I hope you are not tired of hearing that it’s another sunny Friday in SW Florida, as progress continues toward recovery. Lee County Schools were out this week for spring break, and it was fun to hear that a group of Sanibel School students and parent chaperones are exploring Japan during their time off.

Sanibel City Council met on Tuesday with their agenda including a Post-Ian Update, while the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors held their March Membership Breakfast Meeting yesterday. More info on both of those below.

On the home front, my house restoration continues. I move into my last temporary apartment next Sat, April 1. Fingers crossed that it has better internet service than my present spot which has been in technology hell this week. Hence today’s delay. Thank goodness when computer and printers aren’t working, there are iPhones and iPads.

I made a surprise late day trip to the island today to show a home. When stopping at the Post Office for mail, I couldn’t help but notice that our office in Sanibel Square still hasn’t started restoration, but I did sadly see the demolition of the two neighboring commercial cottages there that ole Ian rocked off their foundations. Formerly rented by Sanibel Beauty Salon and Ding Darling Nature Store, those buildings now are demoed. (I guess this is progress.)

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after that news and an inventory summary below. As inventory continues to grow, more prices are adjusted. There certainly are plenty more choices for buyers who were sitting on the fence last year.

Another Sanibel commercial property was posted in MLS this week – Lazy Flamingo Plaza at 6520 Pine Ave (site of the former Santiva General Store, Sunset Grill, the original Lazy Flamingo, and their corporate office and apartments), approximately 1.8 acres, asking $15M.

Sanibel Update

At the Tuesday, March 21, City Council Meeting, reelected members Richard Johnson and Holly Smith were sworn in, followed by Council selection of new Mayor and Vice Mayor, which are Rickard Johnson and Mike Miller, respectively. This group works so well together and has accomplished so much especially over the last six months. We owe them all a big thank you, particularly former Mayor Holly Smith.

In the Post-Ian Progress report led by City Manager Souza, he reminded that Building and Planning Departments continue to operate out of 6200 Whiskey Creek (phone numbers on City website still apply).

Debris Cleanup – Continues by Crowder Gulf. Residents/businesses are reminded that the cut-off date for putting debris in the right-away for pickup was March 1. As Crowder Gulf finishes a street, a state monitor films the area confirming that the last pickup was made. Their last pickup is March 29, though waterway cleanup work will continue beyond then. Residents and businesses that still need assistance with debris removal still may contact IanDebrisCleanup.com, but their cut-off date to apply is March 29. Including removals by Crowder Gulf, over 2 million cubic yards have been removed on Sanibel.

Florida State of Emergency – Governor DeSantis extended another 60 days, to May 20.

Beach Access & Parking Permits – Work continues toward getting the remaining beach accesses open. Though the boat ramp is open, their beach access is not available to the public yet. Reminder that to launch a boat Mon-Fri without a permit costs $40. On weekends and holidays, a permit is needed. The following beach accesses are NOT yet open: Lighthouse Beach (which still requires significant work), Turner Beach (which is County owned, City managed) (City Manager meeting with County March 24 to determine steps forward), and Beach Accesses 3, 4, & 7. Beach parking permit sales are up and include: A resident beach ($14) 1,867; AC resident beach & boat ramp ($113) 123; B non-resident beach ($300) 150; and BC non-resident beach & boat ramp ($399) 20.

Causeway – Traffic counter problems, but though March 10 consistently seeing about 5K vehicles a day coming on island.

Finance – City Finance Director Steve Chaipel provided an update. Tax revenue is on track at 92%. Income, grants, and work in progress with more info to be provided at next meeting. Reminder that property owners have until April 3 to apply to the Property Appraiser (www.LeePa.org) for tax relief/refund. Approval or denial will be made by June 1.

Building Dept Permits – Many more permits processed, “surge is coming”. As of March 20, 3,329 permits have been approved (compared to just 2,900 in early March. Permit process taking about five days, resubmission reviews about three days. Permits to-date include: 128 demolition, 480 electrical, 537 mechanical, 1,138 roof, 105 windows/doors.

Events & Re-Openings

Sanibel Home Mail Delivery begins Monday March 27 provided there is a mailbox. When I picked up my mail this afternoon, they advised that though the Temporary Post Office will be open tomorrow (Sat), they encourage residents with boxes to just wait for their deliver at home on Monday as they have lots of things to get done to make those deliveries occur. (Big thanks to former Mayor Holly Smith for honchoing this task to completion.)

Sanibel Historical Village Reopening Celebration Tues March 28, from 3 to 5 p.m. Event is free, but please RSVP to info@sanibelmuseum.org.

“We’re Still Standing” celebrating the 96^th Anniversary of The Community House, Wed, March 29, 4 to 7 p.m. with music by The Marty Stokes Band, tickets available on-line and at 239-472-2155.

Native Plant Walks at City Hall offering ways to replant. Meet in front of main staircase at City Hall at 9 a.m. on Thursdays April 6 & 20, and Saturdays April 1, 15, and 29.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

At the monthly membership meeting yesterday at Midland Trust building in Fort Myers, we heard from a panel of bankers about the status of lending on damaged property. Those speakers were Dan Krispinsky with Lake Michigan Credit Union, Dan Royal with American Momentum Bank, and David Wright with Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank. Like with island life, there are many lending changes, including community and insurance hurdles, but the good news is that these lenders continue to provide mortgages on the island. Most have the easiest offerings through their in-house products, though it may take longer than the typical 30 days to secure financing

I got good feedback during the Caravan part of the meeting from announcing our Captains Walk listing that went under contract last weekend and a price adjustment plus news about Gulfside Place. A short 3-property tour followed the meeting with just one property open on the island.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 17‑24

Sanibel

CONDOS

8 new listings: Sundial #I106 1/1 $375K, Tennisplace #A22 2/1 $450K, Sundial #I406 1/1 $495K, Lighthouse Point #319 2/2 $699K, Loggerhead Cay #412 2/2 $749K, Sunset South #12C 2/2 $819K, Pointe Santo #B25 2/2 $949K, Snug Harbor #122 2/2 $1.649M.

6 price changes: Sundial #D312 1/1 now $485K, Sundial #D203 1/1 now $599.9K, Sunset South #3C 2/2 now $799K, Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 now $989K, Gulfside Place #318 2/2 now $1.295M (SanibelSusan listing), Tigua Cay #487 3/3.5 now $2.249M.

Gulfside Place

1 back on market: Seashells #26 2/2 $399.9K.

3 new sales: Captains Walk #A6 1/1 listed at $399K (SanibelSusan listing), Seashells #3 2/2 listed at $474K, Blind Pass #F210 2/2 listed at $575K.

3 closed sales: Seashells #21 2/2 $440K, Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 $562K, Lighthouse Point #217 2/2 $599K.

HOMES

8 new listings: 3301 Twin Lakes Ln 2/2 $659K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (duplex) 5/3 $795K, 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $969K, 951 Beach Rd 4/2 $1,149,187; 1015 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.275M, 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.375M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 $1.729M, 1365 Jamaica Dr 3/2.5 $1.995M,

15 price changes: 1672 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/1 now $449K, 1866 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $540K, 922 Main St 3/1 now $589K, 1859 Farm Tr 3/2 now $649.9K, 560 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $799K, 5892 San-Cap Rd 3/3  now $825K, 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $845K, 1752 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $900K, 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 now $1.05M, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 now $1.183M, 950 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/2 now $1.348M, 251 Christofer Ct 3/2.5 now $1.549M, 913 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 now $1.695M, 896 Limpet Dr 3/32 now $2.35M, 1318 Seaspray Ln 5/3.5 now $3.5M.

4 back on market: 9438 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $724K, 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 $725K, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2 $1.222M, 1224 Kittiwake Cir 3/2 $1.349M.

8 new sales: 1198 Junonia St 2/2 $647K, 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $779K, 411 Lake Murex Blvd 3/2 $789K, 676 Cardium St 4/2 $789K, 1145 Sabal St 5/4 $790K, 9484 Peaceful Dr 3/3 $1.337M, 985 Oyster Ct 4/4 listed at $1.695M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/5.5 listed at $3.8M.

6 closed sales: 1585 Bunting Ln 3/2 $650K, 1834 Long Point Ln 3/2.5 $725K, 591 Boulder Dr 4/3 $745K, 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 $822.5K, 253 Daniel Dr 2/2.5 $1.127M, 215 Robinwood Cir 4/3 $1.275M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 5398 Osprey Ct $419K.

1 price change: 5116 Sea Bell Rd now $325K.

No new sales or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Lands End #1606 3/3 $3.3M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Bayside Villas #4204 1/2 listed at $650K, Beach Cottages #1411 3/2 listed at $1.55M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11505 Gore Ln 6/6 $3.99M.

1 price change: 1 Sunset Captiva 2/2.5 now $3.695M.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It has been another week of blue skies and sunshine which definitely makes one thankful to be here, rather than amid overcast days with ice/snow. Roadways are busy with more contractor vehicles, as debris removal trucks now are picking up the remainder of what was put curbside by Mar 1 (which was the cut-off date).

Sanibel Update

There was no City progress update this week, but the big news on Tues, 2/28, five months after Hurricane Ian, was the relighting of the Sanibel Lighthouse. It was announced late Mon on social media that it would occur at 6 a.m. the next morning. Amazing how many people were there to witness and film it. Lots of videos are posted on social media. The new LED light is bright!

The next official City update will be during the upcoming City Council meeting on Tues 3/7 at BIG ARTS Performance Hall. Meeting begins at 9 a.m.

I also got a little island scoop while in line to pick-up mail yesterday. A proud guy from Island Beach Club said that they will have the first elevator to be operational since the storm. It is expected to be today, with another elevator there to follow shortly after. Like many gulf-front complexes, that complex had some serious damage, but are now seeing recovery results from adjusters, insurance, contractors, etc.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

The Association of Realtors© also didn’t meet this week, but there was plenty of real estate action posted it the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. That info and the activity with our listings are after the inventory summary below.

Because what is happening at condo communities is different, our Association Multiple Listing Service (MLS) added a new resource for Realtor use. As agents get listings and receive info about what damage insurance is covering, progress schedules, changes in fees, special assessments, etc., they can be entered into this new condo database that is shared with our members.

Our MLS also added a new “yes”/”no” field regarding if a unit owner has flood insurance. In many cases these policies are assumable which helps a new buyer.

On the commercial front, following last week’s announcement that the parcel where Sandbar Restaurant site is for sale, this week the sale of the shopping center at the San-Cap end of Rabbit Road was posted. Buyer was Rosalita’s Cantina (for $6M). Their Facebook page says they opened yesterday, serving “classic Mexican dishes and more modern specialties”. Hours: Mon-Thur 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. & Sun brunch 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 24 – Mar 3

Sanibel

CONDOS

11 new listings: Seashells #38 2/2 $415K, Seashells #25 2/2 $449K, Sanibel Arms #A7 1/1 $499.5K, Sundial #D312 1/1 $529K, Sundial #D203 1/1 $649K, Sundial #J204 2/2 $1.075K, Pelican’s Roost #304 2/2 $1.199M, Loggerhead Cay #122 2/2 $1.3M, Somerset #E101 3/2.5 $1.785M, Pointe Santo #A27 3/2 $1.795M, Sundial #O406 2/2 $2.15M.

2 price changes: Tantara #202 2/2 now $979K, Pointe Santo #A25 2/2 now $1.295M.

3 new sales: Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 listed at $599,999; Gulfside Place #319 3/2 $1.495M, Atrium #106 2/2 listed at $1.749M.

3 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #B6 1/1 $320K, Sunset South #1A 2/2 $650K, Sealoft Village #105 2/2 $900K.

HOMES

10 new listings: 1198 Junonia St 2/2 $647K, 1807 Buckthorn Ln 3/2.5 $995K, 4677 Rue Bayou 3/3 $1.2495M, 1003 Fish Crow Rd 4/4 $1.6M, 913 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.75M, 5721 San-Cap Rd 3/2.5.5 $1.795M, 1520 Angel Dr 4/4.5 $3.2M, 417 Bella Vista Way 4/4 $3.5M, 568 Lighthouse Way 3/3.5 $4.8M, 5071 Joewood Dr 4/5.5.5 $5.8M.

10 price changes: 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $797K, 3760 West Gulf Dr 3/2 now $799K, 1145 Sabal St 5/4 now $849K, 1242 Par View Dr 3/2 now $899K, 1752 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $1M, 5410 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 now $1.175M, 1163 Kittiwake Cir 33 now $1.374M, 9484 Peaceful Dr 3/3 now $1.387M, 9027 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 now $1.395M, 682 Pyrula Ave 4/4.5 now $2.295M.

3 back on market: 1314 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $699K, 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $779K, 251 Christofer Ct 3/2.5 $1.65M.

9 new sales: 994 Greenwood Ct N 3/2 listed at $499K, 966 Greenwood Ct S 3/2.5 listed at $669K, 1073 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 591 Boulder Dr 4/2 listed at $799K, 4208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 listed at $799K, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 listed at $999K, 1290 Par View Dr 4/2 listed at $1.199M, 845 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $1.895M, 850 Victoria Way 4/4 listed at $2.495M.

14 closed sales: 1413 Sandpiper Cir 2/2 $649K, 4427 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 $675K, 3055 Poinciana Cir 3/2 $685K, 9106 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $715K, 996 Greenwood Ct N 3/3 $725K, 1341 Par View Dr 3/2 $790K, 1031 Bird Watch Way 3/2 $800K, 1700 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/2 $803K, 1040 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 $824.5K, 747 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $875K, 562 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $950K, 844 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 $1.349M, 4801 Tradewinds Dr 3/3 $1.6M, 869 Limpet Dr 5/4 $2.5M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2356 Wulfert Rd $348K, 3649 West Gulf Dr $3.995M.

1 price change: 2807 West Gulf Dr now $1.099M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 2462 Wulfert Rd $320K.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #4204 1/2 $650K.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: Beach Villas #2617 1/1 $675K.

HOMES

No new listings, new or closed sales.

1 price change: 1 Sunset Captiva 2/2.5 now $3.795M.

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

Time for another Friday report from sunny Sanibel where it’s still nearly 80 degrees F at 4 p.m. in the afternoon. More of the same is expected through next week.

Sanibel Update

The City had another post-Ian update Tues and announced these updates will continue, in abbreviated form, at City Council meetings and on the 2-week off-schedule as progress continues and there are things to announce. Next City Council Meeting is 3/7 at BIG ARTS Performance Hall. Update highlights included:

• Election – to fill two City Council seats is 3/7 with in-person voting at Rec Center 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Until 2/25, voters may request absentee ballots which may be forwarded per Executive Order of FL Gov Ron DeSantis.
• Building & Planning Depts – still in temporary location at 6200 Whiskey Creek Dr, Ft Myers.
• Debris Removal – FDEM (who is paying for removal) has extended time for debris to go to right-of-way to 3/1. Then 3/31 is last day Crowder Gulf may pick up debris (FEMA deadline).

Regular pick up of vegetation debris, may be 3/13. (Remember that his restrictions on bundling/size,

Still need help getting residential/commercial debris out? www.IanDebrisCleanUp.com

• Community Park & Playground – reopened 2/22.
• Beach Parking Facilities – Tarpon Beach & Blind Pass lots reopened 2/4. Others still being restored. Buy permits at Rec Center Mon-Sat 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Starting 3/6 will open Tues & Thurs at 7 a.m.
• New Releases – City is issuing many. Subscribe at MySanibel.com.
• Building Permits – As of 2/20 City has issued 2,527 permits this year (compared to 2,300 in all of 2022).
• Causeway Traffic – Steady increase, many contractors. ~5,500 vehicles coming across daily.
• Landscape Restoration – News release coming soon covering this subject. Some things include that permits are required for any mangrove work, or in beach dune area, or on vacant parcels.

Also 75% native vegetation is required (that means 75% trees, shrubs, ground cover). Also planting not allowed in City right-of-way & sod is limited to 20% of total area or 4,000 sq. ft. whichever is less.

Mulch not acceptable as a long-term solution to ground cover. Also be aware that shell, rock, & gravel may be considered developed area so watch out for coverage limits.

SCCF’s Beach Planting Guide is recommended and has info on plants that did well after storm. Get it at www.SCCF.org.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Yesterday was the February General Membership Meeting of the local Association. We continue to meet monthly at the Midland Trust building on San Carlos Blvd in Ft Myers while island office spaces are repaired. There was a good turn-out, both in person and via Zoom, as affiliate members Dave Arter with Private Client Insurance Services, Cameron Govreau with Heidrick & Company Insurance, and John Trebilcock with Attorneys Goede, DeBoest & Cross provided post-Ian insurance information.

Meeting sponsor Dan Royal with American Momentum Bank announced a product for condos/homes needing renovation. Condo loans are for interior work only and function like traditional construction to perm loan with interest-only payments for 12 months. Loan is modified to perm when renovation is complete. With just one closing, just one set of closing costs. Draws are paid to builder as construction is progresses. Home renovation loans are similar but may be for both interior and exterior work.

During the insurance panel presentation, it was stressed that the information provided applies TODAY. Insurance requirements have changed and continue to change as storm recovery continues. For island property, there are limited available insurance markets. Citizens (admitted carrier operated by the State of Florida) is the only one now writing wind policies. Surplus Lines (non-admitted carriers) like Lloyds, QVE, Scottsdale, must be accessed through a broker. They do not use standardized forms or comply with state requirements. These carriers are writing Builders Risk policies WITHOUT wind insurance on Sanibel & Captiva. With condos, current carriers must provide coverage through repairs, but can increase premiums 50-100%.

Citizens will NOT write a policy on damaged homes but is available to non-damaged or repaired properties. Effective 4/1/23, a flood policy must be written along with a new Citizens policy. Maximum building value (per FL Senate Bill 1770) is $699,999. There are strict underwriting and administrative guidelines, limited endorsement availability, and only $100K of liability coverage. Originally designed as the “carrier of last resort”, Citizens’ policies could be subject to a “surcharge” if the company sustains a deficit from a hurricane or other reason (up to 45%).

Information needed to get insurance:

• Wind Mitigation Inspection (for Citizens & future Builders Risk)
• 4-Point Inspection
• Builders Risk – scope of work, length of projects, estimate project cost, general contractor contact info
• Copy of current flood policy & elevation certificate
• MLS info, current address, birth dates.

Underwriting requirements:

• Wind/flood claims need to be closed for new policies to be written
• Builders risk policies are underwritten on case-by-case basis
• Licensed general contractor required on Builders Risks
• NFIP/FEMA flood policy may be assumed
• Citizens policies located in “A” or “V” flood zone (essentially the island) must show proof of flood policy.

Note, condo association master flood policies limit coverage per unit to $250K,

Island Real Estate

Below is another update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service.

Personal Stuff

New metal roof all installed at Dave and Lisa’s house, while at my home the new walls are painted and new HVAC going in. Baby steps, but progress.

It also is great to again be singing with pals from the Community Chorus. (SanibelSusan was an original member when the group began in 1992.) Many members haven’t been back since the pandemic, so it’s been great fun tuning up together. We will be singing in the Performance Hall at the BIG ARTS Open House on Wed 3/15. The Sanibel Bank is performing too. As a special treat, our professional real estate photographer Jim Anderson has created an island video that will be played on the big screen when we sing the song “Sanibel”.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 17-24

Sanibel

CONDOS

9 new listings: Seashells #3 2/2 $474K, Lighthouse Point #219 2/2 $650K, Sunset South #11A 2/2 $699K, Sunset South #12B 2/2 $779K, Oceans Reach #2D4 2/2 $1M, Mariner Pointe #711 2/2 $1.15M, Gulfside Place #219 2/2 $1.495M, Sandpiper West #4 3/2.5 $2.4M, Seascape #204 3/3.5 $3.41M.

4 price changes: Captains Walk #A6 1/1 now $399K (SanibelSusan listing), Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 now $599,999; Sundial #F403 2/2 now $795K; Sundial #A303 1/1 now $799K.

Captains Walk #A6 looking toward bay, lighthouse, & gulf

5 new sales: Seashells #26 2/2 listed at $449K, Lighthouse Point #217 2/2 listed at $699K, Snug Harbor #221 2/2 listed at $1.199M, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-1 3/3 listed at $1.369M, Gulfside Place #213 3/3 listed at $2.6M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

15 new listings: 994 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $530K, 470 Birdsong Pl 2/2 $550K, 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 $669K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $719K, 1477 Albatross Rd 4/3 $735K, 9114 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $755K, 1046 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $847K, 1125 Captains Walk St 3/3 $949K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 $1.1M, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.22M, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 $1.35M, 9048 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 $1.475M, 864 Limpet Dr 3/2 5/2 $1.75M, 940 Beach Rd 3/4.5.5 $3.3M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $3.895M.

17 price changes: 450 Birdsong Pl 2/2 now $595K, 1859 Farm Tr 3/2 now $674.9K, 4208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 now 799K, 591 Boulder Dr 4/3 now $799K, 3760 West Gulf Dr 3/2 now $829K, 1046 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $847K, 1145 Sabal St 5/4 now $879K, 4144 West Gulf Dr 2/2 now $949K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1.08M, 1018 Demere Ln 4/3 now $1.195M, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 now $1.199M, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 now $1.258M, 5294 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 now $1.448M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1.484M, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 now $1.599M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 now $1.995M, 4171 Dingman Dr 3/3 now $2.249M,

2 back on market: 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $1.1M, 918 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 $1.499M.

2 new sales: 1140 Junonia St 3/2 listed at $995K, 3191 Twin Lakes Ln 4/2.5 listed at $1.749M.

9 closed sales: 214 Hurricane Ln 3/2 $625K, 671 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $650K, 686 Spartina Ct 3/2 $651K, 214 Palm Lake Dr 3/2.5 $760K, 458 Casa Ybel Rd 1/1.5 $799K, 440 Lighthouse Way 3/3 $850K, 775 Pen Shell Dr 3/2 $900K, 2450 Wulfert Rd 3/3 $1.3M, 1800 Woodring Rd 4/4.5 $7.25M.

LOTS

2 new listings:  2761 West Gulf Dr (site of Sandbar Restaurant) $2.195M, 4501 Waters Edge Ln $3.199M.

1 price change: 3255 Cowry Ct now $639K.

1 new sale: 328 Palm Lake Dr listed at $695K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS, 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

It’s already another Friday with plenty more action with island real estate this week. After a few news items below is the activity posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

Sanibel Update

With debris clean-up, piles were disappearing and amounts lessening until the City reminded everyone that the last day it may go onto the right-of-way for pick-up by contractor Crowder Gulf is Monday, Presidents’ Day. That sure lit a fire under many, as today there noticeably was more debris lining the roadways. Only three more days, islanders!

There was no City post-Ian update this week, but recovery is progressing with noticeably more people returning to live and visit the islands. More businesses also are reopening. (Doc Ford’s Sanibel opened today.)

The temporary Post Office trailers are up-and-running. Literally, with postal employees running to get your mail. It is amazing how quickly those workers got that facility back into operation. It applies here, like everywhere, “teamwork makes the dream work.” They have worked through some unbelievable conditions and obstacles.

At SanibelSusan Realty

At SanibelSusan Realty, the team and I are thankful for another week with a nice closing plus new listing. Dave and I continue to cover the island every day while Lisa helps behind the scenes.

As a reminder, please let us know if your association has made any announcements of fee changes, special assessments, occupancy, completion schedules, etc. Please do not assume that your association coverage will be like any other. Not all associations, management companies, insurance policies, restoration/remediation companies, contractors, permits, etc. are the same. The rumor mill continues to generate ‘rumors”.

The most frequently asked questions by prospective purchasers are when can the property be occupied? How much of the work is my responsibility? What will it cost? Where is the 2023 association budget/reserve schedule? In a condo, what will the master insurance policies cover inside my unit?

Also please let us know of any other changes with your property, i.e. insurance costs. We have already heard of a deal falling through because the quote for new policies was astronomical. Many flood policies are assumable (meaning the buyer can buy out the months remaining on your policy). That doesn’t provide a long-term discount, but at least gets them initially covered more reasonably. You also may have other service policies that are assumable, like for annual termite inspection/treatment, maintenance on appliances &/or HVAC, etc. Those also are nice perks for us to know about and appreciated by most buyers.

At Home

Things are looking up. Dave/Lisa’s roofer will be back to continue their repairs on Monday. At my home, paint and more door hardware have been delivered. Fingers crossed that remaining interior work continues after the holiday. Yesterday, my new-in-2021 aluminum standing-seam roof was examined, as a precaution, by Crowther and found “perfect”. I now have another good contact at that company if anyone is in need. My pool and yard service also have resumed, while Dave continues to watch over things and work on my landscaping. We also keep an eye on work progressing on several properties owned by absentee clients. Steps forward every week are slow, but steady.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Still no return-to-the-island date for the Association of Realtors office as they continue operations out of the Midland Trust building just off-island. Unfortunately, the Association offices on Sanibel are awaiting contractor work and power, like so many others.

Thanks to the internet, the inner workings of the Association continue, as Tuesday, we had a Professional Development Committee meeting where classes were scheduled and speakers suggested for the first few general membership meetings of the year. Next Thursday at our February breakfast meeting, at Midland, speakers will be panel of insurance/attorney experts answering post-Ian questions. Betcha I get good info to share from that.

Wednesday, I attended the Association 3-hoour mandatory Zoom session presented by Florida Realtors Associate General Counsel, Joel Maxson. The leadership team of the local Association including their Board of Directors and members of the Professional Standards, Grievance, and Ombudsman Committees are required to attend these training sessions annually. These Realtors are the groups that act on any Ethics or Arbitration complaints. Luckily, there are few of those as our brokers and the Association provide excellent education and oversight, over members that, for the most part, are conscientious, sharing, and cooperative.

Island Real Estate

Below is another update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. Homes continue to be the hot commodity.

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

8 new listings: Seashells #33 2/2 $435K, Tennisplace #B22 2/2.5 $489K, Sandpiper Beach #206 2/2 $799K (SanibelSusan listing), Sunset South #3C 2/2 $819K, Loggerhead Cay #212 2/2 $885K, Tantara #202 2/2 $1.049M, Atrium #202 2/2 $1.249M, Gulfside Place #204 2/2 $1.375M.

Sandpiper Beach #206 View Pre-Ian

1 price change: Gulfside Place #318 2/2 now $1.495M (SanibelSusan listing).

Gulfside Place Post-Ian

2 new sales: Seashells #21 2/2 listed at $449K, Sundial #H209 1/1 listed at $649K.

4 closed sales: Seashells #42 2/2 $350K, Sundial #D301 2/2 $975K, Pelicans Roost #302 2/2 $1.149M, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-PH5 3/3 $1.425M.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1122 Captains Walk St 3/2.5 $798,897; 560 Boulder Dr 3/2 $849K, 1242 Par View Dr 3/2 $965K, 1720 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $990K, 1402 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $1.679M, 826 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $1.695M, 2564 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $3.595M.

8 price changes: 9438 Moonlight Dr 3/2 now $724K, 4753 Rue Helene 2/2 now $749K, 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $760K, 1524 Wilton Ln 3/2 now $989K, 1121 Sabal St 3/2.5 now $1.45M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1.494M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 now $1.65M, 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 now $3.7

3 back on market: 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 $899K, 557 East Rocks Dr 4/3 $999K, 1318 Seaspray Ln 5/3.5 $3.75M.

14 new sales: 2623 Tamarind Rd 2/2 listed at $375K; 671 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $699K; 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $779K; 1834 Long Point Ln 3/2.5 listed at $799,999; 1031 Birdwatch Way 3/2 listed at $875K; 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 listed at $900K, 562 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $999K; 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed at $1.1M; 253 Daniel Dr 2/2.5 listed at $1,197,555; 1290 Par View Dr 4/2 listed at $1.199: 918 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.449M, 698 Anchor Dr 5/5.5 listed at $1.695M; 1208 Bay Dr 3/2 listed at $1.7M; 5395 Shearwater Dr 3/3.5 listed at $2.495M.

8 closed sales: 1977 Roseate Ln 2/2 $500K, 686 Spartina Ct 3/2 $651K, 3285 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 $669K (SanibelSusan listing), 3354 St Kilda Rd 3/2 $760K, 702 Durion Ct 3/2 $830K, 740 Windlass Way 2/2 $845K, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 $1.3M, 1008 Demere Ln 3/2 $1.3M.

LOTS

2 new listings – 1872 Middle Gulf Dr $799K, 1874 Middle Gulf Dr $1.599M.

No price change, new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes or closed sales.

1 new sale: Tennis Villas #3227 1/1 listed at $515K.

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, enjoy the long weekend! We’ll be working!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

My lawn & bougainvillea aren’t doing well, but the pink hibiscus & my neighbor’s tree are coming back nicely!

Another week has whizzed by with lots of Sanibel real estate activity and progress at teammates homes too. I also heard from our landlord at Sanibel Square. Engineers have determined our building is structurally sound and the City has visited the center. No ETA on when repairs will begin or when it will be ready for us to move back in, so I’m betting my home will be ready first. Now in addition to new drywall and electric, it has new trim and doors. Slow… but sure.

There was noticeably more traffic on the island this week, maybe related to the extended sunshine and 70/80-degree F weather that make us happy even as clean-up continues – but the number of construction vehicles is what has increased.

Sanibel Update

The City post-Ian Facebook Live update was part of the Sanibel City Council meeting on Tuesday. Those meetings still are being held at BIG ARTS Performance Hall while City Council Chambers (MacKenzie Hall) restoration continues. Unfortunately, there were several signal interruptions where I missed some of the dialogue but the City should be posting their Power Point soon. Here are some highlights:

• City Manager Souza asked for Council direction on several items. With input from Chief Dalton, it was decided to end the curfew, but keep the police blotter.
• To aid in business recovery, businesses will be allowed temporary signs, advertising they are “open”.
• Regarding temporary storage units, Planning allows them to be on a property for 30 days, Council recommended extending to 180 days (from Feb 7) for consistency with other emergency timeframes.
• According to code on swimming pools, for safety, emergency fencing must be at least chain link or mesh. Orange construction fencing is not adequate.
• Residents/businesses were reminded that Feb 20 is the last day to put storm debris in the right-of-way for pickup by Crowder Gulf.
• During Florida legislature Special Session SB 4-A Disaster Relief: Added an additional $100M from general revenue to statewide beach program for counties impacted by Hurricane Ian or Nicole. Approximately $12M award for Sanibel beach renourishment and recovery. During same session, created restoration reimbursement grant program with $50M from general revenue intended for sand placement and coastal armoring as a dollar for dollar reimbursement for construction up to $150K per grant. Grants are available for single-family residences and condos with priority given to low- and moderate-income applicants. Application portal opened Feb 1 at https://floridadep.gov/hurricane.
• Building Dept advised that as of Feb 3, 2,052 permits are in the system with 1,175 issued. This compares to ~2,400 issued in all of last year.

Public beaches with parking at Tarpon Bay Rd and Blind Pass are open. Paid parking is by app. Other beaches will open as their parking areas and access paths are repaired and safe. Meanwhile, a few other openings include:

• Timbers Restaurant – will be reopening on Valentines’ Day.
• Sanibel School – Reopened on Sanibel Wednesday.

At SanibelSusan Realty

The island rumor mill has been swirling this week as property owners and their community associations work through the post-hurricane maze. We urge you to remember that an event like this has not happened here before, so please be patient, consult with experts, and don’t believe everything you hear. The SanibelSusan Team like you is working through new territory but remain happy to help you if we can. Please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The activity this week from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is posted after a few news items below. We had a nice closing today, with another coming up next week. Big thanks to Chelsea, Amanda, and Dustyn at Superior Title of Sanibel who expedited these settlements for buyers who wanted to close early.

Teammate Lisa updated our island inventory list yesterday. If you’d like it emailed to you, just send me a message.

Island Real Estate

Below is another update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. Homes continue to be the hot commodity.

NAR Statement on White House Tenant-Centered Action Plan

WASHINGTON (January 25, 2023) – National Association of Realtors® President Kenny Parcell issued the following statement in response to the Biden Administration’s tenant-centered action plan:

“Rents are rising, driven by inflation and exacerbated by the housing supply shortage. We encourage the Administration to look more deeply at how it can address the root causes of rental affordability—namely, affordable housing supply.

“To immediately address the lack of housing affordability, NAR encourages the Administration and Congress to examine providing rental assistance through a range of channels, including grants, state and local fiscal recovery funding, and a variety of HUD programs that can be better funded and improved.

“NAR supported rental assistance throughout the pandemic, which was vital for struggling tenants and mom-and-pop housing providers. These small investors provide more than 40 percent of all rental housing in America and are essential to growing the nation’s affordable housing supply.

“Consumers may benefit from the Federal government raising awareness about existing protections within their lease agreements and through state and local laws. NAR has committed to creating resources for Realtors® that highlight ways to incorporate resident-center property management practices in their businesses. These resources include advertising to prospective residents that Housing Choice Vouchers are accepted at their property, providing information about rental assistance, and using alternative credit scores for applicants without a detailed credit history.

“Rental housing policy is heavily regulated at the state and local level. Federally enacted policies can potentially drive housing providers out of the market, which will have an immediate and long-term impact of making rental housing even more competitive and, therefore, more expensive for renters. Expanding the Federal Government’s role in rental policy also places an even greater undue burden on mom-and-pop housing providers. We will continue to advocate for common sense solutions that do not negatively impact small housing providers and address affordability by increasing the housing supply.”

The National Association of Realtors® is America’s largest trade association, representing more than 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 3‑10

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Seashells #26 2/2 $449K, Seashells #21 2/2 $449K, Sundial #H209 1/1 $649K, Island Beach Club #340B 2/2 $750K, Loggerhead Cay #314 2/2 $925K, Sandpiper Beach #504 2/2 $1.069M, Snug Harbor #221 2/2 $1.199M.

2 price changes: Loggerhead Cay #323 2/2 now $869K, Seascape #106 3/3 now $3.475M.

3 back on market: Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 $624K, Lighthouse Point #217 2/2 $699K, Island Beach Club #220F 2/2 $795K.

3 new sales: Sanibel Arms #B6 1/1 listed at $375K, Mariner Pointe #642 2/2 listed at $795K, Heron at the Sanctuary III #2A 3/3.5 listed at $1.148M.

4 closed sales: Sundial #G406 1/1 $590K, Nutmeg Village #101 2/2 $1.142M, Gulfside Place #121 2/2 $1.25M, Gulfside Place #102 3/2 $2.1M (SanibelSusan buyer).

Gulfside Place

HOMES

20 new listings: 1966 Ibis Ln 2/2 $584K, 1073 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $699K, 562 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $999K, 1160 Buttonwood Ln 3/2 $1.095M, 1018 S. Yachtsman 3/3 $1.1M, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $1.15M, 1813 Long Point Ln 3/2.5 $1.175M, 1290 Par View Dr 4/2 $1.199M, 960 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/2 $1.389M, 9484 Peaceful Dr 3/3 $1.415M, 918 Kings Crow Dr 3/2.5 $1.449M, 1163 Kittiwake Cir 3/3 $1.495M, 5294 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 $1.498M, 698 Anchor Dr 5/5.5 $1.695M, 845 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.895M, 915 Limpet Dr 5/3 $2,295M, 5395 Shearwater Dr 3/3.5 $2.495M, 1157 Bird Ln 3/3.5 $4.395M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/5 $4.9M, 4689 Rue Belle Mer 5/6.5 $9.25M.

12 price changes: 1754 Windward Way 2/2 now $619K, 1811 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $650K, 1526 Bunting Ln 5/3 now $750K, 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $779K, 3760 West Gulf Dr 3/2 now $839K, 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $874K, 1022 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 now $899K, 1332 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $990K, 9248 Kincaid Ct 3/2 now $999K, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 now $1.225M, 9027 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 now $1.495M, 3191 Twin Lakes Ln 4/2.5 now $1.749M.

2 back on market: 671 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $699K, 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $1.1M.

19 new sales: 1440 Sandpiper Ct 3/2.5 listed at $639K, 4437 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 listed at $675K, 3181 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 listed at $679.9K, 1057 Blue Heron Dr 3/3 listed at $699K, 1585 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed at $699K, 1700 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/2 listed at $749K, 9106 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 listed at $769K, 3941 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed at $850K, 1835 Farm Tr 2/3 listed at $875K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer 3/3 listed at $895K, 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 listed at $899K, 428 Lighthouse Way 3/2.5 listed at $899K, 3711 Agate Ct 3/3.5 listed at $900K, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 listed at $1.1M, 1443 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.299M, 664 Gopher Walk 4/2.5 listed at $1.699M, 4781 Tradewinds Dr 3/2 listed at $2M, 466 Sea Oats Dr 4/4 listed at $2.339M, 519 Kinzie Island 4/3.5 listed at $2.5M.

4 closed sales: 153 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 $550K, 1429 Jamaica Dr 4/3 $700K, 4747 Rue Belle Mer 4/4 $925K, 729 Sand Dollar 3/2.5 $1.2M.

LOTS

2 new listings – 1872 Middle Gulf Dr $799K, 1874 Middle Gulf Dr $1.599M.

No price change, new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 back on market: Sunset Captiva 1 2/2.5 $3.9M.

1 closed sale: 1106 Tallow Tree 3/3 $1.5M.

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

It’s another sunny Friday afternoon on Sanibel with more real estate activity as recovery progresses. Single-family homes continue to be where there is the most action, again with many condominium complexes still sorting out work required by their associations and what their insurance covers.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Our listings had more action this week as David and I work with owners thinking of selling and buyers looking to take advantage of more listings becoming available. It can be difficult making those who have not been back understand that the island is not going to be like it was any time soon, maybe never. Every trip around the island, it is encouraging to see more positive changes, but the amount of devastation and repairs will take years.

It makes it challenging when prospective buyers want to come and view property, but the communities are not allowing showings and/or don’t yet know what their costs will be. In most condos, but not all, unit owners are responsible from the wallboard-in, while the Association handles from the walls-out.

Reading those condo documents is an important part of the due diligence with a Florida sales contract, as is reviewing the financials. Another Sanibel condo was listed this week in MLS where the unit special assessment per unit owner (or new buyer) is $325K (yes, that says $325,000). In this situation, estimates to restore the buildings by the Association are complete and insurance settlement known. The Association will bring back the buildings and grounds, with owners/buyers then restoring their unit interiors. All of this is taking time which we know can be frustrating for owners and prospective purchasers.

On a more positive note, on my travels yesterday, it was great to see many of the big debris piles gone at the Periwinkle/Purdy collection area. Earlier in the week, I saw a neighborhood of volunteers removing debris along Causeway Rd across from the Chamber. It is great to see this cooperation.

Dave and I continue to track repairs and permits on the properties we have under contract, plus the progress at the Associations where we have listings. After a couple of news items below is the action since last Friday in the island Multiple Listing Service.

Florida Realtors® Mid-Winter Business Meetings

I missed going to Orlando this week for the Florida Realtors® Mid-Winter business meetings. I started attending those in the mid-90’s before I became our Association President and have benefitted from the connections made and lessons learned. Thanks to technology, I could follow along during the event, but it sure isn’t the same as being with those colleagues in person.

Last night was the installation of our 2023 state officers and today was the Professional Development Committee meeting.

Earlier in the week, I also missed, serving on the day-long state Audition Panel for new instructors. My friends at state headquarters understand what we are dealing with here in hurricane land, so hopefully I will be asked to serve again at the annual meeting in August. Meanwhile, congratulations to Mike McGraw our new President and Gia Arvin President-Elect.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Our similar, not so fancy, local association Installation and Awards Event, delayed thanks to the storm, will include a luncheon next week at Cielo. Incoming President Greg Demaras asked me to give the invocation and pledge, so that is where I will be Thursday. It will be great to see more local colleagues in person again and congratulate our new officers.

Sanibel Update

I again followed the Tuesday Sanibel Post-Ian 110-day Progress Update which was part of the City Council meeting. My full recap is posted on my personal and business Facebook pages or you can listen to the entire City Council meeting on www.MySanibel.com. A few highlights from that meeting are:

Sanibel curfew – changed to from midnight to 6 a.m.

Debris – get it to the curb by February 20.

Pool Fencing – if your pool cage was destroyed, for safety, storm fencing needs to go up.

Mail – 2 mobile units are coming to Sanibel (same location as Post Office), hopefully by end of month per latest message from Mayor Smith. One will operate as post office, other as retail. Home delivery will take longer to restart.

Food

Slowly, but surely, more restaurants are opening, most with limited hours and offerings, but progress. Here’s the latest line-up:

Sanibel: Blue Giraffe food truck (at Periwinkle Place), Cielo, Gramma Dot’s food truck, Huxter’s food truck, Island Pizza, Jerry’s Café, Mud Bugs, Sanibel Deli, Sanibel Grill, The Shack, Traders, Tutti Pazzi.

Captiva: Cantina Captiva, Captiva Island Pizza, The Green Flash, Old Captiva House.

Island Real Estate

Below is an update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. Then is the action posted this week in the MLS.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 13 – 20

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sunset South #3D 2/2 $749.5K, Sanctuary Golf Village #1-1 2/2.5 $1.095M. By-the-Sea #B101 3/2 $1.299M, Atrium #106 2/2 $1.749M

1 price change: Pelicans Roost #302 2/2 now $1.149M.

2 back on market: Sunset South #10B 2/2 $650K, Gulfside Place #121 2/2 $1.425M.

2 new sales: Heron at The Sanctuary I #3-B 3/2.5 listed at $995K, Sealoft Village #107 2/2 listed at $999K (our listing).

1 closed sale: Royale Tern #303 3/3.5 $2.495M.

HOMES

16 new listings: 1672 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/1 $520K, 1754 Windlass Way 2/2 $629.9K, 1948 Roseate Ln 2/2 $635K, 671 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $699K, 3941 Coquina Dr 3/2 $850K, 440 Lighthouse Way 3/3 $899.9K, 1447 Albatross Rd 3/2 $919K, 4144 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.095M, 1442 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.299M, 1120 Olga Ave 3/2 $1.495M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $1.55M, 645 Donax St 4/3 $1.577M, 999 East Gulf Dr #101 3/2.5 $1.54M, 566 N Yachtsman 3/2 $1.595M, 5235 Indian Ct 4/4 $2.495M, 3699 West Gulf Dr 6/4.5.5 $5.695M.

10 price changes: 214 Hurricane Ln 3/2 now $659K; 1314 Tahiti Dr 3/2 now $749K; 214 Palm Lake Dr 3/2.5 now $849K; 1031 Bird Watch Way 3/2 now $875K; 3060 West Gulf Dr 3/2 now $899K; 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $899K; 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 now $1.125M; 1027 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 now $1,495,555; 664 Gopher Walk Way 4/3.5 now $1.699M; 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 now $1.795M.

1 back on market: 4208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $849K.

7 new sales: 4733 Rue Belle Mr 3/3 listed at $895K, 4747 Rue Belle Mer 4/4 listed at $950K, 775 Pen Shell Dr 3/2 listed at $999K, 557 East Rocks Dr 4/3 listed at $999.9K, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.295M, 1008 Demere Ln 3/2 listed at $1.395M, 869 Limpet Dr 5/4 listed at $2.875M.

6 closed sales: 3008 Singing Wind Dr 2/2 $450K, 2499 Harbour Ln 3/3 $1.35M, 954 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.5M, 791 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 $1.75M, 1543 San Carlos Bay Dr 4/4 $1.;76M, 1152 Golden Olive Ct 4/2 $1.85M

LOTS

1 new listing: 845 Pyrula Ave $650K.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 2998 Singing Wind Cir $300K.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing:11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 $3.999M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5.5 $4.45M.

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

It’s Susan again with another weekly update. Here it is Friday the 13^th with a cool front arriving in Florida. Before today, sunny Sanibel recovery continued with wonderful winter weather – dry, with bright blue skies, temperatures mostly 70’s. The cool front arrived following a big shower this morning – providing a much-needed dousing for our vegetation and wildlife. Forecasters say we likely with have more rare opportunities to wear jackets, from now through the long weekend, with daytime temperatures not expected to get out of the 60’s.

The nice weather certainly has made it more comfortable for the many remediation workers. With the causeway now open, traffic flows smoothly most of the time. Bridge work continues. It is encouraging to watch the progress and see the return of birds and dolphins during those overseas travels.

It was another “ouch” for me this week when another client reminded me that before they bought their property a couple of years ago, they asked about insurance. Most buyers do. Part of my answer was that the islands completely flooded back in the 1920’s and with them being in the 100-year major storm zone, time could be up for it to happen again. They followed up with “you were right.”  Sometimes you don’t wanna be right.

Meanwhile on the home front, on Sanibel my house had more electrical work completed, while at teammate Dave’s, his new roof is being installed. Still awaiting word that the apartment I was to move into in late December is ready. Seems that many properties are just now discovering storm-related damage that took time to surface.  We both continue to be on island every day and working from home too. I sure am looking forward to being permanently full-time back on Sanibel though. It won’t be soon enough!

Sanibel Update

City Update – The Sanibel Post-Ian 104-day Progress Update was a live Zoom from MacKenzie Hall on City grounds Tuesday night. As usual, I followed it and posted a recap on our business and my personal Facebook pages. It was excellent news to hear that opening the causeway for travel to anyone (except during curfew) has not caused problems, but rather has provided easier access for more contractors, owners, family, and volunteers.

Debris Pickup – Debris removal is expected to continue into February, but City Manager Souza reminded that this won’t go on forever. He thought it might end sometime next month.

Mail – The City has been working hard to get mail service back on the island. When USPS announced last week that it may be late summer before it returns to Sanibel (Captiva Post Office is open), a flurry of emails, letters, and calls followed. Mayor Smith advised that temporary locations on-island had been offered. She hoped to hear better news soon and last night posted the following Facebook message:

“Sanibelians- USPS Update for the 33957- MAIL IS COMING HOME – (But keep being loud!) Today I received a call from Richard Fermo USPS District Manager informing me that the City of Sanibel will have 2 mobile units (MRU) on island within 30 days for our citizens and business mail pick up. These will be located at the post office location on Tarpon Bay Road. USPS staff was on site yesterday to reevaluate the site. Senator Rick Scott has been instrumental in moving the dial with his direct and persistent communication with Postmaster General DeJoy. The Senator and his staff have been in direct communication with me daily. Congressman Byron Donalds penned a letter to the Postmaster General. Thank you, Byron and Jesse. Additionally, Senator Rubio’s office has contacted the PM General’s office with our needs.

“It was unacceptable to consider no mail service til late Summer 2023. I will continue to update as we all want to see this as action not words. Be assured we have been working on this. I appreciate the federal relationships and partnerships which are aiding in our mail service back where it belongs… In the 33957. I will be asking for daily updates from the USPS. Much work to be done. We are and will continue to make progress as our Sanibel community rebuilds. Please PM me with any questions.

“Thanks, Dave Elias, for making the trek to Jetport loop to help elevate our citizens voices …

“To our USPS Staff located WAY OUT there East. We are working to get you home. Sanibel Mayor Holly D. Smith”

She suggests that we keep the emails, letters, and calls going to USPS, Congressmen, and all who could assist – until this is finalized. In the meantime, it always is great to see our smiling familiar island postal workers at Jetport Loop. How they keep their spirits up in those working conditions is amazing. We look forward to having them back on island.

Farmers Market – On another positive note, the Sanibel Farmers Market is returning. This is its 15^th season. It will be a smaller footprint, but a welcome addition to the return to normalcy. It will be Sundays, beginning this weekend, through May from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the parking lot in front of Jerry’s.

Other Openings – A little more news is that two more restaurants are reopening:

• Gulfshore Business reported yesterday that Captiva’s Mucky Duck will open soon with some limitations.
• On Sanibel, Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen is reopening Jan 15. It will be open from Wed thru Mon from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Closed Tuesdays)

Next City Progress Briefing – It is on the agenda as part of the upcoming City Council meeting on Tuesday Jan 17 at 9 a.m. at BIG ARTS Performance Hall. Live feed posted on MySanibel.com and The City of Sanibel Facebook page.

Sanibel Building Permits

It was announced during the Tuesday briefing that the City Building and Planning Departments are working from rented spaces in Ft Myers. Good news to also hear that they are keeping up with demand. I have complaints from owners that their projects are being held up because of permits or inspections. That may be what their contractors are telling them, but when I told them how to go on-line themselves to see where their projects stand, they found different answers.

To check on property record, go to www.MySanibel.com, click on the first round button “Sanibel Online”. On the resulting menu on the right-hand side, click on the first item: “On-line Permitting, Licenses, & Business Taxes”. On the next screen, is a red link that says, “Click Here”.

When you do, you are brought to the City on-line system for searching public records, applying for a permit, inspection, etc. Click on “Search Public Records” where you can search for your own address or any address and your can specify the type of record or select “All”. Items are displayed in ascending order, so if your property has had a lot of permits, you may want to change the search to descending so you see the latest one on the top. From that record, you can see the entire permit progress and status- when the application was submitted, issued, all the documents with it, inspections ordered, status of the inspections including resubmission requirements, completion.

Follow up on the every permit regarding your property. It sure will help to avoid a hold-up if you decide to sell and don’t discover until then that there is an open permit.

Governor Signs Ambitious Water Quality Order

Posted Tues by SCCF: “On Jan. 10, Gov. DeSantis signed the sweeping Executive Order 23-06 in support of improving water quality within Florida. The order directs the state to spend $3.5 billion over the next four years on Everglades restoration and water quality improvements. “Today’s order is an ambitious ask from the governor and seeks to improve our water quality around the state and our resiliency into the future,” said SCCF Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis. “As more funding is directed toward Everglades restoration, we expect to see fewer damaging discharges to the Caloosahatchee and improved water quality.”

‘Today’s order marks an increase of $1 billion from the executive order that was signed four years ago. It also directs additional funding to work to restore the Indian River Lagoon with $100 million earmarked for the creation of a protection program with enhanced water quality monitoring.

‘Beyond allocating funding, the order directs the agencies within Florida to continue their efforts to support water quality. The order directs the South Florida Water Management District to expedite Everglades restoration projects and focus on sending more clean water south to the Everglades.

‘It also directs the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to work with the Florida Legislature to expand the wastewater grant program to address impacts from non-point source pollution. Non-point source pollutants originate from agriculture runoff, stormwater, leaky septic systems, and similar sources and are major drivers of the nutrient pollution in our waterways.

‘“SCCF is excited to work with our partners and the DEP to tackle the issues of non-point source pollution, algal blooms, and resiliency and improve Florida’s waters for everyone,” said DePaolis. Additionally, the order provides guidance to the DEP to work with the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services to strengthen Basin Management Action Plans for our waterways and to improve best management practices for agriculture. “If enacted properly, this could result in less nutrient pollution entering our waters,” he added.

‘The order also seeks to reduce harmful algal blooms within the state. It creates grant funding to work on mitigating blue-green algal blooms.  Finally, the order seeks to increase resiliency around the state and will create a coral reef restoration and recovery initiative to help with coral growth and storm surge protections. “The order is a good step on the path to restoration and resiliency, and it will be important to monitor that funds are directed to projects that will have the largest impact on the quality and quantity of our water,” said DePaolis.”

Island Real Estate

As Dave and I continue to assist owners thinking of selling vs restoring, we often are asked what is the market doing? On Sanibel, more and more homes are coming on the market every day. I told someone just this week that when I spoke to them in early December, there were only 21 homes for sale. Today, there are 83.

The properties are in various condition. Some say they had “no or little” damage. Others are emptied, remediated, with drywall down, mold treated, and power restored. Some have been repaired somewhat or have pools cleaned and operational. Others have not been touched. Some listings say the properties are livable but with no warranty or assurance of structural integrity. Many of those that are non-conforming (or ground-level) properties are situations where it is questionable whether they can be restored, complying with the 50% rule. So buyers need to do their homework.

Sellers also need to recognize that not everyone will want to restore a property like it was pre-Ian. There will be teardowns. There already are many. There will be new builds and there are new owners that may want to raise a home or pop-it-up.

Just driving through the island, changes are happening every day. Still heartbreaking for many just returning to see things for the first time. It was amazing Wednesday to see how quickly the Sweet Melissa’s restaurant building disappeared – taken down in minutes. (Their social media says they are rebuilding.)

Below is an update of island inventory today from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. It again is moving. Many changes daily. Then after a couple of news items is the action posted this week in the local MLS.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 6-13, 2023

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sundial #H111 1/1 $369K, Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 $649K, Heron at The Sanctuary II #3B 3/2.5 $995K, Tamarind #B302 3/2 $2.875M.

No price changes.

5 new sales: Sunset South #10B 2/2 $650K, Pointe Santo #D3 2/2 listed at $725K, Sunset South #4C 2/2 listed at $849K, Sundial #D302 2/2 listed at $975K, By-the-Sea #A102 3/2 listed at $1.325M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

13 new listings: 1932 Roseate Ln 3/2 $625K, 450 Birdsong 2/2 $649K, 3760 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $849K, 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 $849K, 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 $975K, 557 East Rocks Dr 4/3 $999K, 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 $1.089M, 1332 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.095M, 9027 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 $1.595M, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $1.7M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 $1.995M, 4781 Tradewinds Dr 3/2 $2M, 682 Pyrula Ave 5/4.5 $2.395M.

6 price changes: 2623 Tamarind R 2/2 now $400K, 9106 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $769K, 1230 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $859K, 1022 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 now $899.9K, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 now $1.1M, 526 N Yachtsman Dr 3/2 now $1.495M,

8 new sales: 4044 Coquina Dr 2/2 listed at $525K, 1382 Tahiti Dr 3/2 listed at $599K, 1811 Ibis Ln 2/2 listed at $625K, 1153 Shell Basket Ln 3/2 listed at $625K, 1429 Jamaica Dr 4/2 listed at $739K, 4208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 listed at $849K, Moonshadows #1A 3/3 listed at $949K, 728 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.295M.

4 closed sales: 4738 Rue Belle Mer 3/3 $700K, 1221 Par View 3/2 $830K, 3860 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $899K, 440 Glory Cir 3/3 $900K.

LOTS

3 new listings: 5116 Sea Belle Rd $350K, 355 Cowry Ct $690K, 1119 Seagrape Ln $1,199,992.

No price changes or new sales.

2 closed sales: 971 Main St $325K, West Gulf Dr #1 $4.25M.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing:16163 Captiva Dr 3/2 $3.995M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 11510 Chapin Ln 2/2 listed at $1.25M.

1 closed sale: 16778 Captiva Dr 4/4 $6.95M.

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,

the one always wearing flipflops