking up to temperatures in the low 40’s (degrees F) and chilly, though sun-shiny 60-degree days. Wearing coats and sweaters may no longer be the preferred dress,  but it only took a glance at the New England weather those days to get out of the funk.

Since then, it’s been back to daytime temps in the mid- to high-70’s here, while the forecast for next week is back into the 80’s. Hooray! Great weather for those enjoying the islands and visiting on winter vacations.

Speaking of visitors, there again was noticeably more island traffic this week – more like the “high season” volume experienced before Hurricane Ian. Early Wednesday afternoon, I drove down Periwinkle (from East End to SanCap Bank) and saw backup the other direction from the 4-way stop at Lingren all the way to the bank. That was before workers usually leave the island. I returned home the back way and there was no traffic on the Gulf Drives, but the shared-use paths and roads had plenty of bikers.

There is bound to be even more traffic on Periwinkle the end of next week (March 5 through 7) when the 89^th Annual Sanibel Shell Fair and Festival will be held at The Community House. Its hours are Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S. for 2026

This week “U.S. News” travel section posted their list of recommended spots for best family beach vacations this year. Sanibel is on the list!

It describes a family beach vacation as: “Characterized by carefree days along the water, casual attire and an unhurried itinerary, beach vacations allow families to focus on quality time. To help you choose a beach destination for your next family vacation, U.S. News considered factors like safe waters, kid-friendly attractions, dining options, spacious accommodations and multigenerational appeal to determine the best family beach vacations in the U.S.”

The list of 18 spots includes Seaside FL, Anna Maria Island, Gulf Shores, Outer Banks, Destin, Kiawah Island, Hawaii – The Big Island, Hilton Head, Sanibel Island, Amelia Island, Cape May, Isle of Palms, Maui, Kennebunkport, Jekyll Island, Laguna Beach, Saugatuck, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Under “Why Go to Sanibel Island”, it says: “Florida’s Sanibel Island is a hit with kids for two reasons: The area’s beaches offer calm waters that are perfect for play, and the “Sanibel Stoop” will keep little ones occupied for hours as they search for shells and sand dollars on popular shelling beaches like Bowman’s and Blind Pass. Families can also look for animals like alligators and shorebirds along the 4-mile-long Wildlife Drive in J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. If you’re not yet convinced, remember that hotel deals are pretty easy to find here.”

New FinCEN Real Estate Reporting Obligation Begins March 1

With many real estate purchases on the islands being “cash” and in the name of a trust or LLC, a new FinCEN rule will apply often here. (FinCEN, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, is a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. FinCEN’s mission is to safeguard the financial system from illicit activity, counter money laundering and the financing of terrorism, and promote national security through strategic use of financial authorities and the collection, analysis, and dissemination of financial intelligence.)

Florida Realtors has revised their sales contracts to address Closing Agent requests related to FinCEN and includes an obligation that the Buyer will pay costs and fees charged to prepare the FinCEN Real Estate Report. The updated contracts were posted on Florida Realtors Form Simplicity this morning, so you can be sure The SanibelSusan Team will uses the latest state-recommended forms. Here is the language that applies.

“FinCEN REAL ESTATE REPORTING OBLIGATION. Section 1010.821 of Chapter 31 of the Code of Federal Regulations (“CFR”) requires that certain residential real estate transactions without institutional lender financing, where at least one buyer/transferee is a legal entity, limited liability company, corporation, partnership, trust, trustee, or other non-natural person, must be reported (a “FinCEN Report”) to FinCEN beginning March 1, 2026. If this transaction requires completion of a FinCEN Report, then Seller and Buyer shall, no later than the day prior to Closing, provide Closing Agent with all information and documentation necessary to enable Closing Agent to complete the FinCEN Report.  Such information and documentation includes, without limitation, full legal names, dates of birth, residential street addresses, and the IRS taxpayer identification number of the beneficial owners of the parties, as further defined and described in the CFR. Each party agrees to promptly provide and consents to Closing Agent’s collection and report of said information to FinCEN. Buyer shall pay all costs and fees charged by Closing Agent to prepare and file the FinCEN Report.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Yesterday a morning meeting at The Association of Realtors featured guest speaker, Jean Baer, co-owner/founder of Island Roots Farmers Markets (which now runs nine Lee County markets, including those on Sanibel and Captiva).

Following the meeting, there was a West-End Caravan with seven homes and a condo open for easy previewing.

Next Thursday, an East-End Caravan Meeting is scheduled with guest speaker, Tony Lapi, President & Chairman of the Board of Sanibel-Captiva Beach Resorts, which includes Tween Waters Inn and Marina, and the soon-to-open Beachview Villas.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 11 new sales posted: nine Sanibel homes and two Sanibel condos.

During the same time, there were 21 new residential listings, one back-on-market, and 36 price changes.

On the commercial side, the business condo we have listed at 1640 Periwinkle Way, Lime Tree Center #4, was reduced today to $224K which is an amazing price for an all-new unit, ~987 sq. ft. The new occupant must be different from the other unit businesses which are vacation rentals, masseuse, and real estate sales. The unit next door #3 also is for sale and formerly was a veterinarian. Lime Tree Center, just east of Jerry’s Center, is a well-positioned easy-accessible building with plenty of open parking.

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 Feb 20-27

Sanibel

CONDOS

10 new listings: Captains Walk #E4 2/1.5 $349K, Cottage Colony West #101 1/1 $485K, Blind Pass #A201 2/2 $500K, By-the-Sea #B202 2/2 $500K, Mariner Pointe #1051 2/2 $588K, Compass Point #243 2/2 $759.9K, Shell Island Beach Club #7A 2/2 $849K, Heron at The Sanctuary II #1-B 3/2.5 $995K, Sundial #O201 3/2 $1.120M, Sunset South #5C 2/2 $1.45M.

13 price changes: Captains Walk #A3 1/1 now $299K, Spanish Cay #B3 2/2 now $425K, Blind Pass #B101 2/2 now $599K, Lighthouse Point #124 3/2 now $649K, Sanibel Arms West #G7 2/2 now $699K, Villa Sanibel #3D 2/2 now $799K, Kings Crown #212 2/2 now $840K, Sunset South #3D 2/2 now $875K, Oceans Reach #4A2 2/2 now $899K, White Sands #13 2/2 now $1.069M, Gulf Beach #203 2/2 now $1.095M, Gulf Beach #204 2/2 now $1.095M, Nutmeg Village #309 2/2 now $1.1M.

2 new sales: Sundial #G306 1/1 listed for $575K, Sanddollar #C103 3/2 listed for $1.195M.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Siesta #207 2/2 $650K.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1550 Centre St 3/2 $799K, 1360 Jamaica Dr 3/3 $1.495M, 5703 San-Cap Rd 3/2.5 $1.65M, 3354 Barra Cir 3/3 $1.824M, 1126 Harbour Cottage Ct 3/2 $2.099M, 528 Lighthouse Way 5/5.5 $4.5M, 3767 West Gulf Dr 5/4.5 $9.45M.

19 price changes: 1812 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $395K, 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $739K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 now $799K, 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 now $899,999; 1637 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 now $939K, 720 Durion Ct 4/3 now $975K, 9127 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 now $1.245M, 1550 Wilton Ln 3/2.5 now $1.25M, 821 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 now $1.439M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1.55M, 2480 Library Way 3/3 now $1.595M, 985 Oyster Ct 5/4 now $1.998M, 6407 Pine Ave 3/2 now $1.999M, 970 Victoria Way 3/3.5 now $2.25M, 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 now $2.75M, 1157 Bird Ln 3/3.5 now $2.999M, 411 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 now $3.2M, 1490 Angel Dr 4/3 now $3.38M, 431 Bella Vista Way E 5/4 now $3.59M.

9 new sales: 2162 Egret Cir 3/2 listed for $459K, 1651 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3.2,5 listed for $599K, 4245 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 listed for $899K, 946 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.295M, 2449 Harbour Ln 2/2 listed for $1.375M, 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 listed for $1.589M, 739 Anchor Dr 3/2 listed for $1.695M, 2312 Starfish Ln 4/3.5 listed for $1.995M, 4257 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed for $9.95M.

4 closed sales: 1390 Middle Gulf Dr E (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $625K, 1730 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $700K, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 $935K, 454 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 $1.44M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2486 Wulfert Rd $299,999.

1 price change: 1321 Seaspray Ln now $799K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 2453 Wulfert Rd $260K.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

3 new listings: Bayside Villas #4122 1/2 $295K, Tennis Villas #3124 1/1 $335K, Gulf Beach Villas #2030 3/2 $1.5M.

2 price changes: Lands End Village #1602 3/3 now $2.494M, Captiva Bay Villas #2 3/3.5 now $3.575M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 $6.7M.

1 price change: 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 now $6.65M.

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

Hooray, it warmed up this week on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Most days were in the 70’s with sunshine and blue skies. More of this same wonderful weather is expected through next week, encouraging Valentine and President’s Day visitors to enjoy the islands many outdoor offerings.

A particularly special Valentines’ Day reminder was the cover of the latest issue of the islands “Real Estate Guide” that was out this week. That photo of roseate spoonbills shown above is by Angelika Geerlof who is owner of Sanibel Moodscapes with many of her photography offerings for sale at Suncatchers’ Dream in The Village Shops where she also works. Her website is http://www.MoodscapesLLC.com.

The complete Guide is on-line at http://www.SanibelRealtors.com. Our ad from that same issue is below.

Weekend Event

Over the weekend, a popular annual event is the 43^rd Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Arts & Crafts Festival which is at The Community House with artists outside. It will be open tomorrow, Saturday, February 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, February 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Yesterday, there was an East-End Caravan following a breakfast meeting at The Dunes. Hosted by the new club owner, he briefed Association members on future planned offerings (including a new steak house vibe and later closing hours), plus The Dunes new relationship with Grande Calusa (which is going up just off island at the site of the former outlet mall). After the meeting, ten properties were open for easy viewing.

There is no caravan meeting next week. Instead, our Association of Realtors is hosting their 2026 Economic Summit at The Community House. Guest speaker is Dr Lawrence Yun, National Association of Realtors Chief Economist. Free, open to the public, and with light breakfast provided, I hope to see you there. Please make your reservation to attend at https://www.sanibelrealtors.com/econ-summit/

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 16 new sales posted: nine Sanibel homes, four Sanibel condos, and three Captiva homes.

During the same time, there were 20 new residential listings, four back-on-market, and a whopping 33 price changes.

(Back-on-market are properties that were under contract, but the contracts fell out. Four are rarely seen in a week, but contract cancellation is not unusual with the Florida “as is” sales contract where buyers have a defined inspection/cancellation period when they can get out of a purchase agreement without reason.)

Lime Tree Center #4

This week, there also was a flurry of Sanibel commercial real estate activity. The price of our commercial condo listing at Lime Tree Center #4, 1640 Periwinkle Way, was reduced to $249K. With new roof and all-new interior, it is an excellent value for a business needing ~1000 sq. ft of office space in an easily accessible mid-island location.

Pelican Place Center

The commercial building at 2440 Palm Ridge Rd known as Pelican Place Center was listed for $2.7M. It is a 2-level building (each level ~4,066 sq. ft.). The first floor is fully leased, while the second offers residential/commercial opportunities.

Another mixed-use commercial/residential property (at 2416-2430 Palm Ridge Rd) too was listed. For $3.1M, it includes three buildings featuring seven remodeled (1-bedroom 1-bath) apartments and six established commercial units (each with 1/2-bath), plus two separate garage storage units.

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 Feb 6-13

Sanibel

CONDOS

8 new listings: Sanibel Arms #A7 1/1 $339K, Sundial #G306 1/1 $575K, Blind Pass #E109 2/2 $589K, Donax Village #6 2/2 $699K, Sunset South #1B 2/2 $750K, Sanibel Arms West #E4 2/2 $949.9K, Sundial #K303 2/2 $1.495M, Sundial #O306 2/2 $1.82M.

9 price changes: Sanibel Moorings #212 1/1 now $422.5K, Sanibel Moorings #232 2/2 now $522.5K, Sand Pointe #122 2/2 now $599K, Sanibel Moorings #1422 2/2 now $626K, Lighthouse Point #214 3/2 now $699K, Mariner Pointe #321 3/2 now $799,999; Sandpiper Beach #106 2/2 now $829K, Atrium #306 2/2 now $1.795M, Seascape 205 3/3 now $2.449M.

4 new sales: Sundial #J304 2/2 listed for $795.9K, Sundial #A406 1/1 listed for $830K, Sundial #K103 2/2 listed for $899K, Shell Island Beach Club #6C 2/2 listed for $899K.

2 closed sales: Cottage Colony West #112 1/1 $465K, Sandalfoot #4B2 1/1 $510K.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1065 Fish Crow Rd 2/2 $929K, 686 Emeril Ct 3/2 $995K, 253 Daniel Dr 3/2 $1.24M, 475 Whitehall Rd 2/2 $1.375M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.495M, , 1450 Royal Poinciana Dr 3/2.5 $2.227M, 4443 Waters Edge Ln 4/2.5 $6.289M.

4 back-on-market: 3366 Barra Cir 3/2.5 $899,999; 698 Spartina Ct 3/2 $969.9K, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 $1.45M, 1114 Seagrape Ln 3/2 $2.995M.

23 price changes: 2162 Egret Cir 3/2 now $459K, 1611 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 now $599K, 984 Greenwood Ct S (1/2 duplex) 3/2 now $599.9K, 495 East Lake Rd 3/2 now $614,950; 446 Lake Murex Cir 2/2 now $649K, 1846 Farm Trl 3/2 now $650K, 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $869K, 1490 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $999K, 673 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $1.049M, 1508 Middle Gulf Dr 3/4 now $1.375M, 816 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 now $1.395M, 5801 San-Cap Rd 2/2.5 now $1.5M, 706 Gopher Walk 3/4 now $1.55M, 742 Nerita St 3/2 now $1.6M, 6440 Pine Ave 4/2.5.5 now $1.674M, 419 Lighthouse Way 4/3 now $1.899M, 5810 Pine Ave 4/3 now $1,899,999; 4988 Joewood Dr 4/4 now $1.999M, 918 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 now $2.595M, 5145 Joewood Dr 5/4.5 now $2.994M, 4725 Rue Belle Mer 4/4.5 now $6.989M, 5079 Joewood Dr 4/4.5 now $7.25M, 4257 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 now $9.95M.

9 new sales: 490 Marion Rd 2/2 listed for $649K, 1846 Farm Trl 3/2 listed for $650K, 1762 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed for $725K, 517 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 listed for $1.349M, 4353 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.395M, 1731 Venus Dr 3/3 listed for $1.695M, 5750 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed for $1.775M, 6450 Pine Ave 3/3 listed for $2.199M, 1245 Ferry Rd 5/4 listed for $3.6M.

6 closed sales: 5869 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 $708K, 931 Snowberry Ln 4/4 $1.25M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 $1.5M, 859 Limpet Dr 4/3.5 $3.05M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $6.25M, 3577 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 $9M.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 4733 Rue Belle Mer $650K.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

4 new listings: Marina Villas #601 2/2 $699K, Lands End Village #1656 3/3 $1.995M, Beach Homes #25 4/4 $3.495M, Captiva Bay Villas #2 3/3.5 $3.8M.

1 price change: Gulf Beach Villas #2004 2/2 now $1.05M.

No new sales.

3 closed sales; Bayside Villas #5238 1/1 $220K, Beach Villas #2322 1/1 $560K, Lands End #1606 3/3 $2.3M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 38 Sea Hibiscus Ct 3/2 $1.6M.

No price changes.

3 new sales: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 listed for $1.1M, 16891 Captiva Dr 3/2 listed for $3.5M, 15771 Captiva Dr 3/3 listed for $9.5M.

No 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 a lucky Friday the 13^th, Valentines’ Day & Presidents’ Day,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Private fishing pier at Mariner Pointe

It was another week of winter weather here on the islands. Though nights were cold and daytimes were often mid-60’s, we had quite a few days with blue skies and sunshine too. Yesterday, there also was some much-needed rain.

Forecasters say that by Tuesday, temperatures could get into the 70’s here again. We are ready for that!

More Recovery & New Pizza Place

During my travels this week, I noticed more activity at several spots:

Former Dairy Queen building – on Periwinkle is further along, but I didn’t see anyone working today.

Pointe Santo – has their new community building going up (between Buildings B and C). It will eventually be the new spot where they will host their children’s programs. Today, I spotted a worker on the roof there. They also have put in more new landscaping along West Gulf Dr and the tennis courts. It looks great!

Scooters Pizza – a new pizza place at 2496 Palm Ridge Rd (next door to Subway) says it will have Detroit-style deep dish, New-York-style hand-tossed, thin-crust, and gluten-free pies. Also loaded fries and Italian gelato. Delivery too on Sanibel and Captiva. Not sure of the opening date, but their sign and website say “Opening Soon” 239-49-PIZZA, http://www.Scooters.Pizza

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

There was a West-End Caravan meeting yesterday with nine properties open for easy viewing after the meeting. One got canceled at the last minute. Next Thursday morning, the East-End Caravan meeting will be at The Dunes with an update on their community offerings.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 15 new sales: nine Sanibel homes, three Sanibel condos, and three Captiva condos.

During the same time, there were 15 new listings, one back-on-market, and 23 price changes.

We are often asked, “what’s moving?” On Sanibel, that would be mostly high-end homes. Many of the home listings today are new or in like-new condition from restoration after the last storms.

Are the condo and vacant lot markets still bad? That answer is “They are getting better”. A few Sanibel buyers are snatching up good deals at complexes that have reopened and finally some vacant land buyers also have emerged. On Captive, it is mostly low-end condos that are going under contract. Just one Captiva home is under contract year-to-date.

Do we continue to hear of challenges at condo communities that are wrestling with recovery issues? “You bet”, but problem-solving is part is our business and our local Realtor community is great about sharing information and helping each other.

We heard again this week from several owners thinking of selling. It is a tough decision for many who love the island.

The SanibelSusan Team is always looking for new listings and is happy to provide free CMA’s (Comparative Market Analyses). Electronically signing listing (and sales) agreements is easy with Form Simplicity which is provided to us by Florida Realtors.

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 Residential	CONDOS			HOMES				LOTS
	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM		#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	177	1,058,427	180	243	1,664,395	124		55	1,737,734	262
Under contract	14	587,964	241	35	1,592,242	120		3	516,633	310
Sold to 2/6/2026	3	1,205,000	108	19	2,154,013	144		3	411,666	129
Sold 2025	104	755,564	153	159	1,291,016	140		7	952,857	252
Sold 2024	75	818,493	117	165	1,472,757	114		15	1,403,533	192
Sold 2023	98	955,261	65	263	1,267,390	73		24	920,645	76

CAPTIVA Residential	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	46	1,384,073	227	30	6,661,050	238	3	10,166,666	450
Under contract	8	775,312	119	1	4,900,000	489	0	N/A	N/A
Sold to 2/6/2026	2	1,292,500	318	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2025	16	931,187	214	12	2,480,375	90	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2024	13	1,728,846	185	8	4,887,187	182	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023	17	834,176	98	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 30 – Feb 6

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Captains Walk #D71/1 $289K, Sanibel Surfside #223 2/2 $825K, Sundial #A406 1/1 $830K, Island Beach Club #210F 2/2 $839K, Oceans Reach #1D2 2/2 $985K, Bayview Village #1A 3/3 $1.095M.

4 price changes: Blind Pass #G206 2/2 now $574K, Gulf Beach #203 2/2 now $599K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2B 3/3.5 now $975K, Seascape #102 3/3 now $2.499M.

Mariner Pointe fishing pier

3 new sales: Mariner Pointe #312 2/2 (SanibelSusan listing & sale) listed for $399K, Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 listed for $425K, Sandpebble #2E 2/2 listed for $494K.

1 closed sale: Cottage Colony West #125 1/1 $425K.

HOMES

8 new listings: 4546 Buck Key Rd 4/3 $799K, 5422 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 $1.095M, 556 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $1.15M, 595 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $1.299M, 505 Lighthouse Way 4/3 $1.687M, 1245 Ferry Rd 5/4 $3.6M, 431 Bella Vista Way E 5/4 $3.95M, 1552 San Carlos Bay Dr 4/3.5 $4.695M.

1 back-on-market: 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 $1.589M.

14 price changes: 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 now $949K, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 now $1.149M, 3990 Coquina Cr 3/2 now $1.175M, 824 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $1.325M, 800 Beach Rd 3/2 now $1.35M, 4353 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 now $1.395M, 3351 Barra Cir 3/2.5 now $1.399M, 2313 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $1.475M, 1682 Sabal Palm Dr 4/2 now $1.479M, 1537 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 now $1.6M, 5438 Shearwater Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 now $1.765M, 2729 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 now $1,797,990; 6450 Pine Ave 3/3 now $2.199M, 1730 Jewel Box 4/3 now $2.799M.

9 new sales: 1390 Middle Gulf Dr #E (1/2 duplex) 3/3 listed for $649K, 1730 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 listed for $799K, 1041 Blue Heron Dr 3/2.5 listed for $899K, 1970 Wild Lime Dr 4/3 listed for $1.232M, 734 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 listed for $1.595M, 732 Windlass Way 4/3.5 listed for $1.599M, 1160 Buttonwood Ln 4/3.5 listed for $1.925M, 1114 Seagrape Ln 3/2 listed for $3.195M, 1258 Anhinga Ln 4/4 listed for $3.799M.

9 closed sales: 548 Chert Ct 3/2 $650K, 1643 Bunting Ln 2/2 $675K, 748 Windlass Way 3/3 $1.21M,1234 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $1.425M, 5639 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 $2.6M, 766 Sand Dollar Dr 4/4.5.5 $2.7M, 628 Lighthouse Way 4/5.5 $3.2M, 1258 Anhinga Ln 4/4 $3.6M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $9.7M.

LOTS

No new listings.

3 price changes: 4019 Coquina Dr now $399K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer now $700K, 4037 Coquina Dr now $950K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listing.

2 price changes: Tennis Villas #3117 1/1 now $289K, Gulf Beach Villas #2122 2/2 now $1.9M.

3 new sales: Tennis Villas #3111 1/1 listed for $299K, Tennis Villas #3235 1/1 listed for $309K, Beach Villas #2523 1/1 listed for $590K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 16950 Captiva Dr 7/7 $18.9M.

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, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Wow, watching winter storm Fern affect so many nearby states, it was not a surprise when Florida also got cold weather this week, no snow, but the chilliest stretch in my 34 years living on Sanibel.

Night temperatures have been into the 30’s and 40’s. Daytime highs sometimes in the 60’s, though usually sunny and breezy, which then adds wind chill. Forecasters predict that upcoming Sunday and Monday will only get into the 50’s, but hopefully it will return to 70-degree days by the middle of next week.

I chuckle when I see a variety of folks out walking, jogging, and biking. Locals have been bundled up in puffy jackets and hats, while those I don’t recognize probably are on vacation – or tougher than us. While I am inside wearing a sweater, with the heat on, some of those visitors are in shorts and light tees. Hooray for those enjoying the islands, regardless of the weather!

It was a treat to get an email yesterday from another island lover who shares his wonderful photos so I can use them in my blog. It was his snowy egret pix that were posted last week and today the photo above is from his recent visit and the osprey that he says are enjoying the breezy conditions bayside. As always, thank you, Scott. Your pix are sooo appreciated.

Vacation Rentals

Though last week, the news touted a busy beginning to high season, even with more accommodations becoming available, including many now like-new, we also hear that winter reservations are not the best. Some accommodations managers say they are only 50% booked for February and March. Hopefully the storms this week (and those in the forecast) will encourage more to come for a visit – and want to buy real estate. Here are a couple of the resort deals advertised this week.

South Seas Resort – 20% discount for Florida and Georgia residents. South Seas also is offering 26% off on reservations of two nights or longer for stays before the end of June. For stays of seven nights or longer, they also offer 35% off regular rates.

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa – Sundial is offering a 26% discount on bookings made between now and February 9 for a stay between February 1 and December 19. Many other discounts also are available, check their website for details: https://sundialresort.com/stay/specials/

Grande Calusa

The Breeze newspapers this week had some info about the former site of the Sanibel Outlets, previously the Tanger Outlets just before the islands at the intersection of Summerlin Rd and McGregor Blvd. The developer of this 23-acre wedge-shaped parcel is Fort Myers Future. In October, they also purchased The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club on Sanibel.

The article further says:

“When the puzzle comes together, Grande Calusa will include:

• About 500 multi-family dwellings, 200 deemed affordable or workforce housing – 298 of those at market rate;
• A pair of 18-story buildings and a five-story living complex;
• 138,000 square feet of commercial space;
• 72,000 square feet of office and retail space;
• Restaurants, spas, a performing arts center, hotel space, conference center and other such amenities in a resort setting…”

Still in the development stage, the estimated cost and completion date are undetermined. What the article did not mention is that the property is also listed for sale. Driving by, you will see the signs.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

There was an East-End Caravan meeting yesterday with ten properties open for easy viewing after the meeting. Next Thursday, a West-End Caravan meeting is scheduled. Guest speaker will be Kevin Karnes, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Controller for Lee County.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 18 new sales: nine Sanibel homes, six Sanibel condos, two Captiva condos, and a Sanibel lot. (That’s more than in many weeks.)

During the same time, there also were 18 new listings, one back-on-market, and 21 price changes.

On the commercial side, the business condo at Lime Tree Center #3 at 1640 Periwinkle Way (the former location of Beachside Veterinarian) had a price reduction to $250K.

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 Jan 23-30

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Mariner Pointe #841 2/2 $530K, Sundial #G201 2/2 $599K, Villa Sanibel #3D 2/2 $899K, High Tide C201 2/2 $1.049M, Pointe Santo #D6 2/2 $1,177,888.

1 back-on-market: Shell Island Beach Club #6C 2/2 $899K.

4 price changes: Captains Walk #D1 2/1 now $338K, Spanish Cay #F7 1/1 now $349K, Lighthouse Point #132 2/2 now $499K, Wedgewood #303 3/3.5 now $2.35M.

6 new sales: Colonnades #17 1/1 listed at $299K, Blind Pass #F104 2/2 listed at $449K, Cottage Colony West #112 1/1 listed at $499K, Sandalfoot #4B2 1/1 listed at $525K, Sanibel Siesta #207 2/2 listed at $675K, Oceans Reach #1D1 2/2 listed at $1.09M.

1 closed sale: Wedgewood #305 3/3.5 $2.5M.

HOMES

10 new listings: 1812 Ibis Ln 2/2 $435K, 3009 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 $675K, 1167 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $849K, 5312 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 $895K, 1006 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $1.249M, 1666 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.339M, 952 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.395M, 1211 Periwinkle Way 3/2.5 $1.699M, 2312 Starfish Ln 4/3.5 $1.995M, 2178 Starfish Ln 3/4.5 $1.995M.

11 price changes: 1846 Farm Tr 3/2 now $679K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 now $849K, 9436 Yucca Ct (SanibelSusan listing) 3/2 now $899K, 5639 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2.5 now $950K, 2999 Twin Ponds Dr 4/3.5 now $1.15M, 1987 My Tern Ct 3/2.5 now $1.375M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.479M, 2179 Starfish Ln 3/3.5 now $1.599M, 2480 Library Way 3/3 now $1.65M, 1731 Venus Dr 3/3 now $1.695M, 6440 Pine Ave 3/2.5.5 now $1.75M.

10 new sales: 1832 Farm Tr 2/2 listed at $599.9K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 listed at $833.7K, 1139 Buttonwood Ln 2/2 listed at $939K, 698 Spartina Ct 3/2 listed at $969.9K, 3366 Barra Cir 3/2.5 listed at $975K, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 listed at $999K, 330 East Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $1.375M, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 listed at $1.375M, 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 listed at $1.589M, 1212 Isabel Dr 3/2 listed at $3.195M.

1 closed sale: 935 Pecten Ct 3/2 $799K.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 2349 Wulfert Rd now $375K, 2807 West Gulf Dr now $679.9K.

1 new sale: 1755 Jewel Box Dr listed at $900K.

2 closed sales: 967 Fitzhugh St $190K, 1292 Par View Dr $395K.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

2 new listings: Tennis Villas #3235 1/1 $309K, Lands End Village #1641 2/2 $1.795M.

3 price changes: Tennis Villas #3111 1/1 now $299K, Tennis Villas #3212 1/1 now $349K, Lands End Village #1659 2/2 now $1.199M.

2 new sales: Tennis Villas #3135 1/1 listed at $309K, Lands End Village #1606 3/3 listed at $2.6M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1 Sunset Captiva Ln 2/2.5 $3.495M.

1 price change: 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 now $6.75M.

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.

Here another osprey from Scott,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Islanders persevered through another couple of chilly mornings this week, while blue skies and sunshine prevailed. It is expected to hit 80 today, but daytimes in the 70’s also are appreciated. The forecast calls for much of the same weather over the weekend, before Sanibel winter returns with predictions for days in the 60’s/nights in the 40’s next week from Tuesday through next weekend.

It is still a good time for visitors to come, particularly those from states bracing for the big winter storm that is expected to cover much of the U.S. with ice and snow this weekend. Those forecasts keep changing, with projections spreading far and serious. We wish those residents warmth and safety, as we continue to be grateful for winter life in Florida where our snow joy in from seeing a snowy egret!

Busiest Start to Sanibel Season Since Hurricane Ian

This week, the City posted the following by article by ABC’s Gulf Coast News Now:

“More than three years after Hurricane Ian, Sanibel Island is seeing a surge of tourists, a jump in beach revenue and fewer contractor trucks on the roads.

“On Tuesday, a major milestone was marked by the reopening of the historic Anchor Inn on Periwinkle Way. The inn’s A-frame cottages, originally built in the 1950s, have been restored and raised for flood protection. The owners say the original charm stayed. “We kept the bones of, like, every single building,” said owner Erica Markham. “The only thing we added was the dormer windows. So we cut out a staircase. It’s safer.”

“Markham says hundreds of people messaged her during the renovation, and some even shed tears, thankful the old Anchor Inn would live on. “This island is thriving right now, and I think a lot of people don’t know that.” she said. “Lots of businesses have renovated what they had before. Restaurants are open and running.”

“According to the Chamber of Commerce, 74% of the island’s hotel rooms are back, and many are booked. Beach parking revenue and museum attendance are both breaking records. “Compared to last season? A lot less construction, a lot more tourism,” said Chamber President John Lai.

“Longtime Sanibel resident and business owner Billy Kirkland has run Billy’s Bike Rentals for decades. He says this has been the busiest season since Ian, with numbers up 60% over the holidays. “We’re probably down about 40% from pre-Ian,” Kirkland said. “You gotta have patience. We will come back bigger and better than we ever were. Staffing remains a challenge, with fewer affordable places to live on the island. Buying new equipment, trying to find new employees. So if you’re looking for a job, I’d love to have you here with us,” Kirkland said.

Gramma Dot’s

“And while many favorites are back, some staples on Sanibel or Captiva, like the Mucky Duck, are still closed. Insurance delays and building complications have slowed down repairs for others.

“Still, restaurants like Gramma Dot’s are seeing lines out the door at lunchtime, and gift shops and beaches have busy parking lots. Tourism officials say there’s new energy here, and they’re hoping the island keeps welcoming back more visitors, all the way into summer. “84% of our businesses are reopened outside of the hospitality industry. So we’re very excited about that,” said Lai. “The momentum — it’s not just an emotion. It’s something that you can almost tangibly feel.””

Ribbon-Cuttings

In addition to the recent ribbon-cutting at the Anchor Inn & Cottages at 1245 Periwinkle Way, there was one at a new business at The Sanibel Marina.

Flying Bridge – at 634 North Yachtsman Dr had their Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting. Offering boat sales, boat services, rentals, and boat club memberships, this is their first opening in SW Florida with plans to also open in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs. They began in New England (Cape Cod). Check um out at www.FlyingBridgeSanibel.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

There was a West-End Caravan meeting yesterday with 10 properties open for easy viewing after the meeting. Next Thursday an East-End Caravan meeting is scheduled.

2026 Economic Summit – The Islands Association of Realtors is proud to bring long-admired national speaker, Dr Lawrence Yun, the National Association of Realtors Chief Economist, to Sanibel. He will be at The Community House on Thursday, February 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. discussing national, state, and local economic factors impacting the housing market in 2026 and beyond. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Please RSVP at https://www.sanibelrealtors.com/econ-summit/

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there have been 10 new sales: 8 Sanibel homes, a Sanibel lot, and a Captiva condo. Sorry to report that there were no Sanibel condo sales.

During the same time, there also were 20 new listings and 23 price changes.

Sanibel inventory is up to 19+months of condos, 6+months of homes, and 10+months of l On Captiva, there are 9+months of condo inventory, 2+years of homes, and with no lot sales in 5+ years, next sales are a guess.

On the commercial side, the 1.21 acres at 1625 Periwinkle Way (former location of Sweet Melissa’s Café) is on the market for $2.95M.

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 Jan 16-23

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #142 1/1 $425K, Sand Pointe #222 2/2 $899K, Pointe Santo #B6 2/2 $950K, Tantara #101 3/2 $1.4M.

7 price changes: Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 now $499K, Sandalfoot #1B3 1/1 now $575K, Ibis at The Sanctuary #B302 2/2 now $699K, Sayana #102 2/2 now $849K, Sanibel Surfside #113 2/2 now $875K, Sanddollar #B303 3/2 now $1.445M, Atrium #207 2/2 now $1.68M.

No new or closed sales:

HOMES

11 new listings: 1866 Ibis Ln 2/2 $625K, 1890 Farm Tr 3/2 $729K, 966 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $769K, 1379 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 $1.149M, 1056 South Yachtsman Dr 3/2 $1.15M, 2548 Wulfert Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 $1.295M, 1401 Sand Castle Rd 4/5 $1.399M, 6407 Pine Ave 3/2 $1.879M, 1160 Buttonwood Ln 4/3.5 $1.925M, 819 Tulip Ln 5/4 $2.595M, 1212 Isabel Rd 3/3 $3.195M.

14 price changes: 1611 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 now $625K, 1142 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 now $648K, 838/840 Rabbit Rd (duplex) 4/2 now $699K, 771 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $699K, 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/2 now $775K, 1730 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $799K, Moonshadows #1A 3/3 now $909K, 700 Nerita St 3/2 now $999K, 3284 Twin Lakes Ln 4/4 now $1.095M, 1293 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.195M, 1490 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1.25M, 5425 Shearwater Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 now $1.295M, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 now $1.385M, 1159 Junonia St 3/3 now $1.695M.

8 new sales: 5869 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 listed at $750K, 458 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $984K, 755 Pen Shell Dr 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 284 Ferry Landing Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.245M, 454 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 listed at $1.499M, 788 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $1.749M, 519 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 listed at $2.195M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed at $12.5M.

3 closed sales: 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $777,257; 355 East Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.035M, 5071 Joewood Dr 4/5.5.5 $4.5M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 1331 Par View Dr $465K, 3304 St Kilda Rd $599K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 2453 Wulfert Rd listed at $375K.

No closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

2 new listings: Lands End Village #1647 2/2 $1.5M, Beach Homes #6 3/3 $2.995M.

2 price changes: 1606 Lands End Village 3/3 now $2.6M, Beach Homes #19 3/3 now $4.9M.

1 new sale: Lands End Village #1655 2/2 listed at $1.25M.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #40 3/3 $935K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 16632 Captiva Dr 5/4 $5.95M.

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.

Another snowy egret photo taken by Scott in 2016. We love when he shares his pix.

Stay warm & enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan