Raindrops Are Just Part of Living in Paradise!

Posted on June 25, 2021 by SanibelSusan

Susan here from soggy Sanibel Island. The rainy season has arrived, vegetation is greening up, and when the periodic showers sprinkle the island, the shopping centers and restaurants are busy with beach and boat-loving vacationers looking for other things to do. The showers really are only occasional and in-between, it often is sunny and tropical. There are a few visitor grumblings about the clouds, no-see-ums, and humidity, but we locals appreciate when showers keep daytime temperatures down into the 80’s. Similar weather is expected next week.

Here in the office our new Gulfside Place listing sold in record time at a record price. Now we are hustling to find a single-family home for these clients. As of this afternoon, there are just 28 for sale on Sanibel, compared to 270 already sold this year.

Yesterday, in chatting with David Wright, Sr VP and head of lending at The Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank, we shared experiences in this new world of real estate. He said the bank is already $100 million ahead of 2019, which also was a good year. We both wondered what will happen when inventory is gone, but we both expect that real estate, particularly in SW Florida, will continue to boom. We all know that it is more than just nice weather on Sanibel and Captiva!

Annual Sam Bailey’s Islands Night Is Back in the Ballpark

The following update was posted on-line Wed by The Santiva Chronicle: “The highly anticipated Sam Bailey’s Annual Islands Night is back in the ballpark for the 27th year after a season off the diamond. “Sam Bailey’s Islands Night is one of the greatest traditions our franchise has,” Fort Myers Mighty Mussels Director Chris Peters said. “This night has a very special place with us. Islands Night is always greatly anticipated by everyone in the Mussels family.”

“Since its establishment, the Annual Islands Night serves as a day for businesses and individuals to celebrate Sanibel and Captiva. The event was originally scheduled for June 16, but was rained out and rescheduled for Wednesday, June 30 at Hammond Stadium with a game between the Lakeland Flying Tigers and the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels. Its comeback will follow suit of prior years with the exception of the parade which will not be taking place. There are COVID protocols in place at the field preventing it from happening, but is expected to return in future years, Peters said. The parade usually showcases floats designed by the vendors. Although the parade is benched for the season, attendees can expect the activities they have enjoyed previously. In between innings there will be a shoe scramble, a dance off, a t-shirt toss, and more.

“Attendees can also enjoy $1 hot dogs, cold beverages, but most importantly an entertaining night. “It’s a lot of fun and there’s a lot of energy,” Peters said. “It’s just the atmosphere, you have to experience it, it’s hard to kind of put in the words.” It’s a night to sit back and enjoy a ballgame while also contributing to the community.

“Established years ago by Sam Bailey, it has since evolved and now sponsorships contribute to scholarships for island students, Sponsor Calli Johnson explained. The money raised at the event goes into the Sam Bailey Scholarship Fund which helps islanders continue their education. Interested applicants can apply by contacting Kiwanis, Johnson said.

“As it has grown, it has forged its spot as tradition in the community, staying strong 27 years later. “This event is an important community gathering where islanders can enjoy each other after the traditional end of the business season and the start of summer,” Johnson said. “The spirit of Sam and Francis Bailey certainly lend to the sense of community that keeps the event alive.” Peters and the Mighty Mussels in particular, enjoy playing a part in the ongoing tradition. “It’s as rewarding as anything seeing people have smiles on their faces,” Peters said. “Just coming out to the ballpark. That’s what the reward is for us to see in people having fun at our ballpark.”

In previous years, the event has held 2,000 to 3,000 attendees, now it is time to see what this year holds. Masks are encouraged but will not be required at the event.”

Tickets are free and available throughout the island including at Bailey’s General Store.

Responding to Offers

With many island buyers and sellers coming from states other than Florida, where their real estate practices may be different, it is important for those involved in Florida transactions to know how it works here. The below question and answer were posted in the June 2021 “Florida Realtor” magazine under the “Talk to An Attorney” section:

“COMMISSIONS

I have a listing that was only on the market a couple of days when three offers came in from three buyers. The seller accepted one of the offers. Now, the broker who represented the buyer whose offer arrived first claims my seller had an obligation to negotiate with his buyer because his offer was presented to the seller first. Is this true?

No. there is no Florida law that would require the seller to respond to any offer. Additionally, there is no Florida law that requires the seller to negotiate with each buyer in the order in which the offers were received. Therefore, it’s ultimately up to the seller how to negotiate with each of these three buyers. In this case, the seller opted to simply accept one of the three offers without giving the other two a chance to amend their offers.”

Florida Realtors® Clean Up Florida Waters

For the entire month of July, thousands of Florida Realtors® and community partners are coming together to clean up our lakes, rivers, streams, retention ponds, bays, intracoastal waterway, gulf and ocean. The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® will join in the cleanup on Wed, July 14, at 6 p.m. on the causeway (Span B). Gloves and trash bags provided. Come to work and enjoy sunset too!

7 Winning Tips for Buyers

It’s true, even Realtors® in the business for decades like us are shaking their heads at some of the sales occurring these days. Here are some buyer tips from the June 2021 issue of “Florida Realtor®””

“Encourage your agent to reach out to the listing agent to find out what the seller is looking for, such as quick close, an above asking-price offer or a waived contingency. This will help you and your agent craft a competitive offer.
Make a cash offer. If you’re not in a position to pay cash, get preapproved for a mortgage and have your preapproval letter in hand.
Pay attention to the listing agent’s request. Many times, they will have you submit your highest and best offer. Ask your agent for some strategies on handling this type of offer.
Consider waiving contingencies if you are financing, check with your lender.
Figure out where you can be flexible. You’ll need to move quickly, so know your must-haves versus your nice-to-haves before you start our search.
Don’t get emotional. Trust your agent to walk you through each step in the buying process.
Be available. Respond to inquiries quickly and ask your real estate agent to check in regularly with the listing agent to monitor the seller’s progress.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 18-25, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Loggerhead Cay #433 2/2 $735K.

No price changes.

3 new sales: Island Beach Club #310A 2/2 listed at $799K, Sanibel Arms West #D2 2/2 listed at $919,999, Gulfside Place #115 2/2 listed at $1.995M (our listing).

14 closed sales: Sundial #F106 1/1 $435K, Spanish Cay #D6 2/2 $549K, Blind Pass #E104 2/2 $549.9K, Kimball Lodge #264 1/1.5 $570K, Cottage Colony West #102 1/1 $571.5K, Sanibel Arms West #I8 2/2 $624K, Island Beach Club #330A 2/2 $730K, Mariner Pointe #943 2/2.5 $800K, Pelicans Roost #102 2/2 $875K, Gulfside Place #107 2/2 $1.2M, Sanddollar #C202 3/2 $1.225M, Island Beach Club #230D 2/2 $1.3M, Gulfside Place #320 2/2 $1.349M, Sanddollar #C103 3/2 $1.4M.

HOMES

4 new listings: 837 Casa Ybel Rd 2/2 duplex $599.9K, 9431 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $899K, 5268 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/2 $1.049M, 4020 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $2.795M.

2 price changes: 1025 S. Yachtsman Dr 3/2 now $865K, 633 Lake Murex Cir 3/3 now $1.235M.

7 new sales: 565 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed at $749K, 4516 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2.5 listed at $979.9K, 915 Palm St 3/2 listed at $995K, 5300 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 listed at $1.19M, 939 Beach Rd 3/2.5 listed at $1.55M, 718 Gopher Walk 4/3 listed at $1.599M, 852 Birdie View Pt 4/3 listed at $1.699M.

10 closed sales: 5859 Pine Tree Dr 2/2 $755K, 555 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $765K, 1550 Center St 3/2 $768K, 750 Nerita St 3/2 $1.01M, 604 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 $1.022M, 2755 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 $1.038M, 5765 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 $1.648M, Plantation Village #103 4/3 $1.875M, 750 Periwinkle Way 5/4 $3.3M, 1020 Bayview Dr 5/5.5 $4.5M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 5398 Osprey Ct listed at $299K.

2 closed sales: 2299 Starfish Ln $554K, 461 Sawgrass Pl $675K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

2 closed sales: Beach Cottages #1423 2/2 $1.16M, Lands End #1635 2/2 $1.434M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 5 Sunset Captiva Ln 2/2.5 $3.595M, 952 South Seas Plantation Rd 6/4.5 $4.349M.

No price changes or new sales.

2 closed sales: 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 $1.875M, 11514 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5 $2.36M.

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 your week!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Summer Solstice & Fathers’ Day on Sanibel & Captiva 2021

Posted on June 18, 2021 by SanibelSusan

This week, the first day of summer is almost here and the rainy season also finally is underway in SW Florida. With cloudy days and occasional showers on the islands since Monday, the forecast for next week is much the same, with afternoon thunderstorms expected, typical weather for this time of the year.

Summer solstice is the day of the year with the most hours of sunshine. This year, in the northern hemisphere, that day coincides with Fathers Day, on Sunday. Hopefully there will be some sunshine amid the raindrops. In the meantime, it’s great to see tropical vegetation greening up again. The Sanibel bunnies are loving it too. The baby one in my yard this morning is soo tiny, only a few inches long.

The islands remain busy with visitors, including more first-timers than usual for this time of the year. Lots of pent-up demand for vacations has resulted in few, if any vacancies, now, with full occupancy expected right throughout the July 4th holiday. With Lee County Schools also finishing up this week, a busy summer is expected.

Real-estate wise, there have been a few new listings and sales, while overall inventory remains very low. The SanibelSusan Team is thankful for our new listing at Gulfside Place, it is one of just two waterside units like it within the community. It offers the convenience of condo living with a 180-degree gulf view and privacy of a home, with private stairs from balcony to beach, plus easy-care coastal-vibe tile floors throughout (those allowed only on 1st level).

Below is an update of Sanibel and Captiva inventory today, while the week’s details follow a couple of news items below.

	SANIBEL						CAPTIVA
	Condos		Homes		Lots		Condos		Homes		Lots
	#	$ Price	#	$ Price	#	$ Price	#	$ Price	#	$ Price	#	$ Price
Available for Sale	21	862,895	31	2,289,612	16	533,542	8	1,626,000	11	6,239,363	0	N/A
Under Contract	28	818,135	58	1,402,381	13	1,103,873	6	1,443,900	5	2,307,800	1	4,250,000
Closed 1/1-6/18/21	167	857,630	205	1,302,007	50	646,710	34	1,002,397	31	2,898,561	1	2,000,000
Closed in 2020	192	733,876	290	954,718	23	606,233	47	821,713	27	2.923,148	4	2,537,500
Closed in 2019	127	694,392	211	1,112,748	15	372,200	29	1.037,077	17	2,737,503	1	1,375,000

Note: Prices in italics are average asking prices (properties available & under contract)

Great News from SCCF

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation recently acquired three off-island properties on McGregor Blvd near the causeway. They are of critical environmental importance, totaling more than 25 acres, all containing mangrove forest with/or adjacent to tidal waterways. This habitat including mudflats and salt flats is important to many shore birds, diamondback terrapins, endangered sawfish, and many invertebrate species.

SCCF also reports that sea turtle nesting season is at its peak with staff and volunteers monitoring 388 nests (85 on Captiva, 303 on Sanibel). In preparation for the upcoming Captiva beach renourishment project, SCCF has relocated 14 nests that could be affected. For more info on protecting and caring for sea turtles, visit SanCapLifeSavers.org.

Sanibel Leaf Blower Legislation

News from the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society recently posted: “Kudos to the Sanibel City Council for passing a new ordinance that restricts current use of gas-powered leaf blowers and ultimately bans them by January 1, 2023…”

Fed Accelerates Plans to Raise Interest Rates – But Not Yet

Posted yesterday on “FloridaRealtors”: “Low rates directly keep adjustable-rate loans low and help, indirectly, fixed-rate loans. At one time, the Fed had no rate-hike plans until 2024; now it’s two in 2023.

“WASHINGTON – With the economy and inflation set to surge this year as the nation emerges from the COVID-19 recession, the Federal Reserve is starting to ease back from pandemic era policies aimed at jolting growth. Citing an upgraded economic outlook and a spike in inflation, the Fed on Wednesday held its key interest rate near zero and vowed to maintain its bond buying stimulus, but it’s now forecasting two rate hikes in 2023, up from none previously.

“Fed officials foresee its benchmark short-term rate at a range of 0.5% to 0.75% in 2023, according to their median estimate. While most of the officials said they want to hold the rate near zero through next year, only five foresee rates at that level in 2023. Two prefer one rate increase in 2023, while three envision two hikes and eight foresee an even higher rate by then.

“Fed officials “are more comfortable that (the economic conditions for raising rates) will be met somewhat sooner than previously anticipated,” Fed Chair Jerome Powell said at a news conference. “We’re going to be in a strong labor market pretty quickly here.”

“Progress on vaccinations will likely continue to reduce the effects of the public health crisis on the economy, but risks to the economic outlook remain,” the Fed said in a statement after a two-day meeting. Yet Powell noted Fed officials’ rate forecasts are merely estimates, adding that “liftoff is well into the future.” In its statement, the Fed reiterated it would keep its benchmark short-term rate near zero until the economy returns to full employment and inflation has risen above its 2% target “for some time.”

“Powell said the Fed’s focus in the short term is on when to begin tapering its bond purchases. The central bank repeated that it would continue to purchase $120 billion a month in Treasury bonds and mortgage-backed securities to hold down long-term rates “until substantial further progress has been made toward” the Fed’s employment and inflation goals. Powell said the Fed discussed reducing the purchases this week and would provide more guidance “at a future meeting.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 11-18, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sanibel Inn #3513 2/2 $699K, Island Beach Club #310A 2/2 $799K, Gulfside Place #115 2/2 $1.995M (our listing).

4 price changes: Mariner Pointe #712 2/2.5 now $659K; Mariner Pointe #231 2/2 now $674.9K; Breakers West #A5 2/2 now $749K; Sanibel Arms West #D2 2/2 now $919,999.

2 new sales: Coquina Beach #2B 2/2 listed at $595K, Sanibel Inn #3511 2/2 listed at $695K.

7 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #A1 2/2 $560K, Loggerhead Cay #351 2/2 $585K, Loggerhead Cay #261 2/2 $695K, Sunset South #11D 2/2 $740K, Oceans Reach #2D1 2/2 $890K, Sanibel Surfside #123 2/2 $905K, Pointe Santo #A47 3/2 $2.413M.

HOMES

7 new listings: 565 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $749K, 9431 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $899K, 540 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $1.025M, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.249M, 547 N. Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $1.399M, 852 Birdie View Pt 4/3 $1.699M, 1305 Par View Dr 3/4 $1.749M.

2 price changes: 1376 Jamaica Dr 2/2 now $710K, 1187 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1.199M.

4 new sales: 1826 Farm Trl 3/2 listed at $849K, 5100 Sea Bell Rd 4/2.5 listed at $949K, 1450 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.199M, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $1.249M.

9 closed sales: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 $610K, 3009 Singing Wind Dr 2/1.5 $657K, 1644 Bunting Ln 3/3 $665K, 5186 Sea Bell Rd 3/3 $1.015M, 940 Whelk Dr 3/2 $1.425M, 820 Angel Wing Dr 3/2 $1.46M, 837 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 $1.75M, 2857 Wulfert Rd 4/5 $1.78M, 1253 Anhinga Ln 4/4 $3.7M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 2431 Shop Rd listed at $249.9K.

No closed sales..

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3120 1/1 $419K.

No price changes or new sales

1 closed sale: Beach Villas #2514 2/2 $820K.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 11540 Laika Ln 2/2.5 listed at $1.525M

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sanibel & Captiva Sunshine, Real Estate, Property Values, Climate Control, & More…

Posted on June 11, 2021 by SanibelSusan

The wonderful sunny Sanibel/Captiva weather continues, and it was another good week for SanibelSusan with in/out repair surgery yesterday on my torn meniscus. Amazing how the fix-up was quick and easy at Orthopedic Specialists of SW FL Center for Specialized Surgery, followed by PT this morning at Island Therapy (right next door to SanibelSusan Realty). Highly recommend both facilities as I am already back at work and on to real estate news.

At Sanibel Susan Realty

Tues, pre-surgery, I taught the Resort & 2nd-Home Module of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist Designation at the islands’ Association of Realtors®. With attendees both in person & via Zoom, it was fun to again have a live audience. (Last year, with COVID, it was only offered via Zoom.) Thanks to all who participated & Association staff, CEO Bill Robinson & Education Director Megan Rose, who made it easy. It was great to have a mix of newbies, long-time Realtors, all island-lovers with different life stories, yet eager to keep learning. Their input makes teaching fun!

Our office condo listing (White Sands #23) closed yesterday. Thanks to Realtor Kate Helman who sold this and recently another of our condo listings. Her excellent follow-up is appreciated. Great efforts also from David Wright & his crew at Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank, Cameron Anholt at Royal Shell Vacation Rentals, Patience Rodriguez at Select Vacation Properties, Michelle Landl at Knight Barry Title, Carol McCarley at Noak & Company CPA, and teammates Dave, Elise, and Lisa. Like with a knee, a real estate transaction can take a village. Teamwork makes the dream work!

After a couple of other news items below is the action this week in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

High Flood-Risk Homes Sell for More Than Low-Risk

Posted Wed on FloridaRealtors, by Kerry Smith: “SEATTLE – A study of flood-risk and home values suggests that concerns over climate change haven’t affected the value of property that’s located in a high-risk flood zone. It appears to be true even though consumers have greater access to flooding information via online listing advertising websites.

“In the first quarter of 2021, the median sale price of homes with high flood risk was $402,010, compared with $353,783 for homes with low flood risk, according to a new report from Redfin. That means high-risk homes sold for a record 13.6% premium – up from a premium of 10.1% in the first quarter of 2020 and up from a premium of 7.2% in the first quarter of 2019.

“Since 2013, homes with a high flood risk have sold, on average, for about 7% more than homes with low flood risk, likely because many of them are luxury waterfront properties. That premium surged during the coronavirus pandemic when many wealthy homebuyers started eyeing oceanfront or lakefront houses outside of major cities.

“”Americans are buying the beach houses they always dreamed of because they have the flexibility to work from wherever they want,” says Redfin Senior Economist Sheharyar Bokhari. “While flood risk is intensifying in many parts of the country, it doesn’t seem to be a deal breaker for a lot of homebuyers. This may be because buyers aren’t aware they’re purchasing a home in a flood plain or just don’t view it as an immediate danger. Places with high flood risk are also often home to large concentrations of retirees, many of whom don’t see climate change as a threat they need to worry about in their lifetime. Florida is one example.”

“Redfin and other real estate websites have started sharing property-level flood risk data online to help house hunters determine if the homes they’re interested in are located in flood plains and whether they should purchase flood insurance.

“Places prone to flooding are also seeing stronger growth in home sales. Sales of high-flood-risk homes rose 18.6% year over year in the first quarter – about double the 9.6% gain in sales of low-flood-risk homes.

“In Jacksonville, homebuyers often inquire about flood risk, but it virtually never causes them to back out, says local Redfin real estate agent Heather Kruayai. Jacksonville has two waterways running through it, and about 43,000 properties have a high flood risk, according to First Street Foundation’s Flood Factor. “If you buy a home on the water in Florida, flooding is just something that comes with the territory. Most buyers understand that,” Kruayai says. “A lot of out-of-state buyers have been moving here during the pandemic and purchasing waterfront properties, but there are also locals looking for space to spread out because the city has become so congested.” Kruayai says that flood risk isn’t even a strong negotiating factor if buyers hope to snag a lower price. “Even if you wanted to … you’d have a tough time because we’re in such a hot seller’s market.”

“Low-risk flood-zone homes do have one price advantage, however. Prices have gone up for all homes regardless of flood risk, but homes in low-risk zones are more likely to finalize a price higher than the owner’s asking price.

In the first quarter of 2021, 47.2% of low-flood-risk homes sold for more than their list price, compared with 37.4% of high-flood-risk homes. That 9.8-percentage-point gap is the largest on records dating back to 2013.

Overall, properties with low flood risk typically cost less than properties with high risk because they’re less likely to be on the beach or have any kind of waterfront view, Bokhari explained. Because low-risk properties are more affordable, they also face more competition, which means buyers are more likely to bid up the prices.”

Estimated Island Taxable Property Values Up

Early preliminary property tax values for Sanibel and Captiva have increased over 2020 according to an article posted in the Jun 9, 2021 “Islander”. It says, “The Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office released its estimated tax roll values on Jun 3, which indicate a 2,57% increase for the city of Sanibel and a 6.3% increase for Captiva as part of unincorporated Lee County. The official numbers will come out by July 1, then will be sent to Tallahassee for approval…” (Betcha those numbers next month are higher.)

Working Group Seeks To Make Sanibel a Model in Climate Policy

Also, in this week’s “Islander”: “On May 21, Lee County Chapter of the Climate Reality Project co-founder Bob Moore and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Environmental Policy Director James Evans hosted the first meeting of the Renewable Energy Working Group, according to SCCF.

“The meeting brought together a collection of civic leaders, businesspeople, climate activists, and educators to discuss opportunities to address climate change through renewable energy policies. “The aim of this group is to make Sanibel a model for climate policy, similar to the way the Sanibel Plan has been a model for sustainable community development,” Evans said…. “By combining efforts across Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties, we will be able to capitalize on the expertise of … members and educate a wider range….”, Evans said.” Stay tuned.

Olivia McMurray Goes to Olympic Trials

Shout-out to island Realtor Mike McMurray and family, especially daughter Olivia who travels to Nebraska next week for the U.S. swimming trials for the Olympics. Olivia is a 2021 graduate of Fort Myers High School and eight-time Florida state high school champion. She will compete in six swim events with hopes of securing a spot if not in the next Olympics in Tokyo, perhaps the one after in Paris. Whatever the outcome, Olivia already is a success and her friends in SW FL are rooting for her and her proud family.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 4-11, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Mariner Pointe #323 2/2.5 $549K, Coquina Beach #2B 2/2 $595K, Sanibel Inn #3511 2/2 $695K, Pointe Santo #A26 2/2 $1.35M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Gulfside Place #124 2/2 listed at $1.385M.

8 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #1/1 $335K, Sundial #C409 1/1 $485K, Sandpebble #1D 2/2 $540K, Sanibel Arms West #I2 2/2 $599K, Sundial #C303 2/2 $690K, Pointe Santo #E3 2/2 $787K, Sanddollar #B101 2/2 $1.05M, White Sands #23 2/2 $1.05M (our listing).

HOMES

5 new listings: 1826 Farm Trl 3/2 $849K, 633 Lake Murex Cir 3/3 $1.299M, 917 Pepper Tree Pl 4/3 $1.349M, 737 Periwinkle Way 3/3 $2.3M, 856 Limpet Dr 4/2.5 $2.45M.

2 price changes: 4506 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $819K, 1146 Golden Olive Ct 5/4 now $3.099M.

7 new sales: 1737 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed at $635K, 1376 Jamaica Dr 2/2 listed at $699K, 4505 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/3 listed at $729K, 1371 Tahiti Dr 2/2 listed at $839K, 1025 S. Yachtsman Dr 3/1.5 listed at $850K, 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 1218 Ferry Rd 3/2 listed at $1.23M

7 closed sales: 3031 Poinciana Cir 3/3 $690K, 9456 Beverly Ln 3/2 $735K, 1186 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $835K, 1117 Captains Walk St 2/2 $857K, 1743 Jewel Box Dr 3/3.5 $1.35M, 9445 Beverly Ln 4/3 $1.43M, 950 Victoria Way 4/4 $2.06M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 5648 Baltusrol Ct now $338.9K.

No new sales.

4 closed sales: 971 Main St $200K, 9056 Mockingbird Dr $349K, 6505 Pine Ave $675K, 6519 Pine Ave $725K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: Sunset Beach Villas #2214 2/2 $752.5K.

HOMES

No new listings.

2 price changes: 11540 Laika Ln 2/2.5 now $1.525M, 11559 Laika Ln now $7.5M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 41 Oster Ct 2/2.5 $1.03M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: with contingencies: 16970 Captiva Dr listed at $4.25M.

No closed sales.

Roseate spoonbills

Until next Friday, I hope your life is rosy too!

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Island June = Raindrops & More Bunnies

Posted on June 4, 2021 by SanibelSusan

SanibelSusan reporting that the good news this week is that the rainy season has begun in SW Florida. Not that we like to see a lot of run-off which in years past has affected local water quality, but the island bunnies which I love – like it when tropical vegetation is green and lush, not yellow and crunchy. It was great to see several of these little critters out enjoying my lawn Thurs morning after our first “big” rain Wed night.

The island real estate world has been quiet even through the holiday weekend. The action over the last seven days posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after a couple of news items below. Not much is happening. Total available Sanibel inventory is 57 properties (condos, homes, lots) while Captiva has 19 available.

Here at SanibelSusan Realty, teammate Dave returns to the office Mon, while I now have a plan of action for my sore knee with a quick surgical procedure scheduled next week to repair a torn meniscus. How handy is it that Island Therapy is right next door to my office? I am all set to be up and running again soon, while teammate Elise has been the glue that has kept us together this week, with teammate Lisa on Sat.

CROW Wildlife Walks & Daily Presentations Return

This week CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) announced that Wildlife Walk guided hospital tours and daily presentations are back. The guided hospital tours provide an opportunity for visitors to get an in-depth look into the inner workings of CROW’s hospital and the treatment process of over 5,000 wildlife patients each year. The 1-1/2-hour program has two parts: the daily presentation in the AWC Visitor Education Center followed by a guided tour through treatment areas of the hospital. Up-close encounters with Animal Ambassadors are included along the way. These tours resumed Jun 1 and will be offered Mon through Fri at 12:30 p.m. At all times, masks must be worn. Each tour is limited to eight people and advance registration is required. Program cost is $25 per person and includes General Admission to the AWC Visitor Education Center and the daily presentation. The program is open to all, but not recommended for children under the age of 13. Tours are subject to modification or cancellation based on animals being treated.

Free Summer Tours at The Refuge

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel will offer free summer tours from Jun 20 through Aug 7. There is no set schedule, so monitor the refuge’s Eventbrite page at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/jn-ding-darling-nwr-32246304043 to see what staff and volunteers are offering each week and to sign up for tours such as Birding the Refuge, car caravan tour, Mindfulness Walk at Bailey Tract, Bike Tour and Beach Walk.

Faces of Change

It was great to see a friendly face on the cover of the May-June Issue of Realtor® Magazine. It was none other than a Florida Realtors® Audition Panel colleague, Adam Gurske from Matchmaker Realty of Alachua County which is in Gainesville. He is one of the young real estate practitioners selected for the 2021 Class of 30 Under 30 for their resilience and adaptability during rapidly changing conditions that have forced a quick rethinking of business practices. “Adaptability is one trait that Adam’s ten years in the business have helped him hone. His Mom has been the area’s association executive for 30 years, so Adam has grown up in the business. At 29, he is active in his local association, a longtime board member of a local nonprofit that is dedicated to helping homeless families, all while being a multi-million $ producer with 28 transaction sides last year. If you ever need real estate assistance in Gainesville, I encourage you to contact Adam, and mention SanibelSusan. He is a solid hardworking smart young man.

14-Day Rental Rule

Good advice in the recent RSPS (Resort & 2^nd-Home Specialist) Newsletter: “With the interest in vacation rentals rising across the U.S., owners of second homes may be tempted to make that property available for rent. There are certain tax implications (and possible deductions) that are determined by the use of the second property as well as the length of time the property is rented out. Anyone interested should consult with a tax professional before proceeding.” (Click here for a link to IRS Topic 415 Renting Residential and Vacation Property.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist Designation

Speaking of RSPS (Resort & 2^nd-Home Specialist), this week I updated that module for the islands specialist designation classes that are offered annually by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®. Earning the designation requires completion of 12 modules including this one. It was 2012 when I prepared that class for the first time. Time flies. Was not as much fun last year to teach it via Zoom. The class interaction, where we share experiences and advice, is the fun part. Wish me luck on Tuesday as I teach for the 9^th year.

SCCF Update – Periwinkle Wetlands Restoration Project Begins Next Week

Here is the latest, right from the Conservation Foundation’s Wed update email:

“Next week, SCCF will begin the preliminary steps of a multi-phase restoration project on the newly acquired Periwinkle Wetlands Preserve. “We are grateful that we were able to acquire these key 12-plus acres and we ask the public to please understand that we must clear the land of exotics before we can restore it,” said SCCF CEO Ryan Orgera. “Since it’s right on Perwinkle Way and highly visible, we want to explain the process so a return to a diverse, natural habitat is well understood.”

“Land Clearing Phase – Over the next several months, contractors will be conducting the land clearing phase, which will include the removal and eradication of dense stands of large, invasive exotic trees. The work will be overseen by SCCF Habitat Management staff and vegetation debris will be mulched on-site.

“In addition to the tree removal, SCCF staff will be conducting selective herbicide treatments to manage invasive exotic vines, groundcovers, and grasses. Habitat Management also will begin to revegetate many areas throughout the property and construct hiking trails.

“SCCF wants island residents and passersby to understand what is happening at the site as it begins to unfold.

““As the initial land clearing portion progresses, the conversion from densely vegetated to nearly barren land can often seem destructive and a shock to the senses. However, as the planting stage begins to take root, the landscape rapidly transitions back to a diverse, natural habitat,” explained Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz. Removing exotic plants — which lack any native predators or pests to keep them in check — is key to successful restoration.

““Invasive species can become dominant, rapidly displacing native plant communities and resulting in the loss of key habitats for migratory and resident bird populations as well as other animal species found throughout Sanibel Island,” Lechowicz said. Restoring land to its historic natural state reinforces SCCF’s rich history of conservation and its core mission “to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.”

“Lechowicz said the timing of the restoration was planned around nature itself, and a firm completion date has not been established. “Restoration projects often take place over an extended period and many factors contribute to the time it takes to complete a project,” he said. “As summer approaches, thunderstorms, seasonal flooding, and hurricanes can delay portions of the restoration.”

“Restoration/Improvement Phase – Following the initial preserve restoration, improvements will be added to the approximately two acres fronting Periwinkle Way between Purdy and Martha’s Lanes. These improvements will be open to the public, while the majority of the preserve acreage will be dedicated for exclusive use as wildlife habitat. “The intentional reimagining of this space will connect visitors to nature and celebrate our shared and historic role in protecting and nurturing Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems,” said Orgera.

“After the exotics are removed, the community space will be replanted with thriving native landscaping. Inviting and inspiring, it will feature a 1,100-foot loop walking/biking trail connected to the shared-use path. The trail will take bikers and walkers through a welcome plaza with a water bottle-filling station and interpretive panels.

“A lush demonstration marsh with wetlands features will include water-quality education panels. There will be interpretative gardens with seasonal blooms and a sculpture garden to encourage thoughtful reflection on the importance of land, water, and wildlife. Throughout the restoration process, SCCF Habitat Management staff will routinely conduct inspections for the reintroduction of invasive, exotic species to ensure it is a diverse, healthy ecosystem.

““The Periwinkle Wetlands Preserve restoration project is essentially revitalizing characteristics of Sanibel’s historic ecosystems,” Orgera said, “while inviting in the public to learn more about Sanibel’s environment and to contemplate its beauty.””

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 28 – June 4, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Breakers West #A5 2/2 $895K, Villa Sanibel #2E 2/2 $959K, Sanddollar #C101 2/2 $1.21M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Coquina Beach #3D 2/2 listed at $599K.

5 closed sales: Pointe Santo #C4 1/1 $570K, White Sands #13 2/2 $938K, Gulfside Place #218 2/2 $1.35M, Pointe Santo #E24 3/2 $1.4225M, Shorewood #2D 3/2 $1.595M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1737 Serenity Ln 3/2 $635K, 1376 Jamaica Dr 2/2 $699K.

1 price change: 3010 West Gulf Dr now $1.245M.

4 new sales: 1717 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/2 listed at $550K, 1550 Center St 3/2 listed at $799K, 1362 Tahiti Dr 4/3 listed at $1.295M, 539 N. Yachtsman Dr 4/3.5 listed at $1.295M.

7 closed sales: 868 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $725K, 2098 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $780K, 4377 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 $860K, 509 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 $1.2M, 5773 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 2/2 $1.325M, 9441 Peaceful Dr 3/3.5 $1.395M, 2311 Starfish Ln 4/4 $1.945M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 5642 Baltusrol Ct now $339.9K.

1 new sale: 6141 Starling Way listed at $897K.

4 closed sales: 3013 Poinciana Cir $255K, 1044 Fish Crow Rd $350K, 9042 Mockingbird Dr $385K, 0 West Gulf Dr $3.7M.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 14991 Binder Dr 4/4 $6.295M.

1 price change: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 now $1.295M.

1 new sale: 15261 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 listed at $11.499M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, wishing you only bright skies & easy summer rains,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Beautiful Weather for Memorial Day Weekend 2021

Posted on May 28, 2021 by SanibelSusan

SanibelSusan here reporting that all is well on the islands for the holiday weekend. Traffic on Periwinkle and the causeway was already picking up yesterday afternoon and has been steady most of today. More summerlike weather is expected for the immediate future, so plenty of weekend warriors may be arriving.

If you follow local news, this week there has been a lot of hype about red tide and blue-green algae. With the rainy season approaching those often are summertime concerns in SW Florida. But, if the water surrounding Sanibel today is any indication, there is none. I took the below photos this earlier this afternoon showing bayside surrounding waters – they are clear and a beautiful bright blue reminiscent of the Caribbean. Should be perfect for boaters and beachgoers here for the holiday holiday! We hope you enjoy your weekend too and remember those who served.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Here in the office teammate Elise has kept things running smoothly while teammate Dave is on vacay and I have struggled with a bad knee. Who knew that just getting up from a chair causes injury? Anyway, I now have mastered using a walker, luckily can still drive, and should get an orthopedic plan of action next week. Teammate Lisa is in the office tomorrow.

Thank goodness we work like a well-oiled machine and much of it is over the internet. I put our last lot listing under contract Sunday, we had two nice closings this week, and both Elise and I have spoken with and visited owners thinking of selling.

Meanwhile, island inventory continues to diminish. Today on Sanibel, there are just 13 condos, 25 homes, and 15 lots for sale. Even fewer listings on Captiva, where seven condos, 11 homes, and just one lot are available.

You will see the week’s report of the action in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service after a couple of news items below. There was not a lot of new listing activity this week.

Most remaining snowbirds are heading north this weekend, while the post-season crowd will be here for the holiday. Fingers crossed they are “nice” and appreciate the islands’ low-key laid-back eco-friendly ambience.

Use of ‘Escalation Clause’ Skyrockets in Hot Seller’s Market

With Florida real estate market hot, the below article posted this week by Joel Maxson, Florida Realtors® Associate General Counsel is especially appropriate. One of the offers that one of our listings recently received had an escalation clause and it was not the successful offer. Sometimes other terms are more important to a seller than the price.

“As escalation clauses become more popular during this hot seller’s market, buyers should consider the pros and cons of using them – as well as the broader legal context of their offer.

“ORLANDO, Fla. – During this white-hot seller’s market, many conversations on Florida Realtors® Legal Hotline involve multiple offer scenarios. Buyers are desperately seeking ways to try and make their offer stand out. One method that has rocketed in popularity is using an escalation clause.

“There are many variations of these clauses, but the one thing they have in common is that a buyer is willing to increase the purchase price above the amount in the initial offer. A simple version of an escalation clause may read something like this: “Buyer agrees to pay $____________ more than the next highest offer, not to exceed a final purchase price of $___________.”

“This is the core concept, at least. Most clauses will also include some combination of the following components, although this is by no means an exhaustive list. The clause can get increasingly more complex the more a buyer adds to the clause.

“The amount of money to add to the next highest offer (the escalation amount)
The maximum purchase price
Seller’s obligation to show the buyer a copy of the next highest offer used to calculate the final purchase price
Whether the financing amount will increase, or whether the buyer will pay cash to cover the escalation amount
How to handle a situation involving two or more competing escalation clauses
Whether the buyer or seller will be obligated to sign or initial further documents if the escalation clause is triggered
Whether the escalation is based on the purchase price or net proceeds to the seller (to account for costs and credits in a competing offer)

“The positive side of escalation clauses is that they may make a buyer’s offer stand out. It also invites a seller to take an easy path to finalize negotiation.

“Most of the confusion we hear about these clauses on Florida Realtors Legal Hotline centers around the fact that the buyer’s offer is just that – an offer. A seller who receives an offer can accept, reject, counter, or even ignore an offer.

“For example, can the seller send a brief message that instructs the buyer to submit a new, “highest and best” offer, with a fixed purchase price by a deadline? Yes – the seller is welcome to reject the buyer’s offer.

“What if the seller removes the escalation clause and counters the buyer’s offer right at buyer’s maximum price cap with no information about any other offers? Can the seller do that? Yes – the seller is welcome to counter buyer’s offer.

“Can the seller go with a different buyer’s offer (even a lower-priced one) and never inform the buyer with the escalation clause? Yes – the seller is welcome to ignore the buyer’s offer.

“As you can see, the crux of most buyer frustrations centers on the concept that the seller isn’t bound to follow the rules in the escalation clause unless the seller accepts the offer.

“Please note that there are additional angles to this issue – this brief article is simply designed to give an overview of the escalation clause itself. For example, although this article mentions a seller’s right to ignore an offer, a listing Realtor must comply with this Standard of Practice from NAR’s Code of Ethics: REALTORS®, in response to inquiries from buyers or cooperating brokers shall, with the sellers’ approval, disclose the existence of offers on the property. Where disclosure is authorized, REALTORS® shall also disclose, if asked, whether offers were obtained by the listing licensee, another licensee in the listing firm, or by a cooperating broker.”

Memorial Day Weekend Happenings

“Ding” Darling’s Summer Fun Virtual Auction is now through Monday, May 31, at https://DingFunAuction.givesmart.com . All proceeds benefit conservation efforts at the National Wildlife Refuge.

Sanibel’s last Farmer Market until fall wraps up Sunday, May 30, on the grounds of City Hall, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market begins again on the first Sunday in October.

Also Sunday, May 30, American Legion is hosting a Backyard BBQ from noon until 8 p.m., 4249 San-Cap Rd at Mile Marker 3. Featuring burgers, brats & sides, with live music & fun.

Beachgoers, please be on the lookout for turtle and snowy plover nests. As of May 19, four active snowy plover nests have been recorded. If you see a nest that has not yet been roped off, contact shorebirds@sccf.org. Also as of May 19, SCCF already has counted and marked off 60 turtle nests on Sanibel, 25 on Captiva. That’s a lot for this early in the season. Please do not disturb any nests and if you are on the beach at night, only red/amber lights are allowed.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 21-28, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

6 new sales: Captains Walk #B2 1/1 listed at $299,999, Mariner Pointe #943 2/2.5 listed at $749K, Sunset South #11D 2/2 listed at $749K, Pointe Santo #D24 2/2 listed at $795K, Pelicans Roost #102 2/2 listed at $930K, Sanddollar #A102 3/2 listed at $1.395M.

13 closed sales: Sundial #I105 1/1 $405K, Mariner Pointe #731 2/2 $515K, Sandalfoot #3B3 1/1 $520K (our listing), Lighthouse Point #121 3/2 $591K, Sandalfoot #3C1 2/2 $630K, Loggerhead Cay #572 2/2 $670K, Sanibel Arms West #C4 2/2 $910K, Sunset South #4D 2/2 $997.5K, Tarpon Beach #109 2/2 $1.055M, Pointe Santo #C43 3/2 $1.075M (our listing), Compass Point #151 3/3 $1.495M, Atrium #102 3/2 $1.498M, Cyprina Beach #3 3/3 $1.749M.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 939 Beach Rd 3/2.5 now $1.55M.

6 new sales: 2011 Mitzi 2/1 listed at $650K, 1605 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 half-duplex listed at $699K, 429 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $749.5K, 770 Donax St 2/2 listed at $850K, 4516 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2.5 listed at $979.9K, 5765 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 listed at $1.648M.

8 closed sales: 1657 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 $767K, 3570 Bunny Ln 3/3 $869K, 1983 My Tern Ct 3/2.5 $1.02M, 557 N. Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $1.124M, 5403 Shearwater Dr 4/3 $1.599M, 2355 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 $1.649M, 1680 Hibiscus Dr 3/3.5 $1.8M, 1044 Whisperwood Way 4/4.5 $1.94M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: with contingencies: 1894 Farm Trl listed at $199K (our listing & our sale), 461 Sawgrass Pl listed at $699K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Captiva Hide-a-Way #D 2/2 $1.075M.

1 price change: Lands End Village #1649 2/2 now $1.395M.

1 new sale: Beach Villas #2514 2/2 listed at $820K.

2 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3217 1/1 $355K, Ventura Captiva #4A 3/3 $1.1M.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

2 closed sales: 1105 Tallow Tree Ct 3/3 $2.4M, 14980 Binder Dr 4/4 $2.475M.

LOTS

No new listings.

price change:

No new or closed sales.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Best wishes for a safe Memorial Day Weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Wrapping up a Sunny Quiet Sanibel Friday

Posted on May 21, 2021 by SanibelSusan

It has been another week of great weather, but rain is needed! Below is some news followed by the weekly action posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

At SanibelSusan Realty

Here in the office, we are down to just one listing available and three under contract, with two closings next week. Inventory is sooo low. Realtors everywhere are looking for new listings. That includes us!

What Will Exurb Buyers Do if Called Back to the Office?

Posted May 12, 2021 on FloridaRealtors®: By Kerry Smith – “Pandemic-era buyers moved farther out and to new cities, assuming they’d never have to return to the office. Now, if forced to choose, 25% would pick home over their job.

“SANTA CLARA, Calif. – COVID-19 drove working professionals out of the office and sparked a surge in home buying in the less-expensive outskirts of cities and even in small towns across the U.S. But so far, only 48% of these workers have been told they can continue working remotely. An unknown number may soon be expected to commute to work if a return becomes mandatory, creating a conflict that pits their new house against their job.

“According to a realtor.com study, almost 60% of new homeowners who purchased within the last 12 months work from home – and 62% prefer to be. However, less than half have been told that they can continue to do so. About 25% of those surveyed have no definitive answer on whether they can remain fully remote indefinitely; another 25% already have plans to return.

““Throughout the last year we have seen homebuyers across the country, empowered by the newfound ability to work remotely, moving farther and farther from crowded urban downtowns in search of more space, a higher quality of life and a lower cost of living,” says George Ratiu, Sr. economist for Realtor.com. “Our survey data shows that people are really enjoying their new communities and larger homes, and aren’t willing to give them up anytime soon.”

“If companies start demanding that these workers return to the office, Ratiu says we “could see an influx of new homeowners in the job market. For companies willing to stay more flexible with either hybrid or entirely remote opportunities, there’s a large cohort of young professionals with growing families who … welcome the benefits of a technologically-enhanced employment landscape.”

“Job versus home – When asked what they will do if their employer decides they must return to the jobsite, 48% would try to arrange a flexible schedule that allows for some in-office work and some remote work – but almost 25% said they’d find a new job. Only 30% said they’d willingly return to the office if asked, and only 8% would sell their pandemic-era home to be closer to work.

“Going the distance – Despite the fact that 31% are less willing to commute farther for work, close to 40% would have to travel 30 minutes or more each way to the office if asked to return to the workplace, and 18% of new homeowners would have to commute more than 60-minutes each way – an unappealing prospect for many.

““As offices begin to reopen, those who are currently looking for a new home may have to start factoring commute time into their search. One way to find homes within your desired commute time is to use the Realtor.com commute time filter.,” says Lexie Holbert, home and living expert at Realtor.com.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 14-21, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Mariner Pointe #943 2/2.5 $749K.

No price changes.

5 new sales: Blind Pass #E104 2/2 listed at $549.9K, Sanibel Arms West #I2 2/2 listed at $599K, Heron at The Sanctuary #3A 2/2.5 listed at $839K, Sanddollar #C103 3/2 listed at $1.375M, Gulfside Place #320 2/2 listed at $1.389M.

6 closed sales: Sundial #H107 1/1 $450K; Blind Pass #D203 2/2 $459K; Kimball Lodge #302 1/1 $552,750; Sanibel Arms West #J5 2/2 $600K; Blind Pass #G104 3/2 $687.5K, Sundial #Q401 2/2 $908K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 4506 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 $839K, 4516 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2.5 $979.9K, 5765 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 $1.648M, 1360 Eagle Run Dr 5/3.5 $2.695M.

3 price changes: 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/1 now $650K, 4619 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $848K, 1237 Isabel Dr 6/6.5 now $2.995M.

11 new sales: 5161 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 3/2 listed at $574K, 1649 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 half-duplex listed at $599.9K, 4505 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/3 listed at $729K, 555 Piedmont Rd 3/2 listed at $765K, 9408 Moonlight Dr 3/2 listed at $768.5K, 2548 Wulfert Rd 3/4 listed at $943K, 221 Robinwood Cir 3/2 listed at $999K, 5431 Shearwater Dr 3/3 listed at $1.148M, 1187 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.399M, 4701 Rue Belle Mer 4/5 listed at $3.395M, 1306 Seaspray Ln 4/4 listed at $4.245M.

13 closed sales: 1942 Roseate Ln 2/2 $500K; 1695 Serenity Ln 3/2 $619,830; 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 $920K; 5424 Shearwater Dr 3/2.5 $999K; 2563 Coconut Dr 2/2 $1.049M; 694 Heather Ln 3/3.5 $1.2534M; 1391 Jamaica Dr 4/3 $1.299M; 2303 Troon Ct 3/4 $1.3M; 5423 Shearwater Dr 3/3 $1.315M; 994 Whelk Dr 3/2 $1.325M; 4664 Rue Belle Mer 5/5 $1.62M; 775 Conch Ct 4/3 $1.75M; 4601 Rue Belle Mer 3/2 $2.9M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2829 Wulfert Rd $349K, 3938 West Gulf Dr $899K.

1 price change: 255 Hurricane Ln now $399K.

2 new sales: 809 Pyrula Ave listed at $424.9K, 0 Rue Bayou listed at $649,555.

2 closed sales: 5687 Baltusrol Ct $385K, 539 Sea Oats Dr $385K.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Lands End Village #1649 2/2 $1.349M, Lands End Village #1663 2/2 $1.395M.

No price changes or new sales.

2 closed sales: Tennis Villas # 3233 2/2 $520K, Gulf Beach Villas #2127 2/2 $885K.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 11551 Paige Ct 5/5/2 listed at $6.495M.

2 closed sales: 42 Oster Ct 2/2.5 $1M, 11541 Laika Ln 4/4 $2.15M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 16970 Captiva Dr now $4.25M.

No new or closed sales.

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

Fluffy Osprey Chicks & A Real Estate Market on Fire

Posted on May 14, 2021 by SanibelSusan

Another Friday is here with more summer-like weather in Southwest Florida this week. Traffic is considerably less but many visitors here now, the regulars at this time of year, have said that it is busier than they remember it. Even so, comparing it to my neighborhood and chats with vacation rental managers, many snowbirds have departed, but the vacationer rental business is up considerably compared to a usual spring.

Weather, Osprey, & Gas

The islands still need rain. Though it was overcast for a bit yesterday and earlier today, only a few showers have been reported in SW Florida, mostly inland. We know not to wish for too much spring rain or water releases from Lake Okeechobee pick up.

If you have followed the photos that our pal, Scott, has shared with us the past two weeks, I hope you enjoy these which he sent last night. Look how the baby chicks are growing. They are fluffy as their feathers fill in. Baby osprey usually fly about 60 days from hatching, spending two months with their parents, in and near their nest. (Scott, thanks again!)

From the many national media reports about potential gas shortages from the temporary closure of the Colonial pipeline, it was unusual here Wed night to see a huge line to gas-up at the Chevron Station on Periwinkle. As I headed home shortly after 5 p.m., it was tough to maneuver around the line-up. Patrons should have listened to the entire news report which said the only Florida areas possibly affected by that pipeline closure are in Tallahassee and the panhandle. There actually is a surplus of gas in SW Florida. Those hyped-up buyers emptied the island of gas temporarily. Things are back to normal now.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Here in the office, SanibelSusan has been struggling this week with computer withdrawal. The hard drive on my office laptop crashed last week and was determined corrupt. I know Realtors® spend a lot of time tied to their computers, but to say I missed mine, is an understatement. Operating by iPad and iPhone just is not the same. Luckily, most of our shared office work is either internet-driven or on our network, so the team has not missed a beat and I tried to keep my grumbling to a minimum.

Thankfully, Wally Mulka, owner of Barrier IT Solutions, lives on-island and quickly came to my rescue. His wife is a Realtor® pal so he knows our pain and has plenty of patience. Early this week Wally was able to recover my data, buy and install a new hard drive, and today he reinstalled it and the software to get me back in business. I am a happy camper with that friendly laptop back on my desk.

It likewise was tortuous fun to receive three offers on our next-to-last listing over the Mothers’ Day weekend – the offers were presented through three busy Realtor® mothers who had opportunities to view and show that property on Saturday during a short 2-hour window between renters.

With inventory tight and demand high, the successful offer was significantly over asking price. It had no contingencies, included a huge escrow deposit, with closing in two weeks. The buyer and seller are happy, but it was not fun relaying sad news on Mothers’ Day to the Mom Realtors® representing the unsuccessful buyers. The team and I are very thankful for the sale but were reminded again that this business is more fun when everyone comes out a winner. Gratefully, those Realtor® Moms were professional and understanding. We hope to do another deal with them soon.

Our weekly reports of the activity posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is after a couple of news report below. First, an update of inventory based on MLS data today.

	SANIBEL						CAPTIVA
	Condos		Homes		Lots		Condos		Homes		Lots
	#	$ Price	#	$ Price	#	$ Price	#	$/Price	#	$ Price	#	$ Price
Available for Sale	22	794,354	34	2,218,658	16	564,452	4	2,181,000	13	6,017,538	1	3,995,000
Under Contract	52	850,299	75	1,498,296	20	1,002,295	9	1,225,100	9	2,153,777	0	N/A
Closed 1/1-5/14/21	128	854,281	159	1,293,272	39	614,461	28	1,058,892	25	2,998,016	1	2,000,000
Closed in 2020	192	733,876	290	954,718	23	606,233	47	821,713	27	2.923,148	4	2,537,500
Closed in 2019	127	694,392	211	1,112,748	15	372,200	29	1.037,077	17	2,737,503	1	1,375,000

Note: Prices in italics are asking prices (properties available & under contract)

It is true, there are only 90 properties for sale on both islands (Sanibel & Captiva, condos, homes, lots), with 545 already sold this year. The market is CRAZY! The buyers who have said, “I’m going to wait awhile for things to cool off” are likely going to miss out. Read more about that in the article below.

The Real Estate Market Isn’t in a Bubble – It Just Isn’t

Posted last Friday on FloridaRealtors®: “Rising home prices and recession memories have convinced some buyers that a bubble will pop and prices will drop. But it’s just too much demand and too little supply.

“NEW YORK – The U.S. housing market is on a hot streak with double-digit annual gains in home prices, bidding wars and surging buyer demand. That type of soaring housing market is prompting more “bubble” fears in some corners, but economists say the housing market isn’t getting overinflated. A bubble won’t pop, thousands of homes won’t slide into foreclosure, and buyers who wait likely won’t be better off.

““We have strong conviction that we are not experiencing a bubble in U.S. housing,” Vishwanath Tirupattur, a Morgan Stanley strategist, wrote in a note to clients this week.

“Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of Realtors®, agrees. He told Axios last month: “This is not a bubble. It is simply lack of supply.”

“The rapid rise in prices may be concerning to home shoppers, however. The median selling price for a home is up $35,000 compared to a year ago, which is the fastest-paced increase since 2006, Tirupattur says.

“But this isn’t 2006. Housing inventories are low, credit remains tight, and lenders aren’t issuing risky loans like they did back then. Product risk – such as from mortgages with introductory periods, teaser rates or balloon payments – comprised about 40% of the mortgage market between 2004 to 2006. Those factors are now at only 2% of the mortgage market, according to Morgan Stanley.

“Also, the housing market has a record low number of homes available for sale, in part likely caused by the pandemic. At the end of March, there were 1.07 million homes available for sale, according to NAR data. For comparison, during the housing bubble, in July 2007, there were more than four times that – 4 million homes available for sale.

“Still, while home prices won’t keep climbing at the current pace, they aren’t expected to fall either, economists say.

““We are not at all suggesting that home price appreciation will maintain its current torrid pace,” Tirupattur writes. “Home prices will continue to rise, but more gradually.””

Source: “Why Morgan Stanley Is Convinced the Housing Market Isn’t in a Bubble,” Yahoo! Finance (May 5, 2021) and “The Dispiriting Housing Boom,” Axios (April 11, 2021)

Island Scoop

July 4^th Parade – It was announced this week that out of an abundance of caution, the July 4^th Parade 2021 again is cancelled this year.

Sanibel City Manager Retiring – Longtime Sanibel City Manager, Judie Zimomra announced this week – just after her 20^th anniversary with the City – that she is retiring on Sep 24. Successfully leading Sanibel through through some unusual times – Hurricanes Charley and Irma, economic crises, Sanibel Bear visits, red tide and blue-green algae events, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Judie is most deserving of a wonderful retirement, but she sure is going to be a tough act to follow. She multi-tasks better than the best.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season – Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) turtle patrol have already documented six sea turtle nests on the islands, marking the official start of the sea turtle nesting season. They remind us to turn out lights at night, remove beach furniture, fill in holes, pick up litter, and only use flashlights with red filters when on the beach after dark. To sign up for the Adopt-a-Beach and Adopt-a-Nest programs to help with sea turtle research and monitoring, email SCCF’s Coastal Wildlife Director, Kelly Sloan at ksloan@sccf.org. For more tips on how you can help, visit www.SanCapLifeSavers.org.

Wildlife Drive Summer Fees – “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society announced that admission fees for Wildlife Drive remain the same after “season” ends. However, the $10 vehicle fee is good for three days of admission from May 1 through Sep 30. Visitors are reminded to show their receipt at the entrance fee booth when returning. Daily fees for cyclists and pedestrians are $1 each visit for those aged 16 and older.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 7-14, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Mariner Pointe #712 2/2.5 $669K, Sanddollar #C103 3/2 $1.375M.

No price changes.

7 new sales: Spanish Cay #D6 2/2 listed at $549K; Cottage Colony West #102 1/1 listed at $579,990; Sanibel Arms West #I8 2/2 listed at $624K; Island Beach Club #330A 2/2 listed at $739K; Loggerhead Cay #101 2/2 listed at $998,899; Pointe Santo #C43 3/2 listed at $1.05M (our listing), Atrium #102 3/2 listed at $1.498M.

11 closed sales: Sundial #F206 1/1 $465K, Mariner Pointe #733 2/2 $531K, Sanibel Arms West #H4 2/2 $549K, Island Beach Club #210A 2/2 $729K, Signal Inn #14 2/2 $790K, Sanibel Surfside #234 2/2 $800K, Sanibel Arms West #E4 2/2 $885K, Oceans Reach #1C1 2/2 $899K, Pointe Santo #C23 3/2 $920K, Sanddollar #A101 2/2 $1.13M, Pointe Santo #E26 2/2 $1.2M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 5161 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 3/2 $574K, 1649 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 half-duplex $599.9K, 1605 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 half-duplex $699K, 429 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $749.5K, 1187 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.399M, 4014 West Gulf Dr 4/4 $3.849M.

1 price change: 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/1 now $675K.

9 new sales: 9195 Dimmick Dr 2/2 listed at $550K, 9214 Kincaid Ct 2/2 listed at $695K, 1585 Serenity Ln 3/3 listed at $749K, 450 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $878K, 750 Nerita St 3/2 listed at $899K, 1296 Par View Dr 3/3 listed at $949K, 486 Surf Sound Ct 3/3.5 listed at $1.2M, 999 East Gulf Dr #103 4/3 listed at $1.995M, 950 Victoria Way 4/4 listed at $2.25M.

13 closed sales: 2405 Los Colony Rd 3/2 $380K, 2015 Wild Lime Dr 3/3 $560K, 2620 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $735K, 1560 Royal Poinciana Dr 3/2 $825K, 445 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $839K, 613 Lake Murex Cir 3/3 $985K, 751 Windlass way 5/5 $1.5M, 2464 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $1.175M, 742 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3 $1.525M, 6412 Pine Ave 3/2.5 $1.579M, 4809 Tradewinds Dr 3/3.5 $1.835M, 813 Angel Wing Dr 3/3.5 $2.639M, 4601 Rue Belle Mer 3/2 $2.9M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 461 Sawgrass Pl $699K.

No price changes.

3 new sales: 2095 Wild Lime Dr listed at $269K, 2299 Starfish Ln listed at $549K, 1028 Bayview Dr listed at $2.195M.

3 closed sales: 1318 Par View Dr $375K, 1226 Isabel Dr $1.2M, 5301-25 Sanibel-Captiva Rd $1.2M.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: Marina Villas #708 2/2 $750K.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy Mothers Day Sanibel Style – Mama Osprey Feeding Her Chicks

Posted on May 7, 2021 by SanibelSusan

Happy Friday, it is Susan reporting another beautiful Friday on sunny Sanibel with more perfect weather expected over the Mothers’ Day weekend. The SanibelSusan Team hopes your weekend also is a sunny one. Here is a sweet photo compilation from our pal Scott of the osprey nest at his island home. If you saw the three chicks in the photos he shared last week, look how big they are getting as their mama feeds them. Thanks for sharing, Scott!

At SanibelSusan Realty

Here at the office, the team and I are working through action items with a couple of listings under contract and coordinating showings at our remaining condo listing which already has two lined up for tomorrow during the brief 2-hour turn-over window.

This week, I also received several calls from owners thinking of selling, but unfortunately, if they do not have somewhere to go, finding alternative housing on-island now is as tough as finding rentals for next winter. Here is a colorful photo taken this morning during a spin through Sanibel’s Seagull Estates – we usually call this tree a Royal Poinciana but the pix illustrates why it is called a Flamboyant tree in the Caribbean. We always know it is May when these trees burst into bloom!

Wednesday, I showed a special property. With just 12 homes for sale on Captiva, it was fun to show the spectacular “Pink House” which is the first property after the Santiva bridge going onto Captiva. I had not been inside since before it sold in 2014. Today, it is even more stunning. With sunrise views out the back overlooking Blind Pass Bay to Roosevelt Channel and sunset views over the gulf out the front, plus the beach land across the street. The charming interior spans four levels (with elevator) and features jaw-dropping views from every floor, nearly every room. Beyond the interior living spaces are a waterside open deck, screened porch, new dock with lift and boat, spacious garage and storage spaces, whole-house generator, plus expansive outdoor entertainment area and pool. Big thanks to Royal Shell listing agent, Realtor® Trevor Nette, for making it easy to show. With six bedrooms, four and a half baths, it certainly is big enough.

Yesterday, working with another client, I showed a Sanibel home that had only been on the market for a few hours. It already had an offer over asking price and two other lookers. It certainly is challenging when there are not enough listings for the demand. No one wants to get into a bidding war, but until things change – will they ever? – if buyers see something they like, they should grab it as who knows when, or if, another opportunity will come along.

Yesterday I also attended a Zoom class. First time offered by Florida Realtors® and by popular instructor and Realtor® friend, Patti Ketcham from Tallahassee, this class covered Florida’s two trust funds that are part of Florida’s Affordable Housing Act.

Passed in 1992, at the urging of Florida’s builders and Realtors®, this Act raised the state’s documentary tax stamp on deeds by ten cents per $100 of the property value. The funds were directed to two trust funds – one for local governments and one for the state – SHIP and SAIL.

SHIP (State Housing Initiative Partnership) primarily funds the production and preservation of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households.
SAIL (State Apartment Incentive Loan) program provides funding for the construction and rehabilitation of multifamily rental housing.

Particularly with today’s real estate boom in Florida and lack of affordable housing, Patti urged the 200+ class attendees to get involved and her class explained how to do it. (To further toot, Patti’s horn, she also is an appointed Florida Real Estate Commissioner, presiding as their chair in 2020. She has been Florida Realtors® Educator of the Year and is the recipient of such fun feedback comments as “she’s such as great instructor I would sit in her class for 8 hours discussing dandruff, yard weeds, fungus, fingernails, factory smog, or spelling.”) She definitely is inspiring!

The action reported since last week in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service follows a couple of news items below.

Florida Realtors® Fight for Environment

Posted Wed, May 5 on FloridaRealtors® on-line: “In July, Realtors across Fla. will clean the state’s beaches, rivers and waterways – a hands-on approach that complements legislative efforts to protect the environment.

“ORLANDO, Fla. – If there is one thing Realtors® in Florida understand well, it is the timeless allure of a beautiful home on the shores of a sandy beach or the banks of crystal-clear natural springs. It’s that allure that makes Florida so attractive to out-of-state buyers who dream of spending weekends sunning on some of the best beaches in the world, paddle-boarding a nearby river or hiking along a pristine freshwater spring hoping to spy a manatee or two.

“While Florida Realtors®’ members understand that although Florida must continue to develop its communities and the industries that support them, it also understands that it cannot be growth at any cost. In its more than 100-year history, Florida Realtors has been a leading voice to protect our state’s waterways. In the past decade alone, Florida Realtors PAC-supported lawmakers have allocated billions of dollars toward environmental projects that renourish beaches, clean springs, preserve the Everglades and fight the negative impacts of red tide.

““Florida Realtors has made it a top priority to advocate for preserving and protecting Florida’s water resources. Florida’s a destination to live, work and play because of our beautiful waterways and beachlines,” says Florida Realtors 2021 President Cheryl Lambert. “We’ve conducted studies tying home values to water quality, urged lawmakers to prioritize funding, and launched Florida waters’ largest statewide clean-up event in 2020.”

“It’s not just political lip service. Realtors know that, sometimes, the best way to make something happen is to get your hands dirty and do it yourself. This July, for the second year in a row, Realtors will fan out across their communities, descending upon lakes, rivers, springs and beaches around the state with a singular goal: to clean and protect precious and vital waterways.

“The event, Florida Realtors Clean Up Florida Waters, is organized by local Realtor associations, Florida Realtors district vice presidents, local Realtor organizations’ Young Professional Networks as well as individual brokerages and Realtor members.”

Sanibel’s COVID-19 State of Emergency Ends

Following action this week by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to suspend all local COVID-19 emergency mandates, Sanibel’s State of Emergency was not extended and expired at midnight Tues, May 4. With that expiration, the Sanibel’s Covid-related restrictions including the City-wide face-covering mandate also expired. City businesses retain the authority to regulate mask requirements within their establishments. Additionally, Sanibel City Council took the following actions related to Covid-19:

The temporary outdoor dining approved during the Statement of Emergency will be allowed to continue while City Council considers legislation to permanently allow outdoor dining (which was temporarily permitted during the pandemic).
City buildings, including Sanibel City Hall offices will be open to the public, at this time face coverings will continue to be required inside all City buildings, including the Recreation Center.
Covid-related restrictions on Special Events implemented by Sanibel City Council are lifted.
Sanibel City Hall Council Chambers public seating is increased to 50% capacity.
The Sanibel Farmers Market will determine their own face covering policies.

The number of Sanibel Covid-19 cases reported from March 26, 2020 through May 4, 2021 is 256. Captiva’s cases total 12.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity April 30-May 7, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Captains Walk #B2 1/1 $299,999; Spanish Cay #D6 2/2 $569K; Pointe Santo #B25 2/2 $829K; Pointe Santo #C3 3/2 $1.099M.

1 price change: Pointe Santo #C43 3/2 now $1.05M (our listing).

View from Pointe Santo #C43

8 new sales: Kimball Lodge #264 1/1.5 listed at $570K, Loggerhead Cay #261 2/2 listed at $714.5K, Pointe Santo #A1 2/2 listed at $889K, Loggerhead Cay #523 2/2 listed at $945K, Sanibel Surfside #115 2/2 listed at $1.05M, Sunset South #4D 2/2 listed at $1.05M, Cyprina Beach #3 3/3 listed at $1.6M, Pointe Santo #A47 3/2 listed at $1.995M.

8 closed sales: Sanibel Moorings #242 1/1 $405K, Blind Pass #E101 2/2 $480K, Loggerhead Cay #373 2/2 $660K, Pointe Santo #E2 2/2 $920K, Sanibel Arms West #D6 2/2 $940K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #1-5 $950K, Tarpon Beach #206 2/2 $995K, Compass Point #102 2/2 $1.275M.

HOMES

12 new listings: 9214 Kincaid Ct 2/2 $695K, 1585 Serenity Ln 3/3 $749K, 223 Southwinds Dr 3/2 $815K, 1371 Tahiti Dr 2/2 $839K, 4598 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 $849K, 770 Donax St 2/2 $850K, 750 Nerita St 3/2 $899K, 915 Palm St 3/2 $995K, 221 Robinwood Cir 3/2 $999K, 1362 Tahiti Dr 4/3 $1.295M, 939 Beach Rd 3/2.5 $1.65M, 4949 Joewood Dr 5/5 $4.395M.

2 price changes: 486 Surf Sound Ct 3/3.5 now $1.2M, 930 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 now $1.695M.

10 new sales: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 listed at $589K, 604 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 listed at $949.9K, 1747 Jewel Box Dr 3/2 listed at $999K, 2755 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 listed at $1.098M, 820 Angel Wing Dr 3/2 listed at $1.45M, 3385 Twin Lakes Ln 5/5 listed at $1.695M, 6418 Pine Ave 3/3 listed at $1.789M, 1460 Middle Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed at $1.799M, 2857 Wulfert Rd 4/5 listed at $1.895M, 1020 Bayview Dr 5/5.5 listed at $4.595M.

13 closed sales: 1339 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $485K, 1606 Bunting Ln 3/2 $649K, 2985 Island Inn Rd 2/2 $649K, 2010 Wild Lime Dr 4/4 $759K, 567 N Yachtsman Dr 3/3 $1.05M, 1341 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 $1.058M, 1890 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $1.135M, 446 Surf Sound Ct 3/2 $1.178M, 542 N Yachtsman Dr 3/2 $1.225M, 1133 Buttonwood Ln 3/2.5 $1.31M, 1275 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.38M, 1266 Isabel Dr 3/3 $2.775M, 4955 Joewood Dr 6/4.5 $3.05M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

6 new sales: 2310 Wulfert Rd listed at $299K, 5642 Baltusrol Ct listed at $327.5K, 5648 Baltusrol Ct listed at $328.5K, 255 Hurricane Ln listed at $368K, 6505 Pine Ave listed at $759K, 6519 Pine Ave listed at $779K.

2 closed sales: 1292 Par View Dr $345K, 3941 West Gulf Dr $3.5M.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: Lands End Village #1629 2/2 listed at $1.3745M, Lands End Village #1635 2/2 $1.429M.

3 closed sales: Bayside Villas #4124 1/2 $410K, Captiva Shores #1B 3/2.5 $1.67M, Beach Homes #18 4/3 $3.05M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 16280 Captiva Dr 6/6 $8.9M.

2 price changes: 15138 Wiles Dr 6/5.5 now $6.495M, 11559 Laika Ln 3/3 now $6.9M.

1 new sale: 15133 Captiva Dr 3/3 listed at $2.995M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 16685 Captiva Dr $2M.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Happy Mothers’ Day weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

A Trio of Baby Osprey Accompanies Today’s Island Update

Posted on April 30, 2021 by SanibelSusan

Here it is another Friday with an update saying island weather again is beautiful. Sanibel and Captiva had plenty of sunshine over the last few days, with temperatures usually in the low 80’s, then cooling down a bit in the evenings. A quick shower last night might be indicating the rainy season is beginning. More of the same is expected next week.

A client that purchased his bayside home with us a few years ago also is a blog follower and knows we love island wildlife. His property has a huge osprey nest on the dock. He shared these recent pix so I could share them with you. Thank you, Scott.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® April Membership Meeting

Yesterday was the monthly membership meeting of the local Association of Realtors®. Speaker was Michael Nachef, Director of Government Relations for Lee Health. It was a Zoom meeting, apropos since Michael was calling from Tallahassee where Florida’s legislative session is wrapping up this week. His update on the pandemic offered some interesting info. Here are some takeaways:

COVID-19 Update

This Wed, Apr 28, 2021, there were a total of 188 COVID patients in Lee Health hospitals. Compare this to the highest number in July 2020, when there were 360 patients. The low was in Oct 2020, when there were only 44 patients.

Wondering why? During pandemic tracking, the median patient age has shifted downward. Leading into the high, the median patient age was 64/65. Today, the median age is 39, proving that vaccinating the primary (older) group is working and showing that younger residents re-engaging in social activities are not protected and urgently need vaccinations.

He said that it will take 70/80% of the population to be vaccinated for herd immunity. Once vaccinated, an individual has only a 10% chance of getting the virus and if they do get it a 95% chance that they will be asymptomatic or show no evidence of the disease.

Today just 54% of the population has had one dose, so everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated. Locally, more vaccines now are available than those wanting appointments.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate News

It was not a surprise that there were few real estate announcements during the Caravan portion of the meeting. No announced new listings, just one price reduction, and just one property open for viewing.

Usually after Easter, business slows on the islands. The activity posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service (MLS) follows a couple of news items below. First, the latest summary numbers from MLS. Hard to believe that on Sanibel there are only 83 properties for sale on the entire island – that includes just 27 homes. With 431 Sanibel sales already this year, it has been a buying frenzy!

Sanibel	Condos		Homes		Lots
Sanibel	#	Avg Price	#	Avg Price	#	Avg Price
For sale 4/30	33	859,672	27	2,612,185	23	616,879
Under contract	56	809,171	78	1,477,048	17	1,239,576
Sold/closed 2021 thru 4/30	109	860,780	136	1,304,958	35	529,828
Sold/closed in all of 2020	192	733,876	290	954,718	23	606,233
Sold/closed in all of 2019	127	694,392	211	949,790	15	372,200

At SanibelSusan Realty

This week, the team and I are thankful that another listing is under contract and another closing finalized. Our remaining listings continue to get inquiries and good action. As inventory continues to dwindle, we hear the same news from friends in other vacation destinations.

Gov. DeSantis Again Extends Florida’s COVID-19 State of Emergency

On Tuesday, Florida’s Gov. DeSantis extended the state emergency order for another 60 days. Since March 2020, the Governor has been extending the original emergency order in 60-day increments. This order allows Florida to activate its emergency operations center, work with and ask for federal government assistance, and allowed deployment of the Florida National Guard to help.

It also has allowed additional precautions by state and local agencies to keep workers safe from exposure and has allowed licensed healthcare workers certified in other states to practice in Florida, providing more hands for testing, vaccination, and other care.

This week, Sanibel’s State of Emergency also was extended for another week (or until May 4) by Mayor Holly Smith. The number of cases reported here from March 26, 2020 through April 28 is 250. Captiva’s cases total 12.

U.S. – 2^nd Most-Affordable Housing Market in the World

Who knew? This interesting tidbit in the May 2021 “FloridaRealtor®” magazine: “The United States is the second-most-affordable housing market in the world, according to comparethemarket.com. Researchers looked at average property price per square foot and average disposable income to calculate the cost per square foot as a percentage of annual income. No. 1? Turkey, followed by the United States, Russia, South Africa, and Mexico.”

Sanibel’s 2021 Prescribed Burn Areas

2021 City Map of Prescribed Burn Areas

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge posted the below info on-line this week: “During the 2021 spring/summer season, the Sanibel Prescribed Fire Task Force is planning prescribed burns on the following conservation sites:

SCCF/City of Sanibel – Erick A. Lindblad Preserve

USFWS, JN “Ding” Darling NWR – Legion Curve, Botanical Site, & Bailey Tract

“We would like to invite the public to a virtual information meeting on Wed, May 5, 2021 starting at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the burn plans and address any questions or concerns. Access to this meeting is through this Zoom link:

https://sccf-org.zoom.us/j/89160685854….

“When forecasted conditions are favorable, the Sanibel Prescribed Fire Task Force will issue further notification that a prescribed burn is imminent and identify the specific location of the burn. All prescribed fires must be authorized by the Florida Forest Service on the morning of the scheduled burn. A change in the forecast conditions may result in cancellation of the planned burn. A prescribed fire will NOT be conducted if the prescription conditions cannot be met prior to ignition.

SCCF photo

“A burn plan, or “prescription,” has been established for the priority areas within these conservation lands. The prescription details the required conditions that must exist in order for a prescribed burn to take place. These include environmental conditions such as soil moisture, fuel conditions, and recent rainfall, as well as forecasted and actual weather conditions including temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and wind direction. Following a predefined prescription allows fire management officers to establish the desired fire behavior (intensity, flame length, direction of fire spread and smoke). The prescription also identifies the number of qualified fire personnel needed to conduct the burn as well as the types and number of equipment required to safely complete the burn.

“Why are prescribed fires needed? Fire is a natural part of Florida’s ecosystem, historically set by lightning. Because of this history of periodic fires, many of Florida’s natural communities are adapted to burning. Fire removes old vegetation, promotes new growth of native vegetation, and suppresses the growth of non-native invasive plants. In the absence of fire, many plant communities are displaced by dense, woody vegetation which can reduce plant diversity and eliminate foraging opportunities for the island’s wildlife. Species such as the gopher tortoise, eastern indigo snake, and Sanibel rice rat all depend on a fire-maintained ecosystem. In addition to the natural benefits of fire, carefully planning and conducting prescribed burns can reduce the likelihood of catastrophic wildfires by reducing the amount of vegetation – or “fuel”—that would be available in the event of a wildfire.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity April 23-30, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sanibel Arms West #C6 2/2 $955K, Gulfside Place #124 2/2 $1.385M, Cyprina Beach #3 3/3 $1.6M, Pointe Santo #A47 3/2 $1.995M.

1 price change: Pointe Santo #A1 2/2 now $889K.

10 new sales: Sanibel Arms #H6 1/1 listed at $360K; Mariner Pointe #731 2/2 listed at $525K; Kimball Lodge #244 1/1.5 listed at $550K; Sanibel Arms #A1 2/2 listed at $555K, Sundial #C303 2/2 listed at $695K; Oceans Reach #2D1 2/2 listed at $890K; Sanibel Arms West #C4 2/2 listed at $910,990; White Sands #23 2/2 listed at $1.099M (our listing); Island Beach Club #230D 2/2 listed at $1.335M, Compass Point #151 3/3 listed at $1.495M.

10 closed sales: Mariner Pointe #541 2/2 $515K (our listing), Sanibel Arms West #A1 2/2 $525K, Sanibel Arms West #I4 2/2 $559K, Sanibel Arms West #J3 2/2 $560K, Sanibel Moorings #842 2/2 $610K, Sunset South #10C 2/2 $700K, Sandpiper Beach #105 2/2 $797.5K, Pelicans Roost #203 2/2 $875K, Pointe Santo #E22 2/2 $875K, Royale Tern #204 3/3.5 $1.2475M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 1643 Bunting Ln 2/2 $599K, 999 East Gulf Dr #103 4/3 $1.995M, 1237 Isabel Dr 6/6.5 $3.195M.

3 price changes: 5100 Sea Bell Rd 4/2.5 now $949K, 820 Angel Wing Dr 3/2 now $1.45M, 1306 Seaspray Ln 4/4 now $4.245M.

12 new sales: 1643 Bunting Ln 2/2 listed at $599K, 1644 Bunting Ln 3/3 listed at $658K, 868 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $725K, 4505 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/3 listed at $729K, 9456 Beverly Ln 3/2 listed at $789K, 2480 Library Way 3/2.5 listed at $829K, 4377 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 listed at 875K, 915 Fitzhugh St 4/2.5 listed at $945K, 5773 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 2/2 listed at $1.225M, 812 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 listed at $1.549M, 1761 Venus Dr 4/3.5 listed at $1.899M, 768 Limpet Dr 3/3 listed at $2.3M.

3 closed sales: 1940 Periwinkle Way 3/2 half-duplex $565K, 4202 Old Banyan Way 3/2 $848K, 2843 Wulfert Rd 4/5 $1.295M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 0 Rue Bayou now $649,555.

4 new sales: 255 Hurricane Ln listed at $368K, 5687 Baltusrol Ct listed at $399K, 1318 Par View Dr listed at $399K, 00 West Gulf Dr listed at $3.895M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: Beach Cottages #1423 2/2 listed at $1.195M.

4 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3212 1/1 $305K, Gulf Beach Villas #2024 3/3 $1.035M, Captiva Shores #7B 3/2.5 $1.324M, Lands End Village #1662 3/3 $1.99M.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: 42 Oster Ct 2/2.5 listed at $1.095M, 41 Oster Ct 2/2.5 listed at $1.125M.

4 closed sales: 18 Urchin Ct 2/2 $1.0625M, 15146 Wiles Dr 2/2 $2M, 11544 Wightman Ln 4/4.5 $2.1M, 11541 Paige Ct 3/4/2 $3.625M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

The Island Real Estate Market Remains Hot… Sunny too!

Posted on April 23, 2021 by SanibelSusan

It is time to report another sunny Friday on Sanibel. Weather was not like this all week. Some much-needed rain was received Mon through Wed, followed yesterday by the highest recorded temperatures in the nation. The high today is expected to be 83 degrees F, followed by another week of the same sunny weather with maybe a passing thunderstorm Sunday morning. We sure are lucky to be here!

Sanibel’s State of Emergency

On Tuesday, Sanibel’s State of Emergency due to COVID-19 again was extended another week (until April 27). Masks remain required in all businesses and outside where social distancing is not possible. Just one more case reported on Sanibel this week with a total of 249 cases from Mar 26, 2020 through Apr 21, 2021. Still just 11 on Captiva during the same timeframe.

Sanibel & Captiva Farmers Markets

With Florida’s vegetable growing season winding down, visitors and locals who enjoy the local farmers markets have one more month to visit them on the islands. Sanibel Farmers Market at City Hall is OPEN Sundays, 8-1 through May 30. Captiva Island Farmers Market at South Seas Island Resort is OPEN Tuesdays, 9-1 through May 25.

The other Local Roots markets at the Sanibel Outlets and on Boca Grande have already finished their season, while the Wednesday markets at Lakes Park and Thursday markets at Coconut Point will finish up next week (Apr 28 and 29).

The Saturday morning Bonita Springs markets continue through May, while the River District markets in downtown Fort Myers are Thursday mornings year-‘round (except Thanksgiving).

Who knew when Betsy and Jean organized their first market nearly 15 years ago in the parking lot at Tahitian Gardens, that their business would expand into some of the largest fresh markets in Lee County. Congratulations, ladies! More details on http://buylocallee.com.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Here in the office, teammates Dave, Elise, and I got our monthly progress report letter in the mail. Those again illustrate how inventory is dwindling. Our three remaining listings all had inquiries and showings this week, with more showings scheduled tomorrow during guest turns-overs.

I was out showing homes most of Monday. With only 32 for sale on the entire island, it is difficult for buyers to find exactly what matches their desires. This week, Sanibel condo inventory also is down. There are just 36 units for sale. Owners looking to make a change, whether they are buying to upsize or downsize, will benefit from selling high but may struggle with limited buying options (which also will be high).

From the inventory action posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service since last Friday, which follows a couple of news items below, you will notice only two new listings (Sanibel & Captiva) during the 7-day period. With 30 new sales and 13 closings during that same window, inventory is further reduced.

There would have been one more closing, but we had a snafu with one that was to occur this week. The buyer was using her hometown bank for a mortgage. (When the property went under contract, I asked the buyer’s agent who would be doing the financing and warned her there always are problems with non-local banks. She assured me there would be no trouble with this one. Ha!)

The bank (where the buyer had done business for decades) provided written loan commitment weeks ago, but when it came time for them to issue loan documents to the title company, they denied the loan. I have never heard of this happening, but thankfully our seller is co-operative, is giving the embarrassed buyer more time, and the Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank has come to the rescue. David Wright and San-Cap Bank routinely lend all over the island and will get this one closed albeit with a bit of a delay.

Water Quality Update

As we continue to enjoy the bright blue waters viewed when crossing the causeway, it is important to remember what can happen after the rainy season. An article written by SCCF’s Environmental Policy Director, James Evans, and posted in this week’s “Island Reporter” has some news about that:

“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of developing a new Lake Okeechobee Regulation Schedule that will provide new guidance on how the Army Corps will manage water in Lake O for the different parts of South Florida’s complex water management system. The new schedule is called the Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual, or LOSOM.

“LOSOM will consider additional infrastructure that will soon be operational, including rehabilitation of the Herbert Hoover Dike, Kissimmee River Restoration and Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERTP) projects, such as the C-43 Reservoir located within the Caloosahatchee watershed and the C-44 Reservoir location in the St. Lucie watershed. LOSOM is supposed to balance the various project purposes of the Central and South Florida Project (C&SF); flood control; navigation; water supply for agricultural irrigation, municipalities, industry and Everglades National Park; regional groundwater and salinity control; enhancement of fish and wildlife; and recreation.

“Extensive drainage work that has occurred in the Caloosahatchee watershed over the past century resulted in a system that drains very quickly with little to no treatment, resulting in water of poor quality being delivered to the estuary and the coast. Because of these hydrological changes, the Caloosahatchee currently receives the lion’s share of the harmful discharges from the lake during the rainy season and is often cut off from beneficial flows during the dry season. This has resulted in wide-ranging damage to the estuary and its ecosystems, including impacts to freshwater tape grass, oysters and sea grasses that depend on a balance of fresh and saltwater.

“CERP is the roadmap to restoring the ecosystem damage caused by the C&SF Project. The goal of CERP is to restore the quality, quantity, timing and distribution of freshwater flow to the Everglades and Florida Bay and the northern estuaries of the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie. The plan relies on massive infrastructure projects to store, treat and convey freshwater to the Everglades and reduce damaging discharges to the northern estuaries.

“While we wait for Everglades restoration to be completed, we have the opportunity to better balance the needs of our natural systems through development of the new lake regulation schedule. LOSOM is not designed to solve all our water management issues – although some stakeholders are using LOSOM to push for near-perfect water management conditions without the infrastructure to support such a request.

“The Army Corps of Engineers and the South Florida Water Management District will need to make challenging decisions about how best to balance the needs of the system. It is unacceptable to continue to operate the system to benefit private landowners at the expense of our public resources.

“During the LOSOM process, we need our West Coast stakeholders to be engaged and support plans that reduce the damaging high-flow discharges to the Caloosahatchee, while providing beneficial flows during the dry season. We also need to support plans that protect other natural systems that we depend on by maintaining water levels in Lake O that maintain a healthy ecosystem and deliver dry season flows to the Everglades. This can only be achieved by all stakeholders recognizing the need for truly balancing the needs of the entire system.

“To learn more about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s process for development LOSOM, visit the Lake Okeechobee System Operation Manual at https://www.saj.usace.army.mil/LOSM.”

More info at www.SCCF.org, too.

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Marine Lab Data to Help

From SCCF’s Wednesday update: “The SCCF Marine Laboratory recently uploaded its extensive water quality data from Gulf waters off our islands into the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (FDEP) Watershed Information Network database system. This is a major step forward so that the state can officially evaluate the Gulf of Mexico’s quality for management planning.

“Southwest Florida residents are likely to assure that the state already understands what’s happening in the Gulf due to repeated red tide and algae bloom events that impact humans and wildlife. However, not even one “waterbody unit” in the Gulf has ever been evaluated by FDEP due to a lack of enough water quality data.

SCCF photo – Marine Lab getting water samples.

“SCCF put forth a tremendous effort for this very purpose. The SCCF Water Quality Database was created in 2009 and it includes 88,000 samplings and analysis records from nearly 9,700 separate sampling events. Using the R/V Norma Campbell, The Marine Laboratory regularly collets water quality data in the Gulf of Mexico thanks to funding from the Vince Family through Goldman Sachs Cares.

“”That’s a lot of records,” said SCCF Research Associate Mark Thompson. “The FDEP requires each record go through a series of more than 100-quality assurance checks before it can be accepted. The data must be in the correct form and order, with the correct elements that fall within acceptable ranges. You can imagine how time-intensive this feat was to upload 88,000 records.”

“This massive undertaking will eventually be rewarded through improved state and federal management. The Impaired Water Rule requires the state to identify impaired waterbodies based upon existing water quality data – so now it has the data that show how and where the water is impaired and the sources of those problems.

“The FDEP’s Watershed Information Network (WIN) database evaluates and maps the state’s waters, each portioned into what the state calls a “waterbody ID unit” as indicated on this chart. A certain amount of data is needed before the unit is evaluated, and the information is used by researchers and reported to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“”SCCF has collected enough data to satisfy FDEP requirements for evaluating Gulf of Mexico waterbody segments near Sanibel and Captiva,” said Thompson. “This data is ready to be assessed by FDEP so it can get started on improving water quality in the Gulf.”

Thompson added, “This sounds dry and boring to most folks – even to the person who did it. But there was a warm and fuzzy feeling which transpired just after the deed was done.””

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity April 16-23, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

2 price changes: Sundial #C303 2/2 now $695K, Sanibel Arms West #C4 2/2 now $910,990.

13 new sales: Sanibel Moorings #242 1/1 listed at $409K, Sundial #I105 1/1 listed at $415K, Sundial #C409 1/1 listed at $469K, Sandpebble #1D 2/2 listed at $569.5K, Pointe Santo #C4 1/1 listed at $585K, Sanibel Arms West #E4 2/2 listed at $889K, Oceans Reach #1C1 2/2 listed at $899K, Pelicans Roost #102 2/2 listed at $930K, White Sands #13 2/2 listed at $949K, Sanddollar #B101 2/2 listed at $1.125M, Pointe Santo #E26 2/2 listed at $1.269M, Sanddollar #C202 3/2 listed at $1.3M, Pointe Santo #E24 3/2 listed at $1.495M.

5 closed sales: Tennisplace #C26 1/1 $350K, Mariner Pointe #241 2/2.5 $665K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1B 3/3.5 $850K, Sanddollar #C201 2/2 $1.18M, Tigua Cay #489 3/3.5 $2.325M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 9456 Beverly Ln 3/2 $789K.

7 price changes: 1644 Bunting Ln 3/3 now $658K, 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/1 now $685K, 4619 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $862K, 5773 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 2/2 now $1.225M, 820 Angel Wing Dr 3/2 now $1.495M, 1761 Venus Dr 4/3.5 now $1.899M, 486 Surf Sound Ct 3/3.5 now $1.295M

13 new sales: 2098 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 listed at $795K, 1560 Poinciana Cir 3/2 listed at $880K, 5186 Sea Bell Rd 3/3 listed at $998K, 2563 Coconut Rd 2/2 listed at $1.049M, 1350 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.199M, 5423 Shearwater Dr 3/3 listed at $1.245M, 812 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3 listed at $1.249M, 9445 Beverly Ln 4/3 listed at $1.375M, 940 Whelk Dr 3/2 listed at $1.47M, 837 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 $1.895M, 813 Angel Wing Dr 3/3.5 listed at $2.689M, 4601 Rue Belle Mer 3/2 listed at $3.395M, 4701 Rue Belle Mer 4/5 listed at $3.395M.

5 closed sales: 958 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $705K, 1421 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $905K, 1200 Kittiwake Cir 3/2 $905K, 249 Violet Dr 4/3 1.04M, 3744 West Gulf Dr 4/4 $1.95M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2299 Starfish Ln $549K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 3013 Poinciana Cir listed at $259.9K, 0 West Gulf Dr listed at $3.895M.

1 closed sale: 6008 White Heron Ln $810K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Seabreeze #1251 3/3 now $2.05M.

1 new sale: Ventura Captiva #4A 3/3 listed at $1.1M.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #4322 3/3 $729K.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 listed at $1.975M.

1 closed sale: 15000 Binder Dr 3/2 $1.271M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

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At SanibelSusan Realty

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Sanibel’s COVID-19 State of Emergency Ends

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Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® April Membership Meeting

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