Though Southwest Florida continues to be one of the warmest spots in the nation, you can bet there was grumbling this week when we turned our HVAC systems to heat. Thankfully, though chilly, the daytime weather has continued with blue skies with sunshine. Most warmed up into the 70’s (degrees F), but it got down into the low 50’s most nights – timely for decorating for the holiday events this weekend.

Upcoming Island Events

Luminary Festival – After a 2-year storm delay, Sanibel’s Luminary Stroll is back – tonight from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tomorrow at the same time is the Captiva Stroll.

Jog N Jam – Also tomorrow, Saturday, Dec 7 is the FISH 2024 Jog N Jam Celebration which begins with both 5K and 10K races in the morning at The Sanibel Community House, including a Kids Fun Run at the Community Park. Later tomorrow evening, a beach concert and fireworks will be at Tween Waters Resort & Spa on Captiva.

Final Pass for Storm Debris Pickup – Sanibel property owners are asked to place storm-generated debris on their public right-of-way by Sunday, Dec 8 to ensure pickup by the City contractor. The City has authorization from FEMA for reimbursement of debris removal costs including for commercial properties, i.e. condos. The public right-of-way is the area that extends from the street to the sidewalk, ditch, utility pole, or easement. Starting Dec 8, once debris trucks make their final passes, they will not be returning. Please separate the debris by vegetative, building demolition debris, appliances/white goods, electronic waste, and household hazardous waste. Only loose debris will be collected. Bagged debris should not be placed in the right-of-way. Also avoid stacking debris below low hanging power or utility lines, and do not place within 4’ of mailboxes, water meters, fire hydrants, or any other above-ground utility. For questions, call Public Works at 239-472-6397.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

At the islands’ Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting yesterday, no new sales were announced, but a caravan of 11 new listings followed with ten homes and one condo open for viewing.

Our next Caravan will be after the last membership meeting of the year on Dec 19 when guest speaker John Lai, President and CEO of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce will update members on tourism and accommodations.

Below, with data from the islands Multiple Listing Service (MLS) are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the Sanibel/Captiva MLS action reported this week.

Another week with no showings and poor sales activity sure is not good news for those looking to sell. There is better than a year’s worth of inventory now in all property types on both islands. We have heard too many times recently that it will take years to recover from these last storms. Some say it is because these caused such far-reaching damage, resulting in more national exposure than Ian two years ago.