Lots of Sunshine & Progress on Sanibel

Posted on April 28, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It is another sunny Friday here in Southwest Florida. No showers on-island yet this week, but noticeable new growth already from those last week. Wildflowers are popping up all over and trees sprouting greener. I was on-island this afternoon (sunroof open enjoying the 83-degree temps) and stopped about 3:30 to snap another picture of the bright teal water bayside. So much like the Caribbean and so beautiful this time of the year. Photo below from bay end of Buttonwood Ln.

As more properties are repaired, yards also are looking better. Many look better than they did before the storm.

I also saw many orchids blooming during my travels this week. Love those!

At SanibelSusan Realty

More roofers were working at Sanibel Square this week as we anxiously await work to begin on the inside. At home, appliances were delivered, so returning to live there now may only be weeks away. Furniture arriving next.

Dave and I were both productive with buyer prospects, though nothing to officially report yet. He showed investment condos on two days, while I showed canal-front homes. Lots of options for buyers to consider with some properties ready to be occupied, others needing from minor to extensive repairs.

The City had a Facebook Live event Wednesday night at BIG ARTS. Unfortunately, they had problems with the live transmission, but it was recorded and is still posted on their FB page for those interested in “Guidance on Restoring Your Sanibel Home”.

Following a couple of news items below are summary tables of island residential sales statistics and the action posted since last Friday in the island Multiple Listing Service. Good sales activity continues, particularly with Sanibel homes.

Yesterday at the April Membership Breakfast Meeting of the islands Association of Realtors, it was reported that there has been good restoration progress at the Association-owned building, which is at 2353 Periwinkle Way, behind Winds. Electric repairs are done, now awaiting final inspection. New HVAC to be installed next week, followed by repairs to roof trusses and southwest wall repairs before new roof.

Lee County Mosquito Control

The showers last week brought out skeeters, so last night and again tonight from sunset to 2 a.m. Lee County Mosquito Control District (LCMCD) advised the City that they are conducting aerial night missions. Weather permitting, by rotor wing aircraft, the areas of outer islands of Boca Grande, Useppa, Cabbage, Upper Captiva, Captiva, and Sanibel were treated. LCMCD provides mosquito control for Sanibel and all of Lee County. “Mosquito season” typically runs from May through October, and mosquito activity increases with rain, particularly after heavy rains that produce large areas of standing water. Due to the many mangroves, wetlands, and salt marshes, Sanibel is a prime breeding ground for mosquitos. Growing up on the Maine Coast, I often was covered with bites. Thanks to LCMCD, I rarely get them here.

Prescribed Burns on Sanibel

Last night an informational meeting was held at the J.N. “Ding” Darling Visitor and Education Center regarding Prescribed Burns on Sanibel. It was livestreamed on the Refuge Facebook page.

During the 2023 summer/fall season, the Sanibel Prescribed Fire Task Force is planning prescribed burns on the two conservation areas at the Refuge – the botanical site and on Legion curve. This year, fire season may be more active due to the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. The increased dead vegetation and decreased rainfall this time of the year pose a higher threat for wildfire. Prescribed burning in natural areas removes dead vegetation and replenishes nutrients in the soil, reducing risk of wildfire in adjacent communities and increases the health of habitats for recreation and wildlife.

When forecasted conditions are favorable, the Sanibel Prescribed Fire Task Force will issue notification that a prescribed burn is imminent and identify the specific location of the burn. All prescribed fires must be authorized by the Florida Forest Service on the morning of the burn.

To reduce the risk of wildlife around your home, the Sanibel Firewise Task Force recommends:

Trimming dead fronds from trees & tall grasses near homes,
Pruning large leafy hardwood trees so lowest branches are 6-10’ above ground,
Not storing combustible materials (like gas cans, firewood, building supplies) under or around homes,
Keeping mulch and other landscaping material well-watered.

For additional info, contact City of Sanibel Natural Resources Department at 239-472-3700.

Sanibel Rec Center Repairs

In a post from them today: “Positive recovery efforts continue at the Sanibel Recreation Center. The roof project has been fully completed and the replacement of the gymnasium maple floor and the pool geothermal heating/cooling units are well underway. We are anticipating a partial facility closure (closing of the lobby, weight room, gymnasium, Heron and Egret rooms) tentatively from May 15^th though June 4^th due to the fumes associated with the final lining and coasting of the new maple gymnasium floor. During this time, the pool, outdoor courts, fitness classes, and youth afterschool program will operate as regularly scheduled and front desk operations will be relocated to a mobile office in the front parking lot. The resurfacing of the outdoor courts and the restoration of the ballfields is on hold until osprey nesting season concludes in mid to late summer. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we continue to take strides forward!”

The same notice included info on several new fitness classes including Jazzed-up Dance, Group Strength, Balance and Core, also Zoom Barre and Zoom Tai Chi. Check out their full schedule on their Facebook page.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	73	1,071,892	74	131	1,535,826	75	25	1,222,880	73
Under contract	15	924,393	69	32	1,597,517	69	5	772,555	7
Sold 2023 to 4/28	44	934,420	45	123	1,142,165	47	9	968,777	93
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	12	1,545,125	79	9	6,121.555	152	1	15,500,000	398
Under contract	2	1,375,000	15	2	3,195,000	47	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 4/29	3	984,000	140	6	3,008,166	64	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 April 21-28

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sunset South #1B 2/2 $629K, Blind Pass #B208 2/2 $650K, Sundial #C406 1/1 $699K, Sundial #D201 2/2 $875K.

3 price changes: Sundial #A303 1/1 now $798.5K, Sandpiper Beach #504 2/2 now $995K, Gulfside Place #308 2/2 now $1,387,555.

1 new sale: Mariner Pointe #533 2/2.5 listed at $699K.

1 closed sale: Seashells #38 2/2 $320K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 2991 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 $649K, 1565 Bunting Ln 3/2 $899K, 1425 Causey Ct 4/3 $1.395M, 1500 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3.5.5 $2.35M.

4 price changes: 9438 Moonlight Dr 3/2 now $714K, 1326 Tahiti Dr 2/2 now $945K, 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $998,995; 1163 Kittiwake Cir 3/3 now $1.15M.

9 new sales: 1672 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/2 listed at $449K, 1046 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 listed at $847K, 1720 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at 900K, 4565 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 1398 Middle Gulf Dr B 4/5.5 listed at $1.295M, 1027 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 listed at $1.495,555; 2643 Coconut Dr 3/2 listed at $1.499M, 657 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $1.639M, 940 Beach Rd 4/4.5.5 listed at $2,999,999.

7 closed sales: 3301 Twin Lakes Ln 2/2 $605K, 647 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $720K, 1321 Par View Dr 3/2.5 $1.9M, 9484 Peaceful Dr $1.24M, 1015 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.245M, 641 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 $1.405M, 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 $2.7M.

LOTS

3 new listings: 2505 Island Inn Rd $375K, 1105 Shell Basket Ln $649K, 651 Donax St $800K.

No price changes.

3 new sales: 6019 Clam Bayou Ln listed at $997,775; 6017 Clam Bayou Ln listed at $1.1M; 2563 Coconut Dr listed at $1.185M.

1 closed sale: 1746 Windward Way $445K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

2 back on market: Bayside Villas #4122 1/2 $610K, Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 $1.495M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 11511 Laika Ln 3/2 $2.195M, 16321 Captiva Dr 5/4 $4.35M.

1 price change: 11401 Old Lodge Ln 2/3.5 now $5.995M.

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.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

When Island Waters Resemble the Caribbean

Posted on April 21, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It’s another sunny Friday here in Southwest Florida. Following the Wednesday shower last week, we also got a good dousing over the weekend, so the islands are greening up nicely and the wildlife likely thankful for fresh water.

When I saw SCCF’s (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) aerial posted this morning in their weekly update, I had to share it. Taken at high tide (which was 2.1’) on April 17, it shows the brilliant colors of the gulf and bay waters surrounding the lighthouse. It always reminds me of the Caribbean when I cross the causeway and see it like this. Their report also said that flow from Lake Okeechobee into the Caloosahatchee River was optimum for the last seven days. These vivid water colors are typical this time of the year, or until the rainy season picks up. Enjoy the view!

At SanibelSusan Realty

It is a bit discouraging on our daily island treks to check the status at the office and not see much recovery progress. Thankfully while Sanibel Square construction is slow, work has picked up at my home. After taxes, last weekend, I even did a little furniture shopping with deliveries arriving early May. This week, new countertops and windowsills were installed, plus plumbing. Some hardware, electrical and paint fixups remain, then appliances. I should be back living on Sanibel in just a few weeks. It will be sooo great to be back home.

Real estate sales activity may be slowing down now that the weather is turning and some residents head north, but there continue to be new listings and plenty of price adjustments on those that may have been priced ambitiously. Following a couple of news items below is the action posted since last Friday in the island Multiple Listing Service.

It continues to be a surprise when we see more properties demolished. Having lived here for 31 years, I still sometimes forget where I am when an area has changed so much that it is no longer recognizable.

Island Happenings

Sat, Apr 22, Conservation Carnival – Join J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge at their Earth Day celebration at Lakes Regional Park (Ft Myers) tomorrow. Free family fun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. including music, food, conservation-themed carnival games, ranger-led programs/walks, rock-climbing wall, archery, facepainting, & more.

Sun, Apr 23, Sanibel School Seahorse Festival – This annual event is for a great cause and lots of fun. Open to the community from noon until 4 p.m. on the Sanibel School lawn. Entry is free with game tickets available. Enjoy inflatables, music, facepainting, food, crafts, and more. Mayor Johnson also will be ready at the “dunk tank”.

Sun, through end of May, Sanibel Farmers Market – Sunday morning markets (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) will continue in the Jerry’s parking lot through the end of May.

Wed, May 3, Islands Night – The 30-year tradition continues at the Hammond Stadium in Ft Myers when the Mighty Mussels play the Dunedin Blue Jays. The islands Association of Realtors is one of the sponsors. Tickets are free, pick them up at the Refuge Nature Store (open Sat through Thurs in “Ding” Darling Visitor and Education Center).

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	70	1,094,852	72	139	1,553,459	72	24	1,295,240	70
Under contract	15	893.736	65	29	1,624,344	47	3	358,333	8
Sold 2023 to 4/21	43	948,709	45	115	1,120,620	46	8	1,034,250	105
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	11	1,549,681	81	8	6,637,375	165	1	15,500,000	391
Under contract	2	1,375,000	4	2	3,195,000	47	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 4/21	3	984,000	140	6	3,008,166	64	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 April 14-21

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sunset South #8A 2/2 $849K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Island Beach Club #340B 2/2 listed at $699K, Sanctuary Golf Villages 1 #5-5 2/2.5 listed at $1.298M.

2 closed sales: Sunset South #10B 2/2 $580K, Sanibel Surfside #122 2/2 $900K.

HOMES

9 new listings: 9210 Dimmick Dr 2/2 $659K, 9431 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $714K, 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $799K, 1089 S. Yachtsman Dr 3/2.5 $1.295M, 896 Angel Wing Dr 3/2.5 $1.649M, 2501 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $2.15M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/2 $2.195M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 $4.5M, 3635 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $4.95M.

13 price changes: 1937 Roseate Ln 2/2 now $495,555; 922 Main St 3/1 now $549K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 nor $879K, 438 Lake Murex Cir 2/2 now $899K, 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $929K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 now $1.025M, 241 Violet Dr 3/2.5 now $1.179M, 997 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $1.195M, 9048 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 now $1.199M, 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $1.295M, 3050 West Gulf Dr 3/2.5 now $1.45M, 566 N Yachtsman Dr 3/2 now $1.495M, 2540 Coconut Dr 4/3.5 now $1.599M.

1 back on market: 1242 Par View Dr 3/2 $899K.

4 new sales: 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 listed at $1.15M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 $1.222M, 663 East Rocks Dr 3/3 listed at $1.348M, 3941 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed at $4.25M.

4 closed sales: 996 Greenwood Ct S 3/2.5 $669K, 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 $700K, 985 Oyster Ct 4/4 $1.65M, 519 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 $2.496M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 6019 Clam Bayou Ln $997,775; 6017 Clam Bayou Ln $1.1M.

1 price change: 5086 Joewood Dr now $950K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 460 Sawgrass Pl $850K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

1 back on market: Lands End #1667 2/2 $1.599M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Tennis Villas #3227 1/1 $477K.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 now $3.75M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Sweet Sunny Friday on Sanibel Island

Posted on April 14, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Beginning this sunny Friday with a quick weather update. Often heavy showers on Wednesday helped settle the hurricane dust and provide some much-needed water for island critters and vegetation. There had been no significant rain since the hurricane, so we were thankful to get some, luckily without the flooding that the Ft Lauderdale area received. The forecast for the next week calls for partly cloudy days in the low 80’s, with rain chances daily ranging from 5-45%. It was another beautiful day today crossing the causeway with sunroof open.

At SanibelSusan Realty

There was more roof progress this week at Sanibel Square but still no move-in date. The team and I are becoming pros at working remotely. There was more progress this week at my home too. Furniture shopping is on my weekend agenda.

Island News

I noticed a couple of positive posts on social media this week.

Island Inn posted photos showing their rebuilding process has begun.

While South Seas Resort posted: “We’re thrilled to announce that we’re planning on partially reopening in the fall! Our team has been working hard to rebuild and enhance our resort, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to our beautiful island paradise. While the resort is still under renovation, condos, villas, and other accommodations will be available to guests who will have access to a pool, the beach, and delicious food trucks on site.”

A photo was posted of The Bait Box being raised about 7’. I also noticed it driving by.

The “Santiva Chronicle” posted renderings of what the new Island Cow restaurant will look like. The contract was awarded to Stevens Construction with building expected to begin in August and complete early next year. It will be about 1,000 sq. ft. larger than the original restaurant and will feature both indoor and outdoor seating.

Tues, April 12, Sanibel City Council Meeting with Post-Ian Progress Update April 12 – I followed the meeting on Facebook Live. To listen to the full meeting, go to the City of Sanibel FB page. My summary of Post-Ian presentation is below.

Building & Planning Depts – City Manager Souza advised that the Building & Planning Departments continue to work out of Whiskey Creek Dr in Ft Myers, but their new offices on the former bank building on Library Way should be ready soon – just awaiting new roof.

Beach Parking – Public pay beach accesses (Tarpon Bay Rd, Blind Pass, Gulfside City Park, Bowman’s Beach, Tuner Beach) and the boat ramp are all open. No date yet on Lighthouse Beach reopening. Also all parking for A/B stickers are open except Accesses 2, 4, and 7 on West Gulf Dr. City Manager Souza thanked the hardworking Public Works employees and volunteers patrolling the beach. Total beach permit stickers issued now 2,064 with resulting revenue increase.

Causeway Traffic – now over 8,000 vehicles daily with reduction on weekends, illustrating that it’s mostly weekday workers.

Building Permits – Through April 3, 3,589 permits have been issued with 611 complete. Those include: 1,229 roof, 736 emergency, 574 mechanical, 508 electrical, 134 demolition. Turn-around time for permits remains 5-days for review, 3 days for any resubmissions.

Debris Removal – between Crowder Gulf & the state programs (PPDR/CPDR) over 2.2 million cubic yards have been removed. Crowder Gulf took an Easter break but is back to work. Residents/owners are reminded NOT to place any debris in the right-of-way. Code enforcement and police are issuing citations for offenders. Time has ended for application to PPDR/CPDR, property owners now are obligated to remove debris themselves. Waste management cannot collect contractor debris.

Positive News – Building permits were up 30% in March. Rec Center use was up 36% (their Easter event had 307 people). Also “Shine on Sanibel” shirts and hats available at Rec Center.

Property Tax Relief – Deadline was April 3. County must approve/deny requests by June 1.

May City Council Meeting – will discuss sod in right-of-way.

Enforcement – Sanibel Code Enforcement is checking property with workers present to ensure they have building permits. Also checking properties that do not have pool barriers, and those that have not removed their debris. (Residents are asked to notify Sanibel Code Enforcement if a property near them with damage remains untouched. Also state DBPR is inspecting construction sites to be sure contractors are licensed. Also FEMA inspectors have been at City monthly reviewing processing with 50% rule and are performing field audits.

Wed, May 3, Islands Night – The 30-year tradition continues at the Hammond Stadium in Ft Myers when the Mighty Mussels play the Dunedin Blue Jays. Tickets are free, pick them up at the Refuge Nature Store (open Sat through Thurs in “Ding” Darling Visitor and Education Center).

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Yesterday, the Islands Association of Realtors held a Caravan Meeting at BIG ARTS where the meeting began with an update by Sanibel Natural Resources Dept personnel. The morning Caravan that followed was our biggest since the storm, with ten homes and a condo open for viewing.

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after the inventory summary below. On the commercial side, the T-Shirt Hut property at 1504 Periwinkle Way listed at $759K went under contract this week.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	70	1,092,709	66	136	1,569,447	69	22	1,320,363	70
Under contract	15	866,926	70	30	1,521,599	42	4	500,000	23
Sold 2023 to 4/14	41	958,890	43	111	1,111,327	47	7	1,060,571	110
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	9	1,648,611	91	8	6,668.500	158	1	15,500,000	384
Under contract	3	1,088,333	8	2	3,195,000	47	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 4/14	2	1,237,500	172	6	3,008,166	64	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 April 7-14

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sundial #D309 1/1 $519K, Captains Walk #B5 1/1 $529K, Pointe Santo #D4 2/2 $1.048M.

1 price change: Island Beach Club #340B 2/2 now $699K.

4 new sales: Oceans Reach #2D4 2/2 listed at $1M, Sanctuary Golf Villages 1 #5-2 3/3 listed at $1.198M, Atrium #202 2/2 listed at $1.249M, Gulfside Place #213 3/3 listed at $2.6M.

1 closed sale: Seashells #20 2/2 $449K.

HOMES

8 new listings: 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $549K, 83 Durion Ct 3/2 $824.9K, 474 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $1.12M, 935 Pecten Ct 3/2 $1.449M, 235 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $1.455M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $2.195M, 963 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $2.495M, 640 Kinzie Island Ct 5/6.5 $3.395M.

13 price changes: 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $879K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (duplex) 5/3 now $699K, 1160 Buttonwood Ln 3/2 now $989K, 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 now $999K, 1720 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $900K, 1326 Tahiti Dr 2/2 now $995K, 950 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/2 now $1.298M, 5294 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 now $1.379M, 2643 Coconut Dr 3/2 now $1.499M, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $1.15M, 1365 Jamaica Dr 3/2.5 $1.85M, 5750 San-Cap Rd 3/2 now $1.999M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 now $3.75M.

1 back on market: 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 $1.35M.

5 new sales: 647 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $725K, 1283 Par View Dr 2/2 listed at $999K, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 2/2 listed at $1.075M, 926 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 listed at $1.595M, 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 listed at $2.995M.

11 closed sales: 1073 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $640K, 1145 Sabal St 5/4 $650K, 1057 Blue Heron Dr 3/3 $675K, 1477 Albatross Rd 4/3 $690K, 4144 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $924.5K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer 3/2 $850K, 3060 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $899K, 4677 Rue Bayou 3/3 $1.125M, 918 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 $1.225M, 5721 San-Cap Rd 3/3.5.5 $1.545M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $4.25M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 5086 Joewood Dr $1.25M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Tennis Villas #3138 2/2 $750K, Lands End #1645 2/2 $2.295M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11511 Laika Ln 3/2 $2.195M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Easter Weekend 2023 on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on April 7, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It is another sunny Sanibel Friday with warm temperatures. It was a tad warmer yesterday, so no surprise later in the evening when a shower passed over. Rain is badly needed both for wildlife, vegetation, and to clear away the hurricane muck dust. Perhaps, rainy season will begin early this year.

Driving the islands, recovery continues slowly. Roofing is the most obvious work underway in addition to vegetation clean-up. More ground-level structures are coming down, sometimes making one think back to what was there. I had to do that yesterday on West Gulf Dr when I drove by the former site of the Christian Scientist Church, which is no more, at the entrance to Palm Lake.

While some are being demolished and others repaired, more and more are coming back to their pre-storm or better than pre-storm condition. At my home, where Dave often checks progress, he reported that a painter already was working at 7:30 a.m. When I stopped mid-afternoon, other workers were at it! Yay! It’s getting closer.

While on island this afternoon, I took a ride out Woodring Rd, posted a video on Facebook, and also got these two pictures. The osprey nest is at the park at the end of Dixie Beach Blvd, while the view of San Carlos Bay is from just up the street.

After that, I made a stop at the Recreation Center.

If you still need a “Shine on Sanibel” shirt for an Easter Basket, they still have some!

At SanibelSusan Realty

Finally, some progress this week as our building in Sanibel Square had roofers working. Our fingers are crossed that interior restoration begins next.

Both teammate Dave and I showed property last weekend and earlier in the week, while he also checked our listings today. When out doing that he spied a couple of boats inside the sandbar in front of Gulfside Place. That was enough for him to hustle up the beach and take a couple of photos!

No offers yet from the property viewings this week, but we made good progress with multiple home buyers, had another nice closing, and continue to market.

I also fielded several calls from owners working on their taxes and wondering if they can claim casualty loss because the value of their property changed because of the storm. Realtors may provide an opinion of value (appraisals must come from a licensed appraiser) but determining that value can be difficult, particularly if there are no comparable sales,

The Sanibel market demonstrated a busy first quarter, more sales than most years in many communities. Did property values decrease following Ian? Probably, if they were damaged, but only the amount needed to restore them to before hurricane condition.

Island News

Turner Beach Opening Today – The City of Sanibel & Lee County opened beach parking at Turner Beach (17200 Captiva Dr) today (25 parking, plus 2 handicapped). The beach is owned by Lee County but managed by Sanibel through an interlocal agreement. County DOT and Sanibel Public Works staff worked in collaboration to repair damage to the facility which has been closed since Hurricane Ian made landfall. The restrooms remain closed; however the county has staged portable toilets for patron use.

SanCap Citizens for Resilient Future: Emerging from Hurricane (Part 2) April 11 – at BIG ARTS Performance Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. This is the 2^nd event in a community series hosted by the SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future together with the City of Sanibel. The 1^st event focused on sharing community stories and collecting feedback to guide a citizen-led planning effort focused on rebuilding greater resiliency for the future. The 2^nd event will delve into lessons learned and where we go from here, with a specific focus on our built environment (structures) and our natural systems (conservation lands, coast lines and residential landscapes). Local experts in key areas of community resilience will describe what worked well in the face of Hurricane Ian, what did not, and what lessons and best practices can help in the future. (Remote viewing on the City of Sanibel Facebook page. No registration needed, just come on log on.)

Sanibel City Council Meeting with Post-Ian Progress Update April 12 – meeting begins at 9 a.m. Progress Update is 5^th agenda item. Watch it on City of Sanibel Facebook Live.

Concert Rescheduled May 16 – The Community Chorus joint concert with the singers from the Sanibel School scheduled this week was canceled at the last minute due to illness of the school music director. I got the word last night that it’s been rescheduled for May 16 at 6:30 p.m. at BIG ARTS Performance Hall.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after the inventory summary below. You will notice in the summary tables that a line was added to compare sales to date this year, to sales to date last year.

The number of Sanibel closed home sales far exceeded those during the same time last year. Interestingly in some communities, that action exceeded even the number of sales in all of last year. Those include Chateau Sur Mer, Gulf Pines, Gulf Shores, Lake Murex, Sanibel Shores, Shell Harbor and Tradewinds.

Usually, sales activity here slows down after Easter. This year could be an exception with many prospective buyers just awaiting a place to stay. There still are few short-term accommodations on the islands (Island Inn and Tween Waters).

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	71	1,133,685	64	132	1,583,833	66	21	1,323,714	66
Under contract	12	618,825	49	37	1,459,959	32	4	500,000	23
Sold 2023 to 4/6	40	971,637	43	100	1,098,839	46	7	1,060,571	110
Sold 2022 to 4/7	52	1,006,830	46	72	1,708,673	67	11	656,909	206
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	7	1,684,642	110	7	7,307,571	174	1	15,500,000	377
Under contract	3	1,088,333	8	2	3,195,000	47	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 4/6	2	1,237,500	172	6	3,008,166	64	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022 to 4/7	14	1,413,323	46	10	3,678,750	348	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 Mar 31 – Apr 7

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Kings Crown #217 2/2 $1.6M.

3 price changes: Loggerhead Cay #592 2/2 now $825K, Sanctuary Golf Village I #1-1 2/2.5 now $1.025M, Seascape #305 3/3 now $1.995M.

2 new sales: Tennisplace #A22 2/1 listed at $450K, Island Beach Club #220F 2/2 listed at $759K.

4 closed sales: Captains Walk #A6 1/1 $400K (SanibelSusan listng), Tennisplace #B22 2/2.5 $489K, Sundial #F403 2/2 $795K, Gulfside Place #319 3/2 $1.445M.

HOMES

9 new listings: 1866 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $529.5K, 442 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $699K, 647 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $725K, 2134 Egret Cir (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $829K, 224 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $945K, 438 Lake Murex Cir 2/2 $995K, 1171 Seagrape Ln (duplex) 2/2 $1.195M, 2/2663 East Rocks Dr 3/3 $1.348M, 1352 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 $1.699M, 5750 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $2.492M.

9 price changes: 1018 S Yachtsman 3/3 now $1.03M, 5410 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 now $1.099M. 1326 Tahiti Dr 2/2 now $1.395M, 4565 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $1.15M, 9048 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 now $1.274M, 682 Pyrula Ave 4/4.5 now $2.095M, 505 Lighthouse Way 4/3.5 now $2.3495, 417 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 now $3.25M.

5 new sales: 1242 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $899K, 1015 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.275M, 9027 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 $1.3M, 2629 Coconut Dr 4/3 listed at $1.698M, 1718 Jewel Box Dr 4/4.5 listed at $3.6M.

7 closed sales: 994 Greenwood Ct N 3/3 $470K, 1314 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $625K, 676 Cardium St 4/2 $725K, 1043 Blue Heron Dr 3/3 $1.1M, 698 Anchor Dr 5/5.5 $1.615M, 950 Victoria Way 4/4 $2.1M, 466 Sea Oats Dr 4/4 $2.199M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2933 Wulfert Rd $478K, 1825 Long Point Ln $799K.

3 price changes: 2356 Wulfert Rd now $334K, 808 Pyrula Ave now $650K, 4657 Rue Belle Mer now $3.995M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Lands End #1667 2/2 $1.599M.

No price changes.

1 back on market: Bayside Villas #4204 1/2 $614.5K.

1 new sale: Marina Villas #906 2/2 listed at $1.2M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes:

1 new sale: 11530 Chapin Ln 3/2 listed at $2.395M.

1 closed sale: 11460 Old Lodge Ln 4/3 $2.399M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Happy Easter!

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Wrapping Up 1st Quarter on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on March 31, 2023 by SanibelSusan

As we pass the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Ian, sunny weather with temperatures in the mid-80’s continues. It is encouraging to see more recovery progress on the islands including the following updates this week:

Sanibel Home Mail Delivery – Yay! Mail delivery began on Monday to properties with mailboxes. It has been great to get mine at my home. It will be even better when I can move back home. It should only be weeks away now. The temporary post office quarters remain for pickup of post office box mail, commercial, and stamp sales, etc. The blue mailbox there is available for outgoing mail.

More Structures Coming Down – Wednesday driving by West Wind Inn, I saw their west-most buildings coming down, including former sites of Normandie Seaside Café, the pool bar, & many hotel rooms. More came down yesterday, continuing into today. (Yes, they are rebuilding, or so I heard.)

“Saltwater Kill” Tree Removal Underway – Some have questioned why many trees are coming down along streets within City public rights-of-way. These trees have been marked with spray paint following inspection by a certified arborist working with the City’s debris contractor. Their removed is as part of the post-hurricane “Saltwater Kill Tree Survey & Remediation Plan” which is described on the City website as a plan being implemented to address impacts that occurred due to saltwater inundation from Hurricane Ian. Marked are the trees that have become or have the potential to become hazardous within the public rights-of-way.

Signs of Rebuilding – Here and there where structures have come down, signs are going up indicating what is to be built in that location. This week, I noticed quite a few showing modular homes. Also, a sign went up in front of the now demolished “Island Cow” restaurant showing what the new building will look like.

Millennials Now Driving Luxury Market

From April 2023 “Florida Realtor” magazine: “Millennials are now driving the U.S. luxury homebuying market, a significant shift from the baby boomers, according to a recent trend report by Engel & Volkers. One key finding was that second home buyers are most likely to be married millennials or Gen Xers with children living in the household. Nearly all want this residence to be convenient for recreational activities and home amenities, including pools, gyms and spas.

“Nearly 60% of consumers looking to purchase a home above $3M were millennials, including work-from-anywhere professionals and executives. For first-time millennial and Gen Z buyers making more than $100,000 in yearly household income, neighborhood vibe, walkability and proximity to both restaurants and work were key factors in choosing a home.

”Baby boomers will continue to have a lasting effect on our economy, empowering millennials with financial means to largely drive the buy side of the real estate market in the years to come,” said Anthony Hitt, president and CEO, Engel Volkers Americas. “For real estate professionals serving the luxury segment, it’s important to understand and adapt to the evolving preferences of new generations who are taking up more space in the market.”

At SanibelSusan Realty

Still waiting for construction to begin at our office, but roof work continues at The Bean, plus clean-up where the two off-the-foundation buildings came down behind and next to our office.

Dave and I continue our daily work on the island. I showed property several times this past week (canal-front homes), fielded inquiries from buyers up north, followed up on action items with sales in the pipeline, and sent a variety of emails to prospective purchasers that should be buying now. Dave performed our weekly listing checks this morning, while Lisa continues with her weekly updates to our inventory reports (which always are in great demand).

If you are on island this coming Tuesday, April 4, be sure to come to BIG ARTS Performance Hall for the 6:30 p.m. concert featuring the Sanibel School choir, their Seahorse Chorale, plus the BIG ARTS Community Chorus singers. It’s free! Will be about an hour. With songs by each group individually plus four together, it’s bound to be fun. (I sure hope this old alto can keep up. The youngest of those kiddos is seven, while the eldest of our singers is 94.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after the inventory summary below.

The title companies report they have many closings today (last day of the 1^st quarter) so next week once those sales are reported in MLS, my update will include a summary compared to last year. (Those prospects sitting on the fence waiting for more price reductions probably can keep wishing. Though there are plenty of price adjustments posted each week, that’s indicative of a strong market. There also are many sales reported. When there are more sales than new listings, the market turns. As the numbers will show, sales year-to-date are way ahead of last year at this time. Are prices adjusted for properties needing reconstruction? Sure, but Sanibel remains strong.)

Continuing also with an update on commercial offerings, the price of the site of the former Sandbar Restaurant (now demolished) at 2761 West Gulf Dr was reduced this week to $2.095M. Two commercial properties also came on the market. They may be purchased separately or together. 1544 Periwinkle Way for $1.695M and 905 Fitzhugh St for $1.295M, together for $2.8M (formerly Sanibel Seashell Industries, SeaShells.com).

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	73	1,113,021	59	128	1,606,976	64	19	1,425,736	65
Under contract	14	671,064	56	41	1,406,158	39	4	500,000	19
Sold 2023 to 3/31	36	982,680	38	92	1,084,236	43	7	1,060,571	110
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	7	1,768,285	99	6	7,133,833	194	1	15,500,000	370
Under contract	3	905,000	13	2	3,195,000	42	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/31	2	1,237,500	172	6	3,008,166	64	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 March 24-31

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Sundial #I105 1/1 $374.9K, Seashells #40 2/2 $449K, Sundial #I104 1/1 $519K, Sundial I207 1/1 $599K, Sundial #G206 1/1 $599.9K, Sundial #I202 1/1 $615K.

2 price changes: Island Beach Club #220F 2/2 now $759K, Mariner Pointe #711 3/2 now $795K.

5 new sales: Seashells #38 2/2 listed at $415K, Seashells #20 2/2 listed at $469K, Loggerhead Cay #412 2/2 listed at $749K, Kings Crown #208 2/2 listed at $870K, Sanibel Surfside #122 2/2 listed at $995K.

5 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #B7 1/1 $280K, Sundial #H209 1/1 $615K, Mariner Pointe #642 2/2 $750K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-1 3/3 $1.225M, Atrium #106 2/2 $1.605M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 4269 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 $899K, 997 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.295M, 1072 S Yachtsman Dr 3/2 $1.399M, 1326 Tahiti Dr 2/2 $1.495M, 1698 Coconut Dr 4/3 $1.698M, 1026 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.996M.

18 price changes: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 now $498K, 1754 Windward Way 2/2 now $599K, 1811 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $630K, 4752 Rue Helene 2/2 now $699K, 1125 Captains Walk St 3/3 now $899K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 now $929K, 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $1.05M, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 now $1.06M, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 2/2 now $1.075M, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $1.25M, 1398 Middle Gulf Dr B 4/5.5 now $1.295M, 1121 Sabal St 3/2.5 now $1.4M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 now $1,449M, 251 Christofer Ct 3/2.5 now $1.449M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.695M, 4161 Dingman Dr 3/3 now $1,999,999; 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 now $2.995M, 940 Beach Rd 3/4.5.5 now $3.25M.

4 back on market: 1937 Roseate Ln 2/2 $537,555; 1520 Angel Dr 3/2 $1.222M, 915 Pecten Ct 5/5 $2.595M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/6 $3.8M.

11 new sales: 470 Birdsong Pl 2/2 listed at $550K, 3301 Twin Lakes Ln 2/2 listed at $649M, 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 listed at $725K, 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed at $749K, 4677 Rue Bayou 3/3 listed at $1.2495M, 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 listed at $1.35M, 918 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.449M, 1224 Buttonwood Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.45M, 1520 Angel Dr 4/4.5 listed at $3.2M, 4449 Waters Edge Ln 3/3 listed at $3.499M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/5.5 listed at $3.8M.

6 closed sales: 1140 Sandpiper Cir 3/2.5 $625K, 42208 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $725K, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 $800K, 1140 Junonia St 3/2 $999K, 1290 Par View Dr 4/2 $1M, 645 Donax St 4/3 $1.52M.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 2807 West Gulf Dr now $1.199M, 2761 West Gulf Dr now $2.095M.

1 new sale: 9268 Belding Dr listed at $435K.

1 closed sale: 328 Palm Lake Dr $630K.

Captiva

CONDOS

3 new listings: Bayside Villas #5208 1/2 $615K, Bayside Villas #5232 1/2 $655K, Marine Villas #906 2/2 $1.2M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: Beach Villas #2235 4/3 $1.8M.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes:

1 new sale: 11530 Chapin Ln 3/2 listed at $2.395M.

1 closed sale: 11460 Old Lodge Ln 4/3 $2.399M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Sunny Sanibel Friday

Posted on March 24, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate

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

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

Sanibel Update

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Events & Re-Openings

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

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

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

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

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	74	1,132,848	56	130	1,614,611	59	22	1,311,090	71
Under contract	14	775,564	50	37	1,306,513	34	4	565,000	40
Sold 2023 to 3/24	31	1,008,435	37	87	1,092,882	44	6	1,132,333	111
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,946,333	169	8	6,148,506	185	1	15,500,000	363
Under contract	4	1,153,500	79	2	3,197,000	39	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/24	1	675,000	66	5	3,130,000	55	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 March 17‑24

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

Gulfside Place

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

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

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

1 new listing: 5398 Osprey Ct $419K.

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

No new sales or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

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

No price changes.

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

No closed sales.

HOMES

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

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

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy St Patrick’s Day from Sunny Sanibel

Posted on March 17, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It’s another sunny Friday on Sanibel with temperatures not quite into the 80’s. A Happy Saint Patrick’s Day to all.

Really a delightful day to be on the island with the sunroof open and the gulf breezes blowing.

While there today to pick up mail, I did another drive-around to see any progress this week. Removal of downed vegetation continues while on Periwinkle, it was sad to see the demolition/removal of the buildings formerly housing Island Cow and Realty Title. It is progress none-the-less.

Traffic continues to be light, except as contractors are coming early mornings and leaving late afternoons. Driving the Gulf Drives, one sees workers, particularly roofers at many homes. There still isn’t a lot of visual activity at most condo complexes. Many have been fenced for weeks.

At SanibelSusan Realty, we had another nice closing Monday as Dave and I continue to view other properties for owners thinking of selling and buyers contemplating a purchase.

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after the inventory summary below. There was more activity with homes, not so much with condos. A total of just seven new sales on Sanibel this week, compared to 23 new listings – certainly not the usual for March, but a good time for those that were waiting on the sidelines when inventory was low just a few months ago.

Another Sanibel commercial property also came on the market this week – site of Islander Trading Post which includes the building that was the store, plus a home and barn behind (1444 & 1446 Periwinkle Way), asking $5.955M.

Sanibel Update

There is another City Council meeting this coming Tuesday March 21 at 9 a.m. Fifth agenda item is a post-Ian update which I will follow and report on next week.

Below is the beginning of a post that the City issued yesterday. Go to www.MySanibel.com to read the full version. Lots of good info there on rebuilding/restoration.

“As the Sanibel Community recovers and rebuilds following Hurricane Ian, many citizens are anxious to return to the Island and restore their home to its former beauty. In some cases, structures will be demolished, and properties redeveloped. City staff knows Sanibel’s Land Development Code is complex and is necessary to maintain the island sanctuary characteristics that makes Sanibel so unique. The City of Sanibel staff is committed to helping residents and businesses be successful in completing repairs, renovations, and redevelopment.

“The Natural Resources, Public Works, Planning, and Building Departments have compiled important information regarding the Land Development Code to help residents undertaking renovation, restoration, and redevelopment projects. Following the guidance below will help to ensure properties remain compliant with the City’s Vision Statement, Sanibel Plan, and Land Development Code and help the community recover as we all work to restore this Sanctuary Island.

“The City of Sanibel staff will host a community workshop to present information and answer citizen questions on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at BIG Arts. Please watch for future news releases that will provide more information on this workshop.

“Contact us at:

· Natural Resources Department – sandnr@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-3700, Questions on replanting and beach restoration

· Public Works Department – sanpw@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-6397, Questions on roads, road rights-of-way, drainage, or sanitary sewer

· Planning Department – sanplan@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-4136, Questions on outdoor lighting or other development standards

· Building Department – sanbuild@mysanibel.com or (239) 472-4555, Questions on the “50%” rule or building permit requirements….”

Events & Re-Openings

BIG ARTS Open House – Wednesday was a huge success and much fun. I saw many clients/customers at the BIG ARTS Open House, enjoying the film about the lighthouse, art exhibits, food/drink, and performances by the Community Band and Chorus. Here is the link that photographer Jim Anderson prepared that was played on the screen behind us when we sang the Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young song “Sanibel”. Even the Mayor said she cried during that one! https://vimeo.com/user25047255/review/800301411/7f227afe23

BIG ARTS Community Chorus singing “Sanibel” 03-15-2023, photo by Robin Roberts.

If you’d like to hear the entire Chorus set, here is the YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYHKC0_1dYWS8rYM6rxbq_XJ_An9lf7Ow.

April 4 Concert With Sanibel School Choruses – Sanibel Community Chorus is performing jointly with the two Sanibel School choruses during their fundraiser April 4 at 6:30 p.m. at BIG ARTS. I sure hope we can keep up with them. Our singers ages go up to 94.

April 4 Wildlife Driving Opening – April 4, the J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge will open the gate to Wildlife Drive for the first time since the storm. The “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center will also reopen that day.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Tuesday, I attended an Association Professional Development Committee meeting. Those continue to be via Zoom since our headquarters building at 2353 Periwinkle Way received structural damage during the hurricane. It may be another three to six months before we are back meeting there, but committee work continues with more classes scheduled for our members and speakers arranged for our monthly breakfast membership meetings. Next one of those is March 23, again at the Midland Trust building in Fort Myers.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	68	1,170,793	59	130	1,621,879	52	21	1,353,571	67
Under contract	15	773,793	28	37	1,240,717	42	4	565,000	40
Sold 2023 to 3/17	28	1,059,303	37	80	1,105,203	42	6	1,132,333	111
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,504,666	165	7	6,471,150	203	1	15,500,000	356
Under contract	2	1,207,000	147	2	3,197,000	39	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/17	1	675,000	66	5	3,130,000	55	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 March 10‑17

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Oceans Reach #4B4 1/1 $749K, Seascape #302 3/3.5 $1.795M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 $1.487,555; Seascape #305 3/3 $2.195M.

2 price changes: Sundial #C206 1/1 now $549K, Kings Crown #208 2/2 now $870K.

No new sales.

3 closed sales: Sealoft Village #107 2/2 $868K (SanibelSusan listing), Snug Harbor #221 2/2 $1.130M, Heron at The Sanctuary III #2A 3/3.5 $1.148M.

HOMES

15 new listings: 1937 Roseate Ln 2/2 $399,555; 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 $725K, 411 Lake Murex Blvd 3/2 $789K, 1105 Skiff Pl 3/2 $895K, 719 Nerita St 3/3 $899K,1270 Par View Dr 3/2 $949K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 $959K, 4372 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 $998K, 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 $1.55M, 3959 West Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.599M, 425 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $1.6M, 657 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.639M, 985 Oyster Ct 4/4 $1.695M, 505 Lighthouse Way 4/3.5 $2.475M, 4449 Waters Edge Ln 3/3 $3.499M,

16 price changes: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 now $524K, 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 now $595K, 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 now $734K, 1679 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $749K, 1145 Sabal St 5/4 now $790K, 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 now $799K, 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $845K, 3025 Poinciana Cir 3/2 now $849K, 9248 Kincaid Ct 3/2 now $899K, 1720 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $950K, 4565 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $1.174M, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 now $1.299M, 9048 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 now $1.299M, 9484 Peaceful Dr 3/3 now $1.337M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 now $1.85M, 5271 Indian Ct 4/4 now $2.549M.

3 back on market: 6141 Henderson Rd 4/3 $858K, 1304 Par View Dr 3/3 $900k, 2502 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $2.795M.

5 new sales: 1314 Tahiti Dr 3/2 listed at $699K, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2 listed at $1.222M, 9027 Mockingbird Dr 4/3 listed at $1.395M, 864 Limpet Dr 3/2 listed at $1.75M, 5721 San-Cap Rd 3/3.5.5 listed at $1.795M.

14 closed sales: 2623 Tamarind Rd 2/2 $365K, 1475 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $697K, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 $775K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $800K, 3941 Coquina Dr 3/2 $850K, 428 Lighthouse Way 3/2.5 $899K, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 $930K, 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 $962,555; 1442 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.23M, 1034 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.317M, 1208 Bay Dr 3/2 $1.5M, 3191 Twin Lakes Ln 4/2.5 $1.639M, 5395 Shearwater Dr 3/2.5 $2.4M, 3699 West Gulf Dr 6/4.5.5 $4.25M.

LOTS

4 new listings: 9268 Belding Dr $435K, 3730 Coquina Dr $639K, 395 Bella Vista Way E $1.875M, 4657 Rue Belle Mer $4.5M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 1746 Windward Way listed at $495K, 460 Sawgrass Pl listed at $925K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11510 Chapin Ln 2/2 $1.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sustaining Sanibel = Strength & Smiles

Posted on March 10, 2023 by SanibelSusan

SanibelSusan reporting another sunny summer-like Friday. There was lots of activity on the islands this week with more businesses opening, more events happening, more nails in tires (lucky me), and more wonderful weather. Unfortunately, it still is slow going on most of the reconstruction. As debris piles disappear, so do some buildings. The home next door to mine burned during the storm and now has been demolished. Those strong neighbors like so many others intend to rebuild/restore. It just is taking way longer than anxious owners imagined. It looks like I will have one more move before I’m back into my home, but the new HVAC system is “on” so that is progress!

At SanibelSusan Realty

Our office again was cleaned some this week, but reconstruction has not begun. Teammates Dave, Lisa, and I continue our daily routines both on-/and off-island. I showed homes Wednesday to some folks that had to stay in Punta Gorda as nothing closer was available. Dave accompanied a walk-through yesterday, with that closing now delayed until Monday. Big thanks to those sellers and Superior Title for being flexible!

Lisa again has updated our island inventory list which has become a popular document with owners tracking the market. Many have called us trying get an opinion of the value of their property today compared to just before the storm. With condos, particularly, this is not easily determined. Most complexes have had no sales since the storm because they cannot yet be accessed. Sales data is needed to provide a reasonable response to questions about market value. Is a property value reduced by the dollars that it will take to restore it? Of course, but we are not seeing distressed sales.

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Servic is after the inventory summary below. Homes sales continue to be brisk. Condo sales not so much, mostly because those prospective buyers want answers before they decide to come and look. Answers to questions like: When can the unit be occupied? Rented? What are the 2023 maintenance fees? Is there or will there be a special assessment? What is the damage? What repairs are owner responsibilities?

Sanibel Update

Between phone calls, I listened in Tues during The City post-Ian progress report update during the City Council meeting. A few highlights include:

· Building & Planning Departments still in temporary location on Whiskey Creek in Ft Myers. They expect to relocate end March/early April into the City (former bank) building on Library Way. The number of permits issued continues to increase. Through March 5, 2,956 permits have been issued including 1,010 for roofs and 601 for emergency repairs from hurricane. Permit applications are being reviewed within 5 days, resubmissions processed in 3-5 days. A new Planner has been hired, to begin March 20. Also a new Code Enforcement Officer starts March 27.

· More beach accesses and the boat ramp opened this week on March 6: Gulfside City Park and Bowman’s Beach reopened. Still no date for Turner or Lighthouse beach accesses to be open.

· Traffic counts on the causeway continue to rise. For several days more than 6,000 vehicles came over.

· Debris pickup now exceeds 2,031,381 cubic yards. Including 1,847,005 by Crowder Gulf and 184,376 from PPDR/CPDR/waterways. Deadline to apply for personal or commercial help through IanDebrisCleanup.com is March 29.

Tuesday also was election day, with four candidates running for two City Council seats. Congratulations to Mayor Holly Smith and Vice Mayor Richard Johnson. Together, they received 79% of the votes.

Events:

· Last night at BIG ARTS was a 2-hour presentation sponsored by the SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future, in collaboration with the City, SCCF, concerned citizens and an alliance of community organizations. Go to The City of Sanibel, Florida Facebook page to watch the video. Really good info, showing Sanibel at its finest.

· Yesterday also was dress rehearsal for the Community Chorus for the BIG ARTS Open House scheduled next week, Wed, March 15. This free event begins at 2:30 p.m. with a movie about the lighthouse. The Community Band performs at 4:15 p.m., followed by Chorus at 5:15 p.m. Leslie Adams in catering. There also will be art exhibits and more. Those attending should be sure and stay for our chorus version of “Sanibel”, previously performed by Crosby Stills & Nash. Real estate photographer, Jim Anderson with JMA Photography, has prepared an island video (pre-storm) that will be played on the big screen when we sing that song. It’s terrific!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Yesterday, the Association of Realtors© had their first Caravan since the storm. With our office building still being restored, it was held informally at Sanibel Deli with just five properties open for viewing.

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	65	1,165,867	55	116	1,658,092	53	19	1,179,263	70
Under contract	18	830,716	29	46	1,302,729	40	2	420,000	54
Sold 2023 to 3/10	25	1,060,580	36	66	1,066,996	43	6	1,132,333	111
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,023,166	187	7	6,699,721	205	1	15,500,000	349
Under contract	2	1,207,000	147	1	2,399,000	16	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/10	1	675,000	66	5	3,130,000	55	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 March 3-10

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Seashells #20 2/2 $469K, Loggerhead Cay #592 2/2 $850K, Pointe Santo #B23 2/2 $949K, Pointe Santo #E6 2/2 $1.75M, Seascape #205 3/3 $2.995M.

3 price changes: Sundial #F203 2/2 now $799K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-3 2/2.5 now $995K, Gulfside Place #117 2/2 now $1.375M.

1 back on market: Gulfside Place #213 3/3 $2.6M.

4 new sales: Sanibel Arms #B7 1/1 listed at $399K, Sunset South #10B 2/2 listed at $600K, Sundial #F403 2/2 listed at $795K, Gulfside Place #319 3/2 listed at $1.495M.

1 closed sale: Heron at The Sanctuary I #3-B 3/2.5 $1.015M.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 $549K, 922 Main St 3/1 $625K, 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 $650K, 1398 Middle Gulf Dr 4/5.5 $1.395M, 2540 Coconut Dr 4/3.5 $1.649M, 1057 Seahawk Ln 3/2.5 $1.65M, 5379 Shearwater Dr 4/3 $2.395M.

7 price changes: 1866 Ibis Ln 2/2 now $560K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $679K, 750 Sand Dollar Dr 3/2 now $1.197M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 now $1.595M, 925 Lindgren Blvd 3/1 now $1.595M, 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 now $3.5M, 4697 Rue Belle Mer 4/5.5 now $3.8M.

2 back on market: 658 Donax St 3/2 $795K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.22M.

7 new sales: 1475 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $700K, 1526 Bunting Ln 5/3 listed at $750K, 9438 Moonlight Dr 3/2 listed at $734K, 1477 Albatross Rd 4/3 listed at $735K, 4144 West Gulf Dr 2/2 listed at $949K, 1300 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $1.075M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 listed at $4.25M.

9 closed sales: 3181 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $660K, 720 Durion Ct 4/3 $875K, 1447 Albatross Rd 3/2 $900K, 6136 Henderson Rd 3/2 $1.05M, 1120 Olga Ave 3/2 $1.375M, 664 Gopher Walk 4/3.5 $1.415M, 4020 West Gulf Dr 2/2 $1.5M, 2324 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 $1.536M, 4781 Tradewinds Dr 3/2 $2M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1746 Windward Way $495K.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 1119 Seagrape Ln $1.2M.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11510 Chapin Ln 2/2 $1.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Already Summer Weather & It’s Only March!

Posted on March 3, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

Sanibel Update

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

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

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

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

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

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	64	1,103,093	54	114	1,689,199	48	18	1,217,277	65
Under contract	17	985,523	21	48	1,296,446	43	3	679,997	42
Sold 2023 to 3/3	24	1,062,479	37	57	1,037,031	41	5	1,118,800	123
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	7	1,059,142	179	7	6,699,721	198	1	15,500,000	342
Under contract	2	1,207,000	147	2	1,824,500	29	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 3/3	1	675,000	66	4	3,612,500	58	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 Feb 24 – Mar 3

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

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

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

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

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

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 2462 Wulfert Rd $320K.

Captiva

CONDOS

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

No price changes or new sales.

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

HOMES

No new listings, new or closed sales.

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

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Wrapping Up Feb 2023 on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on February 24, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

Sanibel Update

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

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

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

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

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

Information needed to get insurance:

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

Underwriting requirements:

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

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

During the announcements section of the meeting, several new listings and sales were announced. More details about those and the action this week posted in the island Multiple Listing Service are after more news below.

Land Use Info Now Available Thru Online GIS Maps

The City (Sanibel) Future Land Use Map Series (FLUMS) now is available online through this link. There are multiple map layers that may be selected to help determine the development standards and uses allowed on a parcel. The Layer List can be accessed through the icon in the top right corner of the screen. Properties are searchable by address when the Lee County – Parcels layer is checked.

The following info may be chosen to display over an aerial photo:

· Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL).

· 1974 CCCL delineates the City construction limit setback & landward limit of Gulf Beach Zone.

· 1991 CCCL is where a permit from FL Dept of Environmental Protection is required for construction waterward of line.

· Local Drainage Areas known to hold water after storms & in rainy season.

· Special Use Districts, click on property with this layer checked to see Ordinance.

· Commercial Zoning Map – delineates General Commercial District, Town Center General Commercial District, & Town Center Limited Commercial District.

· Resort Housing District – identifies properties within district classified by either allowing resort units with unlimited rental or “Prohibited from Resort Housing Use) where rental is limited to minimum 28 consecutive days. “Nonconform Resort Housing Use” identifies lawfully existing nonconforming resort housing use properties with unlimited rental.

· Interior Wetlands Conservation District with strict development regulations to protect freshwater aquifer.

· Environmentally Sensitive Lands Conservation District with strictly limited uses allowed.

· Ecological Zones Map 1989 – City development regulations for residential districts are based on ecological sensitivity which is classified by zone. Environmental Performance Standards also are established for each zone.

Island Real Estate

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

SANIBEL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	56	1,121,605	56	113	1,594,117	47	17	1,283,176	63
Under contract	17	878,700	18	53	1,234,027	41	4	596,998	105
Sold 2023 to 2/24	21	1,125,333	40	46	1,082,810	39	4	1,318,500	80
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	184	1,597,868	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	6	1,127,333	201	8	6,867,631	176	1	15,500,000	335
Under contract	3	1,038,000	89	2	1,824,500	9	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 2/24	0	N/A	N/A	4	3,612,500	58	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

Personal Stuff

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

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

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

No closed sales.

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

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

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

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

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Lee County Mosquito Control

Prescribed Burns on Sanibel

Sanibel Rec Center Repairs

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

Share this:

Like this:

At SanibelSusan Realty

Island Happenings

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity April 14-21

Share this:

Like this:

At SanibelSusan Realty

Island News

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

Share this:

Like this:

Island News

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Mar 31 – Apr 7

Share this:

Like this:

Millennials Now Driving Luxury Market

At SanibelSusan Realty

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 24-31

Share this:

Like this:

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate

Sanibel Update

Events & Re-Openings

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

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

Share this:

Like this:

Sanibel Update

Events & Re-Openings

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

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

Share this:

Like this:

Sanibel Update

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 3-10

Share this:

Like this:

Sanibel Update

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

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

Share this:

Like this:

Sanibel Update

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors

Land Use Info Now Available Thru Online GIS Maps

Island Real Estate

Personal Stuff

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

Share this:

Like this: