Has Been a Tad Chilly on Sunny Sanibel & Captiva

Happy Friday! The “Jan/Feb 2025 Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate Guide” comes out today. Our ad is above. If you’d like to see the full document, here’s a link to it on-line:  https://www.sanibelrealtors.com/real-estate-guide

Island Weather

The novelty of wearing jackets and sweaters is over with the lowest temperature at my home registered both Wed and Thurs mornings at 45 degrees F. Warmed up to 47 degrees this morning.

Even so, there have been plenty of bikers and joggers in shorts with daytime temps into the breezy 60’s/low 70’s some days. Most local and visitors are thankful to be here, away from the more serious cold/white stuff up north and the terrible fire devastation in CA.

The forecast for next week is much the same as this, with most days not expected to be out of the 60’s, but with blue skies and sunshine still generating smiles.

Final Paving of Causeway

A Wed notice from Sanibel City Manager said, “Final paving of Sanibel Causeway begins tonight, Jan 8.” With details provided by the FL Dept of Transportation it continued to say that the work includes the causeway islands and bridge approaches. “Motorists should expect one lane of travel with a flagging operation during the overnight hours of 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. This work is anticipated to occur during these nighttime overnight hours through the end of January.”

My Travel Across Causeway Yesterday

I had a quick errand in Ft Myers after our Realtor Caravan Meeting yesterday. The drive turned out to not be too quick. At noon, going from the Assoc of Realtors building to the toll booth took 55 minutes (usually 15). But no workers or holdups were noticed anywhere, just continued stop-and-go traffic. Maybe that was during a worker lunch break as when I returned about 30 minutes later, there was a flagger on the Sanibel side of the toll booth and heavy equipment on the causeway with concrete side barriers being moved. Traffic was moving OK in both directions, but the City later posted a “heavy traffic advisory” for the rest of the day and evening, saying it was due to FDOT crews completing underground causeway inspections. More restoration progress!

Sanibel Natural Resources Dept Updates

Blind Pass – Also on Wed, Jan 8, the City provided an update on some post-Milton recovery efforts. Following that storm, the City’s disaster contractor Crowder Gulf removed sand from the roadway that was impacting access to/from Captiva. They have screened and stockpiled 3 to 4 thousand cubic yards of sand at Turner Beach. Now Crowder-Gulf will be removing additional sand from the right of way and returning the clean screened sand back on northern Sanibel beaches to restore critically eroded areas adjacent to the road protection wall. That work has begun and is expected to take about a week, but no lane closures are expected. Flaggers will direct traffic as equipment and sand are moved across the roadway.

Lighthouse Beach – Phase II of the City’s beach renourishment project at Lighthouse Beach resumed this week, after a holiday break. Crews will continue to place the remaining 105K tons of sand on the bayside of Lighthouse Beach Park to strengthen the beach coastline and protect the Sanibel Lighthouse. Work should be completed by mid-Feb. Both bayside parking lots are closed while the remainder of this sand is moved, but the gulf-side parking lot is open. Crews will temporarily close portions of the beach to the public while placing sand. (That work is being accomplished Mon-Fri from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

At the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors first Caravan Meeting of the year yesterday, there was chatter about the judge’s decision this week to deny the motion for the summary judgement filed and argued by Lee County and South Seas Resort. That essentially means that the total number of units at South Seas Resort remains and cannot exceed 912, or at least the county will not issue permits for more than that number. (That’s probably not the end of this issue though, some think South Seas may now apply for a zoning change to allow building higher. Stay tuned.)

We also heard that South Seas has sent existing owners notices of cancellation of their previous rental agreements. They are offering new agreements to owners who sign-up quickly, with an incentive of not requiring the $50K initial resort membership fee. The annual price to then use the resort amenities has yet to be clarified, proving again that it always pays to do your homework when signing contracts. We can help with that.

The other continued topic of conversation among colleagues was the volume of inquiries many are getting from owners looking to list. One long-timer said, “We need to start getting tough with these sellers. Many don’t recognize how much the market has changed.”

When our members get together, it also is a popular Realtor topic to ask each other about how many buyer inquiries and showings their listings are getting. Many are getting none – and have never seen a market like this. We agree and understand that frustration. Attracting potential purchasers often requires attracting their Realtor. (One listing agent recently emailed about a commission increase (to a level not seen here in many years). Another has copied that, as I received another notice this morning about a new listing offering the same.)

A pal also got them said “If we don’t have buyers, it doesn’t matter how much sellers are willing to pay us. Besides, we are obligated to introduce buyers to all the listings that match their requirements.”

During the Caravan Meeting, just one sale was announced, but there were many new listings and price reductions. Following the meeting,13 Sanibel homes and a condo were open for easy viewing. Next Wed is the Association 2025 Installation/2024 Awards Banquet. The next Caravan is in two weeks, on Thurs Jan 23.

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

Again, this week, there were no Captiva sales, but on Sanibel five homes and one condo went under contract. Those compare to a whopping 30 new and back-on-market listings and 22 price changes.

My crystal ball says the Florida real estate market will start to stabilize this year. From the recession to the pandemic to hurricanes, to real estate rules changing nationally, there have been so many ups and downs that it will be positive to see stabilization. With election uncertainty over, many are feeling better economically, as that further improves and the islands continue to bounce back, more sales should follow. Fingers crossed (just in case).

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

123

992,048

131

202

2,036,454

98

35

983,565

245

Under contract

5

938,800

105

17

1,727,411

62

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/10/25

1

1,967,665

397

5

1,132,400

37

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

75

818,493

117

164

1,471,981

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

38

1,288,815

174

21

6,025,095

157

1

12M

498

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

999,999

34

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/10/25

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

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 Jan 3-10:

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Sundial #F105 1/1 $499K, Sandpiper Beach #505 2/2 $750K, Oceans Reach #2B2 1/1 $789K, Oceans Reach #4C2 2/2 $989K, Sealoft Village #105 2/2 $995K, Lighthouse Point #323 3/2 $1.025M, Beachcomber #D201 3/2 $1.125M.

1 back-on-market: Somerset #D201 3/2.5 $1.725M.

3 price changes: Captains Walk #A2 1/1 now $250K, Tantara #202 2/2 now $895K, Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 now $990K.

1 new sale: Tanglewood #5A 3/2 listed at $1.149M.

1 closed sale: Sandpiper West #4 3/2.5 $1,967,655.

HOMES

12 new listings: 1315 Par View Dr 3/2 $999K, 1925 Roseate Ln 2/2 $999,900; 971 Main St 3/2 $1.149M, 1113 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.149M, 4619 Rue Bayou 3/2 $1.195M, 3131 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1,419,999; 640 Periwinkle Way 3/2 $1.449M, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 $1.449M, 5243 Indian Ct 2/2 $1.689M, 930 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $2.4M, 1730 Jewel Box Dr 4/3 $3.8M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $6.995M.

3 back-on-market: 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 $1,199,999; 978 Oyster Ct 4/4 $2.749M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $5.45M.

13 price changes: 209 Robinwood Cir 3/2 now $629K, 1322 Sand Castle Dr 3/2 now $699K, 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 now $699K, 1846 Farm Trail 3/2 now $875K, 588 Hideaway Ct 3/2 now $890K, 1677 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 now $895K, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $949K, 560 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $995K, 1048 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $1.199M, 5300 Umbrella Pool 3/3 now $1.325M, 1311 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.35M, 1310 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.45M, 1985 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $1.689M.

5 new sales: 3898 West Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $795K, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 listed at $1.44M, 746 Nerita St 4/2 listed at $1.595M, 1870 Woodring Rd 3/3.5 listed at $2.498M, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 listed at $2.989M.

4 closed sales: 490 & 460 Old Trail Rd 3/3 $570K, 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 $725K, 761 Nerita St 3/2 $1.215M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 $2.348M.

LOTS

2 new listings; 1377 Jamaica Dr $425K, 460 Sawgrass Pl $925K.

1 back-on-market: 2807 West Gulf Dr $819K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: Lands End Village #1650 3/3 $2.399M.

3 price changes: Tennis Villas #3135 1/1 now $429K, Tennis Villas #3132 2/2 now $699K, Gulf Beach Villas #2011 1/1 now $710K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 15161 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $6.495M, 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 $8.495M.

1 back-on-market: 16632 Captiva Dr 5/4 $6.25M.

3 price changes: 58 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.525M, 11550 Paige Ct 5l5.5.5 now $6.5M, 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 now $7.5M.

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

Happy First Friday 2025

Cheers to the first Friday in 2025! May the new year speed up island recovery with quicker restoration, return of visitors, and more business. The SanibelSusan Team is ready for that and many others are too.

On the plus side, more vegetation that survived the recent storms is greening up. This month marks 33 years since my family moved to Sanibel, but I don’t think I will ever get used to seeing tropical growth and flowering over the holidays.

At my home, the bougainvillea bounced back best, but a few hibiscuses, and now some beach roses are blooming. This is the dry season, but blue sky and sunshine do wonders.

Island Weather

With local weather continuing to be mid- to high-70’s (degrees F) most days, Southwest Florida often boasts being the warmest spot in the nation. This week, there have been a few foggy mornings and evenings. Those are rare here and remind me of growing up on the Maine coast.

With fireworks not allowed on Sanibel, some islanders gather annually on New Year’s Eve at Lighthouse Beach to watch the distant fireworks on Fort Myers Beach. Because of fog, I heard only a few attempted that this year – and they couldn’t see the display through the pea soup.

It was chilly this morning (50’s) but up to 75 mid-afternoon. Tomorrow (Sat) reports are that temps may not get out of the 60’s but warmer weather is expected again Sun and Mon, or until another cold front arrives early Tues. After that, forecasters say nighttime temps will be in the 40’s, with days only in the 60’s, through next week and into next weekend.

Yikes! Time to get the winter flip flops back out.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week. Next Thursday (Jan 9) is an 11 a.m. Caravan Meeting followed by Open Houses at new listings.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

As far as Multiple Listing Service activity, it was another week with many more new and back-on-market listings and price reductions (37 in total). This compares to just five new sales. There again were none on Captiva. On Sanibel, no new lot sales, but three homes and two condos went under contract.

On the commercial side, the Anchor Inn at 1245 Periwinkle Way closed this week for $3.2M. That’s a sign in the right direction!

Yesterday, out on Captiva, I saw that many big sand piles remain from the Sept/Oct storms and both of their public beach parking areas still are closed (Tuner Beach Lot just after the bridge and Alison Hagerup Beach Park just past the Captiva Post office). The Blind Pass Beach Lot on the Sanibel side of the Captiva Bridge also still is closed. Restoration work with heavy equipment continues.

Even so, on both islands, there seemed to be more bikers and joggers than last week, but overall, there has been very little real estate activity compared to past holiday years. One year, I even sold a home on Christmas Day – squeezed it in between brunch and dinner.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

117

997,025

124

193

2,017,05

99

32

1,007,993

260

Under contract

5

1,169,000

102

17

1,800,676

17

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/3/2025

0

N/A

N/A

1

804,000

44

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

75

818,493

117

164

1,471,981

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

36

1,225,722

155

20

6,152,550

174

1

12M

491

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

999,999

34

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/3/2025

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

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 Dec 27 – Jan 3:

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Lighthouse Point #315 3/2 $895K, Sanibel Moorings #1641 2/2 $899K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-1 2/2.5 $1.095M, Tanglewood #5A 3/2 $1.149M.

2 price changes: Sayana #203 2/2 now $895K, Gulfside Place #125 2/2 now $1.795M.

2 new sales: Sandalfoot #4D3 2/2 listed at $650K, Sandpiper West #4 3/2.5 listed at $2.25M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

8 new listings: 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $899K, 1165 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 754/756 Donax 4/2 $999,999; St 731 Nerita St 3/2 $1.1M, 4245 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $1.279M, 3285 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 $1.495M, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/4.5 $1.695M, 939 Beach Rd 4/3.5 $2.1M.

3 back-on-market: 4400 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 $1.375M, 837 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3.5 $2.995M, 4257 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $12M.

14 price changes: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $559K, 589 Rabbit Rd 2/2 now $875K, 1674 Bunting Ln 3/2 now $899K, 497 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $899K, 3784 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $949K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 now $949K, 1410 Albatross Rd 3/3 now $1.099M, 673 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $1.249M, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 now $1.389M, 517 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $1.499M, 746 Nerita St 4/2 now $1.595M, 539 N Yachtsman Dr 4/3.5 now $1.699M, 888 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.699M, 1199 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $1.895M.

3 new sales: 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 5769 San-Cap Rd 2/2 listed at $1M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 listed at $5.45M.

2 closed sales: 567 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $765K, 5297 Punta Caloosa Ct 3/2 $804K.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 4019 Coquina Dr now $440K, 4037 Coquina Dr now $999K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing; Bayside Villas #5120 1/2 $545K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 15161 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $6.495M, 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 $8.495M.

1 price change: 16770 Captiva Dr 5/4.4 now $9.7M.

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

Benween Christmas & New Year’s Eve 2024

It was a quiet Christmas week here on sunny Sanibel. With roadways often vehicle-free and most gulf-front accommodations still not open, the contractor vehicles seem to outnumber the holiday visitors. Now that FEMA-funded debris removal is over and Lighthouse Beach has reopened, there is continued evidence of storm recovery progress, albeit slowly. Seeing 2024 in the rear view mirror will be a plus!

Island Weather

Meanwhile, southwest Florida weather remains some of the best in the nation. Daytime temperatures have been in the mid-70’s (degrees F) with colder days not forecast until after the New Year. The few bikers and joggers are usually in shorts, while we locals enjoy the rare use of our sweaters and jackets. It has been a little overcast today, but 78 degrees mid-afternoon.

Re-opening & Holiday Sightings

During my island travels yesterday, it was nice to see another business has opened. At 2400 Palm Ridge Rd, in the corner of the building that formerly was ReMax of the Islands, the new shop is Bubby Latitude.

This home décor and gift store was in Bell Tower after Hurricane Ian and is back on-island in this new location – open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon through Sat.

Palm Ridge Rd also gets my vote for some of the cutest outdoor holiday decorations. If you get a chance check them out in front of Pak-n-Ship, John Grey Painting, Landgraphics, and Kingfisher.

There are a surfing Santa, several Christmas pelicans, an alligator bearing gifts, a minion, and a pink octopus.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but it was great last Saturday to see many colleagues at the Celebration of Life for our Realtor pal, Mary Lou Bailey. The stories shared and memories highlighted were a tribute to her island success for more than 45 years.

The next Association Caravan Meetings will be Jan 9 and 23, with new listings open for viewing beginning at noon. We also look forward to the annual Installation and Awards Banquet, on Jan 15.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

Again, it was a week with more new and back-on-market listings and price reductions than sales. Just three new Sanibel sales were reported, a duplex and two unique high-end homes.

It is probably a little soon to compare 2024 sales to past years, but several conversations this week with owners thinking of selling, made it hard not to relay that what we are experiencing here now is a serious post-hurricane dip in the market.

For years, we looked at larger communities and complexes as bellwethers. Below is where a few of those stand today, compared to the last few years. First are a few Sanibel residential communities showing number of homes for sale, under contract, and the number of home sales by year,

Then similar data for a few of the larger island condominium complexes. (Data from Sanibel & Captiva Islands MLS 12/27/24) (Also note: Pointe Santo and Sundial are not yet open for paying guests and have not been since late 2022.)

The statistics illustrate that even after the pandemic which began in late 2019/early 2020, Sanibel real estate was moving well. A whopping 355 homes and 287 condos closed in 2021.

Then came Ian in 2022, followed by Helene and Milton. This year when compared to 2021, not even half the number of homes sold and just a quarter the number of condos.  When economists say it likely will take a few more years for the market to rebound, I agree.

That’s not to say, don’t list if you want to sell. The SanibelSusan Team is always looking forward to new listings and ways to get existing listings sold, just like we are always looking for new buyers. There are some excellent offerings out there for today’s buyers, but finding buyers is challenging.

 A week with 30 island listings and price changes, and just three sales, doesn’t help.

Sanibel #

For Sale

# for

Sale

# Under

Contract

Sold to

12/27/24

Sold

2023

Sold

2022

Sold

2021

Sold

2020

Sold

2019

Sold

2018

Sold

2017

HOMES:

The Dunes

15

0

20

29

18

29

39

18

29

20

Gumbo Limbo

9

1

7

12

6

21

16

11

6

12

The Sanctuary

8

1

6

6

7

14

10

13

5

3

Sanibel Estates

10

1

10

10

6

13

16

7

13

11

Shell Harbor

17

1

6

27

13

18

18

11

11

13

All Communities

186

16

163

263

185

355

289

211

218

186

CONDOS

Loggerhead Cay

3

0

7

4

5

14

13

7

16

11

Pointe Santo

3

0

1

3

7

25

4

3

3

4

Sanibel Moorings

8

0

4

0

5

7

5

3

7

4

Sundial

9

0

12

16

14

30

26

20

20

22

All Complexes

116

4

75

98

123

287

193

127

155

140

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.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

116

990,232

134

186

2,004,848

98

32

1,014,837

253

Under contract

4

1,373,750

183

16

1,569,406

15

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/27/24

75

818,493

117

163

1,476,319

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

35

1,214,457

168

22

6,597,545

241

1

12M

484

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

999,999

34

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/27/24

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

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 Dec 20-27:

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Spanish Cay #F6 1/1 $475K, Donax Village #11 2/2 $625K, Sunset South #10A 2/2 $659K, Loggerhead Cay #142 2/2 $987.5K, Kings Crown #217 2/2 $1.599M, High Tide #B101 3/2 $2.495M, Seascape #102 3/3 $3M.

1 price change: Tennisplace #D31 1/1 now $369K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Moorings #1342 2/2 $840K.

HOMES

8 new listings: 1312 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.089M, 1965 Roseate Ln 3/2 $1.199M, 9067 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $1.199M, 734 Anchor Dr 3/2 $1.2M, 755 Pen Shell Dr 3/2 $1.475M, 1508 Middle Gulf Dr 3/4 $1.695M, 2450 Wulfert Rd 4/3 $1.895M, 4039 West Gulf Dr 3/4 $4.975M.

7 back-on-market: 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 $550K, 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 $750K, 3744 West Gulf Dr 4//4 $1.849M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 $1.95M, 4988 Joewood Dr 4/4 $2.45M, 408 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $3.484M, 542 Kinzie Island Ct 3/4.5 $3.489M.

2 price changes: 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $849K, 5309 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 now $890K (SanibelSusan listing).

3 new sales: 1712 Sand Pebble Way (duplex) 4/2 listed at $599K, 5606 Baltusrol Ct 5/6 listed at $3.195M, 6195 Henderson Rd 3/3.5 listed at $3.495M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 back on market: 3730 Coquina Dr $499K.

1 price change: 4801 Tradewinds Dr now $1.98M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: Lands End #1666 3/3 $2.485M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 $1.595M.

1 price change: 15153 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $5.898M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 1119 Schefflera Ct 5/4.5 $9.675M.

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.

Happy New Year!
Susan Andrews
aka SanibelSusan

Looking Forward to Christmas on Sunny Sanibel

 

As the islands prepare for Christmas, it has been surprising that visitor traffic has not picked up. Contractor vehicles continue with morning back-ups coming on island and when departing starting mid-afternoons. Many trucks also have been delivering sand to Lighthouse Beach during the workday, but that project may be finishing soon.

On the causeway islands, it was a change this week to see many of the concrete construction barricades lining the roadway being moved. Those areas still are under construction and not accessible, but newly installed wooden stakes and grass edging now give a glimpse of how those islands may look eventually.

Today, there was further roadway construction progress heading off the island with both lanes now open, beginning just past the mudflats.

Weatherwise, looking ahead to Christmas, next week daytime temperatures here are forecast to be mid- to high-70’s (degrees F) with plenty of blue skies and sunshine. Great weather for those here to escape snow/ice. Maybe tomorrow, Saturday check-ins will bring more families vacationing. Their business is needed and appreciated.

Upcoming Island Events

BIG ARTS Holiday Family Film – This free event to see the movie “The Polar Express” in the BIG ARTS Christensen Performance Hall is Monday, Dec 23 at 6:30 p.m. For tickets, visit https://bigarts.org/event/the-polar-express-2024/.

Captiva Chapel by the Sea – The chapel itself is not open, but a Christmas Eve service will be held outside at 6 p.m. with holiday music beginning at 5:30.

South Seas Holiday Stroll – is this weekend, Dec 20 & 21 (Friday and Saturday) from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Shops at South Seas, 14830 Captiva Dr, with live music/entertainment, arts and crafts, and more.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate Scoop

At the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors last 2024 membership meeting yesterday, guest speaker John Lai from the islands Chamber of Commerce provided updates on recovery, tourism, accommodations, and island promotion.

He said the Chamber website gets over 2M visitors annually and now is focusing on what returning visitors can “expect” when they come back. His slide said, “It’s Not Perfect, But Still Paradise!”

Today, 31% of pre-Ian accommodations are available. That number was up to 36% before Helene. It had been down to 17%. By Feb, he expects that number may be up to 46%, with Sundial, Oceans Reach, Sanibel Inn, and Shell Island scheduled to reopen.

With Easter being late this year and winter weather up north drawing visitors south, the Chamber has new advertising beginning in January in areas where it snows hard (New England, Midwest, internationally, etc.).
Those ads will include a scan link to Wandermap which the Chamber has found to be a successful tool for visitors looking to find what is open. The map app already has had 167K downloads. It provides details on what accommodations, restaurants, shops, and recreation are open, including their website links, hours of operation, and directions. It also provides info back to the Chamber on where these visitors come from and what/where they visit here.
Looking to 2025, John encouraged attendees to register for the Chamber’s upcoming State of the Islands breakfast event which will be Jan 22 at the Mariott Sanibel Harbor Resort and Spa. With a variety of speakers, it will highlight the Economic Outlook. This is the second year for this event. Next year, it will be back on island.

John also encouraged posting Sanibel anniversary events on the Chamber calendar at 50YearsOfSanibel.com. He then fielded a few questions before wrapping up.

During the Caravan Meeting that followed, mostly new listings and price reductions were announced. The standard agenda for these meetings includes new sales, new listings, price reductions, buyer wants, and changes to resource documents (fee changes, etc.). When “buyer wants” were requested, many attendees hollered out “we want buyers”. The Tour after the meeting had five homes open for easy viewing.

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.

Again, it was a slow week for both showings and sales. On Sanibel, there were no condo or lot sales, and no sales at all on Captiva. Four Sanibel homes went under contract, all relatively new listings. Note in the table below that the Sanibel homes that are under contract average just 17 days on the market. It has been the unique well-priced properties that have gone under contract quickly. Even so, 100 fewer Sanibel homes have sold/closed this year compared to last.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

110

969,558

134

175

2,015,247

101

31

1,022,445

254

Under contract

6

1,268,800

152

13

1,370,884

17

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/20/24

74

818,203

118

163

1,476,319

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

35

1,182,742

163

20

6,882,650

258

1

12M

477

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

5,499,999

40

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/20/24

13

1,728,846

185

7

4,203,214

185

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 Dec 13-20:

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sundial #C307 1/1 $575K, Kings Crown #308 2/2 $849K, Sanibel Moorings #1541 3/2 $859K, Gulfside Place #108 2/2 $1.625M, Sundial #O406 2/2 $1.675M.

3 back-on-market: Sanibel Moorings #1422 2/2 $749K, Sanibel Moorings #121 2/2 $929K, Gulfside Place #209 2/2 $1.195M.

2 price changes: Coquina Beach #4B 2/2 now $699K, Kings Crown #217 2/2 now $1.599M.

No new sales.

3 closed sales: Sandalfoot #1C2 2/2 $780K, Loggerhead Cay #472 2/2 $855K, Compass Point #122 3/2 $1.25M.

HOMES

12 new listings: 690 Purdy Dr 3/2 $599K, 1549 Wilton Ln 3/2 $629K, 1950 Periwinkle Way (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $749.9K, 4452 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $799K, 1526 Wilton Ln 4/2 $850K, 1978 Roseate Ln 3/2 $899.5K, 589 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $924K, 1660 Bunting Ln 4/3.5 $1.4M, 1266-68 Par View Dr 4/4 $2.695M, 4318 West Gulf Dr 3/4.5 $2.995M, 659 Anchor Dr 3/4.5 $2.997M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $5.45M.

4 back-on-market: 5089 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $950K, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 $1.44M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.849M, 2287 Starfish Ln 4/4 $2,489,900.

3 price changes: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $565K, 4546 Buck Key Rd 4/2 now $949K, 1311 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.375M.

4 new sales: 490 & 460 Old Trail Rd 3/3 listed at $638.5K, 660/664 Periwinkle Way (duplex) 4/2.5.5 listed at $869K, 706 Nerita St 3/2.5 listed at $1.195M, 6211 Starling Way 4/4.5 listed at $3.75M.

2 closed sales: 248 Christofer Ct 2/2.5 $895K, 819 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.595M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1729 Jewel Box Dr $1.295M.

1 price change: 1801 Olde Middle Gulf Dr now $6.5M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy Lucky Friday the 13th from Sunny Sanibel

After a quick shower Wednesday, a breezy cool front arrived on the islands with temperatures dipping into the low 40’s (degrees F) Thursday morning. Thankfully, it warmed up today, so that chill was short lived.

Last Friday, Sanibel Luminary was a big success. Islanders were thrilled to have this annual event return after missing it the last two years. The weather was delightful. Many businesses and organizations went all out with decorations, music, festivities, food, family activities, sales, and more. Kudos also to Kiwanis members who handled distributing the luminary bags. They were out early and plentiful, lining the Periwinkle shared-use paths from Tarpon Bay Rd to the East End shops.

On Saturday morning, the F.I.S.H. Jog N Jam reported a record number of runners. I saw a few local Realtors were in the 5K including Kerri Maw, Mary Bondurant, Joel Goodman, and Kelly Huguenin. The later evening beach concert and fireworks on Captiva at Tween Waters also were well attended and another win.

Congratulations to the many supporters and volunteers that made these events possible. As community spirit here thrives and grows, these were more steps in returning to normalcy.

Upcoming Island Events

Holiday Movie Night on the Lawn – tonight, Friday, Dec 13 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on the grounds of the Sanibel School. Hosted by the school PTA, it is free and open to the public, featuring a showing of “Arthur Christmas”, along with food truck offerings and concessions. Bring your own chairs/blankets. The movie begins at 6 p.m.

Special Island-Wide Roadside Cleanup – tomorrow, Saturday, Dec 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s Coastal Watch in partnership with the City of Sanibel has organized an event, as part of Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary Celebration. Participants will work in designated areas focusing on clearing debris from roadways, conservation land adjacent to roadways, and right-of-way areas.

Arts & Crafts Fair – Sunday, Dec 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Community House. Free admission and parking.

Expanded Holiday Hours at Tarpon Bay Explorers – The Refuge concession at Tarpon Bay will be open every day from Friday, Dec 20, until Saturday, Jan 4. Kayak tours will be available throughout the day (times vary according to tides). Tram tours will run Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For those that like exploring on their own, bike rentals also are available.

Guided Native Vegetation & Landscaping Tours – at Sanibel City Hall resumed this month. Though City Hall grounds were damaged from Ian and recent storms, its ongoing garden recovery provides an opportunity to view groundcover, shrubs, and trees that require little maintenance and are well adapted to Sanibel’s unique environmental conditions. Scheduled through the end of April, these walking tours begin at 9 a.m. in front of the main entrance to City Hall. Registration is not required. The next ones are Saturday. Dec 28, and Wednesday, Jan 8.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Superior Title of Sanibel team, Chelsea, Amanda, & Dustyn

There was no Realtor Caravan Meeting this week, but Tuesday, Superior Title of Sanibel hosted a “Lunch & Learn” at the Association Office where Old Republic Title provided a 2-hour continuing-education class on “Fraud and Scams Affecting Real Estate Transactions”. The event was delayed 30 minutes by an accident on the causeway that backed up on-coming island traffic for miles. The delay provided more  networking time for the early birds. Well attended by both sales associates and brokers, there was commiseration about the shortage of buyers, showings, and sales. But there was optimism that the market would improve as the islands further recover, accommodations become available, and visitors come back.

One important class take-away is for us to remind buyers and sellers that SanibelSusan Realtors will never provide wiring instructions. Those always come from the title company. Superior Title of Sanibel holds our escrow deposits. We have a long successful relationship with them.

So, if you ever receive an email about a change in wiring instructions, talk to the title company personally, before sending any money. Be aware that title companies rarely, if ever, change their wiring instructions.

Anther tidbit: Did you know that today most of the crooks successfully stealing proceeds from fraudulent transactions are in Nigeria and the money is funneled to terrorists? It totals billions of dollars a year.

We all can always be more careful when responding to emails, texts, and calls. With AI, any email may be polished to appear “real”. Always be on the lookout for red flags in any unexpected correspondence.

More Island Real Estate Scoop

Our next Association of Realtors Caravan will be after the last membership meeting of the year, next Thursday, Dec 19. Guest speaker will be John Lai, President and CEO of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce will update members on tourism and accommodations. To add to the holiday fun, the meeting also will feature our annual Ugly Christmas Sweater contest.

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.

Again, this week, there were more new listings and price reductions than sales, but it was good to see a few sales. No sales on Captiva, and no condo or lot sales on Sanibel, but seven Sanibel homes have gone under contract since last Friday – a huge improvement over last week.

On the commercial side, the former gas station at 1067 Bailey Rd on the corner of Periwinkle, near the 4-way stop is again under contract (third time). The asking price is $2.5M.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 102 951,916 137 163 2,034,405 101 30 1,029,993 256
Under contract 7 1,144,857 110 11 1,268,909 16 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 12/13/24 71 878,446 122 161 1,479,192 116 15 1,403,533 192
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 35 1,182,742 156 20 6,882,650 251 1 12M 470
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 2 5,499,999 40 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 12/13/24 13 1,728,846 185 7 4,203,214 185 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 Dec 6-13:

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Blind Pass #A106 2/2 $435K, Sanctuary Heron #III-3A 3/2.5 $1.35M.

1 back-on-market: Sanibel Moorings #1112 2/2 $949K.

1 price change: Donax Village #19 2/2 now $589K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Siesta #804 2/2 $736K.

HOMES

9 new listings: 2115 Sunset Cir 3/2 $625K, 1657 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 $749K, 660/664 Periwinkle Way (duplex) 4/2.5.5 $869K, 662 Donax St 2/2.5 $995K, 575 Hideaway Ct 3/2 $999K, 706 Nerita St 3/2.5 $1.195M, 799 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.649M, 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 $1.695M, 1290 Bay Dr 3/2 $3.85M.

2 back-on-market: 9226 Kincaid Ct 3/2 $879.9K, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 $2.989M.

7 price changes: 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 now $744K, 4660 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $895K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 now $929K, 1018 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 now $1.079M, 1646 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 now $1.195M, 4752 Rue Helene 2/2 now $1.25M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 now $1.595M.

7 new sales: 567 Rabbit Rd 2/2 listed at $798K, 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 listed at $800K, 761 Nerita St 3/2 listed at $1.179M, 345 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.399M, 862 Beach Rd 3/2 listed at $1.449M, 229 Daniel Dr 4/3 listed at $1.45M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 listed at $2.395M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 4657 Rue Belle Mer $3.05M.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

2 new listings: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/6.5 $5.2M, 944 South Seas Plantation Rd 3/3 $5.95M.

2 price changes: 11505 Gore Ln 6/6 now $3.795M, 16512 Captiva Dr 7/5.5 now $9.45M.

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.

I hope you Friday the 13th was lucky & that you enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sanibel & Captiva Luminary Strolls Are Back!

 Though Southwest Florida continues to be one of the warmest spots in the nation, you can bet there was grumbling this week when we turned our HVAC systems to heat. Thankfully, though chilly, the daytime weather has continued with blue skies with sunshine. Most warmed up into the 70’s (degrees F), but it got down into the low 50’s most nights – timely for decorating for the holiday events this weekend.

Upcoming Island Events

Luminary Festival – After a 2-year storm delay, Sanibel’s Luminary Stroll is back – tonight from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tomorrow at the same time is the Captiva Stroll.

Jog N Jam – Also tomorrow, Saturday, Dec 7 is the FISH 2024 Jog N Jam Celebration which begins with both 5K and 10K races in the morning at The Sanibel Community House, including a Kids Fun Run at the Community Park. Later tomorrow evening, a beach concert and fireworks will be at Tween Waters Resort & Spa on Captiva.

Final Pass for Storm Debris Pickup – Sanibel property owners are asked to place storm-generated debris on their public right-of-way by Sunday, Dec 8 to ensure pickup by the City contractor. The City has authorization from FEMA for reimbursement of debris removal costs including for commercial properties, i.e. condos. The public right-of-way is the area that extends from the street to the sidewalk, ditch, utility pole, or easement. Starting Dec 8, once debris trucks make their final passes, they will not be returning. Please separate the debris by vegetative, building demolition debris, appliances/white goods, electronic waste, and household hazardous waste. Only loose debris will be collected. Bagged debris should not be placed in the right-of-way. Also avoid stacking debris below low hanging power or utility lines, and do not place within 4’ of mailboxes, water meters, fire hydrants, or any other above-ground utility. For questions, call Public Works at 239-472-6397.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

At the islands’ Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting yesterday, no new sales were announced, but a caravan of 11 new listings followed with ten homes and one condo open for viewing.

Our next Caravan will be after the last membership meeting of the year on Dec 19 when guest speaker John Lai, President and CEO of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce will update members on tourism and accommodations.

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.

Another week with no showings and poor sales activity sure is not good news for those looking to sell. There is better than a year’s worth of inventory now in all property types on both islands. We have heard too many times recently that it will take years to recover from these last storms. Some say it is because these caused such far-reaching damage, resulting in more national exposure than Ian two years ago.

It likely also will take years for this inventory to move. Though the storms have taught us to be more patient, I am afraid there will be more listings and serious price reductions required before the market swings back to favor sellers.
Unfortunately, colleagues report that they now are working with few, if any, buyers. Hopefully that changes when more snowbirds and visitors arrive.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

99

953,529

134

160

2,051,869

94

30

1,029,993

249

Under contract

8

1,095,375

99

4

1,097,000

14

1

3,300,000

499

Sold to 12/6/24

70

813,228

124

161

1,479,192

116

14

1,285,928

170

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

35

1,182,742

149

18

7,097,111

271

1

12M

463

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

5,499,999

40

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/6/24

13

1,728,846

185

7

4,203,214

185

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 Nov 29 – Dec 6:

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sandpebble #2E 2/2 $549K, Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 $599K, Lighthouse Point #317 3/2 $649K, Blind Pass #F104 2/2 $699K, Sand Pointe #238 2/2 $875K.

3 price changes: Mariner Pointe #1023 2/2 now $499K, Captains Walk #F3 2/2 now $550K, Spanish Cay #E3 2/2 now $625K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Captains Walk #B5 2/1 $340K.

HOMES

16 new listings: 490 & 460 Old Trail Rd 3/3 $638.5K, 1309 Middle Gulf Dr (Sea Pines E) (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $859K, 5307 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 $899K, 499 Leather Fern Pl 3/2 $920.8K, 5769 San-Cap Rd 2/2 $1M, 4639 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2.5 $1.195M, 1048 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.299M, 345 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.399M, 862 Beach Rd 3/2 $1.449M, 229 Daniel Dr 4/3 $1.45M, 946 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 $1.55M, 748 Windlass Way 3/3 $1.595M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 $2.395M, 961 Limpet Dr 3/2 $2.595M, 5606 Baltusrol Ct 5/6 $3.195M, 1083 Bird Ln 4/2.5 $5.3M.

1 back-on-market: 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 $2.989M.

7 price changes: 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $959K, 4221 Old Banyan Way 3/2 now $1.195M, 729 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3 now $1.24M, 1293 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.395M, 2313 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $1.624M, 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/7.5 now $2.85M, 918 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 now $3.125M.

1 new sale: 5297 Punta Caloosa Ct 3/2 listed at $850K.

2 closed sales: 431 Rabbit Rd 3/2.5 $900K, 5387 Shearwater Dr 4/4.5 $1.875M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 closed sale: 6492 San-Cap Rd $850K.

No new sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Marina Villas #608 2/2 $850K.

1 price change: Beach Homes #29 4/4 now $3,299,500.

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

Post Thanksgiving 2024 on Sunny Sanibel Island

It was a quiet but sunny Thanksgiving week on Sanibel with daytime temperatures mostly in the low to mid-70 degrees F, My car registered 79 mid-day both yesterday and today when traveling the Gulf Drives. I also noticed more bikers than vehicles on the roadways. There still are very few gulf-front properties ready for occupancy so the islands continue to be very quiet except when contractors are working. The one building the home next door to me, even worked yesterday.

Today I snapped a couple of pix at the pond (former site of By-the-Sea condos) when I spotted a roseate spoonbill amid a huge flock of white birds. A little unusual to see one there.

Roseate spoonbill at far right.

Rpseate spoonbill near middle

SanibelSusan News

On the home-front, though it continues to be a relief to be back living in mine, my hot water heater quit last weekend. Seems that even those can be hurricane casualties. This year may be a test to see how many challenges one can overcome. After two storms, losing my car, electric meter and appliances at home, replacing a hot water heater is easy. Aztec Plumbing came to my rescue and a new one was installed quickly. Don’t ask the price.

That hiccup meant I wasn’t prepared to cook Thanksgiving dinner so out we went. Though it was a nice treat not to spend hours preparing the meal, when my dinner plate arrived with the cranberry sauce being the warmest item on it, it made me rethink going back to cooking. Thankful I am, just the same, to be residing and working on Sanibel Island where the community spirit thrives, island leaders tackle challenges, and the laid-back lifestyle is like no other.

Last weekend, I had dinner with a couple of long-time friends, fellow altos from the BIG ARTS Community Chorus. Between the pandemic and hurricanes, we haven’t been singing or together in several years, so it was great fun catching up. Unlike the restaurant yesterday, Traders continues to serve consistently wonderful meals – and their lobster bisque is still terrific.

In Aruba on her bday

Speaking of friends, the announcement about the Celebration of Life for my pal Realtor Mary Lou Bailey was in “The Islander” this week. Many know that we were friends for decades. Competing sometimes in business, we had a lot of respect for each other, often kibitzed about real estate, and usually attended two annual events together – the Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner and the Association of Realtors RPAC Auction. We went to the Kiwanis event in February and then in early March, went on our first girls’ trip, a cruise to celebrate her 80th birthday. Though it was a successful voyage, a couple of weeks after returning, Mary Lou had a massive stroke that caused her to become bedridden and eventually led to her death earlier this month. She did not deserve the eight months she spent trying to recover. She was a special gal, putting clients ahead of herself, and honest to a fault. She will be missed. Her Celebration of Life will be at The Community House on Saturday, Dec 21 at 10 a.m.

Upcoming Island Events

Is it just me, or does it seem like every year Christmas decorations start going up sooner? Some even before the Halloween pumpkins are put away. Even after spending 31 Decembers here, it’s still special to see twinkling lights on palm trees. Get ready to see those this week! The inflatables are already up at Jerry’s and some of the best events of the year are coming up.

Captiva Tree Lighting Celebration – is tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. at Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa.

Sanibel Tree Lighting Celebration – is tomorrow night, Saturday, Nov 30 at 5 p.m. at Sanibel Community Park next to The Community House with sing-along followed by celebration inside The Community House until 8 p.m. with more music, food, ice cream, holiday activity tables, and photo ops.

Luminary Festival – The islands’ Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 36th annual Luminary Festival next weekend, Friday, Dec 6 on Sanibel and Saturday, Dec 7 on Captiva. The Luminary Strolls (from 5:30 to 9 p.m.) are island-wide holiday events that bring together residents, visitors, businesses, and organizations promoting goodwill and community spirit. As you stroll the luminary trails, look for many fun places to stop and enjoy. There are music and activities for the entire family, including a live nativity and photo opportunities.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but next Thursday, Dec 5 is another Caravan Meeting, followed by a caravan of new listings open for viewing (from noon to 3 p.m.) Dave and I will be at our new listing at 5309 Umbrella Pool Rd.

5309 Umbrella Pool Rd

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

Just two new sales were posted this week, a Sanibel condo and a Captiva home. Just two closed sales were posted too, also a Sanibel condo and a Captiva Home.

With more new listings and price reductions, it doesn’t take much analysis to see that there now are years of inventory. Between now and mid-January usually are not busy times for sales, but I sold a home once on Christmas Day so remain optimistic. There are some excellent offerings for those looking to buy.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

93

973,854

141

142

2,087,365

100

31

1,020,929

242

Under contract

9

1,014,666

85

5

1,281,600

88

2

2,095,000

301

Sold to 11/29/24

69

820,087

125

159

1,480,345

115

13

1,319,461

175

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

33

1,128,681

151

18

7,097,111

264

1

12M

456

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

5,499,999

158

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 11/29/24

13

1,728,846

185

7

4,203,214

185

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 Nov 22-29:

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Mariner Pointe #1062 2/2 $539K, Sandalfoot #5B2 1/1 $695K, Heron at The Sanctuary #III-2B 3/2.5 $1.091M.

4 back-on-market: Captains Walk #A4 2/2 $379K, Blind Pass #G102 2/2 $739K, Sandpiper Beach #502 2/2 $865K, Nutmeg Village #104 2/2 $1.1M.

2 price changes: Mariner Pointe #733 2/2 now $549K, Nutmeg Village #211 now $1.075M.

1 new sale: Sanibel Siesta #804 2/2 listed at $749K.

1 closed sale: Heron at The Sanctuary #1-3B 3/2.5 $1.398M.

HOMES

12 new listings: 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $649K, 1322 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $749K, 1436 Jamaica Dr 2/2 $769K, 653 Oliva St 3/2 $874,950; 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.095M, 436 Glory Cir 3/3 $1.22M, 761 Nerita St 3/2 $1.279M, 1255 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.7959M, 5250 Caloosa End Ln 3/2.5 $1.995M, 788 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1,999,999; 6211 Starling Way 4/4.5 $3.75M, 3577 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 $10.5M.

6 price changes: 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 now $800K, 1625 Serenity Ln 3/2 nor $945K, 497 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $979K, 3784 Coquina Dr 3/3 now $989K, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 now $1.585M, 888 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.7749M.

No new & no closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #5114 1/2 $525K.

1 price change: Captiva Beach Villas #3E 5/4.5 now $3.989M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 11527 Wightman Ln 3/2 listed at $999,999.

1 closed sale: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $2.7M.

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

Another Friday with More Sunshine & Blue Skies

It is time for another Friday update. This one with more positive news about island restoration efforts. Photo above taken this afternoon at the park at the end of Dixie Beach Blvd. The osprey on the platform is probably watching for lunch!

Hurricane hero teammate Dave and I continue to monitor our listings, make progress at my home, and meet with owners, while yesterday at the Annual Meeting of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®, I was happy to make both new listing and price change announcements. More details about those are below.

 Dave also reminded me to watch the YouTube video that was featured on PBS this week. If you haven’t seen it, please take the time. It is about an hour and titled “Sanibel Island’s Store – Untold Stores”, it offers an excellent history of the island and Bailey’s, including future plans.

https://youtu.be/MdVpDSk-iJ8?si=_4uRK7uSNv1GecJr

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

At The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® – At the annual meeting of the local Association of Realtors® yesterday, two new 3-year directors were elected: Melanie Holaway and Janka Varmuza. The slate of officers for 2025 also was announced: Incoming-President Becky Mulka, President-Elect Tina DiCharia, Secretary Kelly Huguenin, and Treasurer Bob Berning. The remaining directors are Past-President Brendan Albright, Bryan Hall, and George Kohlbrenner.

In addition to reports from the officers, committee chairs offered activity summaries. As 2024 Chair of the Professional Standards Committee, I was happy to announce that although we have well-trained committee members, there have been “zero” cases that have required our action this year. The island Association takes pride in the professionalism of its members and works hard to keep them all well-equipped for ongoing changes in the industry. As an example, members were encouraged to attend the next monthly Membership Meeting on Nov 21 when the new Buyer Broker forms will be covered.

The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors©, our headquarters building, and The Real Estate Guide are all healthy, financially strong, and ready to sail into 2025 with positive leaders. It is the many Realtor© and affiliate members that volunteer that time and the dedicated staff that make these organizations so successful. Thanks to all of them!

Vacation Rental Scoop – Local vacation rental managers advise that they already are getting bookings from new winter visitors. Many who usually stay further north in Florida and elsewhere have had their reservations cancelled due to storm damage and are looking instead to come to Sanibel and Captiva. I bet when those newcomers discover what a wonderful place the islands are, they will not want to go back to more congested areas. Fingers crossed that they love it here and also decide to purchase!

At SanibelSusan Realty – We posted a new commercial condo listing this week, Lime Tree Center #2 which is 1200 sq. ft. and all new inside. Conveniently located at 1640 Periwinkle Way, this unit offers great office space in a handy central island location, wiith parking just outside the front door. (Priced at $424K)

Nearby Lime Tree Center #4 which we too have listed is a bit smaller at 987 sq. ft., but also all new inside. Neither have been occupied since they were restored after Ian.  #4 is now priced at $349K. Both are great opportunities for island professionals looking for new office spaces. It is easy to view them too.

Both before and after the storms, Dave and I have met and continue to meet with owners thinking of selling. We aren’t alone. The chatter yesterday at the Realtors® meeting was that many colleagues also have new listings coming on the market soon. Last quarter typically is when the islands see the most new listings and it looks like 2024 will produce more than usual. Some properties are just now restored following Ian, others are casualties from Helene and Milton.

Bear in mind that the storms this year were nothing like two years ago. Clean-up is happening swiftly and islanders are getting smarter and more resilient in this hurricane business. Nearly all the restaurants and businesses that had reopened after Ian have already reopened again. (Some exceptions are on Captiva where they had less damage than Sanibel from Ian, but received a significant amount from Milton.

My crystal ball predicts that this will be a great winter for buyers. Once we get beyond the election, more inventory will be available. We encourage those thinking of selling to list now because last quarter often is when buyers come to view property that they can enjoy themselves or benefit from this winter.

Sure some owners may be suffering from post-hurricane blues, but true island lovers know that Sanibel and Captiva will be back better and stronger than ever. They love not only what they own, but where it is. Living in the most laid-back, caring, kind, eco-friendly community makes it hard to beat.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

75

1,025,185

146

90

2,260,624

129

26

1,131,226

266

Under contract

7

1,092,428

155

9

1,139,544

123

1

3,300,000

499

Sold to 10/25/24

64

816,961

125

149

1,460,046

115

13

1,319,461

175

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

30

1,338,900

161

16

7,222,375

286

1

12M

421

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

10M

47

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 10/25/24

13

1,728,846

185

6

4,453,750

150

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023

17

834,176

98

17

2,716,647

70

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 18-25:

Sanibel

CONDOS

9 new listings: Captains Walk #A2 1/1 $329K, Captains Walk #B5 2/1 $365K, Seashells #26 2/2 $445K, Sundial #I207 1/1 $475K, Sanibel Moorings #342 2/2 $779K, Sandalfoot #1C2 2/2 $795K, Loggerhead Cay #472 2/2 $875K, Sandy Bend #5 2/2 $899K, Pointe Santo #B25 2/2 $899K.

2 price changes: Beachcomber #C201 2/2 now $1.249M, Beachcomber #C301 2/2 now $1.395M,

1 new sale: Heron at The Sanctuary #2-3B 3/2.5 listed at $1.398M.

1 closed sale: Sundial #R305 2/2 $1.365M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 530 Leather Fern Pl 2/2 $350K, 1674 Bunting Ln 3/2 $949K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (multi-family) 5/3 $1.05M, 2755 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 $1.398M, 218 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $1.4M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.725M.

6 price changes: 1125 Captains Walk St 3/2 now $700K, 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 now $850K, 838 & 840 Rabbit Rd (multi-family) 4/2 now $979K, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $989K, 668 Anchor Dr 3/2 now $1.499M (SanibelSusan listing), 1321 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 now $2.249M.

1 new sale: 1215 Periwinkle Way 1/1.5 listed at $249.9K.

2 closed sales: 1719 Serenity Ln 3/2 $720K, 9448 Begonia Ct 3/2.5 $956K.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 1653 Bunting Ln $327K.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Captiva Shores #6C 2/2 $1.375M.

1 price change: Bayside Villas #4222 1/2 now $525K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11527 Wightman Ln 3/2 $1.249M.

1 price change: 15160 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 now $4.99M

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, more blue skies and mid-80-degree days are expected here,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Friday After Another Hurricane – Sanibel Strong!

Smallest beach access on bay 10-18-2024

Here it is another Friday with recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton well underway on sunny Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Unlike Hurricane Ian, both storms brought less rain, but wind and surge, so getting utilities back in operation was a top concern for City leaders. Thanks to cooperative efforts with state and local municipalities, workers from all over, and volunteers helping a variety of non-profits, utilities were back on Sanibel by Monday so many residents were able to move back.

Driving to complete island chores yesterday, it was great to see many restaurants and businesses have reopened. The City also has reopened the beach access lots at Bowman’s Beach, Gulfside City Park (Algiers), and Tarpon Bay Rd. There is plenty of sand that needs to be moved before others open, but you can be sure Public Works is on it. The City continues to post updates as progress is made.

West Gulf Dr along West Short & Junonia 10-18-2024

Plenty of water remains in the swales particularly along West Gulf Dr west of Tarpon Bay Rd and in other low-lying areas. The City advises that the weirs remain open and with little rain in the forecast, that water will continue to dissipate. (We are keeping an eye on the high moon tides though.)

The East End seems to have the most storm-debris curbside. Waste management began pickup of regular trash this week (normal schedule), while the City contract with Crowder Gulf for storm debris pickup began midweek. Be sure to follow the City directions on separating that debris to ensure the City gets FEMA reimbursement.

It also is sad to see the many trees and vegetation losing leaves from the saltwater intrusion during both storms. SCCF and the City have posted good tips on waiting to see if they revive once the salt is flushed away. Check their websites for ways to encourage new growth and how to identify plants that aren’t going to make it.

We are becoming storm experts, but I think Mother Nature is done with us this year. It has been breezy and balmy the last two days, hopefully also cooling down Gulf of Mexico summer water that can contribute to hurricanes.

At SanibelSusan’s

Unfortunately, the electric meter replacement at my home which was damaged during Helene could not be done until LCEC disconnected that address. They were not rescheduling disconnects while there were still mass outages, so I moved back into the rental the Loggerhead Cay unit that I evacuated pre-Milton. VIP Vacation Rentals was kind enough to advise when that was OK. Amazing that Loggerhead had little yard debris and no water intrusion into units, though the wrack line was almost to the back of the complex. A little elevation sure helped those buildings.

Throughout the week, hurricane hero teammate son Dave continued to work on drying out my home, ripping out drywall, and treating for mold. I have a contractor lined up to pull lower cabinets to be sure none lurks there, and to replace the walls. Hopefully that won’t mean moving eight times like with Ian, but it’s already been three, so I am optimistic, yet counting.

My move #4 will be tomorrow as VIP Vacation Rentals has found me another nearby condo where I can continue to do business and track progress at home while restoration continues. Looking forward to getting my new work space set up.

Yesterday at home, LCEC did my disconnect and Sanibel Air & Electric was on it at the crack of dawn, replacing and adding new equipment. Power was restored late yesterday which will ensure dry out is complete and repair work more comfortable. (I can’t praise this company and its employees enough. Having used them personally and recommended them for years, they honestly are the most professional caring bunch. Please be sure and use locals like Sanibel Air & Electric if you need services. Businesses here need your support now, more than ever.)

Dave checked our listings again this morning. His updates plus other island news are below. Please let us know if we can help you. We both have been meeting adjusters and inspectors, and willing to assist in any way we can.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The islands Association of Realtors office reopened Monday (no damage there), offering work space for members needing it. The Association annual golf tournament and RPAC Auction were scheduled for the day Milton arrived so those have been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Day/time for our Annual Meeting with election results have not changed, however, that event is next Thursday at 11 a.m. Luckily, we vote electronically, so I have done mine already. (Also found my absentee ballot for the upcoming November federal/state/county elections and got that done/mailed.)

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

Again, not much real estate sales action, mostly new listings, price reductions, and listings being withdrawn (likely due to repairs needed). We are busy meeting with owners considering selling, but our crystal ball is a bit foggy – but always optimistic. Sanibel is strong and will be back.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

67

1,086,894

158

83

2,354,892

133

26

1,131,226

259

Under contract

7

1,095,428

177

10

1,181,500

141

2

1,872,500

503

Sold to 10/18/24

63

808,262

122

147

1,468,510

115

12

1,402,166

147

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

28

1,339,035

161

14

7,851,357

320

1

12M

414

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

10M

47

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 10/18/24

13

1,728,846

185

6

4,453,750

150

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023

17

834,176

98

17

2,716,647

70

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 11-18:

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Spanish Cay #C3 2/2 $625K.

1 back on market: Heron at The Sanctuary II #2-3B 3/2.5 $1.398M.

1 price change: Blind Pass #D204 3/2 now $750K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Arms #D-2 1/1 $320K.

HOMES

7 new listings: 3898 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $795K; 588 Hideaway Ct 3/2 $987K; 1730 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $995K; 708 Tarpon Bay Rd 1/1 $1.1M; 1022 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $1,490,900; 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 $1,990,900; 1133 Golden Olive Ct 4/3.5 $3.98M.

3 price changes: 251 Southwinds Dr 4/3 now $1.099M, 5422 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 now $1.477M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $2.1M.

1 new sale: 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 listed at $2.25M.

2 closed sales: 1251 Par View Dr 3/2.5 $735K, 4577 Waters Edge Ln 4/4 $4.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3132 2/2 $709K.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas 4110 1/2 now $396K, Beach Villas #2323 1/1 now $742.5K.

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

Hurricane Milton Survivors Are Making Progress!

From Mariner Pointe to Sanibel Marina 10-11-2024

Here it is another post-hurricane Friday, and this storm news is getting old. but we are optimistic!

The Hilton Garden Inn in Ft Myers where I have been since Monday didn’t lose power and teammate Dave with grand dog Bella only spent one night in a Miami hotel which he said isn’t worth mentioning. The hotel where I am has been phenomenal, even let me extend.

Dave drove back to his Ft Myers home yesterday. There is no power there, but no damage otherwise. Lisa is due to fly back home tomorrow.

Osprey back today at Anchor/Periwinkle.

The City announced yesterday afternoon that although the island is without utilities (no power, sewer, or water), those with re-entry passes (residents and business) could come back onto the island after about 2:30 p.m. So, Dave and I made a quick visit to my home to assess the damage. It got about 8” more water than with Helene, so about a foot plus inside, more in garage. Looks like the water went down quickly though so even without power, breezes yesterday and today have helped to dry it.

We were both on the island this morning. He’s such a hurricane hero. A few things already tossed out and more to come, but progress. He checked out our listings as we were driving off. Those details are below.

Sanibel Curfew

Just before the storm hit, the City was under mandatory evacuation orders with 24-hour curfew. All City leaders and fire/rescue also were off, with police monitoring roadways. Then yesterday when we were allowed back, curfew was changed to from 9 pm to 6 am. Both days when I drove on the island there were county sheriffs checking cars before the toll booth.

When Dave went back over this afternoon, he said no one was checking. Curfew remains but see my notes below from the City Facebook Live update today at 2:45 p.m. Things change by the minute.

Sanibel’s Latest FB Live Update

Held this afternoon at City Hall under generator power, Mayor Johnson, Councilmembers DeBruce, Henshaw, and Smith were in attendance and all spoke. Restoration updates also were provided by City Manager Souza, Acting Police Chief Thompson, Island Water’s Diana Wilson and Tricia Dorn from LCEC. Some points below

·        The City sewer system cannot run without power. The Donax Plant is working on generator power. The City is getting pumps and generators to get the rest of system operational but even when power is restored and the system energized it will take at least two days to get the storm water out of the system. Ten pumps are arriving tonight. Three vacuum trucks are here now, another five requested. DO NOT USE THE SEWER SYSTEM. PUT NOTHING DOWN A DRAIN IN YOUR PROPERTY.

·        City weirs are open and have been since before the storm. Today is the 1st day that water has not been overriding the weirs. Inland water is receding slowly.

·        The City has activated a contract with the same debris removal company used during Ian (Crowder Gulf). Expect guidance within the next 24 hours regarding how to handle construction debris. They hope that removal will start Wed but will be ONLY for RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY. Businesses and commercial properties, including condos, must arrange with private contractors to remove their debris.

·        Waste Management will begin pick-up of normal residential trash on Monday on their regular schedule. No vegetation pick-up yet. Only residential waste.

·        All island bridges were determined safe. On San-Cap Rd near Pine Ave to the Captiva bridge the road was undermined. Cones there are limiting travel to one lane. County is working with Sanibel Public Works working to make repairs there.

·        FISH providing water and ice at Community House beginning at 3:30 pm today.

·        The Recreation Center now on generator power, hopefully to provide facilities for community use.

·        Beginning at 11:30 a.m. today Causeway is open for access without re-entry permits so residents and business can bring contractors and helpers with them to expedite recovery. Evening curfew remains in affect indefinitely with Sanibel’s finest stopping all vehicles coming/going at Causeway Rd/Sextant Dr. Also patrolling the island. DON’T COME IF YOU DON’T NEED TO BE HERE either checking or working at your property,

·        Sanibel boat ramp now open, after repairs. Beach parking areas all closed. Public Works still working on roadways.

·        Island Water – no major damage to treatment plant. Working now with emergency generators, 2 out of 3 pump stations are OK. DO NOT USE WATER IN YOUR HOME. Boil water notice still in effect. Water may be used outside, if it also is drained outside. If you are not using water, turn water to your property off. If you get to your home and have no water, Island Water may have turned it off. Call 472-1502 if you need help and want to know if yours was shut off.

·        LCEC – Aerial inspection found the system in good condition. The substation to the island was reenergized this afternoon. Now working to get the island areas powered. Many workers are at it but no time was provided for when power is expected to be restored.

·        Building & Planning Depts were on island today to provide assessment required by FEMA. Be sure and get a permit before any restoration work is done.

·        The City will provide more updates as restoration progresses. Be nice, help your neighbors, and be encouraged as though infra-structure damage occurred, Milton was better than expected.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

Of course, the islands Association of Realtors office has been closed, but business continues. I received a new signed listing Tuesday but was waiting for the storm to pass before getting key/pictures/posting.

Below with data from the islands MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the Sanibel/Captiva MLS action reported this week. As expected, not much happened.

On the commercial side, a new condo was listed at Sanibel Professional Center which is at 2323 Wooster Ln. #1 was listed for $349K.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

65

1,091,136

157

80

2,385,591

138

28

1,094.889

264

Under contract

8

1,002,250

174

11

1,386,383

188

2

1,872,500

486

Sold to 10/11/24

62

816,137

121

145

1,454,731

110

12

1,402,166

147

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

28

1,350,196

155

16

7,088,312

304

1

12M

406

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

10M

47

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 10/11/24

13

1,728,846

185

6

4,453,750

150

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023

17

834,176

98

17

2,716,647

70

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 4 – 11:

Sanibel

CONDO9

No new listings.

1 price change: Blind Pass #C101 2/2 now $450K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 1480 Angel Dr 3/3.5 now $3.395M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

If we may help with anything, please let us know. We will both be back on island tomorrow.

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan