Another Friday is already here with summer showers continuing occasionally, but mostly sunshine and blue skies. Eyes have been on forecasts with Erin barreling up the East Coast and hurricane season heating up. So far, it looks like nothing is on the horizon for Florida. During my drive-arounds Sanibel and Captiva this week, it continues to be great to see clear bright blue water surrounding the islands.

Bay beach end of Seagrape Ln

In the real estate world, now is probably the best time to purchase in all my years here. However, it is important for buyers to recognize that when storms are swirling, they should apply for insurance early as new policies are not written when an area is within a storm cone. We don’t want those to be anywhere nearby this year, but it always pays to be prepared.

A tidbit of good real estate news this week is that I heard from several colleagues that they think business is picking up a little. As slow as it has been, it doesn’t take much to get us excited. Granted more new listings and price reductions are frequently posted, but agents say they are getting more inquiries as summer ends. They haven’t converted to actual buyers yet, but hopefully more interest is a prelude to a busier fall/winter.

Off-Season Announcements

Remember before the pandemic when September was when many businesses and restaurants took a pre-season break for staff vacations, annual cleanings, building improvements, updates, repairs, etc.? It looks like this year will return to that trend. Some announcements this week include:

At The Village Shops – Over Easy Café & On Island – will both be closed September 8-18 to give their amazing teams a well-deserved break after a challenging year (or three).

Sanibel Boat Ramp – The Sanibel Boat Ramp Replacement Project is scheduled to begin on September 8 with the boat ramp expected to be closed for up to 60 days. During that time, the ramp and adjoining dock structures will be unavailable for public use. The project involves the replacement of the existing wooden dock structures, which have reached the end of their service life. To ensure safety and accessibility for boaters, the deteriorating docks will be removed and replaced with new, more durable materials. The concrete boat ramp and walkways will remain in place. While the boat ramp is closed, boaters are encouraged to use the Lee County Punta Rassa Boat Ramp on the mainland adjacent to the Causeway Toll Booth.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors had their August membership meeting yesterday. Guest speaker Tamara Pigott, Executive Director of the Lee County Visitors and Convention Bureau updated attendees on the purpose of that organization and their expectations into 2026.

Like us, the thought is a year without a hurricane will bring back more visitors and increase business. Even so, the tourism industry in Florida is strong now. Second quarter statistics show that a record 34.4 million travelers visited Florida then. Domestic visitors made up 91.5% of the total, overseas visitors 6.7% and Canadians 1.9%. That overseas visitation was up more than 10% over second quarter last year. Indeed, the future looks bright.

Following the membership meeting, a caravan of open houses followed, with three Sanibel homes and a Sanibel condo open for easy viewing. The next Caravan Meeting is September 4.

Six sales have been posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday: four Sanibel condos, one Captiva condo, and a Sanibel 1/2 duplex. Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

On the commercial side, late last Friday, we put our condo listing at Lime Tree Center #2, 1640 Periwinkle Way, under contract, listed at $399K.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Aug 15-22

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sanibel Siesta #207 2/2 $675K.

2 back-on-market: Sundial #J404 2/2 $729K, Sandalfoot #1A2 2/2 $849K.

3 price changes: Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 now $460K, Cottage Colony West #112 1/1 now $499K, Sundial #K103 2/2 now $899K.

4 new sales: Sundial #D206 1/1 listed at $499K, Cottage Colony West #132 1/1 listed at $499K, Pointe Santo #E7 3/2 listed at $1.195M, Sanddollar #B302 3/2 listed at $1.195M.

2 closed sales: Sundial #I202 1/1 $515K, Sundial #A308 2/2 $740K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1585 Bunting Ln 3/2 $699K, 658 Donax St 3/2 $1.095M, 1739 Jewel Box Dr 3/2 $1.1M, 330 Cowry Ct 5/4.5.5 $3,999,999.

4 price changes: 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $675K, 1615 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $769K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 now $869K, 5770 Pine Tree Dr 3/2.5 $1.15M.

1 new sale: Sea Pines #E (1/2 duplex) 3/3 listed at $729K.

1 closed sale: 595 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $759K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 5706 San-Cap Rd $995K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

2 new listings: Beach Villas #2523 1/1 $615K, Beach Villas #2623 1/1 $615K.

1 price change: Tennis Villas #3124 1/1 now $330K.

1 new sale: Bayside Villas #5144 1/2 listed at $545K.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #4110 1/2 $259K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 17030 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 $11.5M.

1 price change 15060 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 now $4.8M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Friday is here and It has been another mixed week of sunshine and raindrops. Roadways have sometimes been a little flooded, but the City has been doing a good job in monitoring those areas.

With local schools back in session, island visitor traffic which was already down is light. Many accommodations are advertising deep discounts for multi-day stays through the end of September. I have heard good reports from many recent visitors, back for the first time since Ian. They offer kudos to the many shop, restaurant, and business owners and their employees who have made their vacations so special. It is not just nature, lifestyle, and ambience, they say, “It’s the great people here that bring island experiences up a notch.”

View from Sundial R401 08-15-2025

Lee County TRIM Notices

Lee County notices of proposed property taxes are usually mailed mid-August so be on the lookout for yours if you own one of the 530,000 parcels the county is required to evaluate every year. The Tax Appraiser’s website is easy to maneuver and describes how the process tax works and how market value is determined each January 1.

The website also is helpful for those looking to buy so they understand how taxes change following a sale. This year the TRIM notices also will include info on how Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton affected the values. If you want to check info about any property in Lee County, go to www.LeePA.org.

Punta Rassa Boat Ramp

Lee County announced the ribbon-cutting for the soft opening of the Punta Rassa Boat Ramp and conclusion of FDOT’s causeway project will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 21, followed by the ramp reopening at noon. The limited amenities then available include the ramp, partial docks, parking, and rest rooms. Work will continue for several months with future improvements to include completed dock access, fish cleaning station, landscaping, and additional lighting.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but next Thursday is our August membership meeting with guest speaker Tamara Pigott, Executive Director of the Lee County Visitors and Convention Bureau. A caravan of open houses will follow.

Seven new sales have been posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday, all on Sanibel – five condos and two homes. On a positive note, there have not been that many condo sales in a single week in a very long time.

Some have asked where the closed sales year-to-date have been? A quick summary of the number of sales by property type and complex community are shown below. Though many complexes/communities have not yet had a closed sale this year, the mix is expanding as restoration continues.

Sanibel Closed Sales as of 8/15/2025

Condos                                     Homes & (Residential Lots)

Complex – # sales                     Community – # sales (lots in parentheses)

Beach Road Villas – 1               Anchors Aweigh – 1

Beachcomber – 1                      Bayside Village – 1

Blind Pass – 4                           Beachview Country Club Estates – 4

By-the-Sea – 1                          Caloosa Shores – 2

Captains Walk – 6                     Castaway Estates – 1

Colonnades – 2                         Cats Paw – 2

Cottage Colony West – 1           Del Sega – 1

Donax Village – 1                      The Dunes – 8

Gulfside Place – 1                     Ferry Landing – 1

Heron at The Sanctuary – 3       Gulf Pines – 4

Island Beach Club – 2               Gulf Ridge – 1

LaPlaya – 1                              Gulf Shores – 3 (1)

Lighthouse Point – 3                  Gumbo Limbo – 8

Loggerhead Cay – 3                  Harbour Cottages – 1

Nutmeg Village – 1                    Island Woods – 2

Oceans Reach – 7                    Jamestown Beachview – 1

Pointe Santo – 1                       Kiinzie Island – 1

Sandalfoot – 2                           Lagoon Estates – 1

Sandpebble – 1                         Lake Murex – 1

Sandpiper Beach – 3                 Lane-Cochran – 1

Sandpiper West – 1                   Leisure Acres – 1

Sanibel Inn – 1                          Little Lake Murex – 1

Sanibel Moorings – 1                 Metes & Bounds – 9

Sanibel Surfside – 1                  Palm Lake – 1

Sayana – 1                               Richardsons – 1

Seascape – 2                            Rocks East – 3

Somerset – 2                            Rocks West – 2

Sundial East – 3                        Sabal Sands – 1

Sundial West – 5                       The Sanctuary – 5

Sunset South – 1                      Sanibel Bayous – 2

Tanglewood – 1                        Sanibel Estates – 6 (1)

Sanibel Highlands – 3

Sanibel Lake Estates – 2

Sanibel Pines – 1

Sanibel River Estates – 1

Sanibel Shores – 2

Sanibel Woodlands – 1

Sea Gate – 2

Sea Oats – 7

Seagull Estates – 3

Shell Harbor – 6

Tradewinds – (1)

Water Shadows – 1

Whisperwood Cove – 2

White Heron – 1 (1)

Wilcox – 1

Woodring – 1

For those that ask if the market is improving. Truth is there are opportunities and price reductions continue. Adjustments make sense. Price changes are not red flags but rather an indication on how the market is moving. Sellers willing to negotiate may win. Waiting for the perfect buyer when there is so much inventory could take time.

A local banker asked me just yesterday if the market is still terrible. That depends on your position. Savy buyers are benefiting, but for Sanibel sellers, today, at year-to-date rate of sales, there are 15 months of condo inventory, 10 months of homes, and seven years of residential lots. On Captiva, there are 32 months of condo inventory, 39 months of homes, and no residential lot sales since 2021. Overall inventory will increase as winter gets closer and recovery continues, hopefully that also brings more buyers.

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Aug 8-15

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Shell Island Beach Club #7B 2/2 now $899K (SanibelSusan listing).

At Shell Island Beach Club

5 new sales: Cottage Colony West #102 1/1 listed at $469.5K, Sandpebble #4A 2/2 listed at $495K, Sundial #J404 2/2 listed at $729K, Kings Crown #308 2/2 listed at $799K, Sandalfoot #1A2 2/2 listed at $849K.

1 closed sale: Blind Pass #D105 2/2 $500K.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 5770 Pine Tree Dr 3/2.5 $1.2M.

4 price changes: 837 Casa Ybel Rd (duplex) 2/2 now $465K, 9056 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $1.595M, 1537 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 now $1.7M, 2190 Camino del Mar Dr 4/3.5 now $2.495M.

2 new sales: 1637 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 listed at $949K, 5300 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 listed at $997,555.

2 closed sales: 980 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $780K, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 $1.05M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3111 1/1 $375K.

1 price change: Sunset Captiva #104 2/2 now $1.375M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 27 Urchin Ct 2/2.5 $899K.

1 price change: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 now $1.25M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It is another sunshiny Friday on Sanibel. There was a quick shower this morning, but with little rain this week and temperatures cooler than much of the nation, it was interesting to see a post yesterday by Matt DeVitt of Wink Weather that said:

“NUMBER OF DAYS AT 100 degrees F – Despite Florida’s hot reputation, you may be surprised to find out it rarely hits air temps of 100 degrees for most of the state. The reason? Water surrounding the peninsula and high humidity, which on the flip side increases how it feels! Humid air takes a lot more energy to heat up than dry air. Below features the number of days each location has reached 100 degrees since 1895.”

Demolition, Restoration, & Rebuilding Continue

Progress continues throughout the islands with more ribbon cuttings as businesses reopen, plus more new landscaping, building, rebuilding, elevating, and demolition. Below are some noticed in my drive-arounds.

Donax Village – Davie Shoring posted that on Monday, August 4 at 11 a.m., they will be elevating the 11 homes at Donax Village, including duplexes and cottages, up 11 feet. The public is invited to attend with Sanibel Mayor Mike Miller flipping the first switch to elevate.

Sunset Beach Resort – was demolished this week. At 3287 West Gulf Dr just before Lantana condominiums, some may remember Sunset Beach Resort previously was a Best Western, and before that, the Jolly Roger hotel.

Beachview Resort – on the other side of Lantana, at the former site of Beachview Cottages, 3325 West Gulf Dr, new construction continues. It is high and big.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but there were nine new sales posted in the SanCap MLS: three homes on Captiva, three Sanibel condos, two Sanibel homes, and a Captiva condo. Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jul 25-Aug 1

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Pointe Santo #D41 2/2 $1.1M.

3 price changes: Ibis at The Sanctuary #B302 2/2 now $729K, Loggerhead Cay #303 2/2 now $849K, Sedgemoor #102 3/3.5 now $4.25M.

3 new sales: Sundial #H402 2/2 listed at $719.9K, Sundial #A308 2/2 listed at $799K, Shell Island Beach Club #5D 2/2 listed at $899K.

1 closed sale: Captains Walk #F7 2/1.5 $310K.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1637 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 $949K, 918 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 $1.625M.

3 price changes: 1550 Centre St 3/2 now $890K, 2755 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 now $1.328M, 941 Pecten Ct 3/2 now $1.495M.

2 new sales: 595 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed at $789.9K, 218 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.245M.

5 closed sales: 662 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $600K, 9436 Kava Ct 2/2 $670K, 1111 Schooner Pl 3/3 $1.15M, 2364 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $1.548M, 1158 Golden Olive Ct 5/5.5 $2.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 now $490K, Tennis Villas #3233 2/2 now $625K.

1 new sale: Bayside Villas #4110 1/2 listed at $325K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 1 Sunset Captiva Ln 2/2.5 now $4.295M.

3 new sales: 27 Urchin Ct 2/2.5 listed at $1.175M, 33 Urchin Ct 2/2 listed at $1.495M, 11525 Laika Ln 4/2.5.5 listed at $1.599M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

The islands are settling into their more typical summer weather routine, with usually short afternoon or evening showers. Today there also was morning rain, sometimes overcast, and another thunderstorm expected later.

Lee County Mosquito Control has been flying at night when it is storm-free and doing a good job in keeping the skeeters under control. They are scheduled to be out again tonight.

Watching the national news reporting incredibly hot weather north and up the coast, it was no surprise when Dave called yesterday. He was on his way to a weekend reunion in Virginia and reported that his truck only reported temperatures over 100-degrees F when he got out of Florida. At my home, daytime temperatures consistently have been low- to mid-80’s, though occasionally my car registers 90+ when off-island.

For those looking to enjoy a Florida visit, I hear that there are plenty of vacancies for the holiday weekend. Even with recent rains, bright clear teal waters still surround the islands with good feedback from beachgoers, shellers, and fishermen, particularly when it is breezy.

SCCF photo

Looking Forward to July 4^th 2025

The islands continue to post announcements about upcoming holiday festivities. Sanibel July 4^th events are expanded to also celebrate the City’s 50^th anniversary and run the gamut from the morning parade to noon road rally/scavenger hunt, then evening fireworks.

There are plenty of celebrations in-between too, from the pancake breakfast at The Community Church, to post-parade fun at Jerry Shopping Center and the Rec Center.

South Seas Resort on Captiva usually has their own private holiday events, but the next day, on July 5^th, they with have a celebration at their new/renovated retail shops with an open-to-the-public “Sip & Shop” from 1 to 3 p.m. These shops at 14830 Captiva Drive include J. McLaughlin (men’s & women’s clothing), Outfitters (sporting gear & island apparel), Provisions (gourmet market & deli), South Seas Spirits, plus Starbucks. In addition to goodies, treats, food and drink samples, there will be live music, and face painting.

Re-openings/Restoration

The Bubble Room – announced yesterday that after nearly three years of restoration, they will be reopening on Monday July 14. Lunch will be served there from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 to 9 p.m. No reservations initially, just walk-ins.

SanCap Chamber of Commerce – this week marked their 100^th ribbon-cutting since the storms at VCA Sanibel Animal Hospital at 1509 Periwinkle Way.

Villa Sanibel – condos at 2321 West Gulf Dr just announced that their units will officially reopen on July 1 after 1002 days of recovery.

Village Shops on Sanibel – had some new tenants move in and already reopen. Most previously were at the shopping center at the end of Tarpon Bay Rd. Now in their new location at 2340 Periwinkle Way are J Rod’s, On Island, and Suncatcher’s Dream. Opening soon is the Over Easy Café. A new boutique, Island Pearl, also has opened at the Village Shops.

Florida Condo Rider

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed a bill with changes to section 718.403, Florida Statutes, of the Florida Condominium Act. As a result, Florida Realtors legal team is hosting a webinar this coming Monday afternoon to discuss the updates to the Florida sales contract Condo Rider, as well as other statutory changes. The bill goes into effect July 1. SanibelSusan is registered to attend. More details on that next week.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The June membership meeting of the islands Association of Realtors was yesterday with guest speaker Brighton Heard, the new General Manager of CEPD (Captiva Erosion Protection District). He spoke to attendees on the process of beach renourishment, dune restoration, and resiliency planning to mitigate the impacts of storms and sea-level rise. Following the meeting, seven Sanibel homes and a Sanibel condo were open for easy Caravan viewing.

This week, there were just four new sales posted in MLS: all residential on Sanibel: a condo and three homes.

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sandalfoot #1B3 2/2 $599K.

3 price changes: Sundial #I101 1/1 now $484.9K, Tantara #202 2/2 now $749K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 now $799K.

1 new sale: Captains Walk #F1 2/1.5 listed at $364,999.

2 closed sales: Sandpebble #3E 2/2 $425K, Sandpiper Beach #103 2/2 $675K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1043 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 6120 Henderson Rd 3/2.5 $1.65M, 1537 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 $1.8M, 500 Kinzie Island Ct 3/3 $1.995M.

11 price changes: 490 Marian Rd 2/2 now $749K, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.099M, 1825 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $1,149,900; 3008 Turtle Gait Ln 3/2 now $1.325M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $1.595M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.65M. 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.744M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.85M, 1321 Eagle Run Dr 3/3.5 now $1.898M, 6450 Pine Ave 3/3 now $2.295M, 970 Victoria Way 3/3.5 now $2.4M.

3 new sales: 720 Elinor Way 3/2 listed at $1.149M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 listed at $1,990,900; 4318 West Gulf Dr 3/4.5 listed at $2.995M.

6 closed sales: 9003 Mockingbird Dr 5/4 $665K, 235 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $710K, 9067 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $855K, 1590 Century Ct 3/3 $1.325M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 $1.5M, 9113 Mockingbird Dr 3/3.5 $1.88M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3119 1/1 $410K.

1 price change: Lands End Village #1602 3/2 now $2.95M.

No 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 in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend & get your red, white, & blue ready!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Friday is here and this one is the longest day of the year and the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Here on sunny Sanibel, though June is recognized, we enjoy summer-like weather year-‘round.

As recovery continues with plenty of new construction plus more raising of homes, the islands are gearing up for the July 4^th festivities and summer visitors.

The Sanibel Marina this afternoon with the clouds rolling in.

The City (of Sanibel) also announced that vegetation trimming will continue this Sunday (June 22) from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Periwinkle Way from Causeway Blvd to Tarpon Bay Rd. Weather permitting, this will include both sides of the road including the shared use path.

Clean-up of the Gulf Dr roadway swales also continues with new sod going down in some areas where landscaping was disturbed.

Despite Unusual Session, Realtor Successes Shine Through

Posted this week on FloridaRealtors.org: “A look at how Florida Realtors helped shape legislation to benefit consumers and the state’s real estate industry during the 2025 Legislative Session.

“Late in the evening on June 16, the Florida Legislature declared Sine Die, officially ending the 2025 Legislative Session that began on March 4. Legislative leaders had extended session past its expected May 2 end date to work through budget differences that existed between both chambers. Numerous legislative victories were achieved during the extended 105-day lawmaking period that will benefit the profession, property owners and communities throughout Florida. Significant legislative victories include:

• Total elimination of Florida’s Business Rent Tax (BRT)
• $50 million for the Hometown Heroes Housing Program
• $310 million in new and unused funds to help Floridians harden their homes and condominiums
• $385 million for state and local affordable housing programs
• $1.5 billion for water quality and restoration projects
• Bringing additional transparency to transactions involving condominium units.
• Protecting the private property rights of commercial building and short-term rental owners dealing with squatters.
• Preserving and protecting the natural wonders of our state parks.
• Eliminating the negative consequences of lookback periods.
• Increasing the transparency of flood risk for long-term renters, as well as purchasers of condominiums, cooperatives and mobile home park lots.
• Helping landlords and tenants communicate through optional electronic notices.

These wins are in addition to numerous other laws passed by lawmakers that impact Realtors and their businesses. Bills passed head to the governor for final approval.

2025 Realtor Priority Wins

Elimination of Florida’s Business Rent Tax (BRT): HB 7031 includes a complete elimination of the BRT which represents an additional $900 million in tax relief for businesses throughout Florida. This elimination includes both the state sales tax rate, as well as the discretionary sales surtax that counties can levy on commercial leases. Effective: October 1, 2025.

More Money for the Hometown Heroes Housing Program: Senate Bill 2500 (the state budget), injects an additional $50 million into the Hometown Heroes Housing Program (HHHP), the state’s popular first-time homebuyer program for hard-working Floridians. Please note that certain occupation restrictions have been added to this funding. More information to come. Effective: July 1, 2025.

My Safe Florida Home Program Gets More Funding: Senate Bill 2500 includes $280 million in new funding for the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program. The My Safe Florida Condominium (MSFC) program had last year’s funding of $30 million reappropriated so previously approved grant applicants can receive their money. Both of these programs help Floridians protect their homes against storms and reduce their insurance premiums. More information on the availability of this funding will be available soon.

$385 Million for State and Local Affordable Housing Programs: Senate Bill 2500 allocates $385 million to the State and Local Government Housing Trust Funds. This includes $163.8 million for the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) for downpayment and closing cost assistance programs, and $221.2 million for the State Apartment Incentive Loan program (SAIL) which helps build affordable rental housing. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Over $1.5 Billion for the Everglades and Water Quality: The Florida Legislature continues to allocate significant funding for projects that improve Florida’s water. Senate Bill 2500 includes money for Everglades restoration ($546 million), Water Quality grants ($400 million) Flood/Sea level rise ($150 million) the C-51 Reservoir ($60 million), Biscayne Bay ($20 million), the Indian River Lagoon ($102 million), total maximum daily loads ($25 million), Resilient Florida Grant Program ($20 million), Land Acquisition and Restoration Trust Fund ($150 million), and Alternative Water Supply ($50 million). Effective: July 1, 2025.

Additional Transparency in Condominium Transactions: HB 913 is intended to ensure a smooth transition to safer buildings and increased financial health. One provision in the bill is a Realtor priority designed to improve street address transparency – condominium associations would be required to include approved BOD meeting minutes for the preceding 12 months on their website. This will help prospective purchasers learn of special assessments that have not yet been formally adopted. The bill also extends a buyer’s right to cancel the contract to seven days after receipt of the governing documents. This increased transparency will help reduce post-closing litigation. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Limiting Negative Consequences of Lookback Periods: SB 180 requires cities and counties to have a webpage dedicated to a hurricane and storm recovery permitting guide for residential and commercial property owners. This guide must include elevation quality requirements following substantial damage and substantial improvement in accordance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The bill also prohibits local governments participating in the NFIP from adopting or enforcing lookback periods. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Preserve and Protect Florida’s State Parks: HB 209 updates Florida’s management of state lands by prioritizing conservation-based recreational use, restricting environmentally harmful construction in state parks, and permitting camping cabins only if they do not harm natural resources. Also establishes new timelines for public hearings. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Helping Vacation Rental Owners Remove Squatters: SB 606 would make it easier for public lodging establishment operators (hotels and vacation rental owners) to remove problem guests by clarifying when a stay is temporary, setting clear removal rules, and allowing police to arrest guests who refuse to leave. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Speeding Up the Removal of Squatters from Commercial Properties: SB 322 helps commercial property owners remove illegal squatters more easily by letting owners file complaints with the sheriff, allowing immediate evictions, increasing penalties for property damage, and preventing fake property listings. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Making it Easier for Landlords And Tenants to Communicate: HB 615 allows landlords and tenants to send notices electronically via email if both parties agree through an addendum to the rental agreement. This agreement may be revoked at any time by either party with written notice. Notices are considered delivered when sent unless they are returned as undeliverable. The bill requires the sender to maintain a copy of the electronically sent notice and evidence of its transmission. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Increasing Transparency of Flood Risk: SB 948 requires landlords to provide the existing seller flood disclosure to tenants at or before they sign a lease for one year or longer. Condominium developers, cooperative developers, and mobile home park owners will also be required to provide the disclosure to prospective purchasers. This disclosure will help renters and buyers make more informed decisions about a property and reduce the number of legal disputes that occur. Effective October 1, 2025….”

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but a few new residential sales were posted in MLS: a condo and six homes on Sanibel, plus two Captiva condos.

Today, there was a baby shower for our CEO Bill Robinson and his wife Elizabeth. They are expecting their first, it’s a boy!

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jun 13-20

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Captains Walk #D1 2/1 $350K, Blind Pass #E109 2/2 $450K, Sayana #102 2/2 $949K, Sanibel Arms West #C6 2/2 $1.15M.

9 price changes: Sanibel Moorings #212 1/1 now $475K, Spanish Cay #B3 2/2 now $499K, Lake Palms #5 2/2.5 now $499,999; Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 now $502K, Sanibel Moorings #232 2/2 now $675K, Blind Pass #G102 2/2 now $695K, Sundial #H402 2/2 now $719.9K. Shell Island Beach Club #5D 2/2 now $899K, Sundial #N301 2/2 now $1.195M.

1 new sale: Blind Pass #D105 2/2 listed at $499,999.

1 closed sale: Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 $900K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1672 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/1 $455K. 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $675K, 1043 Blue Heron Dr 2/3 $919K, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.35M.

4 price changes: 773 Cardium St 2/2 now $825K, 926 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 now $1.299M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 now $1.465M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.745M.

6 new sales: 662 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed at $625K, 9436 Kava Ct 2/2 listed at $694K, 980 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 listed at $799K, 1111 Schooner Pl 3/3 listed at $1.395M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 listed at $1.797M, 461 Lake Murex Cir 4/3.5 listed at $2.225M.

6 closed sales: 1027 Bird Watch Way 3/2 $750K, 459 Lagoon Dr 2/2.5 $950K, 5855 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $1.26M, 544 Sea Oats Dr 4/4 $1.325M, 483 Sea Walk Ct 4/3 $1.865M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $4.15M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 554 Lake Murex Cir $850K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer $1.2M.

No price changes, new, or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3126 1/1 $309K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Bayside Villas #5112 1/2 listed at $295K, Bayside Villas #5208 1/2 listed at $400K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5.5 now $3.999M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Buttonwood Ln bayside 6/12/2025

It is another sunny Sanibel Friday, hopefully a lucky Friday the 13^th and happy start to the weekend, especially for those celebrating Fathers’ Day.

I admit I was wrong last week saying the gorgeous color of the water around the islands was done with the onset of the rainy season. After beautiful weather last Friday, more sunshine continued right through the weekend until late Wed on Sanibel with blue skies every day.

It was especially appreciated Tuesday when the SanibelSusan Team showed seven homes. We finished up in The Dunes stopping at their restaurant for a late lunch. It had been a couple of hurricanes ago since I had been there, so it was great to see that the décor, service, chow, and view still are wonderful. (A tropical chicken salad is a new menu addition and fabulous!)

On the Causeway heading to Sanibel 6/11/2025 5 p.m.

Late Wednesday, after some off-island chores, I was on the causeway heading home about 5 p.m. when a huge black cloud followed. The ominous black sky to the east, bright turquoise bay water, and sunshine to the west were an unusual color-combination and so striking that it was almost eerie. The colors were amazing, and I made it home before a soft rain began.

Yesterday also was sunny, until mid-afternoon when the clouds again rolled across the causeway late afternoon and thunder boomed in the distance. The island has had just enough rain this week that there was no need to add pool water and vegetation is growing like crazy, while Dave reports they have had daily showers, sometimes heavy, just off-island

The Sanibel forecast shows only 15-20% chance of rain next week, so maybe the brilliant water will stay around a bit longer.

Captivaville Songwriters Weekend

The Seventh Annual Captivaville Songwriters Weekend begins today and runs through Sunday at ‘Tween Waters Inn and Marina. It is Captiva’s largest music festival and features local singer-songwriters. Performances are scheduled with kick-off party from 5:15 to 8 p.m. tonight, poolside tomorrow from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday brunch in The Shipyard restaurant beginning at 11 a.m. Attendees need to purchase either a day-pass or have a room reservation. Call 239-472-5161 Ext 1 for more info.

Star Spangled Sanibel

Things are getting back to normal with the best July 4^th planned this year to also celebrate the City’s 50^th Anniversary. Below is a line-up of events to far:

• 4^th of July Pancake Breakfast – 7 to 9 a.m. at Sanibel Community Church.
• Independence Day Parade – begins at 9:30 a.m. on Tarpon Bay Rd where Island Inn Rd intersects, then up Periwinkle Way to Casa Ybel Rd.
• July 4^th Celebration at Jerry’s – at the shopping center, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Red, White, & 50-Years Bright Community Celebration – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Recreation Center.
• 45^th Annual Friends-of-Randy Road Rally – vehicle scavenger hunt begins at noon at The Timbers parking lot. This year it benefits C.R.O.W. (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife).
• 4^th of July Dinner at The Dunes With Danny Morgan – 6 to 10 p.m.
• Fireworks – 9 p.m. weather permitting from north end of Bailey Rd into bay.

Sanibel Vegetation Trimming

This Sunday, June 15 from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sanibel Public Works advises that the vegetation from Periwinkle Way will be trimmed from Casa Ybel Rd to Tarpon Bay Rd. Traffic may sometimes be reduced to one-lane. Roadsides then will be parade ready!

Condo-Tel Rates

Loan rates often are not the greatest for investors looking to purchase a condo-tel. Those units are in a building that is legally a condominium but operated as a hotel, offering short-term rentals, and maintaining a front desk. There are several of those on Sanibel including Sundial, Oceans Reach, Sandalfoot, etc. and many at South Seas Resort on Captiva.

I heard from one of our long-time local bankers this week. He handled the loan for the first property I purchased on Sanibel. He is with a portfolio mortgage lender which is funding non-warrantable condo-tel loans with just a 15% down payment and no PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance). They offer a 7-year ARM at 7.5% (3.375 points) and 10-year ARM at 7.625% with no points. These are available for both foreign and domestic 2^nd home buyers and investors, up to $3M loan amount for a purchase or re-finance.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Yesterday, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors had their first Caravan meeting in several weeks. It was open to any location, either island. Only seven Sanibel homes were open for viewing after the meeting. The next meeting is in two weeks on June 26. That is also our monthly membership meeting with guest speaker from CEPD (Captiva Erosion Protection District).

Below, with data from the island MLS are the details of the MLS action reported this week.

There were just four new residential sales posted in MLS this week, all on Sanibel: a gulf-front condo and three homes.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jun 6-13

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Sand Pointe #122 2/2 $699K, Sundial #J304 2/2 $899K.

1 price change: Sanibel Arms #A7 1/1 now $369K.

1 new sale: Sundial #L404 2/2 listed at $1.6M.

2 closed sales: Beach Road Villas #103 2/2 $549K, Loggerhead Cay #184 2/2 $845K.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1839 Farm Tr 3/2 $799K, 771 Rabbit Rd 2/2 (1/2 duplex) $849K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 $879K, 1550 Center St 3/2 $900K, 1226 Par View Dr 3/2 $995K, 513 Lighthouse Way 3/3 $2.699M.

2 back-on-market: 654 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $985K, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $4.9M.

9 price changes: 220 Hurricane Ln 2/2 now $499K, 2126 Egret Cir 3/2 now $799K, 3314 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 now $899K, 9439 Cotton Ct 4/4.5 now $1.089M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.199M, 3008 Turtle Gait Ln 3/2 now $1.399M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.746M, 2287 Starfish Ln 4/4 now $2,199,999; 461 Lake Murex Cir 4/3.5 now $2.225M.

3 new sales: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed at $499,999; 5089 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed at $798K, 1158 Golden Olive Ct 5/5.5 listed at $2.995M.

5 closed sales: 1660 Bunting Ln 4/3.5 $1.1M, 1672 Hibiscus Dr 4/4.5 $1.25M, 1870 Woodring Rd 3/3.5 $2.35M, 4352 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 $2.675M, 2307 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $3M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1030 White Ibis Dr $629K.

1 price change: 2438 Wulfert Rd now $399K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #5144 1/2 $545K.

4 price changes: Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 now $495K, Bayside Villas #4118 1/2 now $495K, Beach Villas #2323 1/1 now $645K, Gulf Beach Villas #2122 2/2 now $1.85M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #5124 1/2 $285K.

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 in or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan