Here it is another Friday – and hopefully a lucky Fri-YaY the 13^th for you and yours.

On the islands, it again was mostly sunshine and warm weather until Wednesday night when a shower heralded an overcast cooler Thursday. Today, it is sunny and in the high 70’s (degrees F), but forecasters say temperatures may change even more tomorrow (Saturday, November 14) when a quick cold front passes through Florida. Highs here are only expected to reach 69 degrees but should be back into high 70’s Sunday and low 80’s by Monday.

Time to get out the winter flip flops – but just for one day! It should be back to warm and sunny next week.

Boosting Beach Recovery – Sanibel Enters Final Phase of Dune Planting

City photo

On Monday, the City began the final component of its post-Hurricane Ian beach recovery project. With funding from Florida DEP (Department of Environmental Protection), Sanibel is implementing this island-wide dune planting project to strengthen the beaches and dunes while providing erosion control. Native low-growing dune vegetation is being installed in a 15’-wide strip along the Gulf edge of the existing dune vegetation line. The species added include sea oats, bitter panic grass, railroad vine, sea purslane, seacoast marsh elder, and seashore paspalum. These were chosen as they are building blocks of dune systems and the most cost-effective nature-based solution for protecting beachfront properties. For more info, contact the project manager at Joel.Caouette@MySanibel.com.

Lee Health to Relocate & Expand Sanibel Primary Care Clinic

For decades Lee Health provided health care services in part of the Bank of the Islands building at 1699 Periwinkle Way. In 2022, it moved to Palm Ridge Road where it has just two exam rooms and one physician. Now it has been announced that Lee Health has a new lease back at the bank building and will be moving there, expanding services with six exam rooms and three physicians. Construction is underway with a spring opening expected. This is great news for islanders, with this additional health service being more convenient for many, eliminating driving off-island. The bank will continue their operations there too.

National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2026 Convention/Annual Meeting

 At NAR’s annual meeting on Sunday in New Orleans, it was special to have three Florida Realtors Past Presidents installed to continue their leadership roles at the national level.

I am grateful for friendships with these gals for many years. Was appointed by them to state committees and worked with and for them many times.

They are the dedicated professionals, truly the best! Congratulations to:

• Christine Hansen (from Fort Lauderdale), 2027 NAR President
• Patti Fitzgerald (from Jupiter), 2027/2028 NAR Treasurer
• Gia Arvin (from Gainesville), 2027 NAR Region 5 Vice President (Region 5 represents associations & members in the southeastern U.S. & Caribbean (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, & U.S. Virgin Islands).

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

At the local Open Caravan Meeting yesterday at the Association Office, attendees heard from guest speaker CHR (Community Housing & Resources) Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale. Following the meeting, five Sanibel properties were open for easy viewing (four homes and a condo).

Next Thursday is the monthly Membership Meeting with guest speaker Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of F.I.S.H of Sanibel & Captiva. Another Open Caravan will follow.

Island Real Estate Scoop.

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday, there have been five new residential sales: two Sanibel homes, two Sanibe condos, and a Captiva home.

During the same time, there were 15 new residential listings (five Sanibel homes, five Sanibel condos, three Captiva homes, and two Captiva condos) and 18 price changes.

Below with data from the island MS 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 Nov 6-13

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #1441 1/1 $549K, Loggerhead Cay #452 2/2 $699K, Pointe Santo #A26 2/2 $1.175M, Sanibel Surfside #111 2/2 $1.35M, Sanddollar #C201 2/2 $1.55M.

6 price changes: Spanish Cay #A5 2/2 now $325K, Sanibel Moorings #212 1/1 now $410K, Beach Road Villas #104 2/2 now $510K, Sundial #F105 1/1 now $529K, Sandpiper Beach #401 2/2 now $825K, Coquina Beach #2C 2/2 now $991K.

2 new sales: Pointe Santo #A26 2/2 listed at $1.175M, St Croix #4 2/2 listed at $1.45M.

1 closed sale; Heron at The Sanctuary #2-2B 3/3,5 /$975K.

HOMES

5 new listings: 498 East Lake Rd 3/2.5 $1.175M, 1666 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.275M, 950 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/2 $1.499M, 852 Birdie View Pt 4/3 $2.095M, 2325 Wulfert Rd 5/6 $2.45M.

10 price changes: 4631 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $649K, 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $725K, 1550 Centre St 3/2 now $749K, 1167 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 now $770K, 754/756 Donax St (duplex)4/2 now $845K, 2548 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $994.5K, 2450 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $1.475M, 1233 Middle Gulf Dr 4/3 now $1.625M, 660 Anchor Dr 6/4 now $2.48M, 3324 Saint Kilda Rd 4/4.5 now $3.195M.

2 new sales: 974 Greenwood Ct S (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 listed at $625K, 710 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 listed at $1.695M.

2 closed sales: 280 Southwinds Dr 4//3.5 $825K, 4577 Waters Edge 4/4 $5M.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 1653 Bunting Ln $315K.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Bayside Villas #5234 1/2 $435K, Lands End Village 2/2 $1.05M.

No price changes or new sales.

2 closed sales: Beach Villas #2627 1/1 $440K, Gulf Beach Villas #2121 3/3 $910K.

HOMES

3 new listings: 54 Sandpiper Ct 2/2 $1.39M, 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 $1.895M, 25 Urchin Ct 2/2.5 $2.35M.

2 price changes: 11508 Wightman Ln 4/4 now $1.695M, 16632 Captiva Dr 5/4 now $5.495M.

1 new sale: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 6/6.5 listed at $2,950,900.

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 nor is in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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

Here we are wrapping up October with Halloween and turning the clocks back next on the minds of most. With a month end, more island closings were reported and there likely will be others posted.

Weather here has been mostly the same, with only an occasional quick shower, otherwise sunny and sometimes windy. Beachgoers and shellers love it!

New Sanibel Businesses Opening Soon

• Crooked Cow Creamery is planning a November opening in Palm Ridge Plaza at 2330 Palm Ridge Rd, Unit #9, with homemade ice cream, some with alcohol-infused flavors, and more. This mother and daughter business team had an east-end ice cream shop called Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream which closed following Ian. They have since established in Cape Coral and are coming back on-island with new name and menu, in new location.
• Serenity on Sanibel has its ribbon cutting and grand opening scheduled on November 5 at 1620 Periwinkle Way, Suite B in the Heart of the Island Shoppes. Hours will be Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. Offerings will include lavender, herbal teas, handcrafted gifts, and workshops. http://www.SerenityOnSanibel.com.

SanibelSusan Thoughts on AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Be careful using AI. Let me begin with a doctor appointment I had last week. It was a follow-up and I had read the physician previous visit report on-line before arriving. It had an error. It said I am a veteran, which I am not. I asked the doctor about it and he said, “We have to be careful because we dictate those reports and AI converts them into written form, sometimes making assumptions.” Yikes! I sure don’t want my doctor relying on assumptions. Maybe that assumption came from me providing job history that I spent many years in marine engineering before getting into real estate to come to Sanibel. He changed his report, but I keep thinking about it. What is AI really doing for us – and to us?

How about in real estate? Perhaps, AI can streamline repetitive tasks, but it certainly cannot replace the judgement that comes from a local human that lives and works in a specific area. To be successful in real estate requires feet on the ground, with city and detailed neighborhood knowledge. It is a relationship business that requires asking the right questions and careful listening to understand the needs and wants of customers and clients. Realtors read a room, body language, emotions, and motivations. Unlike AI, a Realtor can provide honest direct advice, create community connections, and strategize based on experience in a specialized area. All of that is needed to generate confidence and trust.

Will I use AI to help write scripts? Maybe, but you can be sure that I will read them carefully before using and correct as needed. No artificial assumptions are wanted in my business.

The Florida Realtors Association recognizes this too and offers tips on how to be careful with AI.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The prize winners

The Open Caravan Meeting yesterday at the Association Office was the annual Halloween event. After winning prizes in past years (1^st in 2024 as Black-Eyed Susan and 2^nd the year before as 50 Shades of Gray), I was sorry to miss it, but saw they had fun. Superior Title of Sanibel again donated a prize-winner gift basket. The guest speaker was from The Children’s Education Center of the Islands.

Following the meeting, four Sanibel properties were open for easy viewing.

Another Open Caravan Meeting is scheduled for next Thursday with speaker from The Sanctuary.

Island Real Estate Scoop.

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday, there have been six new residential sales: five Sanibel homes and a Sanibel condo.

During the same time, there have been 12 new residential listings (five Sanibel homes, three Sanibel condos, two Sanibel lots, a Captiva condo, and a Captiva home) and 13 price changes.

Below with data from the island MS 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 October 23-30

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sanctuary Golf Villages I #6-PH6 3/2.5 $899K, Sanibel Arms West #C8 2/2 $970K, Kings Crown #316 2/2 $1.1M.

4 price changes: Blind Pass #A102 2/2 now $449K, Blind Pass #D204 3/2 now $649K, Blind Pass #E103 3/3 now $649K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-3 2/2.5 now $900K.

1 new sale: White Sands #13 2/2 listed at $995K.

3 closed sales: Sanibel Moorings #142 1/1 $375K, Lighthouse Point #132 2/2 $450K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2B 3/3.5 $800K.

HOMES

5 new listings: 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $837K, 1112 Skiff Pl 3/2 $949K, 1143 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.325M, 460 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.995M, 283 Ferry Landing Dr 3/2.5 $2.499M.

6 price changes: 1653 Atlanta Plaza 2/2 now $325K, 1683 Atlanta Plaza 3/2 $375K, 640 Oliva St 3/2 now $849K, 1417 Causey Ct 3/2 now $975K, 1422 Sanderling Cir 4/3 now $1.15M, 500 Kinzie Island Ct 3/3 now $1.825M.

4 new sales: 280 Southwinds Dr 4/3.5 listed at $899K, 3284 Twin Lakes Ln 4/4 listed at $995K, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 listed at $1.225M, 1490 Angel Dr 4/3 listed at $3.195M.

6 closed sales: 1890 Farm Trl 3/2 $625K, 4339 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $875K, 824 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.25M, 408 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $1,558,375; 5751 Baltusrol Ct 3/4 $2.15M, 5145 Joewood Dr 5/4.5 $2.825M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2348 Wulfert Rd $299K, 1874 Middle Gulf Dr $1.495M.

1 price change: 5809 San-Cap Rd now $775K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Homes #11 4/2 $4.775M.

1 price change: Beach Villas #101 2/2 now $889K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 16730 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 $10.9M.

1 price change: 11536 Wightman Ln 4/3 now $1.899M.

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 nor is in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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.

Happy Halloween & remember to fall back on Sunday,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

The islands got a few good showers this week, keeping the vegetation green and growing. Today, it is another sunshiny Friday afternoon, temps in the high 80’s, but waves churning up on the gulf. There should be good shelling when that settles down.

Forecast says there is a 50% chance of rain on the island over the weekend but then shows bright and sunny for most of next week beginning with Columbus Day Monday.

Today, we worry about those in the path of Hurricane Isaias. With it being four+ months into hurricane season (June through November), this storm is the latest to form on this side of the U.S. since tropical storms have been recorded. That began 121 years ago in 1905.

Snowbirds Are Arriving

It is obvious that snowbirds are coming back. Many will be here until spring, while others will get their property ready for winter use and then head north for the holidays, returning after Christmas. Property owners that rent also may be doing their annual deep cleans, landscaping updates, and fixups. With these arrivals, October often is considered the “welcome” to season month.

There are plenty of activities being posted for island enjoyment too. Many are annual events but there are new ones too – plus expanded shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. The islands look forward to welcoming more visitors back. We hope they result in more real estate action too.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors had another Open Caravan Meeting yesterday. Guest speaker was Mary Bondurant founder of the San-Cap Pink Project. After the meeting, two Sanibel hones were open for easy viewing. Another Open Caravan is scheduled for next Thursday.

Island Real Estate Scoop

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

During the same time, there ave been 11 new residential listings (six Sanibel homes, three Sanibel condos, and two Captiva condos) and eight price changes.

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

Note I added the statistics for the 2022 sales so readers may see how sales are bouncing back from Hurricane Ian. 

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity October 2-9

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sanibel Arms West #M7 2/2 $599K, Compass Point #223 2/2 $699,950K, Sanibel Arms West #C3 2/2 $880K.

4 price changes: Blind Pass #D202 2/2 now $399,999; Heron at The Sanctuary II #1-2B 3/3.5 now $948K, Heron at The Sanctuary II #1-2A 3/2.5 now $995K, Compass Point #191 3/3 now $1.349M.

1 new sale; Sanibel Moorings #142 1/1 listed at $425K.

2 closed sales: Mariner Pointe #941 3/2 $850K, Seascape #206 3/3.5 $3.7M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 726 Cardium St 3/3 $1.149M, 1339 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.295M, 475 Las Tiendas Ln 5/3 $1.39M, 721 Cardium St 3/2.5 $1.395M, 1747 Serenity Ln 3/2 $1.397M, 927 Almas Ct 3/2.5 $1.699M.

1 back-on-market: 561 Lighthouse Way 5/4 $3.2M.

1 price change: 3359 Barra Cir 3/3 now $979K.

2 new sales: 1304 Par View Dr 3/3 listed at $1.05M, 2548 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 listed at $1.095M.

3 closed sales; 702 Pyrula Ave 3/2 $800K, 419 Lighthouse Way 4/3 $1.45M, 1114 Seagrape Ln 3/2 $2.442M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 1801 Olde Middle Gulf Dr now $4.999M.

1 new sale: 2349 Wulfert Rd listed at $375K.

1 closed sale: 2438 Wulfert Rd $300K

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Captiva Resort Villas (fka Tennis Villas) #3118 1/1 $350K, Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 $1.35M.

2 price changes; Captiva Resort Villas #3117 1/1 now $329K, Captiva Resort Villas #3224 1/1 now $329K.

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 in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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.

Stay safe, enjoy your weekend & Columbus Day too,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

There was not much change in local weather this week, though according to Mike’s Weather Page, there is a stalled front shown across Florida next week with showers expected, particularly up north. Latest NOAA blend indicates it will be (in Mike’s words) “moist and juicy”. Bet we do not see too much rain on the island, though. Today, it is overcast with no showers yet.

October 2026

As we happily welcome the month that typically is when real estate business picks up and “season” begins, a cute social media post describes “Why October 2026 Will Be Epic” with:

• 5 Fridays
• 5 Saturdays
• Draconids & Orionids
• Hunter’s Moon
• Halloween on a Saturday
• Next Saturday Halloween is 2037
• Clocks Fall Back 2 a.m. Sunday November 1.

Cheers to 37 Years

It was 37 years ago today in 1989 when another step in our plan to move to Sanibel became reality when Dick and I became Realtors in Alexandria, VA. We continued in marine engineering by day and did real estate nights/weekends until we made the move in 1992. There have been changes in this business in those years, plus challenges from hurricanes and more. All opportunities to grow and improve professionally. Grateful for it and that it was our way to get here, make long-lasting connections, and make this community home.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors had an Open Caravan Meeting yesterday. Guest speaker was Amber Cox, Director of Sanibel Public Library. No properties were scheduled for viewing after the meeting.

These Caravan Meetings will be Thursday mornings through “season”. Properties may be on Caravan once every six months with ten properties allowed on each tour.

Amendment 3 on Florida Ballot

Yesterday, Florida Realtors provided a Zoom presentation on the upcoming Florida vote on Amendment 3.

Florida Realtors President Chuck Bonfiglio Jr, CEO Margy Grant, and tax expert French Brown led the member-wide conversation on the Amendment including its major provisions, common questions and misconceptions, and what it would mean for Florida homeowners and property owners.

Today homesteaded property owners (primary Florida residents that are homesteaded) get a $25K exemption annually on their school property taxes. They also get a $51,411 exemption for non-school taxes (city/county). That number previously also was $25K but increased in 2024.

Amendment 3 if it passes will become effective January 1 and will raise the non-school tax exemption from $51,411 to $150K in 2027 and $250K in 2028, with inflation adjustments beginning in 2029. School funding is protected as this increased exemption applies only to non-school taxes.

Amendment 3 also lowers the annual assessment cap on non-homesteaded property (second homes, rentals, and commercial buildings) from 10% to 5%, so those owners and renters also will benefit.

It too directs remaining property-tax revenue to critical services like police and fire protection.

How cities and counties will handle their local budgets is, of course, unknown. But uncertainty should not keep voters from acting when Florida families need economic relief.

Amendment 3 will not solve every affordability challenge, but it is progress. If you are a Florida voter, please make the choice that is right.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday, there have been 11 new residential sales: eight Sanibel homes, two Sanibel condos, and a Captiva condo.

During the same time, there ave been six new residential listings (four Sanibel homes and two Sanibel condos) and 16 price changes.

Below with data from the island MS 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 September 25 – October 2

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Sunset South #7A 2/2 $644K,Sanibel Arms West #F7 2/2 $950K.

2 price changes: Captains Walk #F3 2/2 now $417,535, Sayana #102 2/2 now $899K.

2 new sales: Lighthouse Point #132 2/2 listed at $499K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2B 3/3.5 listed at $825K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

4 new listings: 992 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.395M, 6143 Castaways Ln 3/2.5 $1.45M, 9015 Mockingbird Dr 3/3.5 $1.595M, 1503 Angel Dr 3/3 $1.625M.

1 back-on-market: 6062 Dinkins Lake Rd 3/2 $1.089M.

7 price changes: 1394 Middle Gulf Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $649K, 4209 Old Banyan Way 3/2.5 now $999K, 1987 My Tern Ct 3/2.5 now $1.1285M, 5425 Shearwater Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 now $1.195M, 283 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $1,27M, 5438 Shearwater Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 now $1.495M, 2729 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 now $1,648,990.

8 new sales: 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 listed at $899,999; 1386 Par View Dr 3/3 listed at $1.05M, 408 Bella Vista Way 4/4 listed at $1.2M, 824 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $1.325M, 9008 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 listed at $1.335M, 1901 Sanibel Bayou Rd 3/3 listed at $1.495M, 610 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 listed at $1.695M, 561 Lighthouse Way 5/4 listed at $3.2M.

4 closed sales: 1142 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 $548K, 1238 Par View Dr 3/3 $1.175M, 5243 Indian Ct 2/2 $1.217M, 751 Windlass Way 5/4 $2.85M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 2505 Island Inn Rd $239K.

2 price changes: 1340 Eagle Run Dr now $489K, 2807 West Gulf Dr now $599.9K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 404 East Gulf Dr $450K.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listings.

4 price changes: Gulf Beach Villas #2030 3/2 now $1.325M, Beach Villas #2638 3/3 now $1.65M, Seabreeze #1253 3/3 now $2.65M, Seabreeze #1256 3/3 now $2.7M.

1 new sale: Gulf Beach Villas #2121 3/3 listed at $950K.

1 closed sale: Marine Villas #802 2/2 $680K.

HOMES

No new listings.

2 price changes: 33 Urchin Ct 3/2 now $1.749M, 16512 Captiva Dr 7/5.5 now $6.2M.

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 in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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

Wrapping up another week with more weather news. First to say that today at 4 p.m. it is another sunny 88 degrees F.

• 2026 was the first time in 112 years that September 21 was reached with zero hurricanes in the Atlantic.
• A Florida cold front is expected this weekend with local temperatures forecast to get into the high 60’s.
• Florida has a reputation as the “lightning capital”. With 3.3 million strikes already in 2026, that count is 28% above average. It is the highest total in eight years.
• Sanibel weather predictions show little chance of rain until the end of next week.
• Watching storm projections for family/friends on the northeastern seaboard. May all stay safe!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors had their September Membership Meeting yesterday. Guest speakers from the United Way were Marcia McHugh Turner, Laura DeBruce, Tony Lapi, and Tom Uhler. An Open Caravan was scheduled after the meeting, but again no properties were signed up for viewing.

\With so few new listings over the last months, these caravan meetings will not switch to weekly, alternating between East and West Ends, like they usually do in October. Instead, though they will go to weekly, caravans will be open to 10 properties in any island location, until activity picks up.

Farmers Markets

Local Roots Farmers Market on Sanibel begins again for the 2026-27 Season on Sunday October 4. This is their 19^th year. As usual the Sanibel markets are on the grounds of City Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Sunday through May.

Local Roots now has markets in nine locations including at Babcock Ranch (also on Sundays, but year-‘round), Captiva (on Tuesdays beginning November through April), Lakes Park (Wednesdays October through May), Coconut Point (on Thursdays October through April (closed Thanksgiving)), Boca Grande (Fridays November 20 through April 9 (closed Christmas), Gateway (also Fridays, December through March 26 (closed Christmas)), Bonita Springs (Saturdays October through May), and Fort Myers (also Saturdays but year-‘round).

Big thanks to Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura whose vision, collaboration, and hard work have made Local Roots and these markets such a success. Enjoyed by locals and visitors, each one is a community celebration. More info at http://www.BuyLocalLee.com.

Island Real Estate Scoop

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

During the same time, there have been just two new residential listings (a vacant Sanibel lot, and a Captiva condo) and six price changes.

Below with data from the island MS 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 September 18-25

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

2 price changes: Cottage Colony West #127 1/1 now $451K, Spanish Cay #F5 2/2 now $499K.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 $360K, Sanibel Moorings #611 2/2 $569K.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 1167 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $790K.

4 price changes: 1653 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/2 now $395K, 1377 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 now $647K, 1874 Ibis Ln 3/3 now $750K, 408 Bella Vista Way 4/4 now $1.2M.

4 new sales: 1890 Farm Trail 3/2 listed at $729K, 6425 Pine Ave 4/3 listed at $1,75M, 5751 Baltusrol Ct 3/4 listed at $2.298M, 2385 Wulfert Rd 4/5 listed at $2.399M.

4 closed sales: 1425 Causey Ct 4/3 $850K, 6120 Henderson Rd 3/2.5 $1.25M, 207 Daniel Dr 3/2 $1.15M, 1126 Harbour Cottage Ct 3/2 $1.95M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1212 Middle Gulf Dr $599K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 2438 Wulfert Rd listed at $399K.

1 closed sale: 404 East Gulf Dr $450K.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Captiva Resort Villas (fka Tennisplace) #3222 1/1 $350K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

Nothing to report.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 16548 Captiva Dr listed at $5.65M.

No closed sales.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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 has arrived and teammate Dave has completed his rounds. We appreciate that temperatures are “fall-ing”. It was low 70’s when I got up today, plus the dewpoint in Florida is down, meaning lower humidity. Both good signs that summer is wrapping up.

It also has been another sunshiny week with a few late day showers. More of the same is expected in the upcoming days. With the first snowbirds already returning, we look forward to a productive season.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Association of Realtors did not meet this week but will participate tomorrow with SCCF in the International Coastal Clean-Up. Our assigned area is around the Shell Harbor Beach access.

Next Thursday is the Association September Membership Meeting followed by an Open Caravan. Guest speakers will be from United Way.

Island News

Though a few restaurants and businesses are closed briefly this month for their annual spruce-ups, vacations, etc., several have already had short breaks and reopened. There is plenty to visit on both Sanibel and Captiva.

• Captiva Songwriters Weekend beginning today is part of the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest, a 10-day music festival taking place through September 27 across SW Florida including on Captiva, Cape Coral, downtown Fort Myers, and Fort Myers Beach. More info at islandhopperfest.com. On Captiva, the fest runs through Sunday with free performances by nationally-acclaimed singer-songwriters at popular island spots including ‘Tween Waters Crow’s Nest, Key Lime Bistro, and Mucky Duck. (The reconstructed Captiva Island Inn on Andy Rosse Ln also has the first of its new rooms open for festival attendees.)
• Sanibel Captiva Island Beach Resorts – It was reported in the “Island Reporter” this week that at a recent Captiva Community Panel meeting, Tony Lapi (Chairman of Sanibel Captiva Island Beach Resorts) announced that in addition to Beachview Villas and West Wind Inn being for sale, on October 4, ‘Tween Waters also will formally be available. Tony first purchased ‘Tween Waters in 1976. Next month, it celebrates 50 years of operation with many special activities planned. Huge thanks to Tony Lapi for all he has done for the islands and at these resorts, which also include Castaways.

Scoop at SanibelSusan Realty

The market is slow, but with low inventory and a positive storm season, schools reopened, and fall weather setting in, it should be a better last quarter than last year.

Sanibel homes continue to move best, condos not-so-much, but that market is improving too. I have mentioned before that the mix of inventory is expansive. It really is huge and ranges from storm-damaged (needing repairs and maintenance) to all new never-occupied construction. What has been moving best are high-end properties and those in tip-top condition.

Buyers concerns usually are elevation, age and type of roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and mechanicals. They ask for surveys, permits, and inquire about insurance costs and if there is impact protection, i.e. new windows/doors.

It is the time of the year when Dave and I meet with more homeowners thinking of selling. Most recognize that the market is not yet back to pre-Ian conditions but heading in the right direction.

Condos have a different rebound story but that market is showing improvement too. With more visitors expected this winter and more complexes now open with amenities, there should be more activity. There also is a mix of condo inventory with those prospective buyers having the same concerns as home buyers. Their added concerns are the financial condition of the community, condo fees, and expected future special assessments.

We tell owners wanting to sell to list now. Early fall is the best time of the year for that to ensure optimum exposure with Realtors and their prospects.

Buyers should be jumping in now too before prices get back to where they were in 2022.

Congratulations to Dave who also successfully put a commercial condo in Fort Myers (owned by islanders) under contract on Monday. It was not officially listed for sale, but he sleuthed it out when working with local business owners wanting for more space.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday, there have been seven new residential sales: five Sanibel homes, a Sanibel condo, and a Captiva condo.

During the same time, there have been six new residential listings and 10 price changes.

Below with data from the island MS 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 September 11-18

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Seashells #25 2/2 $485K, Sandpiper Beach #102 2/2 $849K.

4 price changes: Blind Pass #A201 2/2 now $400K, Mariner Pointe #733 2/2 now $479K, Sanibel Moorings #632 2/2 now $549K, Pointe Santo #B22 2/2 now $885K.

1 new sale: Pointe Santo #E6 3/2 listed at $1.095M.

3 closed sales: Sanibel Moorings #811 2/2 $569K, Loggerhead Cay #303 2/2 $740K, Seascape #205 3/3 $1.75M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 534 Piedmont Rd 3/2.5 $639K, 9421 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $1.095M, 6425 Pine Ave 4/3 $1.75M.

4 price changes: 1264 Par View Dr 3/2 now $995K, 1286 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.05M, 824 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $1.325M, 1272 Par View Dr 4/3.5 now $2.095M.

5 new sales: 1142 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 listed at $595K, 6082 Dinkins Lake Rd 3/2 listed at $1.089M, 6007 Clam Bayou Ln 4/4.5 listed at $1.475M, 6153 Starling Way 3/2 listed at $1.549M, 1114 Seagrape Ln 3/2 listed at $2.695M.

3 closed sales: 6476 Pine Ave 3/3 $1M, 253 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $1.09M, 791 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2.5 $1.33M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Villas #2638 3/3 $1.75M.

1 back-on-market: Lands End Village #1602 3/3 $2.259M.

1 price change: Bayside Villas #24 3/3 now $825K.

1 new sale: Captiva Resort Villas (fka Tennis Villas) #3233 2/2 listed at $550K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 6/6.5 now $3.199M.

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 in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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

Following another week with mostly sunshine, it has been unusual for early September to still see clear bright blue water around the island and on either side of the causeway. Florida certainly has been lucky this year with few storms and little runoff to stir things up.

But just as I was starting to put this together yesterday afternoon, clouds rolled in and I could hear booming off-island. It continued for about an hour when a huge downpour hit Sanibel’s East End resulting in the first big puddles of the summer, plus lots of lightning and flooding inland.

Wednesday, I saw an interesting post by weatherman Matt Devitt. He advised that “there is a large plume of Saharan dust on the way for the Caribbean, parts of Florida and the Gulf into this weekend and next week. The rounds of Saharan dust and the powerful El Nino have led to so far to the lowest tropical activity for the Atlantic in a least 76 years (1950). On that note, no tropical development is expected the next seven days too.”

Yesterday was the peak of hurricane season (which is June 1 through November 30 in Florida). Fingers crossed that the end arrives storm free.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Dr Thomas Millins, the principal at The Sanibel School, was the guest speaker at the Association’s Open Caravan Meeting yesterday. Some highlights he reported are that student population is up to 212 students (from 167). (Forty percent do not live on the island.) School focus is on academics, community, safety, and family. The School will be hosting a variety of events through the year, including an alumni one in January.

There were no properties signed up for the Open Caravan that was scheduled to follow the meeting. September usually is the last off-season month for every-other-week caravans with properties in any island location. Starting in October, provided new listings pick up, these meetings likely will revert to weekly and properties will alternate each week between East End and West End.

Florida Ranks Among Top 10 States To Live In

Recently posted on Florida Realtors: “Florida ranked No. 10 nationally in WalletHub’s latest analysis, buoyed by strong scores for quality of life, safety and the economy…Florida ranked…with its strongest showing in quality of life, where it placed No. 3 nationally. The state also ranked No. 11 for safety and No. 17 for its economy. The personal finance company compared states across 51 measures covering affordability, the economy, education and health, quality of life and safety. … Florida’s housing costs remain on the higher side nationally, with WalletHub ranking the state fourth-highest in the county, behind Nevada, Hawaii, and California….”

Sanibel School Events

The Seahorse Chorale performed at the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony this morning at The Community House.

Tomorrow morning, Saturday September 12, the Seahorse Chorale also will be holding a car wash at Bank of the Islands from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to raise funds for future singing opportunities.

Also tomorrow, the Sanibel School PTA is sponsoring a “Slice of Paradise” at the Sanibel Recreation Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with pizza and swimming. So opportunity to get a clean car at the bank then to the Rec Center for pizza.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Looking at the residential real estate activity posted in the SanCap MLS since last Friday, there has been just one residential sale, a Captiva condo.

During the same time, there have been two new residential listings and five price changes.

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 4-11

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Seashells #4 2/2 $489.9K.

1 price change: Seascape #102 3/3 now $2.299M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Sundial #H208 1/1 $467.5K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1901 Sanibel Bayous Rd 3/3 $1.495M.

3 price changes: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 now $557K, 974 Greenwood Ct S (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 now $625K, 1146 Golden Olive Ct 4/4.5 now $2.595M.

No new sales.

3 closed sales: 1379 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 $1.025M, 1550 Wilton Ln 3/2.5 $1.125M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Gulf Beach Villas #2121 3/3 now $950K.

1 new sale: Marina Villas #802 2/2 listed at $735K.

No 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 in any way responsible for the accuracy. Data maintained by the association, or its MLS, may now 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