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

Yesterday, there were several much-needed showers on the islands. They didn’t last long and passed through with a cold front that brought temperatures down into the low 40’s here last night.

Daytime temps were back up to the mid-60’s today, mid-70’s expected tomorrow.

Island winter may not be over yet, but a little sweater weather still beats ice and snow.

State of The Islands

Yesterday morning, the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce hosted its 3rd annual breakfast presentation on the State of the Islands at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa in Fort Myers. Some tidbits are below:

As of January 2026, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are experiencing a major recovery, with over 72% of hotel rooms back online and 80% of vacation rentals operating. The Chamber of Commerce reports a boom in tourism, with more than 325 rooms added since January 2025 and 75% of restaurants/retailers reopened.

Key updates on accommodations and businesses include:

• Accommodations Surge: Hotel rooms have more than doubled since early 2025. Major, newly renovated, or rebuilt resorts are reopening, including South Seas Island Resort, Sundial Resort, and Shalimar Beach Resort.
• Business Reopening: Approximately 90% of non-accommodation businesses have reopened, though some restaurants still use pop-up, temporary setups.
• High Occupancy: Despite increased inventory, hotels are experiencing high demand (pacing at about 80% occupancy) as of early 2026.
• Visitor Outlook: The 2026 season is expected to be much stronger than previous years as the island moves past the initial rebuilding phase.

Data indicates the island is rapidly approaching its pre-Hurricane Ian capacity with modernized, higher-quality accommodations.

Sanibel Island Golf Club January Special

Posted on social media this week by Sanibel Island Golf Club:

“Come experience our renovation journey! As our exciting renovation project moves forward, we invite you to experience the transformation in progress and see the steady improvements over the next few months, all while cruising in our brand-new Lithium Club Cars with GPS and speakers. We’ve also kicked off a course-wide irrigation upgrade, switching from hydraulic to two-wire electric, which will greatly enhance the condition of the golf course. While work is underway during the day, we’re offering special pricing for the rest of January as follows: 18-hole rate of $125; 9-hole rate of $75.

“Whether you’re a longtime member or a visitor to our community, we appreciate your support and feedback as we work to make our course the best it can be.

“Contact: Golf Shop at 239-472-2626 or Drew at 239-822-1012. Online booking is NOT available at this time. Please call the numbers above. Thank you for your patience and enthusiasm. We look forward to welcoming you back and sharing our progress every step of the way! The Team at Sanibel Island Golf Club”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Big congratulations also to the two winners of our Top Affiliate of the Year award: Amanda Curran with Superior Title and David Arter with Private Client Insurance Services.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate News

I heard from several colleagues this week that they suddenly have had a jump in inquiries from both buyers and sellers. That applies to The SanibelSusan Team too. Though there were many new price listings and price reductions this week, there also were more sales. Maybe with the holidays packed away, island real estate is in the minds of those stuck in cold weather.

Looking at residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS, since last Friday, there were 12 new sales, including 11 on Sanibel: seven homes, three condos, and a lot, plus a Captiva home.

During the same time, there also were 15 new listings and 20 price changes.

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by an update about our listings, plus the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 9-16

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Captains Walk #C5 2/1 $419K, Sandalfoot #4B2 1/1 $525K, Lighthouse Point #124 3/2 $675K, Sunset South #12C 2/2 $800K, West Shore #2 3/3 $1.7M.

5 price changes: Loggerhead Cay #441 2/2 now $769K, Nutmeg Village #104 2/2 now $899K, Sundial #O303 2/2 now $950K, Pointe Santo #E6 3/2 now $1.375M, Seascape #201 3/3 now $2.845M.

3 new sales: Sanibel Moorings #331 2/2 listed at $749K, Sandalfoot #1A2 2/2 listed at $799K, Shell Island Beach Club #6C 2/2 listed at $899K.

9 new listings: 450 Birdsong Pl 3/3 $798K, 6092 San-Cap Rd 2/2 $995K, 697 Spartina Ct 3/2.5 $1.089M, 1019 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $1.275M, 1550 Wilton Ln 3/2.5 $1.35M, 816 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 $1.475M, 454 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 $1.499M, 2729 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $1.798M, 3400 West Gulf Dr 4/3.5 $3.489M.

10 price changes: 2162 Egret Cir (1/2 duplex) 3/2 now $608.5K, 1625 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $775K, 9225 Dimmick Dr 4/2.5 now $799K, 513 Rabbit Rd 3/2 now $887K, 1377 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 now $899K, 640 Oliva St 3/2 now $949K, 1300 Par View Dr 4/2 now $976K, 1970 Wild Lime Dr 4/3 now $1.232M, 946 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 now $1.295M, 1731 Venus Dr 3/3 now $1.85M.

7 new sales: 548 Chert Ct 3/2 listed at $759K, 1283 Par View Dr 2/2 listed at $895K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 listed at $899K, 280 Ferry Landing Dr 3/2 listed at $995K, 748 Windlass Way 3/3 listed at $1.295M, 1326 Seaspray Ln 4/4.5 listed at $2.495M, 5639 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 listed at $2.795M.

5 closed sales: 1615 Serenity Ln 3/2 $729K, 611 N Yachtsman Dr 3/2 $880K, 717 Gopher Walk Way 3/3.5 $979K, 1890 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $1.355M, 330 Cowry Ct 5/4.5.5 $3.3M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 408 Tiree Cir $675K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 967 Fitzhugh St listed at $200K.

No closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

4 price changes: Beach Villas #2523 1/1 now $590K, Beach Villas #2623 1/1 now $590K, Captiva Shores #3B 3/2.5 now $1.295M, Captiva Hide-Away #1C 2/2 now $1.375M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Beach Villas #3050 5/3 $1.65M.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 15153 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $4,999,500.

1 new sale: 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 listed at $4.9M.

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 your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

As holiday vacations wrap up, it has been another week of blue skies and sunshine on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Though there has been some early morning fog on the causeway, it hit 80 degrees today and tomorrow, should dip back into the more usual winter 70-degree temps.

Posted yesterday on Mike’s Weather Page.

Forecasters say this dry-season has begun dryer than normal, but there could be showers coming mid-week.

Also, this week, in addition to appreciating the recovering vegetation, when driving down Periwinkle, I noticed that the canopy-like tunnel of trees there is returning. It was gone long before the recent storms and the regrowth a welcome sight, providing some shade and a peaceful tropical vibe.

For winter visitors, the Chamber of Commerce reports that there still are plenty of accommodations available. Many that have returned for their first stay since before Ian say, “the islands are way better than expected.” We like to hear that!

52 Places To Go In 2026

Every January the “New York Times” travel desk posts their 52 recommended places to go globally in the coming year. Their list for 2026 was posted this week and includes Sanibel & Captiva Islands (in #26 spot). Their writer encourages visitors to come here to take part in a post-hurricane comeback story on the Gulf. The article mentions the reimagined Great Hall at The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum and Aquarium, the rebuilt now elevated Shalimar Beach Resort, the unchanged quirky Bubble Room, and shops like the 50-year-old She Sells Sea Shells. Best of all, it ends with saying that “new open” signs everywhere are evidence of a celebratory mood.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Following the local Association of Realtors East-End Caravan Meeting yesterday, six Sanibel homes were open for easy viewing. There is no Caravan meeting next week, but the following Thursday morning, January 22, there is a West-End Caravan scheduled.

Several Realtors from our island leadership team are now in Orlando at Florida Realtors (FR) Mid-Winter Business Meetings which wrap up when our state Directors vote on Sunday.

Last night was the 2025 RPAC Awards Reception where our Association achieved a clean sweep (all six awards) in the Small Board category.  These awards reflect the commitment of our members who understand that RPAC is about protecting property rights, advocating for our industry, and safeguarding the future of real estate on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Thanks to all that contributed!

Time flies, as my history serving on FR committees shows I worked on 57 over many years. Those were great experiences with the additional benefit of networking in-person twice annually when these meetings are in Orlando. (Island Realtors don’t often get inquiries about property in another area of Florida, but when I do, I have great Realtor contacts statewide.)

This year, as business continues to recover here, it makes me happy to pass the state committee baton on to the next generation. With today’s technology, I also can attend key meetings virtually. I will report on them next week.

Meanwhile, thanks to our 2025 Prez Becky Mulka for serving on FR Professional Development Committee, the Communications Committee, and the Emerging Technology Committee and our 2026 Prez Tina DiCharia for serving on FR Legislative Think Tank, the Resort and Second-Home Specialist Breakout Group, and the HOA-Condo Breakout Group.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate News

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

During the same time, there were a whopping 13 new listings and 31 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 Jan 2-9

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Oceans Reach #3X1 1/1 $679K, Oceans Reach #1D1 2/2 $1.09M, Nutmeg Village #109 2/2 $1.175M, Sanddollar #A102 3/2 $1.325M, Gulfside Place #310 2/2 $1.35M.

1 back-on-market: Mariner Pointe #312 2/2 $399K (SanibelSusan listing).

Mariner Pointe #312

3 price changes: Sandalfoot #2C2 2/2 now $675,555; Pointe Santo #E21 2/2 now $995K, Gulfside Place #125 2/2 now $1.595M.

2 new sales: Cottage Colony West #125 1/1 listed at $495K, Sandalfoot #5D2 2/2 listed at $799K.

1 closed sale: Coquina Beach #F3 2/2 $690K.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1440 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 $649K, 1637 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 $949K, 580 Sea Oats Dr 4/3 $1.395M, 290 Southwinds Dr 4/3.5 $1.695M, 5423 Shearwater Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $1.725M, 505 Kinzie Island Ct 5/4.5 $4,999,750.

1 back-on-market: 1595 Bunting Ln 3/2 $649.9K.

22 price changes: 910 Fitzhugh St 4/2 now $449K, 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $599K, 4631 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $699K, 771 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $719K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 now $899K, 251 Southwinds Dr 4/3 now $950K, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $999K, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.095M, 3131 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $1,49,999; 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $1.45M, 1973 Wild Lime Dr 4/3 now $1.495M, 1747 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $1.497M, 3351 Barra Cir 3/2.5 now $1.499M, 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $1.589M, 742 Nerita St 3/2 now $1.65M, 419 Lighthouse Way 4/3 now $1.95M, 985 Oyster Ct 5/4 now $2.15M, 2190 Camino Del Mar Dr 4/3.5 now $2.199M, 5751 Baltusrol Ct 3/4 now $2.498M, 5639 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 now $2.795M, 6401 Pine Ave 5/4.5 now $3.995M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 now $12.5M

4 new sales: 717 Gopher Walk Way 3/3.5 listed at $975K, 4460 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 listed at $1.35M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 listed at $1.7M, 877 Limpet Dr 3/3.5 listed at $2.95M.

2 closed sales: 1010 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $1.025M, 2319 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $2.987M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2505 Island Inn Rd $275K, 1245 Buttonwood Ln $10M.

1 price change: 1653 Bunting Ln now $395K.

1 new sale: 1292 Par View Dr listed at $469K.

No closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas #5132 1/2 now $445K, Tennis Villas #3233 2/2 now $599,999.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

3 price changes: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 now $1.1M, 11555 Wightman Ln 3/2.5 now $3.5M, 15735 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 now $11.9M.

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

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