To say, “the rainy season has begun”, is an understatement. With off-&-on showers, sometimes heavy, both day and night all week, Florida has reported flooding in many areas. Luckily the sandy soil here usually makes standing water disappear quickly, even so, it looked like a moat around my home by Wednesday afternoon with the street remaining flooded this morning.

The rains are expected to return to what we call “summer normal” by tomorrow which typically means an occasional afternoon downpour that passes quickly, cools things down, and may set the stage for a beautiful sunset.

With many reports of flooding off-island, I was determined to see how the island fared, so with my driveway finally down a few inches this afternoon, I did a short drive-around. Probably should not have gone down West Gulf Dr where there is a significant amount of water over the roadway in-&-around East Rocks, but once you start, it is tough to stop.

• ·        More standing water than I remember after past storms.
• ·        More hurricane-damaged homes have come down, more yards being cleared, more properties getting new roofs, windows, and landscaping.
• ·        Progress at the new Shalimar where buildings already are going up.
• ·        New lighter exterior color scheme at Somerset where the new landscaping also looks great.
• ·        New exterior painting also underway at Sand Pointe and Sundial East.
• ·        Workers on roof at several buildings at Pointe Santo and Shell Island Beach Club,
• ·        New clubhouse about done at Seagull Estates.
• ·        Sun finally peeking out by the time drove by Gramma Dot’s & The Sanibel Marina.

Gramma Dot’s 06-14-2024 at 3 p.m.

Sanibel Workshop – City Council & Planning Commission

It was with interest that I attended this 4-hour workshop on Tuesday at BIG ARTS. Held at the suggestion of Sanibel City Manager, Dana Souza, the purpose was to discuss ways for City staff to expedite island recovery efforts, both commercial and residential, and bring to the attention of elected officials some of the hurdles brought to light by post-Ian, both from the storm and from new processes and personnel.

The workshop was a cooperative effort between Sanibel City Council members and Planning Commissioners on stage. Agenda and presentations were by City Manage Souza, City Attorney John Agnew, Planning Director Paula McMichael, and Deputy Planning Director Craig Chandler. Public comment was open to anyone in attendance.

Recorded videos of the meeting are on the City of Sanibel Facebook page. Some of the experiences described by home and business owners in trying to get permits were surprising. Many were complimentary, a few highlighted areas where attention or direction is needed. All-in-all, the event resulted in good suggestions for improvement. It was so productive, that another may be held before year-end.

One news tidbit also is that Director McMichaels announced that a new City Planner has been hired and recently began work. A new administrative employee also is coming on board soon, with a second new Planner starting in a few weeks.

It really is unbelievable the volume of work that these City Departments (Planning & Building) have and continue to process from this storm. Thanks to them and our elected officials for always looking for ways to improve!

Sanibel & Captiva Announcements Re: Flooding

Captiva Library – Closed yesterday at 12:30 p.m. due to impacts from the weather.

F.I.S.H. – Today, the food pantry is closed and their furniture distribution event canceled due to the weather.

Public Parking – The City of Sanibel posted midweek that the public parking lots at Blind Pass and Lighthouse Beach were temporarily closed due to flooding. No word yet on them reopening. Still closed this afternoon.

Looking for Things to Do on Rainy Days?

Vacationers and residents often look for activities for children during stormy days. Below are examples of some of the offerings that were/are available at the Sanibel Library this week. View full online calendar with times at www.sanlib.org/calendar.

Dinosaur Fun with children from babies to teens invited to participate in a prehistoric adventure and hear stories about dinosaurs, ride the Dinosaur Roller Coaster through Virtual Reality, create hands-on crafts, and more. (Tues morning)

Toni Bennett Trick Dog Performance with story time. (Tues afternoon)

Crafternoon with bookmark making. Craft supplies available and staff guide the program, ages four and up, including adults. (Wed afternoon)

Family Storytime for ages five and under and their caregiver. Kids will get to sing, read, question, and move around during Storytime with a literacy craft center after (Fri morning)

Family Film Friday with movie in the Teen Area. Snacks provided. (Fri afternoon)

Strength & Stretch session for ages 4-10 with Yoga instructor. The program combines energetic movements, playful stretches, and calming breathwork to feel strong, flexible, and focused. (Sat morning)

Crafterday hosted by professional artist and coloring book creator. Participants will create a shorebird drawing they can take home. (Sat)

SCCF Announcement Re: Sea Turtles

Wed, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation posted: “SCCF has documented 371 loggerhead nests and 1 leatherback nest on Sanibel and Captiva since April 24. Heavy rains and flooding this week due to the wet season’s first tropical system don’t necessarily mean trouble for the nests – sea turtle eggs are permeable, so a little extra water shouldn’t be an issue and may have a beneficial cooling effect.

“The biggest threats to incubating eggs from storms include prolonged inundation or beach erosion and accretion, which can wash out nests or change nest conditions. Luckily, sea turtles lay multiple nests per season at different times so that even if one nest washes away, there’s a high likelihood that others produce hatchlings.

“It won’t be long before we see our first hatchlings! Help as protect nesting females and hatchlings by turning off beach-front lights after dark, filling in holes, flattening sandcastles, and removing beach furniture and trash.

“To report a suspected new nest or issues with nests/turtles, beach lighting, or beach furniture, please call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.”

Ring the School Bell

Posted this week by the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village: “Children 12 and under are invited to test the remounted school bell at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. Now that the City of Sanibel has repaired the historic schoolhouse, the Sanibel Fire Department on Tues, June 18, at 9 a.m. will install the bell that was blown off the roof during Hurricane Ian. Once the bell is installed, one child, chosen at random, will get the chance to be the first to ring the bell. Later, after the official ceremonies, all children of all ages (even if over 65) will be allowed to ring the bell once. This is a classic example of how our community works together. The City repaired the building, Michael Gallloway, a volunteer, restored the bell, and now our Fire Department comes to the final rescue”, said Ty Symroski, President of the SHMV.

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is located at 950 Dunlop Road (next to BIG ARTS). It is open now through July 31, Tues to Sat 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Village will be closed August and September and re-open for season October 15.”

Tax Roll Values on Sanibel Drop Again Post-Ian

From www.SanibelCaptiva.com on June 11: “Initial property tax valuations for Sanibel have decreased over 2023 for the second consecutive year. The Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office released its preliminary estimated tax roll values last week, which indicate a 1.8% drop for the city of Sanibel, but a 9.65% increase for Captiva as part of unincorporated Lee County. Initial valuations for the fire districts also varied depending on island…

“”The value estimates provide a starting point to taxing authorities for their annual budget and property tax rate process,” Matt Caldwell (Lee County Property Appraiser) said. “The office will continue refining the values and will certify the official values.” The final numbers will come out before July 1, then be sent to Tallahassee for approval.”

Sanibel & Captiva Association of Realtors® Scoop

Because of the weather, most Professional Development Committee members attended the Association’s Wednesday meeting by Zoom. Now that the educational events, speakers and classes are scheduled for most of the year, the Committee won’t meet again until August. In the interim, members will continue to be notified about the forms being prepared by Florida Realtors® covering the new national requirements on buyer brokerage.

Yesterday, there was a Caravan Meeting at the Association office. Again, thanks to rain and lightning, attendance was light with Open Houses postponed until the monthly membership meeting in two weeks.

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

The SanibelSusan Team is thankful to have a new listing on Anchor Dr and appreciate that JMA Photography quickly filmed it last Sunday before the major rain events. Those photos, including drone shots, were used to prepare a streaming video that is now posted and syndicated to real estate sites worldwide. It is a wonderful home and now like-new thanks to a complete renovation last year. Easy to show and rescheduled for Realtor® Caravan on June 27, noon until 3 p.m.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jun 7-14

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Donax Village #2 2/2 $599K,

3 price changes: Beach Rd Villas #104 2/2 now $560K, Sanibel Arms West #I7 2/2 now $789K, Compass Point #191 3/2 now $1.795M.

1 new sale: Sandalfoot #5A2 2/2 listed at $929K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

668 Anchor Dr

5 new sales: 9003 Mockingbird Dr 5/4 listed at $959K, 3343 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 listed at $1.087M, 3708 Agate Ct 3/3.5 listed at $1.37M, 4573 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 listed at $1.384M, 902 Kings Crown Dr 5/4.4 listed at $1.695M.

4 closed sales: 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 $750K, 5827 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 $M, 1720 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/3 $1.467M, 1318 Seaspray Ln 5/3.5 $2.15M.

LOTS

No new listings

1 price change: 2486 Wulfert Rd now $349K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

No price changes, new sales, or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11521 Paige Ct 4/3.5 now $10M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend with best wishes for a Happy Fathers’ Day!

Another Friday is here. Roadway traffic continues to be light much of the time. Plus I have even seen plenty of parking available at City beach parking lots this week, while the Conservation Foundation Turtle Patrol already is reporting record numbers of turtle nests, many laid last weekend.

The rainy season may have begun yesterday with a quick but severe shower just after noon. It came down so fast during a 30+minute period, that roadways were briefly flooded. That disappeared quickly once the storm passed. On my way home both yesterday and today, I noticed some brilliant royal poinciana trees, looking to be at their peak. A couple of favorites are in front of Captains Walk and Sanibel Arms.

In the island real estate world, sales activity remains slow. On Sanibel, there were no new condo sales this week, but six homes and a lot went under contract. On Captiva, both a condo and a home were sold. More details on that action is below after a couple of news items.

Sanibel Resolutions Adopted

At their meeting last week, Sanibel City Council adopted two resolutions. The first appropriated funding for dredging of the Shell Harbor entrance canal. The second approved a grant agreement  between the City and the Florida Department of Transportation in the amount of $1M to repair and repave sections of the shared use path system.

City of Sanibel 2024 Hurricane Seminar

The City’s annual hurricane seminar will be next Friday, May 24, from 1 to 3 p.m. at BIG ARTS. Featured speakers include Erika Broyles, FISH Senior Services Director; Chief Kevin Barbot, Sanibel Fire Rescue District; Chief Bill Dalton, Sanibel Police Department; Manuela Martinez, FISH Disaster Administrative Director; Craig Mole, Sanibel Building Director; and Chief Bill Schultz, Lee County Emergency Management.

It will be live streamed on the City of Sanibel Facebook page and will be viewable on the City’s website after the event.

Check Your On-Line Property File

Recently, several times when researching property for a prospective seller, open permits were discovered. This can be an oversight by a contractor, but it is wise for owners to check the status of any property permits beginning when work starts, up until final payment is made.

Depending on the scope of work, multiple inspections may be required with the final one leading to a Certificate of Completion which usually is when a contractor is paid in full.

The City website. MySanibel.com has excellent info on when permits are required and how the process works.

If an owner is preparing to sell, they may not know that an open permit may be a snag in that process. Florida is a full disclosure state, so a seller is to disclose any incomplete permits or work that required a permit that was done without benefit of one. These details can be provided to their Realtor by way of a Seller Real Property Disclosure.

The Florida “As Is” Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase, specifies that a Seller will assist and cooperate in close-out of building permits.

On MySanibel.com, anyone can view permit information and history on any property merely by entering the address.  When an individual permit is found, many attachments and details are available, including the scope of work, its cost, inspections required, permit status, and more.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

Following the local caravan meeting yesterday, four newly listed Sanibel homes and two condos were open for viewing. Meeting attendance was light but should pick up for the 30^th at the Monthly Membership Meeting and Caravan when the Director of Island Water Association will be the guest speaker.

Below, with data from the islands Multiple Listing Service (MLS) are summary tables of the island residential sales statistics, then some info on commercial property for sale, followed by scoop about our listings, plus all the Sanibel/Captiva MLS action reported this week.

Commercial Activity

Many have asked about all the For Sale signs at commercial establishments along Periwinkle. Some of those are with off-island brokers. They don’t always know Sanibel’s strict signage rules, which has resulted in some oversized signs, until the City catches them.

In the Sanibel-Captiva MLS today, there are seven commercial properties for sale on Sanibel, none on Captiva. The lowest priced is the condo we have listed at Key Lime Center for $399K. Also available are:

• 1025 Periwinkle Way which also is a condo and was the Noris Furniture building for $1.3M.
• 1067 Bailey Road which is the former gas and service station facing Periwinkle for $2.85M.
• 1245 Periwinkle, site of Anchor Inn for $3.5M.
• 1446 & 1444 Periwinkle, Island Trading Post, including store building, home behind, & storage building with apartment, for $4.89M.
•  4819 Tradewinds Dr package including a 6-unit gulf-front hotel, two duplexes, and a home for $6.7M.
•  6520 Pine Ave formerly Lazy Flamingo Plaza for $8.5M.

No commercial island properties are under contract in the San-Cap MLS, but there have been two closed sales posted this year:

• 1149 Periwinkle #3, commercial condo with 6 office spaces for $625K.
• 711 Donax St, Driftwood Inn, for $2.459M.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 10-17

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Kings Crown #215 2/2 $1.35M.

2 price changes: St Croix #4 2/2 now $1.575M, Somerset #E101 3/2.4 now $1.749M.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: Tennisplace #C34 2/1.5 $480K, Mariner Pointe #842 2/2 $650K.

HOMES

No new listings

2 price changes:  1125 Captains Walk St 3/2 now $1.065M, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 now $2.699M

6 new sales: 560 Piedmont Rd 3/2 listed at $639K, 1113 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $749K, 6090 Dinkins Lake Rd 3/2.5 listed at $1.295M, 1720 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/3 listed at $1.549M,  5048 Joewood Dr 4/3.5 listed at $2.55M, 4257 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed at $12M.

5 closed sales: 1139 Seagrape Ln 3/2 $850K, 6141 Henderson Rd 3/3 $929K, 1376 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $970K, 4179 Dingman Dr 4/4 $1.825M, 417 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $2M.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: Bowman Beach Rd 25 now $145K, 967 Fitzhugh St now $265K.

1 new sale:1757 Windward Way listed at $389K.

No closed sales:

Captiva

CONDOS

3 new listings: Beach Villas #2323 $795K, Beach Villas #2322 1/1 $699K, Lands End Village #1655 2/2 $1.45M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Beach Homes #25 3/2 listed at $2.8495M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 37 Sea Hibiscus Ct 3/4 $1.899M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 11516 Andy Rosse L 6/6 listed at $2.85M.

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, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It’s another sunny Sanibel Friday following another week of that same wonderful weather. Rainy season is just around the corner and sea turtle nesting season has begun, so we know summer is not far behind. I was reminded of that when I saw this message on social media yesterday: “Today is the last SW FL sunset before 8 p.m. until August.”

Sanibel Lighthouse Update

The protective cloak around the lighthouse is now down, A good sign that beach re-nourishment work wrapped up there, just in time for nesting season. The project finished up midweek and both gulf and bayside parking lots are now open.

There were plenty of empty parking spots this afternoon when I snapped these few East-end blog photos. It’s always special to see gulf waters a brilliant teal which they often are this time of the year, or until summer showers begin, the sand gets stirred up, and more water is released from Lake O.

Dave took this one this morning when out boating.

Vacation Accommodations

Many island vacationers, anxious to return, are asking which gulf-front condos are ready for rent. Unfortunately, the answer is “not many.” Since we drive the gulf drives often, it has been surprising to see how long it is taking most to be restored.

Several communities have units ready for owner occupancy, but amenities are not yet completely repaired or landscaping not replaced. Others are still in permitting or working through insurance and financial issues. Some are close and now getting their beach access boardwalks installed.

Several are rental-ready for those wanting to come and support the island during recovery. The Chamber of Commerce continues to update their website with news on the nightly accommodations available, while local rental organizations add units to their website inventories as they are ready. A couple of complexes with on-site rental offices (Sanibel Moorings & Sanibel Siesta) are open.

If I was looking for accommodations of a certain type and for a certain timeframe, I would search the internet often. Just also be aware of what is happening at neighboring complexes as some could be under construction.

One of the furthest along in restoration is Loggerhead Cay which recently has posted several units for rent. Their most recent restoration are the new tennis/pickleball courts.

Most condo complexes remain fenced off with no entry signs posted. Some have yet to begin teardown or restoration, but many are progressing with some of those not expected to be ready until next year. The good news is many will be brand-new.

Island businesses are so ready for more visitors. It has been positive to see many cars at the newly-opened restaurants. There again are plenty of Sanibel breakfast choices: Over Easy Café. Lighthouse Café, Jerry’s Café, Sanibel Café, Rosalita’s (just Sunday brunch 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.), and Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant.

The beaches are beautiful, and shopkeepers have the red carpet out. All and all, more businesses are open and more inventory is available for those wanting to buy a piece of paradise. Traffic also is light, so it’s a great time to come for a visit.

Real Estate News

At the islands Association of Realtors®, it was great on Tuesday to finally attend another in-person meeting of the Professional Standards Committee. Our 2024 education calendar is filling up.

Yesterday was a Caravan meeting but just two homes were open for viewing, one on Captiva and one on Sanibel. The next Caravan meeting is May 16, followed by membership meeting and Caravan on May 30.

Next week our top leaders will be in Washington DC for the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) 2024 Legislative Meetings. This is when they meet with Capitol Hill representatives and actively advance the real estate market through public policy. Realtors® continually work with policymakers and regulators to advocate for a pro-consumer real estate industry that is essential to advancing national and local economies.

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

It was another quiet real estate week, no sales on Captiva. On Sanibel, one condo and three homes went under contract. Again, the popular listing activity is price adjustments.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity April 26­‑May 3

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: 502 Sandpiper Beach 2/2 $880K, Sundial #D401 2/2 $1.175M.

2 price changes: Mariner Pointe #1023 2/2 now $569K, Heron at The Sanctuary II #1-2A 3/2.5 now $899K.

1 new sale: Tennisplace #C34 2/1.5 listed at $499K.

5 closed sales: Oceans Reach #3D1 2/2 $839K, Loggerhead Cay #324 2/2 $870K, Sundial #N203 2/2 $887.5K, Nutmeg Village #206 2/2 $1.3125M, Pointe Santo #A27 3/2 $1.535M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 251 Southwinds Dr 4/3 $1.22M, 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 $1.25M.

8 price changes: 1196 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $775K, 199 Southwinds Dr 3/3 now $799K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $937K, 248 Christofer Ct 2/2.5 now $1.094M, 3343 St Kilda Rd 3/2 now $1.115M, 1720 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/3 now $1.549M, 922 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 now $1.95M, 1025 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3 now $2.825M.

1 back-on-market: 235 Daniel Dr 3/3 $1.495M.

3 new sales: 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 listed at $849K, 5827 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 228 Violet Dr 3/2.5.5 listed at $2.5M.

6 closed sales: 2166 Egret Cir 3/2 $775K, 1501 Lagoon Dr 2/2 $1.15M, 1321 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.255M, 1396 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.3M, 696 Durion Ct 3/2.5 $1.335M, 1662 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/2.5 $2.249M.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 1757 Windward Way now $369K, 5398 Osprey Ct now $400K.

No new or closed sales,

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Lands End #1656 3/3 now $2.6M.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: Bayside Villas #4220 1/2 $600K, Beach Homes #16 4/4 $5.25M.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11550 Paige Ct 5/5.5.5 now $6.8M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

It has been another week of mostly bright skies, sunroof-open weather with roadways quiet, other than the now-usual workday entry and exit of off-island contractor vehicles. Sand trucks also have been traveling to and from the lighthouse as additional beach re-nourishment is underway there but expected to be completed soon.

City photo

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Has Begun

SCCF photo

SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) posted the below big news Wednesday when the first sea turtle nest of the season was spotted. It was a special one too – laid by a whopper leatherback. Those are huge!

“Our first sea turtle nest of the season was found today on Sanibel, and it was laid by a leatherback (AKA the largest turtle species on the planet)!

“This is the first leatherback nest on Sanibel or Captiva in four years, and it was pretty easy for our biologists to recognize. An average of six feet long and between 500-1,500 pounds, leatherbacks are significantly larger than loggerheads, the most abundant nesting sea turtle species on the islands.

“Hundreds more sea turtles will lay eggs on Sanibel and Captiva over the next six months, and our staff and volunteers will protect and monitor each and every nest on a daily basis. Help us by turning off lights visible from the beach after 9 p.m. (including flashlights!), leveling sandcastles, filling in holes, removing furniture and other obstacles from the beach, picking up trash, and staying at least 10 feet away from posted nest areas.

“Call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663 to report issues with nests, nesting turtles, or hatchlings. SCCF’s nest protection activities are authorized by MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife under MTP-047 and MTP-170.”

More Re-Openings

Lighthouse Café – reopened yesterday in their new location at 1020 Periwinkle Way. This building is larger than their former east-end spot. It has a new interior and was designed to offer the same charm but with more space. Open daily 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., serving breakfast all day, and lunch beginning at 11 a.m.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® – building at 2353 Periwinkle Way had their ribbon cutting yesterday just before their monthly membership meeting and following caravan when two Sanibel condos and eight Sanibel homes were open for viewing. It is great to finally have our meetings back in our headquarters again. Upcoming are a new member orientation on Monday, Professional Development Committee Meeting Tuesday, another Caravan Meeting Thursday, and Board Meeting Friday. The schedule is getting back to normal! Hooray! (Finnimore’s Bike & Beach Rentals (our tenant below) has been open for some time, but also had their ribbon-cutting.)

Sanibel Recreation Center Outdoor Courts – reopened Wednesday. The courts are lined for both tennis and pickleball and can be reserved FREE for one hour per day by Rec Center members. The post-storm reconstruction included removal and replacement of damaged light poles, light fixtures, fencing, and asphalt, adding a new subsurface and 24K sq. ft. of asphalt and new surfacing. Community members, staff, and students from the Sanibel School celebrated the reopening with a ribbon cutting, followed by a friendly tennis match between Sanibel Mayor Johnson, City Manager Souza, and school tennis team students.

More Real Estate News

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

It was another slow week for new sales with no Sanibel condos under contract, but two homes and one lot, plus one Captiva condo. There is a message in a week on the islands with 21 price reductions and only four sales. Hopefully sales pick up once schools are out.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity April 19-26

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sundial #H303 2/2 $850K, Tantara #101 3/2 $1.2M, Compass Point #191 3/2 $1.8M.

7 price changes: Captains Walk #A4 2/2 now $479K, Mariner Pointe #312 2/2 now $597.5K (SanibelSusan listing), Oceans Reach #4C3 2/2 now $870K, Sandpiper Beach #502 2/2 now $880K, Pointe Santo #C21 2/2 now $975K, St Croix #4 2/2 now $1.65M, Sundial #L404 2/2 now $1.75M.

Mariner Pointe #312 views San Carlos Bay

No new sales.

3 closed sales: Ibis at The Sanctuary #B101 2/2 $700K, Loggerhead Cay #292 2/2 $822K, West Shore #5 3/3 $1.6M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 209 Robinwood Cir 3/2 $779K, 4202 Old Banyan Way 3/2.5 $1.595M, 673 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $1.595M.

11 price changes: 293 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $829.9K, 547 Chert Ct 3/3.5 now $899K, 1426 Sanderling Cir 3/2 now $1.049M, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $1.065M, 4573 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $1.384K, 218 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.388M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.489M, 1402 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 now $1.545M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 now $2.199M, 2474 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 now $2.298M, 5387 Shearwater Dr 4/4.5 now $2.595M.

2 new sales: 630 Piedmont 3/2 listed at $699K, 1511 Angel Dr 4/2 listed at $2.199M.

4 closed sales: 1481 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $589K, 105 Skiff Pl 3/2 $600K, 932 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.05M, 3526 West Gulf Dr 5/4.5 $1.65M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 1032 Sand Castle Rd now $450K.

1 new sale: 6217 Starling Way listed at $1.65M.

No closed sales,

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #4110 1/2 $495K.

1 price change: Beach Villas #2521 2/2 now $975K.

1 new sale: Beach Homes #24 3/3 listed at $3.25M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listings: 58 Sandpiper Ct 2/2 $1.699M.

1 price change: 11531 Paige Ct 4/3.5 now $11.995M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Fulgur St Beach Access 04-19-2024

More Great Weather

It has been another week of terrific weather on sunny Sanibel and Captiva Islands. I was out showing a home last Saturday when it too was picture-perfect. It was great also to see that the community amenities at Gulf Pines have been restored and the beach there wide and beautiful.

Traditionally it rains on Sam Bailey’s Islands Night at Hammond Stadium, but those attending the 31^st year of this event on Wednesday night also enjoyed beautiful weather. This long-standing tradition is fun, showcases island camaraderie, and celebrates “season” winding down.

The local Association of Realtors® had an entry in the community parade that preceded the ball game. The Sanibel School Seahorse Chorale, recently back from their special performance at Carnegie Hall, sang the national anthem. The game was between the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels and the Jupiter Hammerheads. The Hammerheads won (4-3).

Beach Restoration & Traffic

Traffic continues to be light, but there was a surprise City notice late Wednesday saying that crews were mobilizing to add additional sand near the lighthouse in response to recent erosion.

Permits were already in hand for more Lighthouse Beach re-nourishment, though not scheduled until fall. Luckily contractors could begin the project early and will restore the berm before sea turtle nesting season begins May 1.

As a result, the gulf-side parking lot there was temporarily closed for crews to bring in equipment It has reopened and will be through the weekend. Beginning Monday (April 22) all Lighthouse Beach Park parking lots will be closed until the berm replenishment is complete (no later than May 1).

Today, I took a quick mid-day drive through the gulf-side parking area and it was full of beachgoers enjoying the day. The water is a brilliant teal which always makes me smile. During quick stops at a couple of my favorite beach accesses (Fulgur and Donax Streets), it is obvious that the beach re-nourishment in those areas remains successful. There, the sand is high, and beach is wide. (Pix taken from my car at Fulgur St above.)

Another change noted this week is that Middle Gulf Dr is looking better now that new landscaping and sod have been added in front of Gulfside Place. Sundial’s landscaping is beautiful so this addition adds to the improved view along that stretch. Across the street, Spanish Cay also looks to be making good progress on their restoration.

Other than landscaping and construction vehicles plus a handful of bikers on the shared-use paths, there has been very little traffic on any of the gulf drives during my travels this week – truly an indication that “high season” is wrapping up.

Ding Darling Day Conservation Carnival

The National Wildlife Refuge Visitors and Education Center and Nature Store will be closed tomorrow (Saturday April 20) as their team heads off island for their annual “Ding” Conservation Carnival at Lakes Park in Fort Myers.

That event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Wildlife Drive and Indigo Trail will remain open.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

It was great news this week to hear that the Association of Realtors® building restoration at 2353 Periwinkle Way finally is done and the upstairs office spaces are ready for occupancy. There will be a ribbon cutting next Thursday (April 25) at 11 a.m., just before our monthly General Membership meeting when guest speaker is Lisa Riordan, Captiva Civic Association Board of Governors President.

I also heard this week, that the class I teach for the SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) designation will be the first one in the 2024 schedule. So if you are looking for me the morning of May 29, I will be presenting my “Resort and 2^nd-Home Market” class for the 18^th year. (Gotta update it first.). Other Realtor® instructors this year include Eric Pfeifer “Marketing Island Condos”, Jeff Burns “Waterways & Beaches”, and Greg Demaras “Differences in Selling Off-Island”.

When we started this designation in 2006, I was one of the first to complete what was then an eight-segment curriculum. They are taught annually, usually in late spring/summer, spread over a two-week period, at and around the island.

Some segments are only an hour or two long, some day long, covering info that is useful and sometimes unique to real estate sales here. Subjects and locations include Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, BIG ARTS, Captiva Erosion Protection District, C.R.O.W. (Care & Rehabilitation of Wildlife), History of the Islands, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel City Hall, and SCCF (Sanibel – Captiva Conservation Foundation).

The four Realtor®-taught classes were added in 2006. When Realtors® enroll in this program, they are given two years to complete the 12 segments and then must retake three classes to re-certify every three years. This training has served our members well, both in educating new ones and keeping old-timers up to date.

More Real Estate News

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

There were five Sanibel sales (two condos, three homes) and one Captiva condo sale this week. Once again, the main listing status activity was price changes.

With a total of 369 properties for sale (315 on Sanibel and 54 on Captiva), and just 109 closed sales year-to-date (99 on Sanibel and ten on Captiva), there could be more adjustments over the next few months as sales activity usually slows down in the summer. Maybe this year will be different as more units become available for rent and vacation business increases.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Apr 12-19

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sanibel Arms #E2 1/1 $399K, Tennisplace #B32 2/1/5 $474.9K, Sanibel Siesta #804 2/2 $795K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #3-1 2/2.5 $1.145M, Sundial #K303 2/2 $1.3M.

4 price changes: Tennisplace #C34 2/1.5 now $499K, Lake Palms #3 2/2.5 now $577K, Oceans Reach #4D1 2/2 now $795K, Somerset #B101 3/3.5 now $1.895M.

2 new sales: Sundial #E110 2/2 listed at $1.095M, Sanibel Moorings #721 3/2 listed at $1.3M.

2 closed sales: Sundial #D312 1/1 $450K, Gulfside Place #204 2/2 $1M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 5827 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 $1.15M.

8 price changes: 1446 Sandpiper Cir 2/2 now $639K, 1196 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $785K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $939K, 547 Chert Ct 3/3.now $949K, 3822 Coquina Dr 4/3.5 now $1.279M, 6424 Pine Ave 2/2 now $1.45M, 567 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 now $1.45M, 2303 Troon Ct 3/3.5.5 now $2.153M.

1 back-on-market: 1113 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $749K.

3 new sales: 1306 Par View Dr 3/3.5 listed at $1.39M, 930 Strangler Fig Ln 5/3.5 listed at $1.395M, 3526 West Gulf Dr 5/4.5 listed at $2.25M.

6 closed sales: 4269 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 $600K, 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $600K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $875K, 1658 Sabal Palm Dr 3/2.5 $1.05M, 969 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 $1.25M, 5235 Indian Ct 4/4 $2.1M.

LOTS

No new listings.

3 price changes: 1653 Bunting Ln now $445K, 1331 Par View Dr now $499K, 2490 Coconut Dr now $1.2M.

No new sales,

1 closed sale: 2933 Wulfert Rd $440K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Beach Villas #2321 2/2 now $925K.

1 new sale: Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 listed at $1.295M.

1 closed sale: Sunset Captiva #204 2/2 $1.75M.

1 price change: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 now $3.395M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 16310 Captiva Dr 4/5.5 $10M.

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.

It is time for another sunny Friday update from The SanibelSusan Team. It was not picture perfect every day though, as a rain band passed through yesterday afternoon. Saved me from having to add water to my pool and gave vegetation and critters a quick drink.

Today, the weather is back to blue skies and plenty of sunshine. More of the same is forecast through the weekend and next week.

Traffic has become noticeably less, probably since some snowbirds have already departed. There still have been plenty of contractor vehicles and sand trucks during the workday, but the beach renourishment project is wrapping up early and there certainly are fewer cars on the roads. It also is a breeze now to come-on/go-off island on the weekends.

Sanibel Events & Openings

The Bait Box – at 1041 Periwinkle Way, had their ribbon cutting on Tuesday in their newly-elevated building which was lifted off the palm tree pilings during the storm.  Here since 1971, it offers fishing supplies and equipment, licenses, and rentals. They are open 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Cheeburger Cheeburger – in Tahitian Gardens is under new ownership and reopened yesterday, also with ribbon cutting. They are closed on Mondays, otherwise open daily at 11 a.m., serving lunch and dinner.

31^st Annual Sam Bailey’s Island Night – at Hammond Stadium is Wednesday, April 17, with parade beginning at 6:10 p.m. (gates open at 6). The baseball game starts at 7 p.m. with the Florida State League Fort Myers Mighty Mussels playing the Jupiter Hammerheads (Minor League). Free tickets are available at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, Bank of the Islands, Adventures in Paradise Outfitters, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Huxters Market & Deli, Island Pizza, Jerry’s Foods, Macintosh Books & Papers, The Magic Bus, Pinocchio’s Original Italian Ice Cream, Sanibel Café, Sanibel Deli, SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation), The Shack, and Whitney’s Bait & Tackle.

Sanibel School Annual Seahorse Festival – is tomorrow, Saturday, April 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with food, fun, and games for the whole family. Free admission.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

At our island Association of Realtors® Professional Development Committee on Tuesday, more of the 2024 Education calendar was finalized. Speakers at the upcoming April 25 General Membership Meeting will update us on “Protect Captiva”, while the speaker for the May meeting will be Dianna Wilson, General Manager of Island Water Association. Our committee is always looking for ways to update and continue training our members.

The 2024 SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) designation classes will be between May 29 and June 7, while the annual 14-hour Continuing Ed classes needed for license renewals are scheduled for the week of September 9.

Yesterday, the Association had a Caravan Meeting at The Community House with new listings, sales, and price changes announced. Following the meeting, nine Sanibel homes and one condo were open for viewing.

At the meeting, I chatted with several colleagues. Many commiserated about the lack of inquiries, showings and sales. Most don’t think we will see much improvement until fall or when the island has more vacation accommodations available. The latest report from the Chamber of Commerce is that island accommodations (Sanibel & Captiva) are back to 17% of what was available pre-Ian. Recovery continues albeit slowly.

Our CEO also announced that our next meeting could be back in our Association building (2353 Periwinkle Way). Restoration of that structure and our office spaces there are almost complete. Fingers crossed that our April membership meeting can be back there (nearly 19 months after Hurricane Ian).

He also encouraged attendees to take a free Continuing Education webinar offered by Florida Realtors: “Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements”. These classes are a great way to stay up to date on how the real estate business is changing. They are popular with six more scheduled: May 14 and 22, June 18, July 23, Oct 22, and Nov 5. The instructors (Steven David, Cynthis DeLuca, Patti Ketchum, and Caroline Boland) are all top-notch!

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

Along with less traffic, there also were fewer sales posted this week, on Sanibel, just one condo and four homes. No sales on Captiva.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Apr 5‑12

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sanibel Siesta #103 2/2 $925K, Sanibel Moorings #741 2/2 $998,900; Lighthouse Pointe 215 3/2 $1.599M.

2 price changes: Tantara #202 2/2 now $949K, St Croix #4 2/2 now $1.699M.

1 new sale: Sanibel Siesta #605 2/2 listed at $875K.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Shores #B2 1/1 $549K.

 HOMES

7 new listings: 1215 Periwinkle Way 1/1.5 $495K, 9263 Dimmick Dr 3/2 $799K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $859,999; 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 $1.125M, 1103 Schooner Pl 4/3 $1.65M, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 $2.8M, 906 Snowberry Ln 4/4.5 $5.75M.

10 price changes: 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $945K, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $1.075M, 5414 Osprey Ct 3/3 now $1.387M, 1241 Junonia St 4/3 now $1.395M, 1438 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 now $1.69M, 1365 Jamaica Dr 3/2.5 now $1.695M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/3 no1 $1.849M, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 now $3.289M, 408 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 now $3.5M, 4731 Rue Belle Mer 5/5.5 now $7.995M.

4 new sales: 2005 Mitzi Ln 2/2 listed at $794.5K, 1139 Seagrape Ln 3/2 listed at $1.1M, 4428 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1,699,900; 4179 Dingman Dr 4/4 listed at $1.999M.

11 closed sales: 657 Cardium St 2/2 $515K, 657 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $750K, 5303 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 $979K, 211 Southwinds Dr 3/3 $1.05M, 2612 Coconut Dr 3/2 $1.05M, 4171 Dingman Dr 3/3 $1.2M, 3302 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 $1.218M, 5436 Shearwater Dr 3/3.5 $2.1M, 2871 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $2.24M, 1283 Isabel Dr 3/2 $2.5M, 4681 Rue Belle Mer 3/3.5 $4.25M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

2 price changes: Lands End #1659 2/2 now $1.595M, Captiva Shores #6C 2/2 now $1.75M.

1 back-on-market: Beach Homes #13 4/4.5 $6.25M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews aka SanibelSusan