Another Fabulous Fall Friday on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on September 29, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Yesterday, I noticed a “Let’s Go Sanibel” sign at the entrance to Tahitian Gardens shopping center – a cute pick-me-up to passers-by as restoration work continues there and at many shopping centers.

Also yesterday, as many posted remembrances on social media of Hurricane Ian from a year ago on Sep 28, 2022, I was torn. Last week I almost didn’t post the schedule of anniversary events. Sometimes I don’t want to remember that storm. Then, when contacted by an island pal about attending one of the events, it made me think about all the progress that has been made over the last 12 months. Much was lost… people, places, memories, a lifetime of stuff, but it is important to accentuate the positive and grow from mistakes. It made me think about what I learned. Here are five things:

1. Life-altering events bring the best out of nice people and the worst out of unhappy ones. Son Dave was my hurricane hero. I also am thankful to his wife Lisa, brother-in-law Brian, and some special neighbors.

2. The Sanibel leadership team and staff led by Mayor Smith and City Manager Souza performed beyond expectations. We owe them all, big time.

3. Even if you lose everything, today’s technology can help one survive, recover, and thrive, but you must remember to back up the important stuff.

4. Mother Nature always wins, so be prepared. Then, don’t be surprised when beach daisies pop up in strange places.

5. Hurricane muck stinks and is wicked slippery. Old fat gals with bad knees should not fall in it.

$388 Million Awarded to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Ian

Florida Realtors Public Policy Update this afternoon included that Florida Gov Ron DeSantis office “announced yesterday that $388 million in state funding was awarded to communities impacted by Hurricane Ian to support long-term recovery efforts and resiliency. These funds will be used to assist with ongoing hurricane repairs and recovery efforts for schools, sheriff’s offices, fire stations, parks and recreation centers, roads, wastewater treatment plants, beach renourishment, and will assist local governments with loss of revenue since the storm. Funding highlights include:

$51M to City of Cape Coral
$51M to Lee County School Board
$28M to City of Sanibel
$14M to Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District
$8M to Sanibel Fire & Rescue District
$4.3M to Lee Memorial Health Systems
$1M to Captiva Erosion Prevention District
$600K to City of Fort Myers
$350K to Captiva Fire Control District”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Our local Association of Realtors® didn’t meet this week, but their annual classes began for members looking to earn or recertify their SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) designation. The 12-part schedule runs through next Wed which is when I teach the Resort & Second-Home Market module. Meanwhile, I am updating my Power Point and readying for the annual photo of attendees modeling their quiz winnings (aka funny resort/vacation props).

Our next Caravan Meeting is Thurs Oct 12 at BIG ARTS, the morning after our annual golf tournament and RPAC Auction at The Sanctuary.

Island Weather

It may be fall, but this week we received some reminders that the rainy season ain’t over yet. Periodic nighttime showers continued, while Tue and Wed, it also rained nearly all day. We are so accustomed to summertime blue skies and sunshine, that continued overcast days can change the mood – or remind one that hurricane season goes until Nov 30. On the plus side, temperatures got into the mid-70’s and new landscaping at many properties got an extra dose of free water.

Today, it’s back to sunshine. After this weekend, the forecast calls for little rain with daytime temperatures back in the high 80’s. That’s fall, y’all.

Events & Re-Openings

Sanibel Causeway – At a Chamber of Commerce meeting this week, attendees were updated on causeway/bridge progress. This info from their “timeline” slide:

Oct 2023 – Night work with lane adjustments
Dec 2023 – Road surface work estimated to complete
End of 2024 – Punta Rassa boat ramp reopens
Early 2025 – Water work (bridge protection) estimated to complete
Late 2027 – Causeway islands recreation areas restoration estimated to complete.

Sanibel Farmers Market – Reopens for the season on Sun 10/1, back on the grounds of City Hall. The market will be there every Sun through May (including Easter) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sanibel Recreation Center – The Sanibel Rec Center is expanding its hours starting Oct 2 to Mondays thru Thursdays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fridays 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Sanctuary Golf Club – The Sanctuary Golf Club Membership Coordinator Kathryn Riggio advises that they have a limited number of both Equity and Social Memberships available. I am happy to email you their handout with details. For an Equity Membership, the initial fee is $150K, with $16,737 annual dues plus sales tax, and $2,400 annual capital fee. For a Sport/Social Membership, the initial fee is $50K, with $7,331 annual dues plus sales tax, and $1,200 annual capital fee. Usually there are wait lists for both, so a good time to consider joining.

Sanibel Final Budget Hearing

Wed night Sep 27, I listened in during the Sanibel City Council Final Budget Hearing. Before discussing the budget, several consent agenda items were approved:

1. Resolution 23-061 extending the authorization for placement of temporary signs on commercial properties until Sep 30, 2024.

2. Resolution 23-062 extending the authorization for the construction or repairing of structures to occur between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, through Sep 30, 2024.

3. Resolution 23-065 extending the authorization of outdoor display of merchandise under certain conditions provided via Resolution 23-010 through Sep 30, 2024.

4. Resolution 23-066 waiving the temporary structure development permit fee retroactively from May 8, 2023 through Sep 30, 2024.

Regarding the budget:

1. Resolution 23-056 adopted the final operating and voted debt service ad valorem millage rates for tax year 2023 (fiscal year 2024). (The approved operating millage rate is 2.500 which is 44.2% higher than the roll-back rate, not the millage rate last year.)

2. Resolution 23-057 adopted the final budget for fiscal year ending Sep 30, 2024.

3. Resolution 23-064 established committed fund balances for disaster reserve and environmental initiative reserve.

Florida Tops NY in Home Values

An article by Kerry Smith posted online Wed Sep 27, 2023 on Florida Realtors® says:

“The total value of the U.S. housing market surged more than $2.6 trillion over the past year, according to a Zillow analysis, largely due to rising home prices and the value of new construction.

“Florida has been at the forefront of that value gain, according to the data used in the study. In the latest analysis of total real estate value, the Sunshine State took over the No. 2 spot, bumping New York State down to third place. California retains the top spot with more than $10 trillion of value – nearly 20% of the U.S. total.

“In a list of the top 20 U.S. metros based on the total value of their real estate, two Florida metro areas make the list:

5. Miami-Fort Lauderdale: $1,269.8 billion, up $100.5 billion since June 2022 – 8.6%
18. Tampa: $521.1 billion, up $18.5 billion since June 2022 – 3.7%

“While “total real estate value” is always a squishy concept – the equivalent of an automated appraisal for every piece of property in America – the trending changes don’t surprise many real estate professionals.

“The total value of the U.S. housing market – the sum estimated value for every U.S. home – is now slightly less than $52 trillion, or $1.1 trillion higher than a previous peak reached in June 2022. A small chunk of that growth can be attributed to a 0.7% rise in the average value of a U.S. home during that time, but the main value change comes from new construction.

““A steady flow of new homes hit the market this spring and summer, helping chip away at the deep inventory deficit and boosting the total value of the market,” says Orphe Divounguy, Zillow senior economist. “Enough buyers remained to keep the market moving. … New home sales rose this year while existing home sales fell, and (new homes) should make up a bigger piece of the home sales pie for as long as rates remain elevated.”

“The four most valuable metro areas have remained largely unchanged over the past five years: New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Boston. But a new entrant from Florida, Miami, claimed the fifth spot, jumping all the way from ninth as recently as May 2021. Miami’s value surge pushed Washington, D.C., out of the top five.

“Metros gaining the most value – Of the six markets where housing gained the most value since the start of the pandemic, four are in Florida:

Tampa: Up 88.9%
Miami: Up 86.6%
Jacksonville: Up 82.4%
Orlando: Up 72.3%

“Zillow attributes large population growth as one reason for Florida’s strong new construction figures, but stronger competition for existing homes also played a role.

“California remains a behemoth with more than $10 trillion of value in its housing market; nearly 20% of the national total. Florida, New York, Texas, and New Jersey round out the top five.

“20 ‘most valuable’ metros and percentage changes since June 2022

New York: Up 4.2 %

Los Angeles: Up 0.1 %
San Francisco: Down 8.8%
Boston: Up 3.4 %

Miami-Fort Lauderdale: Up 8.6 %
Washington: Up 3.2 %
Chicago: Up 6.9 %
Seattle: Down 5.1 %
San Diego: Up 1.0 %
Dallas-Fort Worth: Down 0.3 %
San Jose, Calif.: Down 5.2 %
Phoenix: Down 2.1 %
Philadelphia: Up 6.8 %
Riverside, Calif.: Down 3.1 %
Houston: Up 3.5 %
Atlanta: Up 3.7 %
Denver: Down 6.0 %

Tampa: Up 3.7 %

Sacramento, Calif: Down 5.4%

Portland, Ore.: Down 4.0%.”

Attorney Files Comments with State Agencies

Posted Wed by SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation):

“After the disappointing decisions by the Lee County Commissioners in early September, the proposed amendments to the Land Development Code and the Lee Plan were passed. As required, the amendments were then transmitted to the state for comments by concerned agencies. The “Protect Captiva” coalition has retained legal counsel that has submitted comments to the state agencies and is evaluating next steps.

“Legal Update from the Land Use Committee of the Captiva Civic Association

“On Sept. 7, Lee County transmitted its proposed amendments to the Captiva chapter of the Lee Plan to various state agencies for their comments as required by state statute. The state agencies have until Oct. 6 to send their comments back to the county.

“While the state agencies cannot reject outright the county’s amendments, their comments can induce the county to remove or modify the amendments, and they could affect the results of future litigation.

“Our Attorney, representing the unified position of the “Protect Captiva” coalition, submitted the community’s “significant concerns” to the state agencies reviewing the county’s amendments which “would perversely allow an increase in hotel rooms and additional floors of buildable living space on a barrier island within the Coastal High Hazard Area just one year after that island was devastated by Hurricane Ian.”

“The Attorney’s memo advises the state agencies that the county failed to accurately describe the proposed amendments in its report to the state – failing to mention that the Lee Plan amendments were made to facilitate changes in the Land Development Code which would permit higher buildings and more hotel rooms than currently allowed on Captiva.

“The memo also advises state agencies that the amendments constitute an “up-planning” of development on Captiva which is not supported by the data and analysis required by the Community Planning Act. The county failed to analyze the amendments’ effects on the island’s infrastructure, its roads, its hurricane evacuation routes, its water resources, its septic systems, its sewer project or its environmental resources.

“The county also failed to recognize that granting special benefits to a single property owner on South Seas constitutes inappropriate spot-planning and raises serious constitutional issues of equal protection.

“Finally, the memo makes clear that the amendments have little to do with resiliency and will only make Captiva less resilient and less safe when facing future hurricanes. The memo concludes by asking the state agencies to agree that these amendments are a completely unacceptable response to the devastation wrought last year by Hurricane Ian – and to so advise the county.

“As indicated above, once the county gets feedback from the state agencies, it will have to decide how to proceed. If the county chooses to adopt the amendments without change and implement the Land Development Code with greater heights and density for Captiva, the community coalition will evaluate and continue to pursue the best legal options available to “Protect Captiva.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

With data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week. Sanibel home sales continue to be the HOT market.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	57	1,096,697	145	73	1,600,753	116	29	948,944	159
Under contract	5	725,600	100	18	1,065,808	82	2	345,000	148
Sold 2023 to 9/29	79	928,545	62	225	1,261,518	69	22	958,431	68
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	23	1,543,413	102	10	7,687,800	138	2	7,247,500	22
Under contract	1	1,700,000	4	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 9/29	11	848,363	108	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 22‑29

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sundial #H108 1/1 $495K, Spanish Cay #A8 2/2 $515K, Tantara #202 3/3 $2.1M.

1 price change: Gulfside Place #208 2/2 now $1,365,555.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #H7 1/1 $355K, Wedgewood #204 3/3.5 $2.9M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 1813 Long Point Ln 4/2.5 $1.10M, 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 $1.2M, 3990 Coquina Dr 3/2 $1.2M.

3 price changes: 1160 Buttonwood Ln 3/2 now $850K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $989K, 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 now $1.225.

2 new sales: 1535 Centre St 2/2 listed at $649,555; 1990 My Tern Ct 3/2 listed at $925K.

3 closed sales: 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 $950K, 242 Christofer Ct 3/2 $1.025M, 774 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 $1.999M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 14971 Binder Ln 4/3 $8.5M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

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

Almost Fall & Almost an Anniversary

Posted on September 22, 2023 by SanibelSusan

With the fall equinox and first day of autumn arriving tomorrow, islanders look forward to cooler temperatures. This week most days again were warm, filled with blue skies and sunshine with occasional quick mid-to-late afternoon or evening showers. The welcomed rain continues to green up vegetation and wash away lingering storm yuck.

Crossing the causeway just a few minutes ago, the bridge crews were working hard. Lane patterns change frequently as more roadways are elevated, while concrete trucks continue to make it slow going in the morning. Here’s a picture showing how high the sheet piles are on the way up the big bridge. Amazing!

Teammate Dave and I showed homes a couple of days this week. Always fun to introduce prospective buyers to the hidden treasures here.

Over the course of their multiple visits, we have lunched at Traders, Doc Fords, Mucky Duck, and Mudbugs. All the meals were top-notch. The best view, of course, was at the duck when we sat at the window-side table next to the wall with this art and many law-enforcement patches.

The laid-back vibe everywhere and friendly encounters with both people and critters add to the fun. Fingers crossed that they get the home they want!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Our local Association of Realtors held their September breakfast membership meeting yesterday at The Community House. Our CEO, Bill Robinson, updated attendees on three issues that recently have come to the forefront nationally: workplace sexual harassment, compensation to buyer agents, and real estate fraud. It is amazing how many recent cases there have been, even here, where scammers have tried to sell property they don’t own. On both Sanibel and Captiva there has been an uptick in these. Bill alerted us of some red flags.

Following the meeting, only one home was scheduled to be on the Open House Caravan, but it went under contract so the open house was canceled. Home sales remain brisk, while condos and their restorations lag.

Association of Realtors accomplishments over the last month include completion of the annual 14-hour Continuing Education sessions required for license renewals and member participation in the International Coastal Cleanup last weekend. Restoration work at the Association of Realtors office building continues with no word yet on move-in, but it is getting closer.

Upcoming Association events include the 12-module SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) designation classes which begin next week and finish the following week. Those are also offered annually. Modules must be completed in two years. Renewal is also required with three modules needed for designation renewal. (I have already collected some props for the module I teach on the Resort and Second-Home Market. Those always make for a fun quiz photo op.) (Watch for our new logo too, this is the old one!)

October 11 is our 26^th Annual RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) Golf Tournament and Auction at The Sanctuary. SanibelSusan Realty is a sponsor and again is contributing an auction item – this year, a gift certificate for seafood from The Lobster Net in Brewer, ME. Their fresh lobster and seafood dinners are always a hit.

Events & Re-openings

We had more calls this week from anxious winter visitors unable to find rentals. Our advice is to continually watch for new availability at local vacation management organizations. Most of those belong to the Sanibel Captiva Vacation Rental Managers Association. Their website is www.SCVRMA.org. The Chamber of Commerce also keeps a list of what is open. www.Sanibel-Captiva.org.

Below is info on a few other re-openings/events announced this week:

Gramma Dot’s – I noticed this week that their food truck is gone, but I heard the restaurant is opening Oct 1. The marina ship’s store, fuel dock, boat rentals, and boat tours remain closed, but their service department is open Mon-Fri from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hurricane Ian Community Events – The City’s Manager’s office sent an open invitation to attend any of the multiple events being held to acknowledge community resiliency over the past year and to commemorate the landfall of Hurricane Ian. Those include:

City of Sanibel Hurricane Ian Sunrise Remembrance at Lighthouse Beach gulf side Thurs Sep 28 at 7 a.m.

St Michael’s Community Service of Hope at The Gathering Place at St Michael’s (entrance off Dunlop Rd) Thurs Sep 28 at 3 p.m. (interfaith service of music, reflections by city leaders, prayers, hopeful images, and gratitude. Commemorative buttons will be distributed. Reception will follow.
Sanibel Community Church Hurricane Anniversary Service at 1740 Periwinkle Way Thurs Sep 28 at 6 to 7 p.m.
“Community Reunited” at Sanibel Community House Sat Sep 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. with ice cream social, cookie baking contest, live music by Sanibel School Steel Band, Eagle Scout project reveal, and fun community art project.

Island Hopper Songwriter Fest – begins today on Captiva. This event features 10 days of music across four locations: Captiva (Sep 22-24), Cape Coral (Sep 25 & 26), Downtown Fort Myers (Sep 27 & 28), Fort Myers Beach (Sep 29-Oct 1). In support of this event, causeway tolls here are waived both Sat & Sun. Many free performances are scheduled in multiple Captiva locations (Tween Waters, The Green Flash, Mucky Duck, Key Lime Bistro, RC Otters, and South Seas Resort). Below are the events at Tween Waters. Check the full schedule at www.island-hopperfest.visitfortmyers.com.

Sanibel Moorings – at 845 East Gulf Dr is accepting reservations for next summer (for stays beginning April 22, 2024). As the resort gets closer to completion, they also expect to open earlier times with their goal to be ready in January. www.SanibelMoorings.com

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

With data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	55	1,091,030	147	73	1,593,719	111	30	931,280	153
Under contract	7	1,003,700	79	20	1,155,150	75	2	345,000	148
Sold 2023 to 9/22	77	910,390	62	222	1,260,665	69	22	958,431	68
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	23	1,543,413	95	9	7,597,555	146	2	7,247,500	15
Under contract	1	1,700,000	4	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 9/22	11	848,363	108	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 15‑22

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sand Pointe #122 2/2 $849K.

1 price change: Sundial #A303 1/1 now $719K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Seashells #33 2/2 $435K.

HOMES

3 new listings: 1090 My Tern Ct 3/2 $925K, 3990 Coquina Dr 3/2 $1.2M, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 $1.75M.

2 price changes: 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $978K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.05M.

1 back on market: 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $1.199M.

7 new sales: 1605 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed at $899K, 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 listed at $899K, 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 listed at $982K, 3302 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.299M, 721 Cardium St 3/2.5 listed at $1.4M, 567 N. Yachtsman Dr 3/3 listed at $1.495M, 896 Limpet Dr 3/3 listed at $1.7M.

3 closed sales: 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 $650K, 1558 & 1545 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3.5 $3.9M, 6401 Pine Ave 4/3.5 $4.069M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 back on market: 4501 Waters Edge Ln $2.995M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 33 Urchin Ct 3/3 $2M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend!

’til next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Blue Skies & Popcorn Clouds on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on September 15, 2023 by SanibelSusan

View from bay end of Buttonwood Ln 09-15-23

The islands Realtor Association didn’t meet this week, but it again was sunshine and summerlike with plenty of restoration work continuing – everywhere. From my home on Anchor Dr I can see across to a Kinzie Island home roof top where a crew was at it until 7 p.m. almost every day this week. That’s hard work!

Seems that more and more roof work is underway all the time which seems hard to believe with the storm being nearly a year ago. The good news is that it appears to this observer that construction is amping up. More businesses also are announcing their reopening. (More info on some of those below.)

During my Sanibel drive-around this afternoon, I spied workers on several roofs including Sundial West (where unit HVAC compressors are going up), Sandalfoot (where new rip-off is occurring on Building 3), and Sanddollar (where a new roof is being constructed on Building C). I also saw good progress at the Seagull Estates clubhouse! Yay!

Sundial West 09-15-23

Sandalfoot Bldg 3 09-15-23

Seagull Estates Clubhouse 09-15-23

Thinking of Selling?

We continue to get calls from owners thinking of selling and we welcome new listings, With some new challenges encountered after Hurricane Ian, there are some important things for sellers to consider.

To sell a property using the Florida sales contract, the Buyer must receive “clear title” and a title insurance policy for the full purchase price. That process involves a licensed title agent performing a title search and securing the policy.

For some associations needing or undergoing restoration, those repairs can result in open insurance claims, unpaid special assessments, contractor liens, and even lawsuits. Issues like these can make it difficult for association managers to issue an estoppel for the property or unit that is selling. Those things also can mean a title insurance provider doesn’t want to take the risk (or insure) that property or they will only insure with exceptions. These hiccups can be avoided by planning ahead.

So, if you are an owner thinking of selling, please ask for an advance copy of Florida Realtors “As Is Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase”. Pay special attention to the timeframe and requirements for title commitment and deed, and the releases required for any work that was recently done at the property. We welcome your inquiries and want to help, so closings go smoothly and without delay.

You’ll probably notice in the MLS postings this week, shown below, that we had the only condo closing! Hooray and thanks again to Superior Title of Sanibel for getting it done! The SanibelSusan Team and our clients are grateful for Amanda Curran and her team at Superior Title!

Reopenings Announced

As we continue to get inquiries about “what’s open”, below are a few postings noticed this week. The Chamber of Commerce website also updates frequently (www.Sanibel-Captiva.org).

Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro – following their summer vacation, Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro reopens for their 9^th season on Friday Oct 6 at 751 Tarpon Bay Rd

Sanibel Farmers Market – reopens for its 16^th season on Sunday Oct 1^st. Located at City Hall every Sunday through May (including Easter) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the market promises to return better than ever. Stop in for an array of fresh produce, delectable baked goods, exquisite flowers and plants, and a variety of local treats including healthy snacks, honey, ready-to-eat meals, and unique gifts.

Sanibel Island Beach Resort – at 1231 Middle Gulf Dr (formerly Holiday Inn) has been under renovation and recently announced that they are opening on Sept 20 and accepting on-line reservations at www.oceanbreezeinns.com/sanibel-island.

Sanibel Siesta – at 1246 Fulgur St posted on social media that they are now accepting on-line reservations beginning Mar 2024. As the year winds down, they plan to announce it they also will have availability in Jan and Feb. www.SanibelSiesta.com.

Shiney Objects – will reopen on Sunday Sep 17 at their same location in Tahitian Gardens, 1999 Periwinkle Way.

Tuttles – Seahorse Shell Shop has reopened, moving back inside their shop at 362 Periwinkle Way.

Coming Soon

Two New Eateries – Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant & The Magic Bus Ice Cream and Caffeine – Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant is a new concept from longtime island restauranteurs Brian and Elke Podlasek (Island Cow) and Max and Bridget Kolshak (The Mad Hatter). Renovations are currently underway for it to open at 362 Periwinkle Way with the restaurant at the former site of Lighthouse Café and the ice cream/caffeine shop where Sanibel’s Ice Cream was. Wickie was the nickname given to lighthouse keepers from their task of trimming the wick of lighthouse lamps. The restaurant will feature breakfast, lunch, and dinner with full bar and signature drinks. More info at http://www.WickiesLighthouseRestaurant.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

With data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	57	1,078,800	148	75	1,618,609	106	29	860,117	143
Under contract	8	932,612	91	17	1,443,294	77	3	1,228,333	162
Sold 2023 to 9/15	76	918,645	60	219	1,238,578	68	22	958,431	68
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	23	1,543,413	88	9	7,597,555	139	2	7,247,500	8
Under contract	1	1,700,000	4	1	2,195,000	16	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 9/15	11	848,363	108	16	2,761,437	73	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 8‑15

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Mariner Pointe #541 2/2 $650K, Villas of Sanibel #A201 3/3 $1.695M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Colonnades #15 1/1 $299K.

1 closed sale: Sandpiper Beach #206 2/2 $785K (SanibelSusan listing).

HOMES

3 new listings: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 $479K, 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $899K, 721 Cardium St 3/2.5 $1.4M.

2 price changes: 485 Peachtree Rd 3/3 now $1.19M, 896 Limpet Dr 3/3 now $1.7M.

2 back on market: 4263 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $899K, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 $2.395M.

6 new sales: 766 Donax St 4/2.5 listed at $699K, 976 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 listed at $859K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed at $1.1M, 5685 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed at $1.165M, 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 listed at $1.199M, 976 Cardium St 4/2 listed at $1.349.

2 closed sales: 1122 Captains Walk St 3.2.5 $745,333; 963 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $1.9M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 back on market: 5633 Baltursol Ct $499K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 3649 West Gulf Dr $3.85M.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Homes #25 3/2 $2,999,500.

1 price change: Marina Villas #603 2/2 now $1.15M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

Nothing to report.

LOTS

1 new listing: 11539 Wightman Ln $2.495M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews aka SanibelSusan

Another Sunny Sanibel Friday Afternoon

Posted on September 8, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Another week with more post-Ian progress, including lots of construction activity on the causeway islands as islanders continue to keep an eye on the weather channel.

Lighthouse Beach reopened on Wednesday with shellers out collecting the bounty brought in by Hurricane Idalia. Photos of more than one junonia have been posted on social media. (I’m still looking.)

Following up on the flamingo sightings here, I read that after Idalia they were sighted in many unusual locations from Texas to Ohio. One report quoted Jerry Lorenz, the state director of research for Audubon Florida as saying that since that hurricane blew through, they had gotten reports of flamingos from all around Florida, as well as Georgia, the Carolinas, Texas, Kentucky, and others. He speculates that the birds were flying between Cuba and the Yucatan and got diverted by the storm.

Thursday Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting

With our Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors building still under repair, the biweekly caravan meeting yesterday was held at The Community House. Though not heavily attended since traffic was delayed coming onto the island, many of those lucky enough to be back living on-island were there and enjoyed seeing a donation from our 50/50 drawings go to CHR (Community Housing & Resources). CHR’s new Executive Assistant Savana Miller Berg was on hand to accept the donation and update attendees on the status of CHR’s affordable housing.

International Coastal Cleanup Day – Included in announcements was the Association’s scheduled participation in International Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday Sept 16 when members, family, and friends will meet at 9 a.m. at Sanibel Moorings (845 East Gulf Dr) where there will be secured parking. Volunteer cleanup efforts will cover the area walking east toward the lighthouse to the Colony Inn (419 East Gulf Dr).

During the Caravan portion of the meeting, three Sanibel homes were open for viewing.

Following the meeting, I made a quick trip off island and was astounded to see vehicles coming onto the islands backed up past Kelly Greens. When I completed my chore and headed back to Sanibel, it took more than an hour to get from the intersection of Summerlin/San Carlos Blvd back to my home on the east end. That’s a first! (No complaints though, the new roadway work being done is amazing. Huge trucks, paving equipment, many workers, and so much construction underway from one end of the causeway to the other.)

Friday Update on Causeway & Association of Realtors Building

Gulfside City Park, Algiers Beach 09-08-23

Good news this morning both on the causeway and at the islands Association of Realtors building. Making my rounds, it was easy both going off and coming back to the island late morning. The many paving trucks there yesterday were gone. Maybe the big thunderstorm that covered the islands at daybreak played a role in that.

I also traveled through several residential communities including Sanibel Harbours and The Dunes, noticing many new major construction projects and other properties with new landscaping and new exterior updates. More and more homes are looking better than pre-storm. Several workers also were sprucing up The Dunes parking area.

After a quick stop at the post office, it was also terrific to finally see progress at the Association of Realtors building at 2353 Periwinkle Way. Hooray, the new roof is dried in.

Lee County Commissioners Approve Lee Plan Amendments

Tuesday, I listened to the live stream of the long County Commissioners meeting where all commissioners except former Sanibel Mayor (now Commissioner) Kevin Ruane voted to approve Land Development Code changes that increase building height on Captiva and provide a pathway for South Seas Island Resort to request rezoning that could lead to increased density and higher buildings at the resort. With thousands of recorded and emailed objections to these changes plus hours of public comment in opposition, it was disappointing that the Commissioners voted to approve the changes.

The next day a similar 4 to 1 vote approved amendments to the Lee County Comprehensive Land Use Plan. They now go to the state for approval. Changes include the removal of 1- and 2-story building heights on Captiva. (You can be sure that islanders, businesses, organizations, and non-profits are not done with this subject. Stay tuned.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

With data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

September is often when island inventory is low. As hurricane season ramps down and snowbirds start returning, inventory should pick up some. Teammate Dave and I continue to look at property for owners thinking of selling. We look forward to advertising some new offerings soon but are always looking for more listings.

Those worried about values going down, only need to look at their recent TRIM notices from the County Property Appraiser. Actual sale prices may reflect restoration costs needed for properties to again be habitable, but it is safe to say that Sanibel and Captiva continue to be in demand. Year-to-date, Sanibel homes and lots lead the market in desirability.

Like the extra patience needed when crossing the causeway, awaiting contractors and supplies, and the like, sometimes more is required to get to a successful closing. Post-hurricane complications continue to affect some closings, particularly when contractors record liens. They can make providing clear title and title insurance challenging for closing companies, community associations, and the parties involved. Kudos again this week to Superior Title Services of Sanibel. They have found a solution to what will be our next closing.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	56	1,084,743	144	77	1,654,082	103	28	873,014	140
Under contract	8	995,112	112	15	1,616,859	90	5	1,635,800	128
Sold 2023 to 9/8	75	918,401	59	217	1,237,803	67	21	820,738	65
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	23	1,558,173	89	9	7,597,555	132	1	12,000,000	8
Under contract	1	1,700,000	4	1	2,195,000	16	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 9/8	11	848,363	108	16	2,761,437	73	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 1‑8

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sanibel Arms #F4 2/2 $995K.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: Sundial #F203 2/2 $720K.

HOMES

5 new listings: 1605 Bunting Ln 3/2 $899K, 1125 Captains Walk St 3/3 $1.075M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $1.875M, 2477 Wulfert Rd 3/4 $1.998M, 4273 West Gulf Dr 5/4.5 $6.9M.

3 price changes: 2134 Egret Cir 3/2 now $749K, 1258 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $845K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $985K.

1 back on market: 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.695M.

2 new sales: 9231 Belding Dr 2/2 listed at $450K, 4263 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 listed at $899K.

6 closed sales: 1242 Par View Dr 3/2 $750K, 9210 Dimmick Dr 2/2 $659K, 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 $775K, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 $1.275M, 2540 Coconut Dr 4/3.5 $1.4M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 $3.52M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 327 Palm Lake Dr $729K.

1 price change: 972 Fitzhugh St now $350K

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Bayside Villas #5232 1/2 $645K, Marina Villas #804 2/2 $1.15M.

1 price change: Bayside Villas #5208 1/2 now $605K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Tennis Villas #3119 1/1 $450K.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11461 Old Lodge Ln 4/3 $3.1M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Labor Day Weekend 2023 on Sunny-Again Sanibel

Posted on September 1, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Another week, another hurricane. It certainly was not fun awaiting the landfall of Hurricane Idalia. Though the islands came through with mostly just minor flooding, the anticipation and storm preparations were stressful.

During teammate Dave’s travels today, he noted that standing water remains in many areas, particularly the west end. The City reports that the public beach parking areas remain closed at Lighthouse Beach and Turner Beach on Captiva.

With bright blue sky and plenty of sunshine, I decided to do another island drive-around myself. I also saw partial flooding in a few locations, but what was most surprising was the lack of vehicles on the road and few workers at properties. I took the back way from the east end to the end of West Gulf Dr and back, circling through a few neighborhoods.

I bet I didn’t have five vehicles pass me going the opposite direction. If work vehicles and equipment are an indication, not much happening at most properties. Continued roof work was obvious, however, at some of the same complexes mentioned last week: Seashells, Sand Dollar, Sandpebble, and Sunset South. Below are a few photos I snapped along the way:

Shell Harbor canal between Beach Rd & Lindgren Blvd

Sanibel River aka the Panama Canal between Middle Gulf Dr & Beachview.

Beach access at Fulgur St

There is no doubt that it is going to take many months before most complexes will be ready for occupancy. Here’s hoping that recovery progress picks up soon!

Bridge/Causeway Update

Some storm washouts meant additional causeway work both yesterday and today with traffic limited to one-lane as repairs are underway on the island closest to the big bridge and the mainland.

On a lighter note, several photographs were posted on social media Wednesday morning, as the storm passed, showing a flamboyance of flamingos on a causeway beach. Those birds being here definitely is an oddity, as flamingos are rarely seen in this part of Florida.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service), below are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	57	1,131,502	141	78	1,613,708	101	27	879,274	138
Under contract	9	972,211	120	20	1,647,544	93	5	1,635,800	128
Sold 2023 to 9/1	74	921,082	57	211	1,233,291	66	21	820,738	65
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	21	1,621,333	90	12	7,077,250	122	1	12,000,000	1
Under contract	2	1,089,000	13	2	2,672,500	54	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 9/1	10	888,200	111	15	2,738,866	71	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 25 – September 1

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Sanibel Arms #C7 1/1 $399.9K, Sand Pointe #116 2/2 $980K.

1 price change: Spanish Cay #D4 2/2 now $579K.

1 new sale: Sanibel Arms #H7 1/1 listed at $399.9K.

3 closed sale: Loggerhead Cay #133 2/2 $980K, Heron at The Sanctuary 1 #2A 3/2.5 $1.075M, Gulfside Place #318 2/2 $1.2M (SanibelSusan listing).

HOMES

2 new listings: 1450-1460 Court Pl 5/4.5 $1.35M, 1828 Buckthorn Ln 4/4.5 $2.25M.

4 price changes: 3312 St Kilda 3/2 now $847K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $999K, 3302 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 now $1.299M. 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.355M.

2 back on market: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $724K, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $1.15M.

1 new sale: 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 listed at $1.69M.

5 closed sales: 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $370K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $530K, 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $750K, 1550 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $1.4495M, 5271 Indian Ct 4/4 $2.385M.

LOTS

2 new listings: Sanibel Highlands corner $325K, 1032 Sand Castle Rd $499K.

2 price changes: 1321 Seaspray Ln now $959K, 4657 Rue Belle Mer now $3.5M

1 new sale: 5633 Baltusrol Ct listed at $499K.

1 closed sale: 5116 Sea Bell Rd $335K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: Bayside Villas #5344 3/3 listed at $1.7M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 57 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.749M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

1 new listing: 16280 Captiva Dr $12M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Enjoy your long weekend! Happy Labor Day!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Back to Life Today on Sanibel Island

Posted on August 25, 2023 by SanibelSusan

As nice as it was to get away last week, learn new things, and renew friendships with colleagues at the Florida Realtors 2023 Convention and business meetings, it is always great to drive across the causeway and settle back in at “home sweet home”.

Anxious to see what progress occurred during my time in Orlando, I drove all over the island this week. Repairs continue and new landscaping has sprung up at many homes, but it is still a little discouraging to see so many condo complexes looking like they have for months.

There are exceptions, but overall, many condo owners now are recognizing that it will likely be months (if not years) before their community is back to a semblance of normalcy. (I did another drive-around this afternoon and took photos at some of the complexes where I saw workers. Kudos to those roofers that were atop buildings in 90+degree sunshine. See photos below taken 2-2:30 p.m. 8/25/23.)

Roof work underway at Sandpebble.

Roof work at Spanish Cay

Workers on roof at Seashells

Sundial Resort, workers on Sundial West roof

New roofs underway at Sunset South

Compass Point

Sanibel Siesta

Sanibel Surfside roofers atop several bldgs

Coquina Beach

Beachcomber

Kinzie Island condos

Colony Resort, aka Colonnades

Bridge/Causeway Update

Those traveling the causeway saw changes this week with a new temporary paved roadway open. Huge piles of enormous rock and materials keep appearing and bridge/causeway work continues overnight with lane shifts and flagging operations from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Elevation of the new road will be ~2’ higher than the existing roadway. Periodic delays are expected.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Yesterday at the August membership meeting of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors, sponsors were “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society and LMCU (Lake Michigan Credit Union).

Things to Do at “Ding” – AnnMarie Wildman with Wildlife Society promoted the Refuge describing the many upcoming events there including “Art in the Wild” Oct 21 and 22, Holiday Shopping Night Nov 29, Ice Cream Social Dec 13, Estate Planning Seminar Jan 30, Lecture Series Jan-Apr 2024, Sounds of the Sand Mar 23 and 24, Solar Eclipse Viewing Apr 8, and Tarpon Tournament May 9 and 10. Every week the refuge, Visitor and Education Center, Nature Store, and America’s Best Restroom are open six days a week (closed Fridays). Residents and visitors are encouraged to bike, drive, and walk on Wildlife Drive, Indigo Trail, and Bailey Tract.

LMCU Financing – Dan Krispinsky with Lake Michigan Credit Union assured attendees that they are financing island properties including some damaged non-warrantable condos. LMCU offers both conventional and jumbo construction mortgages, and renovation/repair loans.

Pools – Meeting speaker was Anthony Aracri with Hydro Leak Detection and Egret Pools. After summarizing examples of pool problems encountered from the hurricane, he described how material availability, costs, and permitting/scheduling delays are affecting pool repairs and construction today. The numbers he quoted for new pool construction were jaw dropping.

Caravan – Following the meeting, five properties were open for Caravan viewing. Those included three Sanibel homes and two condos at South Seas Resort.

Today’s Market – The consensus at the meeting was that business is slow now that it is peak hurricane season. Today all eyes are glued to the tropical disturbance south of us that is expected to strengthen over the weekend. We do not want bad weather here.

Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	57	1,134,064	138	78	1,646,977	100	28	922,978	142
Under contract	11	1,072,090	129	25	1,541,075	96	5	1,603,000	120
Sold 2023 to 8/25	71	914,156	54	207	1,233,188	66	20	845,025	68
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	22	1,624,909	79	12	7,089,750	115	0	N/A	N/A
Under contract	1	478,000	22	2	2,672,500	54	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 8/25	10	888,200	111	15	2,738,866	71	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

SanibelSusan Team

This week, teammate Dave continued working with buyers looking to take advantage of reduced condo prices, while we both have viewed properties for owners not wanting to wait for restoration to complete. We are thankful to have a couple of closings coming up and a new listing this week.

Every property is unique and the variety of insurance coverage, cost reimbursement, repairs covered, and timetables cause challenges for both listing and selling agents. Being detail-oriented is more important than ever, with flexibility also a key ingredient to success in these unusual times.

Teammate Lisa also continues to update our weekly inventory lists which we email to many interested owners and prospective buyers. Please let us know anytime you want a new one.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 18‑25

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Blind Pass #C106 2/2 $499.9K (SanibelSusan listing), Sundial #A303 1/1 $739K, Sanibel Siesta #401 2/2 $769K, Somerset #D201 3/2.5 $1.995M.

Blind Pass clubhouse, pool, tennis – pre-storm.

1 price change: Sundial #R406 2/2 now $1.799M.

2 new sales: Sundial #I-106 1/1 listed at $375K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-3 2/2.5 listed at $995K.

1 closed sale: Sunset South #11A 2/2 $598K.

HOMES

3 new listings: 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $1.199M, 3898 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.389K, 830 Strangler Fig Ln 5/3.5 $1.65M.

3 price changes: 1683 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 now $489K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (duplex) 5/3 now $799K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.365M.

2 back on market: 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $859K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 $1.1M.

5 new sales: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $724,999; 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 listed at $825K, 9008 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 listed at $1.149M, 774 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 listed at $1.999M, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 listed at $2.395M.

5 closed sales: 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 $540K, 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 $600K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 $950K, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 $1.15M, 895 Angel Wing Dr 3/2.5 $1.39M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2490 Coconut Dr $1.5M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 4501 Waters Edge Ln listed at $2.995M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Bayside Villas #4306 3/3 $1.495M, Bayside Villas #5344 3/3 $1.7M.

No price changes, new sales, or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 32 Urchin Ct 3/3 listed at $2.195M.

1 closed sale: 11407 Old Lodge Ln 3/2 $1.6M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Friday With Florida Realtors & Island Happenings

Posted on August 18, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Florida Realtors 2023 Convention/Expo & Business Meetings

As I finish up the week in Orlando, Florida Realtors 2023 Convention and Trade Expo are complete. Tim Tebow speaking on “Mission Possible” at the General Session Wednesday was awesome. What an inspiring man he is.

Yesterday, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors had good representation at the annual Awards Luncheon with 12 of us there. (next 4 pix)

The Florida Realtors leadership team is now holding their annual committee and business meetings. Those finish when the Board of Directors meets on Sunday. Tomorrow the state Professional Development Committee hopefully will approve the instructors recommended by our Audition Panels. This year the panels processed a record number of 64 live auditions and 15 written in a single day. It was special to sit on a panel again and see many colleagues for the first time in several years (that darn pandemic). The networking done during these events is also worthwhile.

Florida now has 235,000 Realtors so ensuring that there are instructors and classes available to cover their license renewals, continuing education, and designations is a big undertaking. Keeping up with fast moving technology is also required to keep curriculum current. Many new class topics are on tomorrow’s agenda including such subjects as Crypto, Bitcoin, Blockchain, and ChatG. (I am still shaking my head at an Artificial Intelligence class I attended while here.)

While I’ve been away, teammate Dave has been on the island every day including this morning with an update on our listings. Below is a photo that he took coming across the bridge, showing the new road paving he noticed on the causeway island closest to Sanibel.

When I mentioned last week that we hoped to get more action while I was out of town, we have. Dave has been working with buyers, while between meetings, I have chatted with several owners who likely will be listing soon. Though it still is hurricane season, island sales are occurring, and inventory is needed. An update of the real estate action this week is after a couple of news items below.

Island Scoop & Upcoming Events

Beach Sand Coming – A message issued yesterday by Sanibel’s Natural Resources Director says “Trucks will begin hauling sand to northwest Sanibel on Monday, Aug 21 to replace sand lost to erosion due to Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole last year. The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted in January to accept grant funds of $5 million from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for Hurricane Ian and Nicole Emergency Recovery to replace sand on Lee County beaches. The sand on Sanibel will reinforce the shoreline south of Blind Pass and reduce the vulnerability of Sanibel-Captiva Road, an evacuation route. Engineering estimates from the City of Sanibel determined that approximately 70,000 tons of sand are needed. About 25 trucks will deliver sand each day which means fewer trucks on the road compared with other recent sand hauling operations in Southwest Florida. Sand will be obtained from the Stewart mine in Immokalee. The sand is approved as beach compatible by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The trucking route will be from Immokalee to Sanibel avoiding Corkscrew Road between Alico Road and Interstate 75. The work is expected to be complete in about 90 days. Public access at Blind Pass Beach Park and Turner Beach Park will remain open. Work hours will be from dawn to dusk on weekdays. The city and county ask that motorists and beach goers be aware and abide by all signs and instructions provided by traffic control personnel in the area….”

Community United Event Sep 30 – The Community House is hosting a social event on Sat Sep 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. celebrating coming together a year after the storm. It will feature free ice cream, cookie baking contest, live music by the Sanibel School steel drum band, an Eagle Scout project reveal, and a fun community art project.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	57	1,162,855	143	78	1,636,093	99	28	976,371	142
Under contract	10	1,102,200	122	38	1,471,218	107	4	1,255,000	102
Sold 2023 to 8/18	70	918,672	52	201	1,244,328	63	20	845,025	68
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	20	1,627,650	80	13	6,713,230	100	0	N/A	N/A
Under contract	1	478,000	22	1	3,150,000	87	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 8/18	10	888,200	111	14	2,820,214	71	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 11-18

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sand Pointe #124 2/2 $850K, White Sands #11 2/2 $950K, Gulfside Place #228 3/3 $2.2M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Seashells #33 2/2 listed at $435K, Sundial #N402 2/2 listed at $1.225M.

2 closed sales: White Sands #22 2/2 $800K, Sandals #B 3/3 $959K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 9226 Kincaid Ct 3/2 $1.039M, 501 Lagoon Dr 3/2 $1.248M, 676 Cardium St 4/2 $1.349M, 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.695M.

4 price changes: 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $825K, 1067 Sand Castle Rd 4/2 $1.275M, 595 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $1.559, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $1.6M.

3 new sales: 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 listed at $799K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed at $1.1M. 2228 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.495M.

1 closed sale: 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 $680K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 4640 Rue Belle Mer $1.495M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 2356 Wulfert Rd $290K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 now $1.295M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Tennis Villas #3129 1/1 $410K.

HOMES

2 new listings: 57 Sandpiper Ct 2/2 $1.899M, 32 Urchin Ct 3/3 $2.195M.

No price changes.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 11535 Murmond Ln 3/3.5 $3.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

More Sunshine Than Raindrops on The Islands

Posted on August 11, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Between the showers today at Lighthouse beach.

As we finish up another week on Sanibel, local kids are back in school and there have been some high temperatures (mid-90’s a couple of afternoons), also a few typical short summer showers. Though green growth with new vegetation is popping out pretty much everywhere, it also has been reported that since the hurricane washed so much salt water over the islands that natural fresh water sources are now limited.

More is needed to support the usual flora/fauna and wildlife, so the sporadic rain hopefully will continue. We got some again today and it didn’t seem to deter the beachgoers at Lighthouse Beach!

On my way to the beach, i noticed these workers rejuggling the HVAC equipment cages going atop the roadside building at Lighthouse Point condos.

Restoration efforts continue all over the island. It is great to see improvement with every ride-around.

Association of Realtors

Tuesday, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors Professional Development Committee met with details discussed for the annual license-renewal classes which are being offered Sept 13-15. Speakers for monthly membership meetings for the remainder of the calendar year were also organized.

The SCIS (Sanibel Captiva Islands Specialist) designation classes planned for the last week in Sept and first week in Oct are yet to be finalized pending class locations (as Association Office building post-hurricane repairs are behind schedule). Updating the Resort & Second-Home Market class before then is on my “do list” so I am ready to teach that one for the 11^th year.

Yesterday morning a local Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting was held in BIG ARTS Performance Hall. Three new home listings were open for viewing following brief announcements. No new listings, price reductions, or sales were announced though a few were posted this week in the island MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Those details are after a few news items below.

Monday, I am off to Orlando for Florida Realtors annual legislative meetings, 2023 convention and trade show. Between the pandemic and storms, it has been a few years since some events have been in-person, so I am looking forward to again seeing and networking with colleagues from around the state and doing my part with the leadership team.

Tuesday, I will sit on an Audition Panel where we will evaluate instructors looking for approval to teach state classes. That is always a long, tiring, yet productive day. After that, other days are filled with speakers, classes, and a variety of events including Florida Realtors Annual Awards Luncheon. Tim Tebow is the speaker at the General Session.

Next Friday, I will prepare this weekly update after meetings of the state Faculty Development Subcommittee and Realtor-Attorney Joint Committee where upcoming changes to the state sales contract will be discussed. Teammate Dave is covering SanibelSusan Team business at home while I’m away. Business using the internet sure makes being away easier than when I started going to these meetings 25 years ago. Here’s hoping we get some action next week.

Island Scoop

Below are some recently announced post-storm updates and re-openings:

Hirdie Girdie Art Gallery – This local artist cooperative (at 2490 Library Way) posted that its grand opening reception will be Oct 12 from 4 to 6 p.m. with sculptor John Beall as their Oct guest artist. Each month the gallery features a guest artist.

Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort & Marina – With accommodations in short supply on both islands, many have asked about the status at Jensen’s cottages on Captiva. Posted yesterday on their social media: The cottages are under construction with new roofs complete and work now being done on individual interiors. No word yet on when they will reopen. Note: Jensen’s on the Gulf is open. Today, I saw visitor cars today.

Lighthouse Café – Following up on the post last week that Lighthouse Café has signed a lease to move to the former Sanibel Fresh building at 1020 Periwinkle Way, this week a notice said that they hope to be open in that new location by Dec 1 (or Jan 1 latest).

Sanibel Arms West – Recently driving by, I have seen many roofers at work. Below are some highlights from their community blog. It discusses the work accomplished in June/July and suggests that they will be welcoming guests back by next summer.

More than half the condo roofs are restored, or in the process of restoration.
Almost all unit interiors have been cleared of debris, framing & insulation with work already begun on new state-of-the-industry steel interior framing.
Hurricane glass is going in – both windows and sliders are beginning to be installed, with truckloads of material standing at the ready.
Patio framing is being installed as units are cleared and ready for this next step.
Native & surviving trees have been significantly (and legally) trimmed to facilitate regrowth.

Tarpon Bay Explorers – Tarpon Bay Explorers, the concession for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, will close the month of Sep, reopening Mon, Oct. 2. During that time, the entire Tarpon Bay recreational area will be closed to the public, including the boat ramp. Tarpon Bay Explorers opened Feb. 1, four months after Hurricane Ian made landfall, but the Explorers family went from 35 employees to three and opened with limited days and hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon, Wed, Fri and Sat, rentals stop at 3 p.m.). The concession anticipates those same days/hours of operation when it reopens Oct. 2 with the same rental and tour opportunities available, along with nature-themed gift shop. Their kayak tours will still be held at 10 a.m. Wed and Sat (reservations recommended) and Tram Tours at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thurs (reservations also recommended). Direct questions for the Explorers crew before their one-month hiatus, to the gift shop at 239-472-8900. For further info or reservations, go to their website at www.tarponbayexplorers.com. Note: Wildlife Drive will remain open throughout Sept with the current days and hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat through Thurs (i.e. Wildlife Drive, Visitor’s Center & Indigo Trail are closed Fridays).

The Green Flash – From a recent “Fort Myers News-Press” article: The Green Flash will reopen Sep 22 according to owner Tim McGowan. The history of the restaurant goes back to 1994 when Andreas Biery built it on the former Timmy’s Nook site. In 1950, T.M. Wiles opened his “Nook”, which was a popular watering hole on the island for more than 40 years. The McGowans bought the restaurant in early 2021. The timing of their Sep 22 reopening coincides with the start of the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest allowing the Green Flash to be a hot spot for the 3^rd consecutive year. The docks at The Green Flash will be back open and seating will be available at dockside tables or inside overlooking Roosevelt Channel and Pine Island Sound. Most of the Green Flash staff has been working at Rosalita’s Cantina, the Mexican restaurant on Rabbit Rd (Sanibel) that McGowan opened with his brothers in March.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

If you want an updated island inventory list, please email me at Susan@SanibelSusan.com. My team usually updates it over the weekend, but got it done early this week so I could turn it around before I head to Orlando.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	56	1,141,834	143	80	1,600,440	97	27	957,162	140
Under contract	10	1,111,200	103	27	1,365,385	125	5	1,069,000	82
Sold 2023 to 8/11	68	919,824	53	200	1,247,149	62	19	874,236	71
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	19	1,687,052	77	11	7,561,636	110	0	N/A	N/A
Under contract	2	438,500	27	2	3,322,500	68	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 8/11	9	941,333	117	13	2,791,000	73	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Sanibel Siesta #501 2/2 now $729K.

2 new sales: Sanibel Siesta #403 2/2 listed at $734K, Sundial #F203 2/2 listed at $789K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1018 Demere Ln 4/3 $1.089M, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 $1.899M.

7 price changes: 922 Main St 3/1 now $499K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $992K, 5685 San-Cap Rd 3/2 now $1.165M, 1207 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1,194,800; 595 Piedmont Rd 3/2 now $1.559M, 1511 Angel Dr 4/3 now $2.899M, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.375M.

1 back on market: 1143 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $899K.

6 new sales: 1122 Captains Walk St 3/2.5 listed at $798,897; 242 Christofer Ct 3/2 listed at $1.095M, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 896 Angel Wing Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.55M, 1352 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.699M, 1558 & 1545 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3.5 & dock lot listed at $3.999M.

3 closed sales: 450 Birdsong Pl 2/2 $574K. 1811 Ibis Ln 2/2 $625K, 915 Pecten Ct 4/5 $2.15M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 5633 Baltusrol Ct $499K.

No price changes or new sales.

3 closed sales: 2562 Coconut Dr 550K, 1105 Shell Basket Ln $649K, 725 Donax St $650K.

Captiva

CONDOS

3 new listings: Bayside Villas #5226 1/2 $699K, Captiva Shores #3B 3/2.5 $1.698M, Captiva Shores #6C 2/2 $1.7M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 now $3.599M.

1 new sale: 11461 Old Lodge Ln 4/3 listed at $3.15M.

1 closed sale: 11511 Laika Ln 3/2 $1.9M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Friday With More Progress on Sanibel & Captiva

Posted on August 4, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It’s another sunny Friday on the islands with more Sanibel home sales. Both teammate Dave and I worked with prospective buyers and sellers this week, while also following up on listings we have closing later this month. I continue to post social media updates as we notice changes during our travels. We are happy to assist if anyone needs “boots on the ground” observations about a particular property.

Taken from my car this afternoon on Woodring Rd showing the revetment & living shoreline at work!

Regarding island inventory, it might be high hurricane season, but we see no reason for owners to wait to list unless a property cannot be shown or if there are significant improvements that affect listing now. Today, smart buyers can easily figure out when a property was first listed, so those taking their property off the market to “give it a rest” really are not fooling anyone. When it comes back on the market, it’s not a new listing, it’s just a relisted listing.

Association of Realtors

The local Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but the Florida Realtors annual committee meetings have begun. I will head to Orlando soon for many of those events. This afternoon was the Zoom meeting of the Resort and Second-Home Specialist breakout group which is part of the Legislative Think Tank. It is always interesting to hear how other similar areas problem solve and compare to Sanibel and Captiva. For example, Marco Island is currently working to resolve four lawsuits, including one from Florida Realtors, about their new vacation rentals ordinance.

Another tidbit from the state Resort & Second-Home Specialist breakout group meeting this afternoon is that there has been a huge increase in Florida visitors and vacation rentals. According to Visit Florida, in 2022 over 137.4 million tourists came to Florida. That is 12.8% growth over 2021. Just in the first quarter of 2023, 37.9 million international visitors came here. For the fiscal year that just ended in June, Florida vacation rentals produced over $35 billion in taxable revenue. That’s a $13.3 billion increase over 2022, a 161% increase, a record-breaking year! Guests are staying longer, spending more, and the trend is expected to continue.

Next week, before I head to Orlando for the state in-person meetings, is the Sanibel-Captiva Association’s Professional Development Committee. More on that next Friday.

Island Scoop

Progress continues with some Sanibel businesses moving and others posting reopening dates. Below are a few tidbits and announcements I heard about this week:

American Legion Post 123 – The only American Legion post on the islands (4249 San-Cap Rd) is reopening its Tiki Bar tomorrow and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. offering burgers, hotdogs, and pulled pork. Serving both veterans and the public, it offers a casual setting to socialize. See more info on their Facebook page.

Free Sunday Causeway Tolls – Tuesday, Lee County Commissioners announced that in efforts to increase weekend island business and in support of “Save Our Shores” campaign, the causeway tools are waived coming onto the island for the next six Sundays (from August 6 to September 10).

Heart of the Island Shops – This shopping center which covers 1614-1628 Periwinkle Way, is the new home of Sanibel Art & Frame. It is the only store open there so far and I have become a regular as I slowly empty my garage of hurricane damaged art and photos. They do an amazing job! Today when picking up a piece, I heard that two other long-time island businesses have signed leases there and will be moving in. So, when you are looking for a former favorite shop, be aware that they may have or are moving. Stay tuned for more details when the shops have made their own announcements.

Lighthouse Café – posted on social media that they have signed a lease to occupy the former Sanibel Fresh building at 1020 Periwinkle Way, between Dairy Queen and Lazy Flamingo. They are sad to leave the Seahorse Shopping Center, but certainly will have more space in their new location. No opening date announced yet.

Sanibel Community House – The Sanibel Community Association announced that the renovation of The Community House is going well. Target for completion is September 30. They encourage users to book now as spaces are filling up for the 2023/2024 season.

Sanibel Rec Center – Was closed this week for maintenance which involved scheduling several repairs and improvements during the same timeframe to minimize disruption. Those include repaving of the parking lot, installation of new weight equipment, and acid washing of pools. They reopen Monday morning, August 7.

2^nd Lee County Public Meeting on Land-Use Changes

Wednesday night, I attended the county-sponsored public meeting at BIG ARTS as the local community continues to oppose changes to building height and density on Captiva. These changes include removing height restrictions and allowing South Seas Resort to request increased density, changes that island-lovers unanimously oppose because they would harm the character, environment, and resiliency of both Sanibel and Captiva.

The meeting was recorded and began with remarks by County Commissioner Kevin Ruane, followed by a presentation by Lee County Department of Community Development Zoning Manager Anthony Rodriguez. Comments followed from the Captiva Community Panel, Captiva Civic Association, and the public. All comments were in opposition, including those by SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) CEO James Evans and their Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis. I sat with SCCF former (now retired) Director of Education, Kristie Anders. Having worked in SW FL since the mid 70’s and for 30+years at SCCF, her heartfelt comments provided some excellent context. They begin at about the 39-minute mark of the 1+hour presentation: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=257708607031529

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	58	1,126,566	127	85	1,693,850	96	26	974,784	138
Under contract	8	1,198,625	91	24	1,261,979	131	8	905,375	63
Sold 2023 to 8/4	68	919,824	53	197	1,249,141	61	16	922,593	79
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	18	1,687,500	75	12	7,206,583	102	0	N/A	N/A
Under contract	2	438,500	27	2	2,795,000	72	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 8/4	9	941,333	117	12	2,865,250	71	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity July 28 – August 4

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sanibel Arms #H7 1/1 $399K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: White Sands #22 2/2 listed at $850K, Sandals #B 3/3 listed at $900K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

4 new listings: 2228 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 $1.495M, 813 Angel Wing Dr 5/5.5 $3.5M, 411 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $3.595M, 1558 & 1545 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3.5 & dock lot $3.999M.

6 price changes: 2991 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 now $549K, 4752 Rue Helene 2/2 now $624K, 4269 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 now $769K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $995K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 now $1.1M, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.385M.

2 back on market: 922 Main St 3/1 $539K, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $1.15M.

8 new sales: 1683 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 listed at $510K, 1932 Roseate Ln 3/2 listed at $545K, 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 listed at $599K, 566 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed at $674.5K, 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 listed at $714K, 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 listed at $799K, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 listed at $1.349M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 listed at $4.25M.

7 closed sales: 658 Donax St 3/2 $699K, 1171 Seagrape Ln 3/3 duplex $825K, 209 Daniel Dr 3/2 $900K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.075M, 425 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $1.1M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $3.55M, 568 Lighthouse Way 3/3.5 $4.6M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 395 Bella Vista Way E now $1.5M.

1 new sale: 809 Pyrula Ave listed at $545K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Captiva Hide-a-Way #2C 2/2 $999K, Gulf Beach Villas #2118 3/2 $1.25M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings, price reductions, new or closed sales.

1 back on market: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 $3.75M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests

Posted on July 28, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Last week, we reported that the number of Sanibel home sale closings for 2023 already exceed the total number reported in all of 2022.

Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests

Loggerhead sea turtle

This week, the big record is with sea turtle nests. As of July 26, SCCF (Sanibel & Captiva Conservation Foundation) Turtle Patrol reports that 1,171 sea turtle nests have been laid on the islands this year, compared to 760 in 2022. Already, 8,482 hatchlings have emerged and made their way to the Gulf. Most of these nests are loggerhead turtles, but the islands usually also have a few green turtle nests, with higher green nest counts every other year. This year, 23 green sea turtle nests have been recorded so far.

Green sea turtle

Each species possesses unique characteristics. Here are some of the differences between loggerhead and green sea turtles (gleaned from “SCCF News” posted July 26):

Tracks – These differences can be distinct. Loggerheads crawl with an alternating gait, using their right and left front and rear flippers separately, which leaves asymmetrical marks in the sand. Alternatively, green turtles crawl using their left and right flippers simultaneously, producing a track with symmetrical flipper marks. Green turtles tails also typically cause a drag mark through the center of the crawl markings, while loggerhead tails usually don’t. Green turtles also tend to be larger than loggerheads, so their tracks are wider. A green turtle crawl markings may be 3 to 4.5’ wide, while a loggerhead crawl is usually less, around 2.5 to 4’ wide.

Nests – Compared to loggerheads, a green turtle nest is much larger and they disturb a larger area of sand during the nesting process and spend a long time covering and camouflaging the nest, throwing large amounts of sand and digging a secondary body pit after laying. Loggerhead nests, by comparison, are smaller.

Head Sizes – Loggerheads are aptly named with their large bulky heads equipped with powerful jaws. Green turtles have much smaller heads, especially in proportion to their body size. Green turtles are named because their fat tissue has a green tint due to their mostly herbivorous diet.

Nest Timing – In Florida, loggerhead nesting season starts in April and usually winds down by the end of August, while green turtle nesting season typically runs from June through September.

Please remember to turn off beachfront lights after 9 p.m., fill in holes, level sandcastles, pick up trash and furniture, and respect posted nesting areas. SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline is 978-728-3663.

City 50^th Anniversary Plans, No Luminary This Year

Many have asked if the islands will be having their annual Luminary events this year which usually occur on the first Friday in December on Sanibel, and the first Saturday on Captiva. The short answer is “no”, but In partnership with the City and other island organizations, the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce has taken the lead in planning a 13-month celebration of Sanibel’s 50^th anniversary. That anniversary is November 5, 2024.

With hurricane recovery efforts still underway, many businesses often open for Luminary events may not be ready this year.

So, with Sanibel’s 1974 incorporation falling in November, plans are in the works for a special 13-month celebration that will kick-off on that anniversary and continue until what would normally be Luminary 2025. To that end, the traditional Luminary for 2023 has been postponed.

The Chamber plan is that all island events between November 5, 2024, and December 6, 2025, will be co-branded with the 50^th anniversary celebration. By then, more restoration and recovery will be complete, more businesses back open and more property owners will have returned. Stay tuned. I bet it will be special!

30-Year Mortgage Rates Head Back Up, Hit 6.81%

After hearing about the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rates moving closer to 7%. I quizzed David Wright, Senior Vice President of Residential Mortgage Lending at the Sanibel & Captiva Community Bank. He was at our Association of Realtors membership meeting yesterday. With most island sales contracts being cash, it was a surprise to hear him say that this year is likely going to set records for them. He said they are doing plenty of mortgages, including for damaged property needing construction loans.

So even though the average long-term U.S. mortgage rate ticked back up this week, you can bet if I have a client needing a loan, I will continue to suggest calling David or another of our Association Affiliate Members. I have done business with the SanCap Bank since they opened 20+years ago and they have always exceeded expectations. (It’s also great to have them back open on Sanibel, including the drive-thru.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

The July membership meeting of the islands Association of Realtors was held yesterday morning at the Midland Trust building in Fort Myers, where our Association offices have made their temporary home while their island office building is under restoration.

Speaker Theresa Knower who heads Midland’s 1031 division, provided a refresher overview of the 1031 tax-deferred exchange process. Following that was info on self-directed IRA’s.

The Caravan that followed the meeting included three Sanibel homes and one on Captiva within South Seas Resort. This gave teammate Dave and I a great opportunity to see the progress at the resort. It really is amazing how little damage some northern areas received from the hurricane.

At Lands End looking over Red Fish Pass to North Captiva Island

At Lands End (Captiva’s north end) some repairs and roof work were underway, but the landscaping was beautiful in many areas. As we crossed the long stretch of the resort that has mangroves on either side of the road, I remember thinking that the damage to those looked worse after Charley.

Golf course at South Seas Resort under construction.

The golf course at South Seas is under construction and many resort properties are undergoing restoration, but the damage, particularly at the condos and timeshares appears to be much less than on Sanibel.

Crossing the bridge at Blind Pass coming back onto Sanibel, we noticed the sandbar making its way across the channel which is nearly closed. It was a bit overcast, so the beach was not overly busy.

From Captiva side of the bridge overlooking Blind Pass to Sanibel

Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the island MLS action this week.

On the commercial side, the real estate at 2359 Periwinkle Way (formerly home of CJ’s Swimwear) was listed for $1.29M.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	60	1,118,980	126	89	1,587,345	98	27	972,755	136
Under contract	6	1,306,500	116	26	1,434,265	106	7	956,857	34
Sold 2023 to 7/28	68	919,824	53	190	1,228,062	61	16	922,593	79
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	17	1,650,647	93	12	7,206,583	95	0	N/A	N/A
Under contract	2	438,500	27	2	2,795,000	72	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 7/28	9	941,333	117	12	2,865,250	71	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity July 21-28

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sandals #B 3/3 $900K.

3 price changes: Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 now $889K, Gulfside Place #204 2/2 now $1.35M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 now $1,370,555.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listings: 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 $799K.

3 price changes: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $724,999; 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 now $799K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 $3.395M.

2 back on market: 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 $1,249,900.

3 new sales: 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 listed at $549K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $629K, 6401 Pine Ave 4/3.5 listed at $4.195M.

2 closed sales: 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.1M, 913 Kings Crown Dr 4//3 $1.3M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 2505 Island Inn Rd now $345K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $3.45M.

No price reductions, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

$388 Million Awarded to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Ian

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Island Weather

Events & Re-Openings

Sanibel Final Budget Hearing

Florida Tops NY in Home Values

Attorney Files Comments with State Agencies

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 22‑29

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Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Events & Re-openings

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 15‑22

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Thinking of Selling?

Reopenings Announced

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 8‑15

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Thursday Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting

Friday Update on Causeway & Association of Realtors Building

Lee County Commissioners Approve Lee Plan Amendments

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 1‑8

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Bridge/Causeway Update

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 25 – September 1

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Bridge/Causeway Update

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

SanibelSusan Team

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 18‑25

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Florida Realtors 2023 Convention/Expo & Business Meetings

Island Scoop & Upcoming Events

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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Association of Realtors

Island Scoop

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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Association of Realtors

Island Scoop

2nd Lee County Public Meeting on Land-Use Changes

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity July 28 – August 4

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Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests

City 50th Anniversary Plans, No Luminary This Year

30-Year Mortgage Rates Head Back Up, Hit 6.81%

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity July 21-28

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2^nd Lee County Public Meeting on Land-Use Changes

City 50^th Anniversary Plans, No Luminary This Year