With the fall equinox and first day of autumn arriving tomorrow, islanders look forward to cooler temperatures. This week most days again were warm, filled with blue skies and sunshine with occasional quick mid-to-late afternoon or evening showers. The welcomed rain continues to green up vegetation and wash away lingering storm yuck.

Crossing the causeway just a few minutes ago, the bridge crews were working hard. Lane patterns change frequently as more roadways are elevated, while concrete trucks continue to make it slow going in the morning. Here’s a picture showing how high the sheet piles are on the way up the big bridge. Amazing!

Teammate Dave and I showed homes a couple of days this week. Always fun to introduce prospective buyers to the hidden treasures here.

Over the course of their multiple visits, we have lunched at Traders, Doc Fords, Mucky Duck, and Mudbugs. All the meals were top-notch. The best view, of course, was at the duck when we sat at the window-side table next to the wall with this art and many law-enforcement patches.

The laid-back vibe everywhere and friendly encounters with both people and critters add to the fun. Fingers crossed that they get the home they want!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Our local Association of Realtors held their September breakfast membership meeting yesterday at The Community House. Our CEO, Bill Robinson, updated attendees on three issues that recently have come to the forefront nationally: workplace sexual harassment, compensation to buyer agents, and real estate fraud. It is amazing how many recent cases there have been, even here, where scammers have tried to sell property they don’t own. On both Sanibel and Captiva there has been an uptick in these. Bill alerted us of some red flags.

Following the meeting, only one home was scheduled to be on the Open House Caravan, but it went under contract so the open house was canceled. Home sales remain brisk, while condos and their restorations lag.

Association of Realtors accomplishments over the last month include completion of the annual 14-hour Continuing Education sessions required for license renewals and member participation in the International Coastal Cleanup last weekend. Restoration work at the Association of Realtors office building continues with no word yet on move-in, but it is getting closer.

Upcoming Association events include the 12-module SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) designation classes which begin next week and finish the following week. Those are also offered annually. Modules must be completed in two years. Renewal is also required with three modules needed for designation renewal. (I have already collected some props for the module I teach on the Resort and Second-Home Market. Those always make for a fun quiz photo op.) (Watch for our new logo too, this is the old one!)

October 11 is our 26^th Annual RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) Golf Tournament and Auction at The Sanctuary. SanibelSusan Realty is a sponsor and again is contributing an auction item – this year, a gift certificate for seafood from The Lobster Net in Brewer, ME. Their fresh lobster and seafood dinners are always a hit.

Events & Re-openings

We had more calls this week from anxious winter visitors unable to find rentals. Our advice is to continually watch for new availability at local vacation management organizations. Most of those belong to the Sanibel Captiva Vacation Rental Managers Association. Their website is www.SCVRMA.org. The Chamber of Commerce also keeps a list of what is open. www.Sanibel-Captiva.org.

Below is info on a few other re-openings/events announced this week:

Gramma Dot’s – I noticed this week that their food truck is gone, but I heard the restaurant is opening Oct 1. The marina ship’s store, fuel dock, boat rentals, and boat tours remain closed, but their service department is open Mon-Fri from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hurricane Ian Community Events – The City’s Manager’s office sent an open invitation to attend any of the multiple events being held to acknowledge community resiliency over the past year and to commemorate the landfall of Hurricane Ian. Those include:

• City of Sanibel Hurricane Ian Sunrise Remembrance at Lighthouse Beach gulf side Thurs Sep 28 at 7 a.m.

• St Michael’s Community Service of Hope at The Gathering Place at St Michael’s (entrance off Dunlop Rd) Thurs Sep 28 at 3 p.m. (interfaith service of music, reflections by city leaders, prayers, hopeful images, and gratitude. Commemorative buttons will be distributed. Reception will follow.
• Sanibel Community Church Hurricane Anniversary Service at 1740 Periwinkle Way Thurs Sep 28 at 6 to 7 p.m.
• “Community Reunited” at Sanibel Community House Sat Sep 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. with ice cream social, cookie baking contest, live music by Sanibel School Steel Band, Eagle Scout project reveal, and fun community art project.

Island Hopper Songwriter Fest – begins today on Captiva. This event features 10 days of music across four locations: Captiva (Sep 22-24), Cape Coral (Sep 25 & 26), Downtown Fort Myers (Sep 27 & 28), Fort Myers Beach (Sep 29-Oct 1). In support of this event, causeway tolls here are waived both Sat & Sun. Many free performances are scheduled in multiple Captiva locations (Tween Waters, The Green Flash, Mucky Duck, Key Lime Bistro, RC Otters, and South Seas Resort). Below are the events at Tween Waters. Check the full schedule at www.island-hopperfest.visitfortmyers.com.

Sanibel Moorings – at 845 East Gulf Dr is accepting reservations for next summer (for stays beginning April 22, 2024). As the resort gets closer to completion, they also expect to open earlier times with their goal to be ready in January. www.SanibelMoorings.com

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

With data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 15‑22

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sand Pointe #122 2/2 $849K.

1 price change: Sundial #A303 1/1 now $719K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Seashells #33 2/2 $435K.

HOMES

3 new listings: 1090 My Tern Ct 3/2 $925K, 3990 Coquina Dr 3/2 $1.2M, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 $1.75M.

2 price changes: 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $978K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.05M.

1 back on market: 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $1.199M.

7 new sales: 1605 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed at $899K, 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 listed at $899K, 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 listed at $982K, 3302 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.299M, 721 Cardium St 3/2.5 listed at $1.4M, 567 N. Yachtsman Dr 3/3 listed at $1.495M, 896 Limpet Dr 3/3 listed at $1.7M.

3 closed sales: 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 $650K, 1558 & 1545 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3.5 $3.9M, 6401 Pine Ave 4/3.5 $4.069M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 back on market: 4501 Waters Edge Ln $2.995M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 33 Urchin Ct 3/3 $2M.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend!

’til next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

View from bay end of Buttonwood Ln 09-15-23

The islands Realtor Association didn’t meet this week, but it again was sunshine and summerlike with plenty of restoration work continuing – everywhere. From my home on Anchor Dr I can see across to a Kinzie Island home roof top where a crew was at it until 7 p.m. almost every day this week. That’s hard work!

Seems that more and more roof work is underway all the time which seems hard to believe with the storm being nearly a year ago. The good news is that it appears to this observer that construction is amping up. More businesses also are announcing their reopening. (More info on some of those below.)

During my Sanibel drive-around this afternoon, I spied workers on several roofs including Sundial West (where unit HVAC compressors are going up), Sandalfoot (where new rip-off is occurring on Building 3), and Sanddollar (where a new roof is being constructed on Building C). I also saw good progress at the Seagull Estates clubhouse! Yay!

Sundial West 09-15-23

Sandalfoot Bldg 3 09-15-23

Seagull Estates Clubhouse 09-15-23

Thinking of Selling?

We continue to get calls from owners thinking of selling and we welcome new listings, With some new challenges encountered after Hurricane Ian, there are some important things for sellers to consider.

To sell a property using the Florida sales contract, the Buyer must receive “clear title” and a title insurance policy for the full purchase price. That process involves a licensed title agent performing a title search and securing the policy.

For some associations needing or undergoing restoration, those repairs can result in open insurance claims, unpaid special assessments, contractor liens, and even lawsuits. Issues like these can make it difficult for association managers to issue an estoppel for the property or unit that is selling. Those things also can mean a title insurance provider doesn’t want to take the risk (or insure) that property or they will only insure with exceptions. These hiccups can be avoided by planning ahead.

Reopenings Announced

As we continue to get inquiries about “what’s open”, below are a few postings noticed this week. The Chamber of Commerce website also updates frequently (www.Sanibel-Captiva.org).

Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro – following their summer vacation, Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro reopens for their 9^th season on Friday Oct 6 at 751 Tarpon Bay Rd

Sanibel Farmers Market – reopens for its 16^th season on Sunday Oct 1^st. Located at City Hall every Sunday through May (including Easter) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the market promises to return better than ever. Stop in for an array of fresh produce, delectable baked goods, exquisite flowers and plants, and a variety of local treats including healthy snacks, honey, ready-to-eat meals, and unique gifts.

Sanibel Island Beach Resort – at 1231 Middle Gulf Dr (formerly Holiday Inn) has been under renovation and recently announced that they are opening on Sept 20 and accepting on-line reservations at  www.oceanbreezeinns.com/sanibel-island.

Sanibel Siesta – at 1246 Fulgur St posted on social media that they are now accepting on-line reservations beginning Mar 2024. As the year winds down, they plan to announce it they also will have availability in Jan and Feb. www.SanibelSiesta.com.

Shiney Objects – will reopen on Sunday Sep 17 at their same location in Tahitian Gardens, 1999 Periwinkle Way.

Tuttles – Seahorse Shell Shop has reopened, moving back inside their shop at 362 Periwinkle Way.

Coming Soon

Two New Eateries – Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant & The Magic Bus Ice Cream and Caffeine – Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant is a new concept from longtime island restauranteurs Brian and Elke Podlasek (Island Cow) and Max and Bridget Kolshak (The Mad Hatter). Renovations are currently underway for it to open at 362 Periwinkle Way with the restaurant at the former site of Lighthouse Café and the ice cream/caffeine shop where Sanibel’s Ice Cream was. Wickie was the nickname given to lighthouse keepers from their task of trimming the wick of lighthouse lamps. The restaurant will feature breakfast, lunch, and dinner with full bar and signature drinks. More info at http://www.WickiesLighthouseRestaurant.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

With data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 8‑15

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Mariner Pointe #541 2/2 $650K, Villas of Sanibel #A201 3/3 $1.695M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Colonnades #15 1/1 $299K.

1 closed sale: Sandpiper Beach #206 2/2 $785K (SanibelSusan listing).

HOMES

3 new listings: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 $479K, 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $899K, 721 Cardium St 3/2.5 $1.4M.

2 price changes: 485 Peachtree Rd 3/3 now $1.19M, 896 Limpet Dr 3/3 now $1.7M.

2 back on market: 4263 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $899K, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 $2.395M.

6 new sales: 766 Donax St 4/2.5 listed at $699K, 976 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 listed at $859K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed at $1.1M, 5685 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed at $1.165M, 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 listed at $1.199M, 976 Cardium St 4/2 listed at $1.349.

2 closed sales: 1122 Captains Walk St 3.2.5 $745,333; 963 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $1.9M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 back on market: 5633 Baltursol Ct $499K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 3649 West Gulf Dr $3.85M.

1 new listing: Beach Homes #25 3/2 $2,999,500.

1 price change: Marina Villas #603 2/2 now $1.15M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

Nothing to report.

LOTS

1 new listing: 11539 Wightman Ln $2.495M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews aka SanibelSusan

As nice as it was to get away last week, learn new things, and renew friendships with colleagues at the Florida Realtors 2023 Convention and business meetings, it is always great to drive across the causeway and settle back in at “home sweet home”.

Anxious to see what progress occurred during my time in Orlando, I drove all over the island this week. Repairs continue and new landscaping has sprung up at many homes, but it is still a little discouraging to see so many condo complexes looking like they have for months.

There are exceptions, but overall, many condo owners now are recognizing that it will likely be months (if not years) before their community is back to a semblance of normalcy. (I did another drive-around this afternoon and took photos at some of the complexes where I saw workers. Kudos to those roofers that were atop buildings in 90+degree sunshine. See photos below taken 2-2:30 p.m. 8/25/23.)

Roof work underway at Sandpebble.

Roof work at Spanish Cay

Workers on roof at Seashells

Sundial Resort, workers on Sundial West roof

New roofs underway at Sunset South

Compass Point

Sanibel Siesta

Sanibel Surfside roofers atop several bldgs

Coquina Beach

Beachcomber

Kinzie Island condos

Colony Resort, aka Colonnades

Bridge/Causeway Update

Those traveling the causeway saw changes this week with a new temporary paved roadway open. Huge piles of enormous rock and materials keep appearing and bridge/causeway work continues overnight with lane shifts and flagging operations from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Elevation of the new road will be ~2’ higher than the existing roadway. Periodic delays are expected.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Yesterday at the August membership meeting of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors, sponsors were “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society and LMCU (Lake Michigan Credit Union).

Things to Do at “Ding” – AnnMarie Wildman with Wildlife Society promoted the Refuge describing the many upcoming events there including “Art in the Wild” Oct 21 and 22, Holiday Shopping Night Nov 29, Ice Cream Social Dec 13, Estate Planning Seminar Jan 30, Lecture Series Jan-Apr 2024, Sounds of the Sand Mar 23 and 24, Solar Eclipse Viewing Apr 8, and Tarpon Tournament May 9 and 10. Every week the refuge, Visitor and Education Center, Nature Store, and America’s Best Restroom are open six days a week (closed Fridays). Residents and visitors are encouraged to bike, drive, and walk on Wildlife Drive, Indigo Trail, and Bailey Tract.

LMCU Financing – Dan Krispinsky with Lake Michigan Credit Union assured attendees that they are financing island properties including some damaged non-warrantable condos. LMCU offers both conventional and jumbo construction mortgages, and renovation/repair loans.

Pools – Meeting speaker was Anthony Aracri with Hydro Leak Detection and Egret Pools. After summarizing examples of pool problems encountered from the hurricane, he described how material availability, costs, and permitting/scheduling delays are affecting pool repairs and construction today. The numbers he quoted for new pool construction were jaw dropping.

Caravan – Following the meeting, five properties were open for Caravan viewing. Those included three Sanibel homes and two condos at South Seas Resort.

Today’s Market – The consensus at the meeting was that business is slow now that it is peak hurricane season. Today all eyes are glued to the tropical disturbance south of us that is expected to strengthen over the weekend. We do not want bad weather here.

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

SanibelSusan Team

This week, teammate Dave continued working with buyers looking to take advantage of reduced condo prices, while we both have viewed properties for owners not wanting to wait for restoration to complete. We are thankful to have a couple of closings coming up and a new listing this week.

Every property is unique and the variety of insurance coverage, cost reimbursement, repairs covered, and timetables cause challenges for both listing and selling agents. Being detail-oriented is more important than ever, with flexibility also a key ingredient to success in these unusual times.

Teammate Lisa also continues to update our weekly inventory lists which we email to many interested owners and prospective buyers. Please let us know anytime you want a new one.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 18‑25

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Blind Pass #C106 2/2 $499.9K (SanibelSusan listing), Sundial #A303 1/1 $739K, Sanibel Siesta #401 2/2 $769K, Somerset #D201 3/2.5 $1.995M.

Blind Pass clubhouse, pool, tennis – pre-storm.

1 price change: Sundial #R406 2/2 now $1.799M.

2 new sales: Sundial #I-106 1/1 listed at $375K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-3 2/2.5 listed at $995K.

1 closed sale: Sunset South #11A 2/2 $598K. 

HOMES

3 new listings: 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $1.199M, 3898 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.389K, 830 Strangler Fig Ln 5/3.5 $1.65M.

3 price changes: 1683 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 now $489K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (duplex) 5/3 now $799K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.365M.

2 back on market: 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $859K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 $1.1M.

5 new sales: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $724,999; 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 listed at $825K, 9008 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 listed at $1.149M, 774 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 listed at $1.999M, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 listed at $2.395M.

5 closed sales: 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 $540K, 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 $600K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 $950K, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 $1.15M, 895 Angel Wing Dr 3/2.5 $1.39M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2490 Coconut Dr $1.5M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 4501 Waters Edge Ln listed at $2.995M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Bayside Villas #4306 3/3 $1.495M, Bayside Villas #5344 3/3 $1.7M.

No price changes, new sales, or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 32 Urchin Ct 3/3 listed at $2.195M.

1 closed sale: 11407 Old Lodge Ln 3/2 $1.6M.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend. Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Florida Realtors 2023 Convention/Expo & Business Meetings

As I finish up the week in Orlando, Florida Realtors 2023 Convention and Trade Expo are complete. Tim Tebow speaking on “Mission Possible” at the General Session Wednesday was awesome. What an inspiring man he is.

The Florida Realtors leadership team is now holding their annual committee and business meetings. Those finish when the Board of Directors meets on Sunday. Tomorrow the state Professional Development Committee hopefully will approve the instructors recommended by our Audition Panels. This year the panels processed a record number of 64 live auditions and 15 written in a single day. It was special to sit on a panel again and see many colleagues for the first time in several years (that darn pandemic). The networking done during these events is also worthwhile.

Florida now has 235,000 Realtors so ensuring that there are instructors and classes available to cover their license renewals, continuing education, and designations is a big undertaking. Keeping up with fast moving technology is also required to keep curriculum current. Many new class topics are on tomorrow’s agenda including such subjects as Crypto, Bitcoin, Blockchain, and ChatG. (I am still shaking my head at an Artificial Intelligence class I attended while here.)

While I’ve been away, teammate Dave has been on the island every day including this morning with an update on our listings. Below is a photo that he took coming across the bridge, showing the new road paving he noticed on the causeway island closest to Sanibel.

When I mentioned last week that we hoped to get more action while I was out of town, we have. Dave has been working with buyers, while between meetings, I have chatted with several owners who likely will be listing soon. Though it still is hurricane season, island sales are occurring, and inventory is needed. An update of the real estate action this week is after a couple of news items below.

Island Scoop & Upcoming Events

Beach Sand Coming – A message issued yesterday by Sanibel’s Natural Resources Director says “Trucks will begin hauling sand to northwest Sanibel on Monday, Aug 21 to replace sand lost to erosion due to Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole last year. The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted in January to accept grant funds of $5 million from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for Hurricane Ian and Nicole Emergency Recovery to replace sand on Lee County beaches. The sand on Sanibel will reinforce the shoreline south of Blind Pass and reduce the vulnerability of Sanibel-Captiva Road, an evacuation route. Engineering estimates from the City of Sanibel determined that approximately 70,000 tons of sand are needed. About 25 trucks will deliver sand each day which means fewer trucks on the road compared with other recent sand hauling operations in Southwest Florida. Sand will be obtained from the Stewart mine in Immokalee. The sand is approved as beach compatible by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The trucking route will be from Immokalee to Sanibel avoiding Corkscrew Road between Alico Road and Interstate 75. The work is expected to be complete in about 90 days. Public access at Blind Pass Beach Park and Turner Beach Park will remain open. Work hours will be from dawn to dusk on weekdays. The city and county ask that motorists and beach goers be aware and abide by all signs and instructions provided by traffic control personnel in the area….”

Community United Event Sep 30 – The Community House is hosting a social event on Sat Sep 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. celebrating coming together a year after the storm. It will feature free ice cream, cookie baking contest, live music by the Sanibel School steel drum band, an Eagle Scout project reveal, and a fun community art project.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 11-18

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sand Pointe #124 2/2 $850K, White Sands #11 2/2 $950K, Gulfside Place #228 3/3 $2.2M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Seashells #33 2/2 listed at $435K, Sundial #N402 2/2 listed at $1.225M.

2 closed sales: White Sands #22 2/2 $800K, Sandals #B 3/3 $959K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 9226 Kincaid Ct 3/2 $1.039M, 501 Lagoon Dr 3/2 $1.248M, 676 Cardium St 4/2 $1.349M, 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.695M.

4 price changes: 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $825K, 1067 Sand Castle Rd 4/2 $1.275M, 595 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $1.559, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $1.6M.

3 new sales: 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 listed at $799K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed at $1.1M. 2228 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.495M.

1 closed sale: 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 $680K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 4640 Rue Belle Mer $1.495M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 2356 Wulfert Rd $290K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 now $1.295M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Tennis Villas #3129 1/1 $410K.

HOMES

2 new listings: 57 Sandpiper Ct 2/2 $1.899M, 32 Urchin Ct 3/3 $2.195M.

No price changes.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 11535 Murmond Ln 3/3.5 $3.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Last week, we reported that the number of Sanibel home sale closings for 2023 already exceed the total number reported in all of 2022.

Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests

Loggerhead sea turtle

This week, the big record is with sea turtle nests. As of July 26, SCCF (Sanibel & Captiva Conservation Foundation) Turtle Patrol reports that 1,171 sea turtle nests have been laid on the islands this year, compared to 760 in 2022. Already, 8,482 hatchlings have emerged and made their way to the Gulf. Most of these nests are loggerhead turtles, but the islands usually also have a few green turtle nests, with higher green nest counts every other year. This year, 23 green sea turtle nests have been recorded so far.

Green sea turtle

Each species possesses unique characteristics. Here are some of the differences between loggerhead and green sea turtles (gleaned from “SCCF News” posted July 26):

Tracks – These differences can be distinct. Loggerheads crawl with an alternating gait, using their right and left front and rear flippers separately, which leaves asymmetrical marks in the sand. Alternatively, green turtles crawl using their left and right flippers simultaneously, producing a track with symmetrical flipper marks. Green turtles tails also typically cause a drag mark through the center of the crawl markings, while loggerhead tails usually don’t. Green turtles also tend to be larger than loggerheads, so their tracks are wider. A green turtle crawl markings may be 3 to 4.5’ wide, while a loggerhead crawl is usually less, around 2.5 to 4’ wide.

Nests – Compared to loggerheads, a green turtle nest is much larger and they disturb a larger area of sand during the nesting process and spend a long time covering and camouflaging the nest, throwing large amounts of sand and digging a secondary body pit after laying. Loggerhead nests, by comparison, are smaller.

Head Sizes – Loggerheads are aptly named with their large bulky heads equipped with powerful jaws. Green turtles have much smaller heads, especially in proportion to their body size. Green turtles are named because their fat tissue has a green tint due to their mostly herbivorous diet.

Nest Timing – In Florida, loggerhead nesting season starts in April and usually winds down by the end of August, while green turtle nesting season typically runs from June through September.

Please remember to turn off beachfront lights after 9 p.m., fill in holes, level sandcastles, pick up trash and furniture, and respect posted nesting areas. SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline is 978-728-3663.

City 50^th Anniversary Plans, No Luminary This Year

Many have asked if the islands will be having their annual Luminary events this year which usually occur on the first Friday in December on Sanibel, and the first Saturday on Captiva. The short answer is “no”, but In partnership with the City and other island organizations, the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce has taken the lead in planning a 13-month celebration of Sanibel’s 50^th anniversary. That anniversary is November 5, 2024.

With hurricane recovery efforts still underway, many businesses often open for Luminary events may not be ready this year.

So, with Sanibel’s 1974 incorporation falling in November, plans are in the works for a special 13-month celebration that will kick-off on that anniversary and continue until what would normally be Luminary 2025. To that end, the traditional Luminary for 2023 has been postponed.

The Chamber plan is that all island events between November 5, 2024, and December 6, 2025, will be co-branded with the 50^th anniversary celebration. By then, more restoration and recovery will be complete, more businesses back open and more property owners will have returned. Stay tuned. I bet it will be special!

30-Year Mortgage Rates Head Back Up, Hit 6.81%

After hearing about the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rates moving closer to 7%. I quizzed David Wright, Senior Vice President of Residential Mortgage Lending at the Sanibel & Captiva Community Bank. He was at our Association of Realtors membership meeting yesterday. With most island sales contracts being cash, it was a surprise to hear him say that this year is likely going to set records for them. He said they are doing plenty of mortgages, including for damaged property needing construction loans.

So even though the average long-term U.S. mortgage rate ticked back up this week, you can bet if I have a client needing a loan, I will continue to suggest calling David or another of our Association Affiliate Members. I have done business with the SanCap Bank since they opened 20+years ago and they have always exceeded expectations. (It’s also great to have them back open on Sanibel, including the drive-thru.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

The July membership meeting of the islands Association of Realtors was held yesterday morning at the Midland Trust building in Fort Myers, where our Association offices have made their temporary home while their island office building is under restoration.

Speaker Theresa Knower who heads Midland’s 1031 division, provided a refresher overview of the 1031 tax-deferred exchange process. Following that was info on self-directed IRA’s.

The Caravan that followed the meeting included three Sanibel homes and one on Captiva within South Seas Resort. This gave teammate Dave and I a great opportunity to see the progress at the resort. It really is amazing how little damage some northern areas received from the hurricane.

At Lands End looking over Red Fish Pass to North Captiva Island

At Lands End (Captiva’s north end) some repairs and roof work were underway, but the landscaping was beautiful in many areas. As we crossed the long stretch of the resort that has mangroves on either side of the road, I remember thinking that the damage to those looked worse after Charley.

Golf course at South Seas Resort under construction.

The golf course at South Seas is under construction and many resort properties are undergoing restoration, but the damage, particularly at the condos and timeshares appears to be much less than on Sanibel.

Crossing the bridge at Blind Pass coming back onto Sanibel, we noticed the sandbar making its way across the channel which is nearly closed. It was a bit overcast, so the beach was not overly busy.

From Captiva side of the bridge overlooking Blind Pass to Sanibel

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

On the commercial side, the real estate at 2359 Periwinkle Way (formerly home of CJ’s Swimwear) was listed for $1.29M.

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sandals #B 3/3 $900K.

3 price changes: Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 now $889K, Gulfside Place #204 2/2 now $1.35M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 now $1,370,555.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listings: 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 $799K.

3 price changes: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $724,999; 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 now $799K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 $3.395M.

2 back on market: 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 $1,249,900.

3 new sales: 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 listed at $549K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $629K, 6401 Pine Ave 4/3.5 listed at $4.195M.

2 closed sales: 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.1M, 913 Kings Crown Dr 4//3 $1.3M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 2505 Island Inn Rd now $345K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $3.45M.

No price reductions, 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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It seems when we are busier the Fridays arrive quicker. Now that it is late July, temperatures and humidity are keeping the days toasty, while vegetation is growing like crazy, particularly after the quick showers which are more often. The East End had three humdingers this week, accompanied by plenty of lightning. As summer progresses, big clouds make it across the causeway, usually resulting in fabulous colorful sunsets.

I took a quick spin this morning to several of the public beach parking areas to see how busy they are. Only one spot available at Gulfside City Park, a couple free at Lighthouse Beach gulf-side, but no one parked then at the bayside parking areas.

Lighthouse beach this morning 7/21/23.

Sanibel lighthouse 7/21/23

Lighthouse bayside parking beach access 7/21/23.

Working from home much of yesterday, it was astounding to see a crew of workers on the 3^rd story roof of the home across the street from me. They were at it from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. installing a metal roof in temperatures that knocked me over just walking from air-conditioned home to air-conditioned car. They were back again today also. Those roofers and the many workers helping with recovery sure deserve gratitude.

The SanibelSusan Team is also thankful for the two condo listings that went under contract this week. When checking out the islands’ Multiple Listing Service (MLS) statistics, after a couple of news items below, be sure and note that with this week’s home closings, the number of Sanibel home sales in 2023 surpassed the total number sold in all of 2022. The average sale price may be down because many of the sold properties had damage, but unit volume for homes is up. Now that condo complexes are showing improvement, maybe condo sales will pick up.

Bailey’s General Store

Bailey’s Center demo with Wink news interview 7/21/23

It was posted last night that demolition of Bailey’s Shopping Center began this morning and will take about a week. The historic service station is excluded but will be redeveloped along with the rest of the property. The Bailey family is excited for their future resilient plans to begin, but sad so see the buildings go that have served the islands well for over 60 years. Including earlier locations, Bailey’s has been on the island for over 100 years. (Viewing is only available from the shared-use path. The entire Center is a construction zone and not available for public access. Be cautious as large trucks and equipment will be moving in and out.)

Causeway Update

FL DOT photo of bridge damage post-Ian

More construction news was provided at the July Sanibel City Council Meeting during a presentation by Jennifer Dorning who is the Sanibel Causeway Community Liaison with Florida Dept of Transportation. She opened her talk with some background on the 12’ surge that topped with 8’ waves during the peak of Hurricane Ian. As she shared photos of damage, she highlighted that by Day 7 (Oct 11, 2022) the first convoy crossed and by Day 15 (Oct 19) the temporary roadway was open to traffic.

Today, the temporary roadway continues, and the speed limit remains 20 mph. Delays should be expected until construction is complete, but their goal is for 2-way traffic to continue during daytime hours.

Accomplishments to date include adding armor stone to stabilize sheet piles with 80% of the galvanized steel sheeting in.

An unexpected hiccup was the rare least tern nesting noticed a few weeks ago. DOT is working with SCCF to keep these nesting areas undisturbed.

What is happening now:

·        Armor stone is being delivered and could be as many as 30 trucks a day for the next year. These are the huge stones. They are being barged from Punta Rassa over the water to where they will be installed.

·        Installing buried island sheet piles.

·        Removing traffic railing.

·        Delivery of prep material.

·        Begin new road construction. (This has been delayed awaiting a permit from Army Corps for work that needs to be done in the water.) The new road will be raised 2’.  Hurricane Ian was defined by coastal engineers as a 300-year storm. The new construction will be built to withstand that.

·        Much of the work that is being done now, won’t be seen when the roadway is complete.

What’s next?

·        Continue installing sheet piles. Once Army Corps permit is received, installing piles in water begins.

·        Raise road 2’.

·        Protect sides with mattresses.

·        Bury toe protection.

County advises that the new causeway islands will have free parking and the same amenities as were there before, though some may be in different locations.

Total cost estimated at $285 million with Federal government hopefully to reimburse much of that (though it could take years).

Coming up phases of construction may require more night work and limit causeway traffic to one lane during some of those hours. Expect to see those areas well lit and with flagmen.

Public access to the causeway is prohibited during construction. Expect to see the new roadway approximately 3’ higher than before. It was also noted that the Punta Rassa boat ramp needs repair and probably won’t be open to the public until some time in 2024.

Sanibel City Council Post-Ian Update

At the Tuesday monthly City Council Meeting, City Manager Dana Souza announced what he said was the last formal monthly Post-Ian Update. He said finance updates will continue to be provided during the budget process which runs through the end of September. Below are highlights from his presentation:

Both Building & Planning Departments are settled at 2475 Library Way available to help owners and contractors looking for guidance.

All Sanibel public beach parking facilities have reopened with the last being Lighthouse Bayside Park on June 30. For the parking areas requiring a permit, only Access 4 on West Gulf Dr is still closed.

Parking permit revenues are up, while causeway counts are sluggish compared to 2022. Sunday traffic has been exceeding 4,000 vehicles indicating that more day-visitors are coming. The Chamber of Commerce is working with the County in hopes of convincing them to forgive weekend tolls for a period for those visitors coming to support restaurants/businesses. May be in August, stay tuned.

Debris removal total is up to 2,392,390 cubic yards. All removal registrations have ended, though waterway cleanup continues. Expected to finish by the end of the month. If you notice any water areas needing help, contact Public Works. Note: Waste management (weekly trash pickup) will not pick up construction debris.

Building permits – 5,500 have been issued. Code enforcement efforts are for compliance, but 234 stop work orders have been issued or construction stopped.

Huge thanks were offered to Public Works for their efforts in getting public areas and beach parking open.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

There was no Association of Realtors meeting this week, but our listings sure had action. Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics. After that are the activity with our listings this week and that posted in the MLS since last Friday.

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Sanibel Siesta #403 2/2 now $734K.

3 new sales: Sunset South #11A 2/2 listed at $599K, Sandpiper Beach #206 2/2 (SanibelSusan listing) listed at $799K, Gulfside Place #318 2/2 (SanibelSusan listing) listed at $1.295M.

3 closed sales: Sundial #I105 1/1 $310,095; Sundial #I104 1/1 $450K, Snug Harbor #122 2/2 $1.575M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1624 Bunting Ln 3/2 $724K, 5892 San-Cap Rd 3/3 $775K, 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $859K, 1258 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $879,900; 5685 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $1.265M; 4355 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 $5.75M.

5 price changes: 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 now $599K, 1535 Centre St 2/2 now $649,555; 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 now $845K, 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $849K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.495M.

3 back on market: 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $845K, 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 $1.348M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 $4.25M.

6 new sales: 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 listed at $714K, 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed at $725K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 listed at $975K, 1171 Seagrape Ln 3/3 listed at $999K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $1.2499M, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 listed at $1.299M.

7 closed sales: 9421 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $625K, 228 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $850K, 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $950K, 3251 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.075M, 950 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/2 $1.225M, 513 Lighthouse Way 3/3 $2.1M, 2963 Wulfert Rd 4/6 $3.3M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $3.45M.

No price reductions

1 new sale: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 listed at $3.75M.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

The Florida rainy season has begun. Last Friday, just after posting my weekly update, there was a brief shower on Sanibel’s East End and another longer downpour on Wednesday evening. Though vegetation and wildlife desperately needed water, the news reported inland flooding and continued damage to many properties still wearing blue tarps, awaiting roof repairs. That rain also unfortunately provided proof that my standing-seam metal roof, inspected and thought to be undamaged from Hurricane Ian, still needs maintenance. It has solar tubes which provide wonderful light in my little ground-level home, but one leaked, so resealing is ordered. Just another hiccup in the recovery process.

Following up on my island travels last week, I also again viewed a few more communities over the holiday weekend. It hardly seemed like a holiday with very few vehicles about, though public beach accesses were busy, and it was nice to see contractors working at several single-family homes. On Monday, I even saw workers at Tantara condos. Otherwise, condo build-back continues to be slow. We are thankful that our condo listings are in pro-active associations, but it has become evident that it will be a long time before many other complexes will be ready for occupancy.

My other observation was that many more homes have been demolished and those lots cleared of debris. Often in the same neighborhood there are other properties that haven’t been touched. Many new homes already are being constructed, an astounding number really and perhaps a sign that the new Sanibel Building Dept is quickly processing permits. There should be an update on that next week during the Tuesday, June 6, monthly City Council Meeting.

Hurricane Season

It’s here again! Yesterday, on June 1, the first day of 2023 Hurricane Season, Tropical Depression #2 got named at 5 p.m. From the northern area of the Gulf of Mexico, forecasters predicted today that it would not have a direct impact on Florida as it travels south and fizzles out.

Tropical Depression #1 was already taken by a storm discovered in post-season analysis, which formed in January.

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Update on Sea Turtles

SCCF photo of Sanibel’s first turtle nest 10 years ago, in 2013

“As of May 30, our nighttime sea turtle tagging team has encountered 86 unique sea turtles this nesting season. This includes turtles with existing tags that staff can identify and document, as well as turtles that were tagged for the first time this year. “Sea turtles without tags could be first-time nesters, returning turtles that weren’t encountered by the team in previous years, or turtles that have nested on other beaches that aren’t monitored by nighttime teams,” said SCCF Sea Turtle Biologist Savannah Weber. “We’ve been seeing an average of four or five sea turtles each night, which is nearly twice the average last year at this time.”

“After SCCF applies tags to these turtles — which allows staff and other scientists to see the individual’s nesting and movement patterns — our team also gets the pleasure of “naming” the turtle. Themes in past years have included shells, ice cream flavors, spices, and Pokémon. This year, the theme is female musical artists. “Some of the names we’ve given turtles include Tina Turner, Fergie, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire, and Dolly Parton,” Weber said.

“Previously tagged turtles seen this year have included frequent nesters such as Venus and Conch, who have been encountered every one-to-two years since 2016. Staff were also pleased to see the return of Junonia, a satellite-tagged loggerhead who has nested on Sanibel for six of the past seven years.

““Generally, sea turtles exhibit ‘natal homing,’ which means nesting females will lay nests near the same beach they hatched from,” Weber said. “Some turtles have very precise natal homing, where they lay nests within a few miles from the exact spot of beach from which they hatched. Others have more general homing, where they may lay anywhere within the general region of where they originally hatched.”

“Since SCCF’s tagging project began in 2016, staff have encountered over 950 unique individual sea turtles. Over 350 sea turtle nests have been laid on Sanibel and Captiva Islands this season.”

SCCF Also Reports Bald Eagle Chicks

“A total of nine bald eagle chicks fledged this year on Sanibel, Captiva, and North Captiva, despite Hurricane Ian wiping out all known nests. With the help of partners and volunteers, SCCF monitors bald eagle nests on the islands during the nesting season (Oct. 1 to May 15) and reports data to the Audubon Society’s Eagle Watch Program.

““It was a challenging season for bald eagles, but they wasted no time rebuilding their nests and laying eggs,” said SCCF Shorebird Technician Aaron White. “Rebuilding is a particular feat for bald eagles, which typically re-use and build upon the same nest year after year.”

“Among the 10 breeding pairs SCCF monitors, seven successfully nested and fledged chicks. Two pairs didn’t renest, while one nest failed due to an unknown cause. “The eagles really bounced back from Hurricane Ian, and we’re hopeful the rest of the nesting wildlife across the islands will do the same,” White said.”

Impacts of Ian Advance Restoration of Grasslands

Also in their recent update, SCCF posted: “The current clearing of dead vegetative debris that created a fire hazard on many SCCF preserve lands will have the long-term effect of accelerating the restoration of native habitats.

“”State contractors are doing their best to maneuver through the habitats with minimal disturbance to living native flora,” said Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz.  The dead trees and shrubs created a fuel load that increased the chance of wildfires. “Removing them will provide native grasses and ground cover plants an opportunity to take hold again from remaining seed sources in the ground and from any plantings we do to fill in the areas,” he added.

“Prior to development, Sanibel was mostly a vast open canopy grassland that was kept in that state by wildfires and a hydrology that limited freshwater to the center of the island along the Sanibel Slough during the long dry season. Historical aerial photographs show that buttonwood, a freshwater-loving tree in the white mangrove family, bordered the Sanibel Slough because it was the wettest part of the island. “Historically, natural wildfires would consume young buttonwoods that attempted to establish outside of this buffer of the river on higher land,” Lechowicz said.

“In the early 1990s, the City of Sanibel adopted a weir control policy to better manage surface water on the island. The objective of the policy is to attempt to retain as much fresh surface water as possible for the environmental benefit of the interior wetlands as long as developed areas are not adversely impacted.

“The weir system allows the water level to be kept higher on the west end of the island as opposed to the east end because there are more conservation lands and less developed areas west of Tarpon Bay Road.

“Post-Ian, saltwater inundation of the freshwater wetlands caused highly brackish water to stand for long periods of time. As a result, woody vegetation had higher mortality on the west end because the salty water inundated those root systems longer. “The storm surge seemed to ‘turn back the clock’ slightly by decreasing living hardwood densities that overtook the expansive grasslands we once had,” said Lechowicz.”

Floridians a Bit More Confident in May

Posted on Florida Realtors Wednesday, May 31 by Kerry Smith:

“UF: After a drop in April – the only one in 2023 so far – Floridians’ consumer outlook rose modestly again in May as the state bucks national trends.

“GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida continues to defy national trends. According to the monthly consumer sentiment study from the University of Florida’s (UF) Bureau of Economic and Business Research, consumer sentiment among Floridians inched up one-tenth of a point in May to 68.8 from a revised figure of 68.7 in April – the only month so far this year that saw a decline. Nationally, consumer sentiment fell 4.3 points.

““Despite the ups and downs in consumer sentiment observed over the last 12 months, Florida’s consumer confidence has trended upwards, with a notable increase of 8 points in May compared to a year ago,” says Hector H. Sandoval, director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “This positive trend is consistent with a strong labor market and aligns well with the general decline in inflation levels since its peak in June,” says. “Nonetheless, it is worth noting that consumer confidence continues to remain at historically low levels.”

“Among the five components that make up the full index, three increased and two decreased.

 “Current economic conditions: Floridians’ opinions about current economic conditions portrayed a slightly more optimistic outlook in May. Views of personal financial situations now compared with a year ago increased slightly by nine-tenths of a point from 62.6 to 63.5. Similarly, opinions as to whether it’s a good time to buy a big-ticket household item such as a refrigerator or furniture increased 1.7 points from 59.6 to 61.3.

 “Future expectations: The three components focusing on Floridians’ attitudes about the future were mixed. Expectations of personal finances a year from now decreased slightly, three-tenths of a point, from 83.6 to 83.3. On the other hand, expectations about U.S. economic conditions over the next year increased slightly – three-tenths of a point from 66.3 to 66.6 – but the outlook for U.S. economic conditions over the next five years dropped 2.6 points from 71.7 to 69.1.

“Florida’s labor market has remained robust, with strong demand for workers and a consistently low unemployment rate, according to the report. In April, the state’s unemployment rate held steady at 2.6% for the fourth consecutive month, which is lower than the national rate. Moreover, the leisure and hospitality industry showed the largest percent change in job gains over the year, experiencing an increase of 7.3%.

““Despite concerns about persistent inflation, the recent turmoil in the banking sector and the possibility of further interest rate hikes, we anticipate that consumer confidence among Floridians will continue to trend upward in the months ahead,” says Sandoval. “This is based on the expectation that Florida’s tourism industry will experience an increase in demand during the upcoming summer season.”

“Sandoval adds a caveat, however, saying that outlook “may change drastically if the debt-ceiling standoff fails to be resolved and payments on U.S. government debt are not made.”

“The index used by UF researchers is benchmarked to 1966, which means a value of 100 represents the same level of confidence for that year. The lowest index possible is a 2, the highest is 150.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

There was no Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors meeting this week, but next Thursday morning is a Caravan Meeting at BIG ARTS.

Below with data from the island MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics and the action posted since last Friday in the MLS.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 26 – June 2

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sanibel Siesta #403 2/2 $759K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Seashells #33 2/2 listed at $435K.

2 closed sales: Blind Pass #F210 2/2 $560K, Loggerhead Cay #412 2/2 $740K.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1446 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 2/2 $679K. 766 Donax St (duplex) 4/2.5 $799K.

3 price changes: 658 Donax St 3/2 now $699K, 9114 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $999K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 now $1M.

6 new sales: 1044 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $724.9K, 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed at $998,995; 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 listed at $1.143M, 425 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $1.19M, 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 listed at $1.245M, 5750 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed at $1.75M, 450 Sea Walk Ct 4/3.5 listed at $2.225M.

5 closed sales: 1720 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $810K, 1565 Bunting Ln 3/2 $890K, 3050 West Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.43M, 1057 Seahawk Ln 3/2.5 $1.5M, 1520 Angel Dr 4/4.5 $3.03M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 1872 Middle Gulf Dr listed at $799K.

1 closed sale: 2563 Coconut Dr $1.25M.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: Marina Villas #906 2/2 $1.15M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1101 Tallow Tree Ct (1/2 duplex) 4/4 $4.95M.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews aka SanibelSusan