Happy St Patrick’s Day from Sunny Sanibel

Posted on March 17, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It’s another sunny Friday on Sanibel with temperatures not quite into the 80’s. A Happy Saint Patrick’s Day to all.

Really a delightful day to be on the island with the sunroof open and the gulf breezes blowing.

While there today to pick up mail, I did another drive-around to see any progress this week. Removal of downed vegetation continues while on Periwinkle, it was sad to see the demolition/removal of the buildings formerly housing Island Cow and Realty Title. It is progress none-the-less.

Traffic continues to be light, except as contractors are coming early mornings and leaving late afternoons. Driving the Gulf Drives, one sees workers, particularly roofers at many homes. There still isn’t a lot of visual activity at most condo complexes. Many have been fenced for weeks.

At SanibelSusan Realty, we had another nice closing Monday as Dave and I continue to view other properties for owners thinking of selling and buyers contemplating a purchase.

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after the inventory summary below. There was more activity with homes, not so much with condos. A total of just seven new sales on Sanibel this week, compared to 23 new listings – certainly not the usual for March, but a good time for those that were waiting on the sidelines when inventory was low just a few months ago.

Another Sanibel commercial property also came on the market this week – site of Islander Trading Post which includes the building that was the store, plus a home and barn behind (1444 & 1446 Periwinkle Way), asking $5.955M.

Sanibel Update

There is another City Council meeting this coming Tuesday March 21 at 9 a.m. Fifth agenda item is a post-Ian update which I will follow and report on next week.

Below is the beginning of a post that the City issued yesterday. Go to www.MySanibel.com to read the full version. Lots of good info there on rebuilding/restoration.

“As the Sanibel Community recovers and rebuilds following Hurricane Ian, many citizens are anxious to return to the Island and restore their home to its former beauty. In some cases, structures will be demolished, and properties redeveloped. City staff knows Sanibel’s Land Development Code is complex and is necessary to maintain the island sanctuary characteristics that makes Sanibel so unique. The City of Sanibel staff is committed to helping residents and businesses be successful in completing repairs, renovations, and redevelopment.

“The Natural Resources, Public Works, Planning, and Building Departments have compiled important information regarding the Land Development Code to help residents undertaking renovation, restoration, and redevelopment projects. Following the guidance below will help to ensure properties remain compliant with the City’s Vision Statement, Sanibel Plan, and Land Development Code and help the community recover as we all work to restore this Sanctuary Island.

“The City of Sanibel staff will host a community workshop to present information and answer citizen questions on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at BIG Arts. Please watch for future news releases that will provide more information on this workshop.

“Contact us at:

· Natural Resources Department – sandnr@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-3700, Questions on replanting and beach restoration

· Public Works Department – sanpw@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-6397, Questions on roads, road rights-of-way, drainage, or sanitary sewer

· Planning Department – sanplan@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-4136, Questions on outdoor lighting or other development standards

· Building Department – sanbuild@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-4555, Questions on the “50%” rule or building permit requirements….”

Events & Re-Openings

BIG ARTS Open House – Wednesday was a huge success and much fun. I saw many clients/customers at the BIG ARTS Open House, enjoying the film about the lighthouse, art exhibits, food/drink, and performances by the Community Band and Chorus. Here is the link that photographer Jim Anderson prepared that was played on the screen behind us when we sang the Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young song “Sanibel”. Even the Mayor said she cried during that one! https://vimeo.com/user25047255/review/800301411/7f227afe23

BIG ARTS Community Chorus singing “Sanibel” 03-15-2023, photo by Robin Roberts.

If you’d like to hear the entire Chorus set, here is the YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYHKC0_1dYWS8rYM6rxbq_XJ_An9lf7Ow.

April 4 Concert With Sanibel School Choruses – Sanibel Community Chorus is performing jointly with the two Sanibel School choruses during their fundraiser April 4 at 6:30 p.m. at BIG ARTS. I sure hope we can keep up with them. Our singers ages go up to 94.

April 4 Wildlife Driving Opening – April 4, the J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge will open the gate to Wildlife Drive for the first time since the storm. The “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center will also reopen that day.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Tuesday, I attended an Association Professional Development Committee meeting. Those continue to be via Zoom since our headquarters building at 2353 Periwinkle Way received structural damage during the hurricane. It may be another three to six months before we are back meeting there, but committee work continues with more classes scheduled for our members and speakers arranged for our monthly breakfast membership meetings. Next one of those is March 23, again at the Midland Trust building in Fort Myers.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	68	1,170,793	59	130	1,621,879	52	21	1,353,571	67
Under contract	15	773,793	28	37	1,240,717	42	4	565,000	40
Sold 2023 to 3/17	28	1,059,303	37	80	1,105,203	42	6	1,132,333	111
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,504,666	165	7	6,471,150	203	1	15,500,000	356
Under contract	2	1,207,000	147	2	3,197,000	39	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/17	1	675,000	66	5	3,130,000	55	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 10‑17

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Oceans Reach #4B4 1/1 $749K, Seascape #302 3/3.5 $1.795M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 $1.487,555; Seascape #305 3/3 $2.195M.

2 price changes: Sundial #C206 1/1 now $549K, Kings Crown #208 2/2 now $870K.

No new sales.

3 closed sales: Sealoft Village #107 2/2 $868K (SanibelSusan listing), Snug Harbor #221 2/2 $1.130M, Heron at The Sanctuary III #2A 3/3.5 $1.148M.

HOMES

15 new listings: 1937 Roseate Ln 2/2 $399,555; 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 $725K, 411 Lake Murex Blvd 3/2 $789K, 1105 Skiff Pl 3/2 $895K, 719 Nerita St 3/3 $899K,1270 Par View Dr 3/2 $949K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 $959K, 4372 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 $998K, 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 $1.55M, 3959 West Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.599M, 425 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $1.6M, 657 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.639M, 985 Oyster Ct 4/4 $1.695M, 505 Lighthouse Way 4/3.5 $2.475M, 4449 Waters Edge Ln 3/3 $3.499M,

16 price changes: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 now $524K, 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 now $595K, 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 now $734K, 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $749K, 1145 Sabal St 5/4 now $790K, 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 now $799K, 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $845K, 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 now $849K, 9248 Kincaid Ct 3/2 now $899K, 1720 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $950K, 4565 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $1.174M, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 now $1.299M, 9048 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 now $1.299M, 9484 Peaceful Dr 3/3 now $1.337M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 now $1.85M, 5271 Indian Ct 4/4 now $2.549M.

3 back on market: 6141 Henderson Rd 4/3 $858K, 1304 Par View Dr 3/3 $900k, 2502 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $2.795M.

5 new sales: 1314 Tahiti Dr 3/2 listed at $699K, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2 listed at $1.222M, 9027 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 listed at $1.395M, 864 Limpet Dr 3/2 listed at $1.75M, 5721 San-Cap Rd 3/3.5.5 listed at $1.795M.

14 closed sales: 2623 Tamarind Rd 2/2 $365K, 1475 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $697K, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 $775K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $800K, 3941 Coquina Dr 3/2 $850K, 428 Lighthouse Way 3/2.5 $899K, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 $930K, 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 $962,555; 1442 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.23M, 1034 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.317M, 1208 Bay Dr 3/2 $1.5M, 3191 Twin Lakes Ln 4/2.5 $1.639M, 5395 Shearwater Dr 3/2.5 $2.4M, 3699 West Gulf Dr 6/4.5.5 $4.25M.

LOTS

4 new listings: 9268 Belding Dr $435K, 3730 Coquina Dr $639K, 395 Bella Vista Way E $1.875M, 4657 Rue Belle Mer $4.5M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 1746 Windward Way listed at $495K, 460 Sawgrass Pl listed at $925K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11510 Chapin Ln 2/2 $1.2M.

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.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sustaining Sanibel = Strength & Smiles

Posted on March 10, 2023 by SanibelSusan

SanibelSusan reporting another sunny summer-like Friday. There was lots of activity on the islands this week with more businesses opening, more events happening, more nails in tires (lucky me), and more wonderful weather. Unfortunately, it still is slow going on most of the reconstruction. As debris piles disappear, so do some buildings. The home next door to mine burned during the storm and now has been demolished. Those strong neighbors like so many others intend to rebuild/restore. It just is taking way longer than anxious owners imagined. It looks like I will have one more move before I’m back into my home, but the new HVAC system is “on” so that is progress!

At SanibelSusan Realty

Our office again was cleaned some this week, but reconstruction has not begun. Teammates Dave, Lisa, and I continue our daily routines both on-/and off-island. I showed homes Wednesday to some folks that had to stay in Punta Gorda as nothing closer was available. Dave accompanied a walk-through yesterday, with that closing now delayed until Monday. Big thanks to those sellers and Superior Title for being flexible!

Lisa again has updated our island inventory list which has become a popular document with owners tracking the market. Many have called us trying get an opinion of the value of their property today compared to just before the storm. With condos, particularly, this is not easily determined. Most complexes have had no sales since the storm because they cannot yet be accessed. Sales data is needed to provide a reasonable response to questions about market value. Is a property value reduced by the dollars that it will take to restore it? Of course, but we are not seeing distressed sales.

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Servic is after the inventory summary below. Homes sales continue to be brisk. Condo sales not so much, mostly because those prospective buyers want answers before they decide to come and look. Answers to questions like: When can the unit be occupied? Rented? What are the 2023 maintenance fees? Is there or will there be a special assessment? What is the damage? What repairs are owner responsibilities?

Sanibel Update

Between phone calls, I listened in Tues during The City post-Ian progress report update during the City Council meeting. A few highlights include:

· Building & Planning Departments still in temporary location on Whiskey Creek in Ft Myers. They expect to relocate end March/early April into the City (former bank) building on Library Way. The number of permits issued continues to increase. Through March 5, 2,956 permits have been issued including 1,010 for roofs and 601 for emergency repairs from hurricane. Permit applications are being reviewed within 5 days, resubmissions processed in 3-5 days. A new Planner has been hired, to begin March 20. Also a new Code Enforcement Officer starts March 27.

· More beach accesses and the boat ramp opened this week on March 6: Gulfside City Park and Bowman’s Beach reopened. Still no date for Turner or Lighthouse beach accesses to be open.

· Traffic counts on the causeway continue to rise. For several days more than 6,000 vehicles came over.

· Debris pickup now exceeds 2,031,381 cubic yards. Including 1,847,005 by Crowder Gulf and 184,376 from PPDR/CPDR/waterways. Deadline to apply for personal or commercial help through IanDebrisCleanup.com is March 29.

Tuesday also was election day, with four candidates running for two City Council seats. Congratulations to Mayor Holly Smith and Vice Mayor Richard Johnson. Together, they received 79% of the votes.

Events:

· Last night at BIG ARTS was a 2-hour presentation sponsored by the SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future, in collaboration with the City, SCCF, concerned citizens and an alliance of community organizations. Go to The City of Sanibel, Florida Facebook page to watch the video. Really good info, showing Sanibel at its finest.

· Yesterday also was dress rehearsal for the Community Chorus for the BIG ARTS Open House scheduled next week, Wed, March 15. This free event begins at 2:30 p.m. with a movie about the lighthouse. The Community Band performs at 4:15 p.m., followed by Chorus at 5:15 p.m. Leslie Adams in catering. There also will be art exhibits and more. Those attending should be sure and stay for our chorus version of “Sanibel”, previously performed by Crosby Stills & Nash. Real estate photographer, Jim Anderson with JMA Photography, has prepared an island video (pre-storm) that will be played on the big screen when we sing that song. It’s terrific!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Yesterday, the Association of Realtors© had their first Caravan since the storm. With our office building still being restored, it was held informally at Sanibel Deli with just five properties open for viewing.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	65	1,165,867	55	116	1,658,092	53	19	1,179,263	70
Under contract	18	830,716	29	46	1,302,729	40	2	420,000	54
Sold 2023 to 3/10	25	1,060,580	36	66	1,066,996	43	6	1,132,333	111
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,023,166	187	7	6,699,721	205	1	15,500,000	349
Under contract	2	1,207,000	147	1	2,399,000	16	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/10	1	675,000	66	5	3,130,000	55	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 3-10

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Seashells #20 2/2 $469K, Loggerhead Cay #592 2/2 $850K, Pointe Santo #B23 2/2 $949K, Pointe Santo #E6 2/2 $1.75M, Seascape #205 3/3 $2.995M.

3 price changes: Sundial #F203 2/2 now $799K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-3 2/2.5 now $995K, Gulfside Place #117 2/2 now $1.375M.

1 back on market: Gulfside Place #213 3/3 $2.6M.

4 new sales: Sanibel Arms #B7 1/1 listed at $399K, Sunset South #10B 2/2 listed at $600K, Sundial #F403 2/2 listed at $795K, Gulfside Place #319 3/2 listed at $1.495M.

1 closed sale: Heron at The Sanctuary I #3-B 3/2.5 $1.015M.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 $549K, 922 Main St 3/1 $625K, 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 $650K, 1398 Middle Gulf Dr 4/5.5 $1.395M, 2540 Coconut Dr 4/3.5 $1.649M, 1057 Seahawk Ln 3/2.5 $1.65M, 5379 Shearwater Dr 4/3 $2.395M.

7 price changes: 1866 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $560K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $679K, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 now $1.197M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 now $1.595M, 925 Lindgren Blvd 3/1 now $1.595M, 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 now $3.5M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/5.5 now $3.8M.

2 back on market: 658 Donax St 3/2 $795K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.22M.

7 new sales: 1475 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $700K, 1526 Bunting Ln 5/3 listed at $750K, 9438 Moonlight Dr 3/2 listed at $734K, 1477 Albatross Rd 4/3 listed at $735K, 4144 West Gulf Dr 2/2 listed at $949K, 1300 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $1.075M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed at $4.25M.

9 closed sales: 3181 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $660K, 720 Durion Ct 4/3 $875K, 1447 Albatross Rd 3/2 $900K, 6136 Henderson Rd 3/2 $1.05M, 1120 Olga Ave 3/2 $1.375M, 664 Gopher Walk 4/3.5 $1.415M, 4020 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $1.5M, 2324 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 $1.536M, 4781 Tradewinds Dr 3/2 $2M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1746 Windward Way $495K.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 1119 Seagrape Ln $1.2M.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11510 Chapin Ln 2/2 $1.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Already Wrapping Up January 2023 Post-Ian

Posted on January 27, 2023 by SanibelSusan

I apologize for this arriving so late tonight. The SanibelSusan Team has been busy including today when I worked with buyers making their first visit to the island. That turned into a long day, visiting essentially every community and covering what I call my geography tour of Sanibel. Of course, that includes info about lifestyle, utilities, amenities, shopping, health, insurance, living costs, etc.

I was worried not having driven buyers around for some time – with that not happening much during the pandemic – coupled with the island being in such a state of devastation. There was no need to worry, these folks knew about hurricanes and were wonderful. They have not yet decided between homes and condos, plus like many couples, they have some different preferences.

My day began with an early delivery to Superior Title with a closing checklist and contract for a new listing that sold quickly. After that began the geography tour which didn’t finish until dark (6:30-ish, now that the days are getting longer). My spiel on island weather including how most days are warm with bright blue sky sure didn’t fit the forecast today as it was overcast most of the day, barely getting in the 60’s. (I had to wear a jacket with my winter flip flops. That’s twice this winter.)

We stopped at Trader’s for lunch, where it was like old home week. Former Sanibel Mayor & Doc Ford’s owner, Marty Harrity, gave me a thumbs up and a pitch to these folks on how wonderful life is here. One of my BIG ARTs singing pals with her husband and family were at a nearby table and offered info on how great the fishing has been this week. Turns out they also cheer for the same football teams. Then at the table behind us was another Realtor pal who worked on the island for decades before moving north to be closer to grandchildren. It sure was a plus for these prospects to experience how warm and welcoming islanders are. Our small-town appeals to them!

At SanibelSusan Realty

Still no action on our office rebuild, but at my home, son Dave reported that drywall went up today. You can bet that I will be there checking it tomorrow. Hopefully progress will be quicker from here forward, as I moved into what I hope is my last Fort Myers rental this week. Please let it be the last stop before I am back living on island.

Dave spent time yesterday and today with appraisers and inspectors, while I put a condo under contract (in record time) on Tuesday, then on Wednesday posted the home in MLS, that sold Thursday. Those details are after a couple of news items below, plus the action since last Friday in the islands Multiple Listing Service.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Our 2023 local association Installation and Awards Event yesterday included a luncheon at Cielo. It was great to see so many smiling Realtors® again, including leaders from other Associations in our district, including Bonita and Naples. SanibelSusan earned Honor Society status for the 30^th year and though I don’t want to admit to being old, I was the most senior Past President (1999) in the line-up when we performed the “passing of the gavel” ceremony to the 2023 President.

Congratulations to Amanda Curran, owner at Superior Title of Sanibel. (Her company holds our escrow deposits and handles most of our closings.) They are excited to be back on the island in their office in Tree Tops Shopping Center. She received the Association 2022 Affiliate of the Year award.

Sanibel Update

There was no City post-Ian update meeting this week, but Mayor Smith is great about posting news on Facebook. Thanks to her hard work regarding Sanibel mail, two mobile units were transported to the Post Office parking lot midweek. It will take some time for them to become operational, but that delivery in itself is progress in the right direction.

Another City post-Ian progress update is scheduled for Tuesday at 5 p.m. at BIG ARTS Performance Hall. I will follow it on Facebook Live and post recaps on my Facebook pages, as usual.

Food

This week it was announced that Island Pizza is teaming up with Sweet Melissa’s chef for special meals on Thursdays and Fridays beginning next week Feb 2. Sweet Melissa’s Café building, next door to Island Pizza was taken down last week and will eventually be rebuilt.

Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro also announced yesterday that they hope to reopen in 30 days in a new location, at 751 Tarpon Bay Rd, adjacent to Tower Gallery. Their post said they will be open for lunch and dinner starting at noon, with non-stop Happy Hour, on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Out on Captiva, Mucky Duck has reopened, while on Sanibel the Steeler’s flag is a wavin’ at The Great White Grill which also is open.

Island Real Estate

Below is another update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. There were 23 homes listed on Sanibel this week, several including our listing in Lake Murex already are under contract. During the same time five homes came back on the market, and five had price reductions, with some of those selling too. Seventeen Sanibel homes sold and seven home closings occurred.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	33	1,112,633	63	100	1,470,398	47	14	666,928	81
Under contract	20	1,142,115	31	43	1,005,079	23	1	145,000	6
Sold 2023 to 1/27	5	1,068,000	46	17	969,441	47	4	1,318,500	80
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,127,333	174	7	7,279,007	149	1	15,500,000	307
Under contract	2	1,299,500	127	5	2,139,800	8	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 1/27	0	N/A	N/A	2	5,700,000	59	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 20‑27

Sanibel

CONDOS

12 new listings: Seashells #42 2/2 $374K, Sanibel Arms #B7 1/1 $399K, Donax Village #10 2/2 $499K, Sundial #C206 1/1 $599K, Lighthouse Point #217 2/2 $699K, Sunset South #1A 2/2 $714K, Island Beach Club #220F 2/2 $795K, Mariner Pointe #642 2/2 $795K, Sanibel Surfside #122 2/2 $995K, Heron at The Sanctuary III-2A 3/3.5 $1.149M, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-1 3/3 $1.369M, Seascape #106 3/3 $2.975M.

2 price changes: Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 now $624K, Tigua Cay #487 3/3.5 now $2.75M.

5 new sales: Sunset South #10B 2/2 listed at $650K, Sunset South #3D 2/2 listed at $749.9K, Her on The Sanctuary #III-2A 3/3.5 listed at $1.148M, Gulfside Place #121 2/2 listed at $1.425M, Gulfside Place #102 3/3 listed at $2.198M (our sale).

3 closed sales: Lake Palms #3 2/2.5 $525K, Pointe Santo #D3 2/2 $675K, Pine Cove #A 2/2 $1.06M.

HOMES

16 new listings: 3181 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $679.9K, 1859 Farm Trail 3/2 $719.9K, 4752 Rue Helene 2/2 $799K, 1341 Par View Dr 3/2 $799K, 526 Bunting Ln 5/3 $800K, 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 $800K, 591 Boulder Dr 4/3 $879K, 1145 Sabal St 3/4 $995K, 9248 Kincaid Ct 3/2 $1.025M, 1043 Blue Heron Dr 3/3 $1.195M, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.199M, 1018 Demere Ln 4/3 $1.295M, 4628 Rue Belle Mer 3/3 $1.695M, 5271 Indian Ct 4/4 $2.599M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $4.25M, 3941 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $4.25M.

3 price changes: 2623 Tamarind Rd 2/2 now $375K, 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $847K, 1224 Buttonwood Ln 3/2.5 now $1.45M.

5 back on market: Moonshadows #1A 3/3 $949K, 557 East Rocks Dr 4/3 $999K, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 $1.295M, 2885 Wulfert Rd 7/6 $2.499M, 3699 West Gulf Dr 6/4.5.5 $5.695M.

17 new sales: 1413 Sandpiper Cir 2/2 1/2-duplex listed at $649K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 listed at $650K, 3285 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 listed at $699K (our listing), 458 Casa Ybel Rd 1/1.5 listed at $799K, 702 Durion Ct 3/2 listed at $829K, 4208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 listed at $849K, 214 Palm Lake Dr 3/2.5 listed at $849K, 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $859K, 720 Durion Ct 4/3 listed at $899K, 1040 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 listed at $995K, 747 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $999K, 729 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 listed at $999,999, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 listed at $1.1M, 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 listed at $1.125M, 454 Surf Sound Ct 3/2 listed at $1.289M, 1120 Olga Ave 3/2 listed at $1.395M, 2450 Wulfert Rd 3/3 listed at $1.65M.

7 closed sales: 860 Rabbit Rd 2/1 $375K, 1282 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $559K, 4214 Old Banyan Way 3/2.5 $595K, 293 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $662.5K, 954 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $700K, 921 Strangler Fig Ln 3/2.5 $750K, 9094 Mockingbird Dr 4/3.5 $850K.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 new sale: Beach Villas #2235 4/3 listed at $1.899M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

A Delightful 72 Degrees F on Sunny Sanibel 01-06-2023

Posted on January 6, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It’s another Friday. Hard to believe that Hurricane Ian was here over three months ago. Now that the holidays are over, more owners are arriving for the first time. Very sad for many to see in person the level of devastation. Others say it’s not as bad as expected.

Teammate Dave and I continue to meet with them to discuss plans for restoration &/or selling. We have new listings in the works, while we also continue to work with buyers looking to take advantage of the unique situation the post-storm market presents.

On a personal note, I finally got a new main breaker box at my home this week. Fingers crossed that power is restored soon so that my new pool subpanel and pump are installed next. Dave keeps telling me that reconstruction will move more quickly once the electric is on. Meanwhile, he continues to work there plus assist with others needing help. While this weekend I will move for the 6^th time since evacuation. Believe it when I say I now have more patience than pre-storm. It’s the only way!

The below photo was sent to me by blog follower Terry Dempsey from NH. His e-mail said, “We were saddened by what happened during the hurricane and pray for Sanibel to bounce back soon. We have wanted to visit but know with nothing open, we don’t want to get in the way… On New Year’s Eve, we enjoyed the sunset from Bunche Beach, being able to at least enjoy Sanibel Lighthouse from a distance. I wanted to send you these photos to share however you like. I thought it was fitting on the last night of such a tumultuous year, the sun set over the Lighthouse which still stands tall.” (Thank you for sharing, Terry.)

Sanibel Update

Causeway Travel – The causeway opened this week with the islands assessable to anyone, except during curfew which remains 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Travel on/off island during those hours requires resident driver’s license or evidence of the need to be there.

Social media has been loaded with comments from visitors not knowing if they should come and help, either physically or financially to dine/shop, or to stay away and give the islands time to recover. As much as businesses need support, I believe that City leadership provides the best advice. Their Post-Ian Progress Update scheduled for Tuesday night again was canceled. One is scheduled next week, Tuesday Jan 10 at 5 p.m. Meanwhile, no public parking areas and only a handful of restaurants are opened.

Mail – Also the City announced yesterday that the Sanibel Post Office will not be operational until late summer, with pick-up to be continued indefinitely at Jetport Loop which certainly is a long trek for those back living on Sanibel. The Captiva Post Office is open, so an alternative for those folks is to open a post office box there and have their mail forwarded.

Recovery – Debris removal continues, but at a slower pace now. There still are mountains that need to go. Also noticeable is that more condo complexes are getting their grounds cleaned and buildings remediated.

Restaurant News – Saw a notice this week that The Pecking Order Fried Chicken & Pies will reopen this spring in a new location (former home of Rosie’s at 2330 Palm Ridge Rd).

BIG ARTS Community Chorus Resumes – Also received an email this afternoon that our Community Chorus will begin rehearsing next week. This is a non-auditioned choral class open to all singers of all ages and abilities. They will practice Thursday afternoons through Mar 30 with performances at the BIG ARTS Open House on March 15 and on April 4 at the Spring Sing with the Sanibel School. Let me know if you want to join us.

Want to Help With Cleanup?

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge – Refuge Cleanup with a Ranger takes place every Wednesday at 9 a.m. Meet at the Visitor & Education Center parking lot for a safety brief before traveling to the cleanup site of the week.

Participation is limited; preregister on Eventbrite. Video

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Conservation Foundation – SCCF is holding more beach cleanups this month in conjunction with the The City of Sanibel, Florida! Two-hour shifts will be held between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Jan. 10, 11, 17, and 18. Learn more and volunteer here: https://www.signupgenius.com/…/10c0d4dabae2ea7fac43…

SanibelSusan Realty Associates

I checked in with our landlord at Sanibel Square today and he still does not have a timetable for reconstruction and occupancy.

We continue to make our daily treks to the island and didn’t notice a big increase in traffic, until yesterday when the City announced that the Florida DOT contractor constructing the new bridges needed to limit traffic to one-lane from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. I tried going about mid-morning thinking workers already had crossed, but waited in backup that stretched past the outlet malls, up McGregor. Dave was smarter and took his boat. Hopefully these delays will only be occasional, as there is lots of work to be done with material and contractor traffic expected to increase as more reconstruction begins.

Some island rental managers advise that many condo complexes won’t be ready for occupancy until late 2024. It won’t be surprising to see some buildings taken down and others rebuilt to current code. Some owners have asked, what happens to our investment if our building is destroyed? Good question.

We eventually expect to see a wave of condo owners looking to sell, like what is happening now with homeowners, particularly those that are in damaged non-conforming properties.

Below is an update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. Then after a couple of news items is the action posted in the MLS since last Friday.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	22	1,084,495	79	79	1,445,973	52	8	654,625	110
Under contract	13	1,290,061	49	32	1,115,196	15	4	1,459,500	72
Sold 2023 to 1/6	1	585,000	33	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	7	1,237,571	162	7	7,369,150	165	1	15,500,000	285
Under contract	1	700,000	7	6	3,533,000	26	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 1/6	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Five Trends That Will Shape Luxury Real Estate in 2023

Getting out of the hurricane mode for a minute to share this article by Melissa Dittman Tracey from the Jan 3, 2023 issue of REALTOR® Magazine:

“The luxury housing market, like most other real estate sectors, is adjusting to a slowdown. Affordability and home size are every bit as much on wealthy buyers’ minds as other consumers. “The reality is we are coming out of one of the best real estate markets in history,” Gary Gold, a luxury property specialist with Coldwell Banker Realty in Beverly Hills, Calif., notes in the latest Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Trends Report. “But that level of demand and price appreciation wasn’t sustainable.” Nearly 90% of respondents to the Coldwell Banker survey say they believe the real estate market will be better than or the same as 2022 for property investment. The following emerging trends were noted in the report.

“Smaller Homes Offer Greater Appeal – The pandemic-era trend of supersizing a home may be shrinking in popularity. Affluent buyers are embracing smaller properties for their 2nd- or investment-home purchases. Smaller luxury single-family homes between 2,500 and 3,5000 square feet sold nearly 19% faster than larger ones, according to the report. “Now that the pandemic has loosened its grip on lifestyle decisions, the big house may not be as much of a necessity as it was during 2020 and 2021,” the report notes. “Some affluent buyers may not need or want to work from home anymore. Schools are open again, and kids don’t need extra spaces for at-home learning and play. Others may be looking to return to city life, where smaller footprints prevail.” Further, higher home prices may prompt more downsizing, too. Many luxury buyers also tend to purchase in cash, so smaller homes may be appealing for their lower upfront costs.

“Buyer’s Remorse Grows – In the previous homebuying frenzy of the last two years, many buyers had to make hasty purchase decisions to beat the fierce competition. They now may regret their choice: About a quarter of survey respondents who purchased a home in the last two years say they are not satisfied with their property, citing lifestyle changes, property size, remote location, lack of neighborhood amenities or a return to full-time office work. This may prompt more luxury buyers to move. After all, more than two-thirds of survey respondents say current market advantages, like less competition and slowing growth in home prices, may change their minds about buying in the near future. However, some discontented affluent buyers may decide to keep their home and fold it into their real estate portfolio.

“Global Buyers Return – International real estate transactions are back on the rise as foreign buyers eye U.S. housing—and Americans target destinations overseas. About 92% of U.S.-based respondents say they’re considering purchasing a property abroad. A strong U.S. dollar, the rising cost of living and surging home prices are among the top reasons driving interest in real estate overseas. Americans are showing the most desire for properties in Central America, Canada, Mexico, and parts of Asia. (Note: As of Jan. 1, a new Canadian law essentially bans foreign buyers from buying residential properties as investments for two years, with exceptions.) Also, the top international buyers in the U.S. (by dollar volume) are from China ($6.1 billion), Canada ($5.5 billion), India ($3.6 billion) and Mexico ($2.9 billion). Top U.S. destinations for foreign buyers in the U.S. are Florida, California, and Texas….

“Faith in Investments – Over a third of survey respondents believe real estate is the safest long-term investment, ranking higher than stocks and bonds, cryptocurrency, and pensions. They believe real estate as an investment can diversify a portfolio, offer long-term investment, provide financial gains from rental income and serve as an inheritance for their children, according to the survey. “Increasing numbers of the affluent appear to be gravitating toward real estate to create financial, emotional and psychological stability,” the Coldwell Banker report notes. They’re also showing greater optimism about returning to traditional luxury epicenters that have held long-term value (e.g. New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Boston). Further, the report shows, they’re targeting areas that are less likely to be affected by climate change. In the search for greater stability within their portfolios, luxury home buyers are showing demand for second and third homes in multiple locations, eyeing the diversity as a hedge against inflation.

“More Cash Deals – Higher interest rates over the last few months have promoted buyers to seek alternative financing methods. The wealthy are leveraging more cash in real estate transactions. “I think buyers don’t mind taking some money out of the stock market right now and putting it into something more tangible like luxury real estate,” Roger Pettingell of Coldwell Banker Realty in Sarasota and Longboat Key, Fla., writes in the report. Cash transactions are expected to continue increasing. All-cash sales comprised 26% of transactions in November 2022, up from 24% a year earlier, according to NAR data. Besides cash, wealthy buyers are using margin or stock portfolio loans and private bank loans, the report notes.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 30 ‑ Jan 6

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sunset South #4C 2/2 $849K, Kings Crown #208 2/2 $889K, Loggerhead Cay #133 2/2 $999K, By-the-Sea #A102 3/2 $1.325M.

No price changes.

5 new sales: Lighthouse Point #119 2/2 listed at $589K, Sealoft Village #105 2/2 listed at $939K, Gulfside Place #121 2/2 $1.425M, Atrium #104 2/2 listed at $1.75M, Royale Tern #303 3/3.5 listed at $2.495M.

1 closed sale: Sundial #D403 1/1 $585K.

HOMES

11 new listings: 1314 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $779K, 719 Durion Ct 3/2 $789K, 4208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $849K, 460 & 490 Old Trail 3/2.5 $875K, 214 Palm Lake Dr 3/2.5 $889K, 720 Durion Ct 4/3 $949K, 728 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2.5 $1.295M, 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 $1.295M, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 $1.295M, 2450 Wulfert Rd 3/3 $1.65M, 3191 Twin Lakes Ln 4/2.5 $1.793M.

3 back on market: 1925 Roseate Ln 2/2 $599K, 1585 Bunting Ln 3/2 $699K, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 $995K.

8 price changes: 1044 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $699K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $700K, 9094 Mockingbird Dr 4/3.5 now $895K, 1022 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 now $939.9K, 1283 Par View Dr 2/2 now $999K, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1.499M, 2543 Coconut Dr 3/2 now $1.695M, 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/6.5.5 now $3.595M,

5 new sales: 3384 St Kilda Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 listed at $779K, 9094 Mockingbird Dr 4/3.5 listed at $895K, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 listed at $1.1M, 1034 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 listed at $1.349M.

1 closed sale: 749 Cardium St 3/2 $1.1M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 0 Gulf Pines Dr $749K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing (under contract below).

No price changes.

1 new sale: Beach Villas #2617 1/1 listed at $700K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes or closed sales.

1 new sale: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5.5 listed at $4.799M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, fingers crossed that recover speeds up!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It’s Gonna Be a Sunny Warm New Year on Sanibel Island

Posted on December 30, 2022 by SanibelSusan

Another Friday is here and though it now takes longer to make the trek to and from the island and Jetloop to get mail, it has been a sunny couple of days since midweek when SW Florida got back to favored winter temperatures, mid-70- to mid-80-degrees F.

Wearing a sweater and having the heat blasting on Christmas Day was a first in many years. Today, it is back to air conditioning and great to again drive with the sunroof open while checking out restoration progress and seeing summer-like vegetation coming back.

By the way, if like me you think it inconvenient for us to make the hour-long trek to 14080 Jetport Loop for mail, wait until next week, when we also must pay the causeway toll to get back on island. I drive by the Sanibel Post Office every day and have seen no action there in weeks. Let’s email the Postmaster General (Louis.DeJoy@usps.gov) or call (202-268-2550). If Captiva can have their Post Office open, why can’t Sanibel at least have a temporary one? Our wonderful island postal workers undoubtedly also are anxious to be back “on island”. Meanwhile, their smiling faces greet us at Jetport Loop. (This pix taken earlier today.)

Sanibel Update

The City did not have a post-Ian progress update this week, but another is scheduled on Facebook Live Tuesday Jan 3 at 5 p.m.

It sure has been different over the last week not seeing many debris-removal and construction vehicles. Many workers had not been home to see their families in weeks, so it was a much-deserved holiday break for them.

More progress is expected when the causeway reopens on Monday. There still is plenty of debris, with more pushed to the curb as more buildings are demolished. It was sad to see Beachview and Castaways cottages coming down. Often a surprise to pass a lot that now is empty, thinking back to the cute property that was there just days ago.

On the business front, Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen opened this week. I also heard that a couple of other restaurants that lost their locations have found new digs. More on that in the days to come.

At SanibelSusan Realty

At Sanibel Square, debris from other tenants has been brought roadside for removal. Like my home, no start to rebuilding has begun, but we remain hopeful that it will be soon. Meanwhile, new roof installation has begun at many homes. Based on the continual vision of blue tarps, new roofs are coming to many SW Florida properties.

Below is a summary of inventory in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service, followed by the details on activity since last Friday.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	25	1,142,756	75	70	1,527,198	59	10	728,600	114
Under contract	9	1.133,077	56	32	1,084,853	19	4	1,459,500	72
Sold 2022 To-Date	123	1,136,199	44	183	1,600,589	51	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	7	1,237,571	156	7	7,369,150	158	1	15,500,000	279
Under contract	1	700,000	7	6	3,533,000	19	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022 To-Date	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity December 23-30, 2022

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Gulfside Place #201 2/2 $1.425M.

1 price change: Sunset South #10B 2/2 now $650K.

2 new sales: Sundial #G406 ½ listed at $624.9K, Sanctuary Golf Villages #3-PH5 2/2.5 listed at $1.299M.

1 closed sale: Sanctuary Golf Villages #1-4 3/3 $1.45M.

HOMES

6 new listings:3354 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 $699K, 996 Greenwood Ct N 3/3 $779K, 1834 Long Point Ln 3/2 $799,999; 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 $1.1M, 1121 Sabal St 3/2.5 $1.5M, 915 Pecten Ct 6/5 $2.595M.

3 price changes: 1153 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 now $625K, 747 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $999K, 526 N Yachtsman Dr 3/2 now $1.595M.

6 new sales: 860 Rabbit Rd 2/1 listed at $375K, 2623 Tamarind Rd 2/1 listed at $379K, 1977 Roseate Ln 2/2 listed at $549K, 1925 Roseate Ln 2/2 listed at $599K, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $995K, 844 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 listed at $1.349M.

3 closed sales: 677 Durion Ct 3/2 $600K, 1129 Sabal St 2/2 $625K, 1028 Demere Ln 4/2 $929K.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing (under contract below).

No price changes.

1 new sale: Beach Villas #2617 1/1 listed at $700K.

No closed sales.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, wishing you a Happy New Year!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Counting Down to Christmas on Almost-Chilly Sanibel

Posted on December 23, 2022 by SanibelSusan

Time sure is flying on Sanibel where even here it is expected to be a chilly Christmas. Yesterday, following my second trip to the island, it was a surprise to find the causeway fogged in at 5 p.m. During the preceding hour, the temperature dropped from 80 degrees F to 70. Today, the day again began sunny with blue skies mid-70’s. It’s down to mid-60’s now. My phone weather app says it will be only 41 by 8 a.m. tomorrow with chilly weather continuing through Monday. It should be back to mid-70’s by the middle of the week.

I am just back from the island this afternoon and noticed fewer workers today, probably many are taking a long holiday weekend. Recovery progress, however, is evident everywhere. Debris piles are getting fewer/smaller. Earlier in the week, I saw many Comcast/Xfinity trucks about. (Residents who have moved back and rely on the internet advise that isn’t going well.)

I also tried to get my annual pre-Christmas lighthouse photo this afternoon. Roadways there still are closed and it was raining, so I didn’t venture out on the beach. Here is a photo from a couple of Christmases ago, followed by picture from today (it shows new green growth).

Sanibel Update

This week on our island travels, the team and I saw more roofers and construction workers. The weekly post-Ian progress update was part of the Tuesday City Council Meeting. Then, this afternoon the following press release was issued:

“Hurricane Ian Recovery Update

December 23, 2022

STORM RECOVERY INFORMATION

Sanibel Causeway – Eliminating Requirement for Reentry Passes. By consensus, the Sanibel City Council supported the decision to end the requirement for reentry passes on January 2, 2023. The Police checkpoint that has been in place since the causeway reopened to traffic will be deactivated early that morning. However, the City’s curfew will remain in effect between the hours of 9 pm and 6 am daily and the Police checkpoint will be in place during the curfew hours.

The City of Sanibel asks that non-residents respect and understand the fact that Sanibel is still actively working to recover from Hurricane Ian. While the requirement for reentry passes will no longer be necessary on January 2, 2023, we are discouraging visitors at this time and look forward to welcoming back visitors later in our recovery.

Please note the following:

· Beaches and beach parks, including the Sanibel Lighthouse, remain closed – Sanibel is not open to beach visitors and the Mayoral Proclamation, extending Sanibel’s State of Emergency, prohibits non-residents from being on the beach.

· Fishing Pier and Boat Ramp are closed.

· The City’s shared use path (bike path) still has stacked debris waiting for pickup in many places. Nails from debris, that could cause flat tires may exist on the bike path and the City is discouraging people from using it.

· Debris collection from individual lots and the City’s rights-of-way is still ongoing. Trucks collecting debris will interrupt traffic flow at times and may cause travel delays.

· Most businesses are closed.

· There is nothing to see or do – yet.

· Residents/contractors with reentry passes should continue displaying their reentry passes at all times on their vehicle’s dashboard to assist Police.

· During the hours the curfew is in place, vehicles with the following credentials will be allowed through the island checkpoint:

· Sanibel and Captiva residents with a resident reentry pass and a valid driver’s license. The name on the driver’s license must match the name of the person that the reentry pass was issued to.

· Guests of Sanibel and Captiva resorts with a printed reservation confirmation where the name on the reservation matches the name on the person’s driver’s license.

· People driving on Sanibel Island between the hours of 9 pm and 6 am should expect to be stopped by Police patrols to verify residency or resort guest status. All persons leaving the island after 9 pm should expect to be stopped by Police at the causeway checkpoint.

· Residents and business owners who observe any suspicious activity at any time on the island, should report this activity to the Sanibel Police Department immediately by calling 911.

Below is the press release that the City issued earlier, summarizing the Tuesday special City Council meeting. Links to the referenced documents are available at MySanibel.com. Some of this info is a repeat of the above update.

“Summary of Sanibel City Council

Special Meeting – December 20, 2022

The decision to eliminate the reentry pass requirement was made to assist residents, business owners, and the community recover from Hurricane Ian as the following benchmarks established by the City early in the recovery effort have been met:

· ROW Debris – 80% of the debris placed in the City’s right of way has been collected.

· The E. Periwinkle Way Bridge is now open to traffic.

· LCEC has completed pole replacement on main roadways.

· Any increase in traffic will not interfere with FDOT’s causeway construction project.

· Police security is sufficient on the island as other communities continue to send police officers from other jurisdictions to assist Sanibel and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office continues to assist Sanibel by assigning Sheriff Deputies to patrol the island.

The City of Sanibel reminds the general public that Sanibel is still actively working to recover from Hurricane Ian. While the requirement for reentry passes will no longer be necessary on January 2, 2023, we are discouraging visitors. Please note the following:

· Beaches and beach parks, including the Sanibel Lighthouse, remain closed – Sanibel is not open to beach visitors and the Mayoral Proclamation, extending Sanibel’s Local State of Emergency, prohibits non-residents from being on the beach.

· Fishing Pier and Boat Ramp are closed.

· Most businesses are closed.

· There is nothing to see or do – yet.

· Residents/contractors with reentry passes should continue displaying their reentry passes on dashboard to assist Police.

Hurricane Reentry Passes – Ending Distribution on December 23^rd. The City of Sanibel will stop distributing reentry passes tomorrow, December 23, 2022. Residents, contractors, and business owners who may need a reentry pass issued for use during the last week of December (2022) should visit the Fort Myers Regional Library Meeting Rooms located at 1651 Lee St, Ft. Myers, FL 33901, between the hours of 8 am – 1 pm on Friday, December 23, 2022. Residents who have extenuating circumstances that prevented them from obtaining a reentry pass by December 23rd should call 239-472-3700 for assistance.

City Offices and Phone Lines Closed December 26^th and January 2^nd – Sanibel offices, including the Hurricane Reentry Pass distribution center, and phone lines (except for 911 and Police Non-Emergency calls 239-472-3111) will be closed on December 26, 2022, and January 2, 2023, in observance of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Building Fees. The City Council advanced an Ordinance (22-013) relating to Building Fee discounts for residents and contractors using private provider services for building inspections to a Public Hearing and Second Reading at the January 17, 2023, City Council meeting. The Ordinance also adds a provision that allows the waiver of Building Fees by resolution following a natural or man-made disaster….

Temporary Use Fees. The City Council advanced an Ordinance (22-015) relating to Temporary Use Fee discounts for residents and contractors using private provider services for building inspections to a Public Hearing and Second Reading at the January 17, 2023, City Council meeting. The Ordinance also adds a provision that allows the waiver of Temporary Use Fees for the placement of a recreation vehicle or park trailer on a residential lot by Mayoral Proclamation or City Council Resolution following a natural or man-made disaster….

Development Regulations in the Resort Housing District – The City Council advanced an Ordinance (22-017) to update the Resort Housing Development Regulations to a Public Hearing and Second Reading at the January 17, 2023, City Council meeting….

Off-Street Parking Requirements and Land Use Regulations in the Resort Housing District – The City Council advanced an Ordinance (22-019) to amend the Off-Street Parking Requirement and Land Use Regulations in the Resort Housing District to a Public Hearing and Second Reading at the January 17, 2023, City Council meeting….

Finance Department Reports – The City Council received the following quarterly reports from the Finance Department. The Finance Department reports include:

1. General Fund quarterly financial report for 2022 fiscal year to date as of September 30, 2022.

2. Recreation Fund quarterly financial report for 2022 fiscal year to date as of September 30, 2022.

3. Sewer Fund quarterly financial report for 2022 fiscal year to date as of September 30, 2022.

4. Beach Parking Fund quarterly financial report for 2022 fiscal year to date as of September 30, 2022.

5. City of Sanibel fiscal year 2022 quarterly investment report as of September 30, 2022….

Referred Review of Section 126-87 – Combined Residential and Commercial Development, of the Land Development Code to the Planning Commission for Review. City Councilman Mike Miller asked the City Council to refer Section 126-87 – Combined Residential and Commercial Development, of the Land Development Code to the Planning Commission for Review. Councilman Miller believes that Section 126-87(5) should be reviewed to ensure the code does not create a disincentive to develop affordable or below market rate housing units in mixed-use development projects. The City Council approved Councilman Miller’s request.

Dwelling Rental License Renewals – The City Council authorized the Finance Department to prorate Dwelling Rental License renewal fees for 2023 only to assist owners of short-term rental properties in recovering from Hurricane Ian.

Special Event Approvals – The City Council authorized the City Manager to approve Special Events for 2023 only to assist special event organizers in planning and scheduling special events on an expedited time frame due to Hurricane Ian.

Legislative Priorities. The City Council approved the legislative priorities presented by City Manager Souza. The Legislative Priorities presented to the City Council on December 6^th were ranked in order of priority at the request of Sanibel’s Legislative Delegation members….

FUTURE MEETING DATES:

· Monday, January 9, 2023 – Planning Commission – 9:00am at BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Rd., Sanibel

· Tuesday, January 17, 2023 – City Council Regular Meeting – 9:00am at BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Rd., Sanibel”

At SanibelSusan Realty

Still no construction started inside our office at Sanibel Square, but Dave and I continue work on island every day. Construction is underway at my home though, so we may have space to work there first.

Below is the listing activity posted since last Friday on the Sanibel & Captiva Islands MLS. I chatted with several colleagues who like us, are getting mostly calls from owners trying to decide if they are going to sell or restore. Some with property already undergoing remediation and repairs, but many still waiting for adjuster reports, contractor estimates, insurance checks, and/or permits.

It will be interesting to see how activity changes – if it does – in January when reentry passes are no longer needed. Meanwhile, damaged homes continue to dominate the market, while more and more condo complexes are being locked up as their restoration contractors work their way through build-back.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity December 16-23, 2022

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sundial #G406 1/1 $624.9K, Sundial #A303 1/1 $845K, Kings Crown #208 2/2 $889K, Royale Tern #204 3/3.5 $2.695M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Pine Cove #A 2/2 listed at $990K, Sanctuary Golf Villages #4-5 3/3 listed at $1.395M.

3 closed sales: Sanctuary Golf Villages #2-1 2/2.5 $995K, Gulfside Place #205 2/2 $1.245M, Royale Tern #304 3/3.5 $2.745M.

HOMES

16 new listings (3 included in new sales below): 2623 Tamarind Rd 2/1 $379K, 1811 Ibis Ln 2/2 4625K, 775 Pen Shell Dr 3/2 $999K, 1304 Par View Dr 3/3 $890K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer 3/3 $895K, 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 $899K, 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $899K, 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $899K,1040 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 $995K, 3060 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $999K, 844 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 $1.349M, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 $1.749M, 1027 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $1.895M.

7 price changes: 1382 Tahiti Dr 3/2 now $599K, 0126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $750K, 1835 Farm Trail 3/2 now $875K, 9094 Mockingbird Dr 4/3.5 now $895K, 4565 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $1.229M, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 now $1.298M. 869 Limpet Dr 5/4 now $2.895M.

7 new sales: 3008 Singing Wind Dr 2/2 listed at $499K, 1585 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed at $699K, 577 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed at $724.5K, 740 Windlass Way 2/2 listed at $899.9K, 760 Windlass Way 3/3 listed at $1.2M, 1153 Golden Olive Ct 4/2 listed at $1.995M, 791 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 listed at $2.6M.

13 closed sales: 1403 Sandpiper Cir 3/2.5 $449K, 2551 Sanibel Blvd 3/2 $575K, 1585 Serenity Ln 3/2 $610K, 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $635K, 596 Boulder Dr 3/2 $685K, 2186 Egret Cir 3/2 $850K, 1339 Par View Dr 3/2.5 $850K, 520 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $975K, 2474 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5.5 $995K, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 $1.1M, 4172 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.125M, 4670 Rue Bayou 5/4 $1.249M, 888 Limpet Dr 3/2 $1.55M

LOTS

1 new listing (included in new sales below).

No price changes.

2 new sales: 2998 Singing Wind Dr listed at $299K, 9232 Dimmick Dr listed at $399K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Lands End Village #1650 3/3 $2.59M.

No price changes, new sales, or closings.

HOMES

1 new listing (under contract below).

No price changes.

2 new sales: 1106 Tallow Tree Ct 3/3 listed at $1.6M, 11460 Old Lodge Ln 4/3 listed at $2.399M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, wishing you safe peaceful happy holidays & a very Merry Christmas!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sunny Sanibel Recovering from Hurricane Ian

Posted on December 9, 2022 by SanibelSusan

Another Friday already has arrived. Sure seems that these final weeks of the year are passing quickly. I’m again a little delayed in sending this as when I got back from my daily island trip, I found the apartment building where I am renting is without water. This is the 2^nd day in a row. Ugh!

It has been slow going this week on the island, first with FL DOT causeway work sometimes limiting traffic to one lane and often with more debris-removal vehicles on East Gulf Dr which is a heavily traveled route since the Periwinkle bridge still is out. It’s all progress though, so staying patient is key!

With many of you in locations that are snowy, I also must note that although the islands still are in serious recovery-mode, the weather here has been fantastic. High 70’s, low 80’s, bright blue skies all week, with plenty of sunshine. Below is a picture of the Christmas tree that just appeared in front of Lighthouse Café. I think the shell fairies are keeping it stocked with painted shells, if you look carefully, you might see them.

Island Comradery

The Reimagined Sanibel/Captiva Luminary event last Friday night at Bell Tower in Ft Myers was under clear skies and very well attended. Our little group of BIG ARTS Chorus singers were on stage following Mayor Holly Smith’s welcome, so we had a great vantage point to look out into the crowd and see many familiar island faces. The entire evening was a great opportunity for many to reconnect for the first time since the hurricane and to support island businesses.

Sanibel Update

On Tuesday, the City Post-Ian progress update was part of the City Council Meeting held at BIG ARTS, They have offered their performance hall for City meetings while City Hall continues their restoration. A recap of that update is posted on both my business and personal Facebook pages.

I also followed the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and FDEM (Florida Department of Emergency Management) Town Hall also held last night at BIG ARTS last night. It was almost three hours long.

There are mixed feelings on the City decision to open the island to non-entry-pass-holders on January 2. The County previously had announced that causeway tolls would restart on January 1. Some think more debris removal and utility work needs to be complete before the island is reopened. Some are worried about security with many homes not able to be secured yet because of storm damage. May properties have swollen door, damaged locks and garage doors. But, some businesses and Captiva owners are anxious to get back.

With contractor work ramping up and more businesses reopening, the City Manager advises that he continues to confer with the Police Chief and others to monitor the situation. It was announced at the FEMA/FDEM meeting last night that the Governor already has approved extending the time the state will provide mutual-aid officers from other jurisdictions until the end of Jan. (That could be extended further.) I saw new police vehicles on the island today, from Panama City.

Residents are encouraged to call the Police if you see or hear of any suspicious activity. “If you see something, say something.” The 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew remains in effect until further notice

Mortgage Rates

The following “instant reaction” was posted Thurs by Nadia Evancelou, NAR (National Association of Realtors®) Senior Economist & Director of Forecasting:

“Mortgage rates continue to move down. According to Freddie Mac, the rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 6.33% from 6.59% the previous week. Housing affordability rose about 8% in the last 4 weeks as mortgage rates moved closer to 6%. If inflation continues to slow down, mortgage rates may stabilize near 6% in 2023.

“With a 6% mortgage rate, housing will become more affordable to many buyers. While the typical family cannot currently afford to buy a median-priced home as the qualifying income exceeds earned income, housing will become affordable again for Americans if rates hover near 6%. In this scenario, the typical family will earn about $1,000 more than the income needed to purchase a mid-priced home.

“With more buyers back in the market, the housing market may turn around at the beginning of next year.”

At SanibelSusan Realty

Teammate Dave continues to arrive on the island at daybreak nearly every day, while I often don’t get there until late morning. Again this week, we viewed properties for buyers thinking of purchasing and owners considering selling, rather than rebuilding.

On the east-end, the Periwinkle Way bridge did not open Wed as was rescheduled. When I left the island this afternoon, crews were still working, and it was not mentioned at the Town Hall Meeting tonight. It looks to be close to completion though.

It has been encouraging to see more debris being picked up on the Gulf Drives. Crowder Gulf, the City’s hired removal contractor, advises they still expect to have 80% of the debris removed before Christmas. The downside of the removal is now one views the damaged properties themselves. But there is obvious progress every day… just a lot of restoration work to yet come. Rumors are rampant about what may or may not be rebuilt or restored. If you have questions, call us. We certainly are not building experts, but have good resources if you need more help.

I also ran into Paul Zimmerman this afternoon. Paul worked for Sanibel Accommodations decades ago when my husband and I used to rent on the island. He opened his own company back in the mid-90’s, Gulf Beach Properties, where he handles mostly annual rentals, but basically any that are longer than 6 months (or when owners are not required to collect tourism taxes). He said, “If you have anyone thinking of renting, have them call me.”

Below is the week’s action from the island MLS. More damaged homes come on the market daily, many going under contract quickly to investor/developers willing to accept them “as is” with no additional repairs.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 2 – 9, 2022

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sunset South #10B 2/2 $690K, Pelicans Roost #302 2/2 $1.199M, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-5 3/3 $1.395M, Royal Tern #303 3/3.5 $2.495M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Oceans Reach #4B1 1/1 listed at $480K.

1 closed sale: Heron at The Sanctuary Bldg 2 #3A 2/2.5 $900K.

HOMES

11 new listings (4 included in new sales below): 799 Casa Ybel Rd 5/3 (duplex) $698K, 1153 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 $729K, Moonshadows #1A 3/3 $949K, 1224 Buttonwood Ln 3/2 $1.6M, 854 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.65M, 791 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 $2.6M, 869 Limpet Dr 5/4.5 $3.185M.

2 price changes: 1031 Bird Watch Way 3/2 now $895K, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.2M.

10 new sales: 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $675K, 4738 Rue Belle Mer 3/3 listed at $750K, 1429 Jamaica Dr 4/3 listed at $859K, 4747 Rue Belle Mer 4/4 listed at $995K, 440 Glory Cir 3/3 listed at $999K, 520 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed at $1.1M, 4172 West Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $1.2M, 4565 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 listed at $1.259M, 852 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 listed at $1.349M, 2499 Harbour Ln 3/3 listed at $1.529M, 1543 San Carlos Bay Dr 4/4 listed at $1.995M.

5 closed sales: 1874 Ibis Ln 3/2 $485K, 895 Durion Ct 3/2 $600K, 303 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $625K, 952 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $799,222; 9015 Mockingbird Dr 4/3.5 $970K.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

2 new listings (1 included in new sales below): 11460 Old Lodge Ln 4/3 $2.399M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 11539 Wightman Ln 2/2 listed at $1.55M, 16778 Captiva Dr 4/4 listed at $6.95M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This afternoon, I saw the below display while checking a couple of new listings on Limpet Dr. These blow-ups made me think of the island. On one-hand trying to cheerfully celebrate the upcoming holiday and on the other hand kinda tipped over. We’ll be upright soon!.

Until next Friday! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

51 Days Post-Hurricane Ian & Sanibel Remains Strong

Posted on November 18, 2022 by SanibelSusan

It’s another Friday and almost Thanksgiving. Time sure is passing quickly here in Post-Ian hurricane land. I got tied up this afternoon selecting new appliances and then on-island dealing with only one lane of the bridge open, so my apologies that this is a little later than usual. Living in the real world of Ft Myers has its challenges.

On my business and personal Facebook pages are posted recaps of the City’s latest progress update from last night. Those meetings will be changing to weekly (Tuesdays at 5 p.m.) from here forward. Check Facebook for details on the new location (also new location for getting hurricane re-entry passes).

The islands remain limited to access by those with re-entry permits, i.e., residents, their contractors, insurance personnel, and first responders (including debris removal and utility vehicles). At the meeting last night, the City Manager said, though it’s discussed daily, it’s unknown when others may be allowed back on-island, likely not until roadways are safer. Because of all the debris, it is difficult now for both utility and debris-removal vehicles to share the roads.

Island Real Estate

East-end and the Gulf Drives are lined with piles so high some properties are not visible, but the good news is that removal has begun on some of the cul-de-sacs. I was not able to get down South Yachtsman this afternoon as the big trucks had worked their way down to the corner and it was impossible to get past. I bet when the East Periwinkle bridge opens for vehicle traffic after Thanksgiving, East end pickups will accelerate.

Some weeks ago when I said it may take weeks for the debris to be removed, I sadly probably was underestimating. Indications now are that by the first of the year, 80% of the debris will be removed. That too could be an ambitious goal.

At SanibelSusan Realty

This week, Sanibel Square contractors removed the remaining drywall and carpet from the spaces that likely will be restored. That includes our building with Island Therapy, Sanibel Fly Outfitters, the larger building behind us, and the building that houses The Bean. Unfortunately the Ding Darling Nature Store building and Sanibel Beauty Shop are off their foundations. Our landlord is worried that those may not be rebuildable in their current locations.

At our office, teammate Dave was able to salvage a few more of our historical paper files (plus a few Ikki prints) and we hope that experts will be able to retrieve some of the data from our back-up network drive. Meanwhile, I have been setting up new files and recreating documents in my temporary location.

While on the island this week, the team and I viewed properties for several clients wanting to buy and others thinking of selling. Pretty interesting getting into some of them, negotiating around contractor vehicles amid standing water, muck, and mold. Still we are seeing good progress every day.

It was especially positive yesterday to have lunch together at Cielo which just reopened with a limited menu. They had little storm damage, and many workers and residents are flocking there for a semblance of real dining. Their abbreviated menu is available Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., though our waiter mentioned those hours may change next week.

After a couple of new items below, are the changes since last Friday posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Yesterday morning I attended the annual meeting of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®. Thanks to Affiliate member Dave Owens, the meeting was held at his company Midland Trust building at 15671 San Carlos Blvd in Fort Myers.

That also is where our Association offices are temporarily located. It was nice to be back in real contact with colleagues. Our organization is in good financial shape and three new directors were elected.

The building the Realtor® Association owns at 2353 Periwinkle Way suffered significant damage during the storm. Finnimore’s Cycle Shop is our downstairs tenant. Though they received flooding, they already have reopened and are back to repairing bikes if you need any work done.

Upstairs in our Realtor® Association offices, the west-end Board room was destroyed from damage to the side of the building and the roof. Insurance claims have been filed so restoration will begin soon.

Tradition Is Important

This week, a special long-time client who for decades has sent us a live fir wreath from Maine for the holidays, reminded me that tradition is important, when he asked where to send it this year.

It made me think of his comment when I saw a posting today that the annual ‘Tween Waters tree lighting event on Captiva will occur next week after Thanksgiving, just like it does every year. Attendees, of course, must have a reentry pass to get on the island. There should be more details about that posted in the upcoming days. Another step toward normalcy.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity November 11-18, 2022

Again, most of these new listings had damage with those listing agents providing details in the “agent notes” about the property condition. Most are offered “as is”, with no warranty on condition, and looking for “cash” sales. Some others indicate the remediation or repairs that are included in the sale price. Some of the new listings have gone under contract quickly. Listings below are posted based on current status. Four of the new home sales also were new listings this week, some receiving multiple offers.

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Mariner Pointe #533 2/2.5 $699K, Pine Cove #A 2/2 $1.175M, Atrium #104 2/2 $2M.

1 price changes: Tigua Cay #487 3/3.5 now $3,149M.

1 new sale: Sanctuary Golf Villages #1-4 3/3 listed at $1.45M.

1 closed sale: Sundial #C209 1/1 $425K.

HOMES

7 new listings: 2551 Sanibel Blvd 3/2 $575K, 1046 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $875K, 3860 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $935K, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 $1.389M, 215 Robinwood Cir 4/3 $1.498M, 4020 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $1.9M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/4.5 $5.25M.

No price changes.

9 new sales: 1874 Ibis Ln 3/2 $595K, 303 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 listed at $649K, 695 Durion Ct 3/2 listed at $695K, 921 Strangler Fig Ln 3/2.5 listed at $800K, 1339 Par View Dr 3/2.5 listed at $850K, 6065 Dinkins Lake Rd 3/2 listed at $899K, 775 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 listed at $995K, 9015 Mockingbird Ln 4/3.5 listed at $995K, 2324 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.425M.

1 closed sale: 1219 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $700K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 328 Palm Lake Dr $799K.

No price changes, new sales, or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday. Enjoy your Thanksgiving!

P.S. I am not cooking this year. That’s not really a benefit of losing your home, but an interesting change. Thankfully, daughter-in-law Lisa’s brother is hosting. Should be fun to just be an attendee. I hope yours also is fun!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Veterans Day 2022 on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on November 11, 2022 by SanibelSusan

Another Friday! There is island progress – though probably not as quickly as most desire. The mountains of debris from Hurricane Ian seem to be getting higher, though more removal vehicles and staging areas were reported during the City progress briefing Tuesday night. The City contractor handling the removal said that within the next two weeks, every City road will have their first removal pass. Periwinkle Way has already had multiple passes and the Gulf Drives also have had some.

The City briefing scheduled for last night was cancelled because of the Tropical Storm Nicole forecast, but it turned out to be a non-event here. A soaking of the hurricane dust was appreciated though. Next City progress briefing is scheduled at 5 p.m. Tuesday 11/15.

Island Real Estate

The rumor mill has been rampant with reports about various condominium complexes. Many are just now being evaluated by their insurance adjusters and remediation contractors. My advice is to “stay calm”, it never pays to make hasty decisions without confirming facts.

The new City Building Director and Deputy began work this week and their new on-line expedited permitting system is “up and running”.

Many property owners have inquired about contractors and appraisers. I also have received several inquiries from owners wanting to know the value of their property before the storm, compared to now. (Thinking ahead to their 2022 taxes, I guess.) As I told them, a Realtor® opinion of value is not like a certified real estate appraisal. Sure, I can provide what I think a property was worth just before Ian, but I don’t think we will know the repercussions of the storm on actual sale prices for a few more weeks/months.

Based on the new listings that popped on the market this week, those looking to sell for the most part are owners of ground-level homes that were destroyed inside from the flooding and either they don’t want to go through the aggravation of restoration – or they have found they can’t without elevating the property.

After a couple of news items below, are those changes since last Friday posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Our office finally is close to empty. Teammate Dave has worked tirelessly both there and at my home, fighting the mold and emptying the contents. Still no word on when the office remediation will begin, but we are working remotely, easily dealing with inquiries. Thank goodness for the internet!

The contractor at my home has begun work, and today I selected my new cabinetry and countertops. Will be interesting to see how long the whole process takes. I’ve rented another Ft Myers apartment that I move into before Thanksgiving. Thankfully, it’s one where I can stay as long as needed.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

The complex that the local Association of Realtors® owns at 2353 Periwinkle Way also had damage, but Finnimores Cycle Shop, our downstairs tenant, reopened this week. Today, I also saw a crowd of workers emptying inventory at Winds Surf Shop.

Hopefully at our annual Association of Realtors® meeting next week (at their temporary off-island location), we will get an update on when our island facility will reopen.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity November 4 – 11, 2022

Like last week, most of these new listings had damage with those listing agents providing details in the “agent notes” that sales are to be “as is”, with no warranty on condition, and “cash”. The islands remain limited to access by those with re-entry permits, i.e., residents, their contractors, insurance personnel, and first responders (including debris removal and utility vehicles).

Curious lookie-loos are not allowed on-island while debris removal & utility restoration are underway. Police continue to monitor everyone entering and tow trucks leaving the island. You still must have a re-entry pass or local driver’s license with island address to get on.

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, new sales, or closings.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1129 Sabal St 2/2 $649K, 695 Durion Ct 3/2 $695K, 2186 Egret Cir 3/2 $840K, 1565 Bunting Ln 3/2 $950K, 775 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 $995K, 9015 Mockingbird Ln 4/3.5 $995K, 888 Limpet Dr 3/2 $1.65M.

3 back on market: 921 Strangler Fig Ct 3/2.5 $800K, 1031 Bird Watch Way 3/2 $925K, 749 Cardium St 3/2 $1.179M.

2 price changes: 747 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $1.1M, 6126 Henderson Rd 3/2 now $1.3M.

6 new sales: 1403 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 listed at $449K; 677 Durion Ct 3/2 listed at $775K, 952 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 listed at $799,222; 780 Beach Rd 3/2 listed at $985K, 3845 West Gulf Dr 5/6.5 listed at $12M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

2 new listings. 809 Pyrula Ave $699K, 4717 Rue Belle Mer $3.75M.

No price changes, new sales, or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday,

Happy Veterans Day!

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

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