Winter, spring… it often is all about the same here on Sanibel where it has been another week of wonderful weather. I never get tired of driving with my sunroof open, hearing the birds chirping overhead. Many osprey nests have chicks now so there is plenty of squawking if they spot you passing by.

A message issued yesterday afternoon by Sanibel’s City Manager offered the below weather update, which proved to be true. Rain began late yesterday and continued off-and-on through the night and today. There has not been a day like this in a long time, so vegetation is benefitting from the free drink.

Thankfully, the forecast says, it should be warm and sunny again by tomorrow afternoon – maybe with many shells rolling in. There were only a handful of vehicles at Lighthouse Beach this morning and the lighthouse itself is still shrouded in a construction cloak while restoration continues there.

Meanwhile, the City reports are that the beach renourishment project at Tarpon Bay Beach was completed ahead of schedule so that access and the Trost Lot are reopened.

“From the National Weather Service (NWS):

“…a widespread rain event will continue to expand from the western Gulf coast Thursday afternoon, eastward across large portions of the South and Florida Thursday night into Friday. This widespread heavy rain will then push northward along much of the Eastern Seaboard Friday into Saturday. Some of the heaviest rainfall totals are expected across South Florida Friday afternoon into early Saturday, with the potential for urbanized flash flooding, especially along the southeast coastal areas of the state.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

A car mishap resulted in me missing the local Association of Realtors® luncheon meeting yesterday, but I was back at my computer later to listen to a Zoom presentation by the Royal Palm Coast Realtor® Association where the team and I also are members. (The Royal Palm Coast Association was formed when the Realtor® Association of Greater Fort Myers and The Beach merged with the Cape Coral Association of Realtors® in 2016.)

Their Board leadership team spoke on what they are doing because of the recent announcement by NAR (National Association of Realtors®) on the class action lawsuit regarding real estate commissions. Like the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®, they are working hard to keep their members informed and educated.

Next week Florida Realtors has scheduled a legal webinar on what their members need to know about the NAR settlement. Some top FL Realtors® instructors Steven David and Patty Ketchum also are scheduled to teach classes on Buyer Broker Agreements.

I have read the case details and have followed the often-misleading national news about this NAR settlement. My comments and opinion are below.

SanibelSusan Says “Real Estate Commissions/Compensations & The Sky Are Not Falling”

The recently announced NAR settlement outlines three policy changes:

1. Buyer Brokers will be required to have an Agency Agreement with each Buyer. (We already do this.)
2. Buyer and Seller Broker compensations must be negotiated in separate agreements. (This is new.)
3. NAR Multiple Listing Systems will be prohibited from publishing Seller offers of Buyer Broker compensation. (This is ridiculous. What is wrong with full disclosure?)

What is rumor:

• That a certain percentage or commission amount is eliminated. (There is no language on what a commission can or should be, they have always been and will continue to be negotiable.)
• Property prices will go down. (Why? Sale prices are a function of supply and demand.)
• This is the end of Buyer agents. (I cannot imagine that Buyers will want to purchase without their own representation. Buyers and Sellers have always been able to select their representatives. It will continue.)
• These changes will result in Selling agents representing both sides of a transaction. (That may happen occasionally, but most Buyers will want to continue to choose their own representative, Nothing prevents or should prevent them from purchasing a property their Realtor has listed.)
• That this NAR settlement is a “done deal”. (While both parties have agreed, any outcome from a Class Action Lawsuit must be approved by the court. We have not heard the end of this yet. So far, it looks like just the courts and attorneys are benefiting.)

I have often said that doing business in a small community like the islands is better than in the “real world”. Our agents routinely cooperate with each other. We rarely have complaints from colleagues or the public because if we notice that someone makes a mistake, we help them.  We share knowledge, we want our work to be appreciated, and our profession admired for its honesty.

There is truth to the saying “a Realtor® job is never done!” Hurricane Ian proved that in spades! Most Realtors® are in the business because they care and want to help people.

I am thankful to not only live, but to work in paradise in Florida where the listing and sales contracts protect all parties while providing agency representation and disclosure of compensation.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

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

On the commercial side, we just listed a condo in Lime Tree Center at 1640 Periwinkle Way which is a 5-unit single-story building just a couple of steps up from ground-level. The building has a new roof and new interior. Unit #4 listed at $399K is ~987 sq. ft. under air.  Formerly an accounting office, its central island location and easy access also suits other businesses.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Mar 15-22

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Lake Palms #5 2/2.5 $579K, Sanibel Moorings #611 2/2 $849K, Nutmeg Village #104 2/2 $999K, Sanibel Surfside #135 2/3 $1.15M, Sunward #102 2/2 $1.2M, Heron at The Sanctuary II #3-B 3/2.5 $1.398M, St Croix #4 2/2 $1.8M.

7 price changes: Sanibel Moorings #1411 1/1 now $599K, Blind Pass #C201 2/2 now $599K, Blind Pass #D204 3/2 now $779K, Shell Island Beach Club #5D 2/2 now $1.089M, Sundial #L402 2/2 now $1.325M, Sundial #R305 2/2 now $1.419M, Chelsea Place #2 4/4 now $3.5M.

2 new sales: Gulfside Place #204 2/2 listed at $1.25M, Pointe Santo #A27 3/2 listed at $1.795M.

2 closed sales: Sundial #D309 1/1 $425K, Sunset South #1A 2/2 $570K.

HOMES

10 new listings: 653 Oliva St 3/2 $925K, 9470 Balsa Ct 3/2 $1.05M, 1133 Schooner Pl 5/2 $1.2M, 2499 Harbour Ln 3/3 $1.595M, 6424 Pine Ave 2/2 $1.595M, 1310 Par View Dr 3/3 $1.649M, 2474 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $2.498M, 1044 Whisperwood Way 4/4.5 $2.8M, 1245 Buttonwood Ln 6/5 $10M, 4405 West Gulf Dr 6/6.5 $38M.

11 price changes: 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 now $699K, 1806 Ibis Ln 3/2 now $755K, 970 Greenwood Ct S 3/2.5 now $809K, 9226 Kincaid Ct 3/2 now $949M, 1319 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $1.299M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.539M, 729 Sand Dollar 4/3 now $1.345M, 6090 Dinkins Lake Rd 3/3.5 now $1.42M, 4179 Dingman Dr 4/4 now $1.999M, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 now $2.1M, 1828 Buckthorn Ln 4/4.5 now $2.2M.

2 back-on-market: 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $999.9K, 1025 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $2.925M.

7 new sales: 5303 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 listed at $979K, 2612 Coconut Dr 3/2 listed at $1.05M, 4171  Dingman Dr 3/3 listed at $1.299M, 696 Durion Ct 3/2.6 listed at $1.495M, 969 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.495M, 1283 Isabel Dr 3/2 listed at $2.82M, 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/7.5 listed at $3.195M.

7 closed sales: 3902 Coquina Dr 3/2 $521K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 $775K, 6128 Starling Way 3/3.5 $1.5M, 2236 Starfish Ln 3/3 $1.65M, 4415 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 $1.675M, 848 Birdie View Pt 4/3.5 $2.3425M, 707 Anchor Dr 3/2.5 $2.6M.

LOTS

No new listings.

5 price changes; 1757 Windward Way now $415K, 5398 Osprey Ct now $419K, 355 Cowry Ct now $512K, 3730 Coquina Dr now $525K, 2807 West Gulf Dr now $869K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Marina Villas #603 2/2 $950K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11516 Andy Rosse Ln 6/6 $2.85M.

1 price change: 16632 Captiva Dr 5/4 now $7.5M.

1 new sale: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.4 listed at $3.499M

No 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

SanibelSusan has been back to home-sweet-home on the island since Sunday and it has been great to see more recovery progress just in the few days that I was away cruising. The main roadways on the bridges had already been open for some time before I left, but there has been obvious post-construction cleanup and work performed on the causeway islands themselves.

On Sanibel itself, it was equally wonderful to see activity at the recently reopened 7-11 (1521 Periwinkle Way) near Mudbugs. Tahitian Gardens shopping center also has had many cars all week, as have the Olde Sanibel Shoppes at the intersection of Tarpon Bay Rd and Periwinkle. It is indeed progress to have more restaurants and shops open with visitors and locals supporting them.

Condo Reopenings

Blind Pass clubhouse 03-2024

Blind Pass Condominiums – Their newsletter posted today has some great news. While work continues at their ground-level units, Blind Pass is accepting reservations for 2^nd floor units beginning June 1. They also announced that their ribbon-cutting will be June 3 at 11:30 a.m. Their first resident owner is scheduled to move back in just a couple of weeks, while another owner was the first to vacation in their unit this week. Their clubhouse is about done with their rental staff available Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or check out their website at www.blind-pass.com.

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa – A billboard just off island says that Sundial Resort also is again taking reservations (for stays beginning August 3). Their website is www.SundialResort.com for nightly reservations, while many units are also in off-site programs offering weekly reservations.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

The local Association of Realtors® did not meet this week, but their March Membership meeting is next Thurs (Mar 25) at The Community House (11:30 a.m.). followed by a Caravan of Open Houses (noon to 3 p.m.) The meeting speakers will be a panel from our Affiliate member rental companies. Our Professional Development Committee has compiled a list of questions for them. Next week, I will post what they report to us.

Also, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® is looking forward to our Affiliate Trade Show next Wed at The Community House from 5 to 7 p.m. That is where our business members set up to market their companies to our Realtor® members. Those affiliates include accountants, appraisers, architects, attorneys, bankers, builders, cleaners, consultants, decorators, inspectors, insurance providers, non-profits, roofers, rental companies, title companies, & more. They are key to the success of our Association and businesses.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

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

On the commercial side, The Driftwood Inn a 4-unit nightly rental at 711 Donax St in Sanibel Shores was listed this week for $2.595M.

This week, SanibelSusan Realty posted a new listing in Sundial East. The Sellers were here vacationing and left today. Teammate Dave showed homes a couple days this week, including today. We both also viewed properties for owners thinking of selling, while teammate Lisa continues (every weekend) to update our island-wide inventory lists. If you would like an updated list emailed or mailed to you, just send us an email or text, or call.

Now that 2024 first quarter is wrapping up, I added a couple of lines to the summary tables below. Since 2022, before Hurricane Ian hit, was a very good year for sales, I added the activity from Jan 1 to Mar 15, 2022 and also added the activity from the same period last year. It offers a comparison of how sales year-to-date compare with just before and just after the storm.

Digging into the Sanibel data illustrates how home buyers after the storm, mostly purchasing property that needed restoration, while condo buyers after the storm, were buying larger units.

Today, the island real estate markets continue to adjust. At the current rate of sales, Sanibel available inventory includes 16 months of condos, 14 months of homes, and two years of lots. Captiva inventory includes three years of condos,16 months of homes, and anyone’s guess on lot sales.

More condos likely will come on the market as complexes reopen, in the meantime, there are plenty of good choices for those looking to purchase.

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #1441 1/1 $659K, Sand Pointe #122 2/2 $849K, Pointe Santo #C21 2/2 $999K, Shell Island Beach Club #5D 2/2 $1.189M, Sundial #R401 2/2 $1.295M (SanibelSusan listing), Shorewood #A4 5/4 $3.999M.

1 price change: Heron at The Sanctuary #1-1B 3/3.5 now $999K.

4 new sales: Mariner Pointe #842 2/2 listed at $679K, Loggerhead Cay #181 2/2 listed at $875K, Sundial #A408 2/2 listed at $995K, Sandpiper West #4 3/2.5 listed at $2.55M.

2 closed sales: Sundial #G206 1/1 $575K, Sand Pointe #116 2/2 $860K.

HOMES

7 new listings: 5303 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 $979K, 838/840 Rabbit Rd (duplex) 4/2 $999K, 753 Nerita St 3/2.5 $1.05M, 2612 Coconut Dr 3/2 $1.05M, 5305 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 $1.068M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 $2.449M, 4257 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $12M.

8 price changes: 1196 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $800K, 4171 Dingman Dr 3/3 now $1.299M, 1646 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 now $1.385M, 828 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3 now $1.75M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $1.899M, 417 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 now $2,499,900; 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $2.95M, 1500 Angel Dr 4/3.5 now $3.5M.

1 back-on-market: 2711 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5.5 $1.998M.

5 new sales: 4268 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 listed at $695K, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 listed at $999.9K, 932 Whelk Dr 3/3 listed at $1.15M, 3302 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.244M, 9436 Shearwater Dr 3/3.5 listed at $2.25M.

2 closed sales: 1617 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $640K, 2745 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 $1.998M.

LOTS

1 new listing: Lot 16 Gulf Pines Dr $749K.

1 price change; 2807 West Gulf Dr now $859K.

1 new sale: 2933 Wulfert Rd listed at $475K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Homes #16 4/4 $5.5M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 16321 Captiva Dr 5/4 $3,347,500.

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 & St Patrick’s Day, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Greetings from the Southern Caribbean Sea

Aruba

This is SanibelSusan’s 707th Friday Sanibel & Captiva real estate blog, covering a period of 13-1/2 years. Today is the first one in March that was not prepared on Sanibel.

My real estate pal, Mary Lou, had a special birthday this week, one deserving of a celebratory vacation.

Island recovery this winter, including lack of accommodations, has made it a unique time and has affected business, so she agreed to go on a birthday cruise to the ABC islands. We are aboard the Celebrity Reflection, left Ft. Lauderdale Sat, toured Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, and are now heading back to Ft. Lauderdale.

Today’s technology has made it easy for both of us to continue business from afar, though we also have help at home who have assisted this week with showings and property visits.

If you are wondering, the ABC islands continue to have high temps year-round (mid 80’s F when we were there), humid, arid, and quite breezy. Our excursions were fun, the islanders happy and relaxed, like on our islands. These Dutch islands also are very clean, with beautiful beaches and many natural preserved areas.

Two Shell Events

If you are on the island now or tomorrow, extra traffic is expected from two shell events:

The 2024 Sanibel-Captiva Shell Show is today and tomorrow at the Marriott Sanibel Harbor Resort and Spa which is just before the causeway.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both day, this event is larger this year with scientific and artistic exhibits, as well as many vendors with shell-related items.

Meanwhile at the Sanibel Community House, the shell crafters are hosting the 87th Annual Shell Festival which began Thurs and runs both today and tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Florida Legislative Session

I just received a thank you email from Florida Realtors 2024 President, Gia Arvin. It included the below summary which may interest you.

”Just a few minutes ago, the Florida Legislature ended its annual 60-day legislative session, bringing numerous victories for our profession, our customers, property owners and the

With Gia in Orlando at the Mid-Winter Business Meetings Jan 2024

communities where we live and work. At the center of our advocacy success was the Realtor voice, which not only helped move the needle on some of our key issues but also helped us achieve notable state budget wins for affordable housing and the environment.

”One of our largest advocacy successes this year was $100 million to fund the Hometown Heroes Housing Program. Since 2021, this highly successful first-time homebuying program has helped more than 14,000 hard-working Floridians buy their first home. This additional funding will help thousands more when the money becomes available after July 1 of this year.

“In addition to the Hometown Heroes Housing funding, we also achieved other significant legislative wins such as:

• $408 million for state and local programs that increase affordable housing options for Floridians.
• $1.2 billion for water quality and environmental projects to keep Florida clean and beautiful.
• $230 million to help Floridians harden their homes and condominiums against storms while saving on insurance premiums.
• Increased transparency and availability of condominium and HOA documentation.
• A decrease in Floridians’ property insurance premiums.
• The creation of a seller flood disclosure so buyers can make informed decisions and reduce post-closing disputes.
• A streamlined process for sheriffs to remove squatters occupying residential property.

“This was a tremendously successful legislative session, and I can’t thank you enough for lending your voice and your time to advocate on behalf of the Realtor® profession.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The local Association of Realtors® Caravan of Open Houses was yesterday at The Sanibel Library. Seven Sanibel homes and one on Captiva were open for viewing following  the meeting,

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Mar 1-8

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sundial #A408 2/2 $995K.

1 back on market: Sunset South #12D 2/2 $620K.

5 price changes: Spanish Cay #C6 2/2 now $439K, Captains Walk #B5 2/1 now $459K, TennisPlace #C34 2/1.5 now $550K, Sundial #K403 2/2 $1.15M, Sandpiper West 3/2.5 now $2.55M.

5 new sales: Sundial #D312 1/1 listed at $498K, Sunset South #9B 2/2 listed at $599.9K, Loggerhead Cay #282 2/2 listed $844K, Sundial #N203 2/2 listed at $995K, Bandy Beach #E101 3/2 listed at $1.05M.

2 closed sales: Sanibel Siesta #501 2/2 $645K, Sanibel Siesta #402 2/2 $769.9K.

HOMES

10 new listings; 2005 Mitzi Ln 2/2 $794.5K, 5869 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 $1.05M, 396 Lake Murex Blvd 3/2 $1.1M, 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.45M, 9020 Mickingbird Dr 3/2 $1.595M, 994 Whelk 3/2 $1.595M, 1111 Schooner Pl 3/3 $1.99M, 2364 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $1.998M, 978 Oyster Ct 4/4 $2.995M, 4731 Rue Belle Mer 5/5.5 $8.95M.

12 price changes: 1719 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $798K, 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 now $999K, 3343 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 now $1.122M, 9421 Moonlight Dr 3/2 now $1.159M, 4400 Gulf Pines Dr 4/3 $1.395M, 1241 Junonia St 4/3 now $1.495M, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 now $1.65M, 900 Almas Ct 4/4.5 now $2.15M, 5810 Pine Tree Dr 4/3 now $2.5M, 2287 Starfish Ln 4/4 now $2,599,999; 2255 Troon Ct 4/5 now $2.699M, 3767 West Gulf Dr 6/6.5 now $9.95M.

11 new sales: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 1251 Par View Dr 3/2.5 listed at $790K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $895K, 198 Southwinds Dr 3/2 listed at $1.224M, 1067 Sand Castle Rd 4/2 listed at $1.225M, 1321 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 listed at $1.325M, 5298 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 listed at $1.495M, 1025 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3 listed at $2.85M.

8 closed sales: 1535 Wilton Ln 2/2 $585K, 4263 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $750K, 2058 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $950K, 1213 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 $1.175M, 1322 Seaspray Ln 3/2.5 $1.4M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $1.75M, 3935 West Gulf Dr 6/6.5 $7.55M.

1 new listing: 3304 Saint Kilda Rd $739K.

3 price changes: 1757 Windward Way now $449K, 1331 Par View Dr now $529K, 1321 Seaspray Ln now $899K.

1 new sale: 972 Fitzhugh listed at $295K.

1 closed sale: 4640 Rue Belle Mer $1.25M.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Lands End Village #1656 3/3  $2.85M. 

1 price change: Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 now $650K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Gulf Beach Villas #2118 2/2 $985K.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 57 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.499M.

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! We dock early Sunday morning!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It’s SanibelSusan reporting another sunshiny Friday following another week of wonderful Florida winter weather. The forecast for next week is similar though it shows a chance of rain on Monday and Tuesday daytime temperatures might hit 80 degrees F.

Re-Building, Re-Openings, Restoration

Sanibel Lighthouse – If you saw photos of the Lighthouse last week with scaffolding, it has an even more “work in progress” look this week. Additional protection was added as part of the process in cleaning, sandblasting, and painting the structure. It now has the appearance of a lighthouse in disguise. If you go to check it out, also be sure to see the wide expanded East End beach where sand restoration continues.

Shell Museum – Today (Mar 1) is the reopening of the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum’s Living Gallery of Aquariums. Open Tues through Sat from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission fees are reduced until the full restoration at the museum is complete.

In addition to their ongoing educational lectures, fieldwork, classes, research, and K-12 programs (all of which continued through rebuilding), with the aquariums open, the museum now also offers daily Keeper Chats, Touch Pool Talks, and a new mobile activity cart featuring shell identification. All of these are included in the price of admission.

Work to rebuild the 2^nd floor permanent shell exhibits in the Great Hall of Shells will continue through spring. Once that is done, it will include more than three times as many shells as pre-storm, expanded conservation and environmental education exhibits, and a new family activity area.

Suncatchers’ Dream – Suncatchers’ Dream at 630 Tarpon Bay Rd, in the Olde Sanibel Shoppes Center, which was destroyed during the storm has been restored and just announced their upcoming reopening celebrations which will be on Thurs and Fri March 28 and 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition to their many island gifts, cards, and books, a rep from Dune Jewelry also will be there showcasing special items made with island sand.

Most Charming Small Town in Florida

The following article was posted this week on News Channel 8 (Tampa) (WFla):

“If you’re looking for the charm of a small town but still want a relaxing beach getaway, you might want to take a trip to a beach town on Florida’s southwest coast.

 “According to Reader’s Digest, Sanibel has earned a spot among the most charming small towns in America. Reader’s Digest said Sanibel is known for “fabulous seashell finds” and wildlife sightings. The magazine recommended travelers visit the Sanibel Historical Museum…. Reader’s Digest said the museum is packed with artifacts from the Calusa Native Americans, Spanish, and other pioneers who lived in Sanibel.

 “The magazine recommended the Island Inn, a gulf-front hotel on West Gulf Drive…. Although Hurricane Ian hit the town in 2022, city officials said they have worked to restore the beach and nature destinations, including rebuilding the Sanibel Causeway, which was severed during the storm. “We may not be perfect yet, but we still consider the islands of Sanibel & Captiva their own brand of paradise. Many agree and continue to visit to help support our recovery,” city officials said.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The local Association of Realtors® Caravan of Open Houses is next Thursday afternoon (Mar 7), with the next Membership Meeting and Caravan on Mar 25. The event next week is at the Library and the membership meeting  at The Community House. Restoration of the Association building at 2353 Periwinkle Way continues. It’s getting close.

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 23‑Mar 1 

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Sanibel Siesta #605 2/2 $875K, Oceans Reach #4C3 2/2 $900K, Oceans Reach #4D1 2/2 $910K, Sunset South #15B 2/2 $1.1M, Sundial #L402 3/2 $1.35M, Tamarind #B302 3/2 $2.795M.

3 price changes: Sunset South #3C 2/2 now $699K, Sundial #K403 2/2 now $1.15M, Villas of Sanibel #A201 3/3 now $1.495M.

2 new sales: Sundial #D309 1/1 listed at $449K, Island Beach Club #220A 2/2 listed at $560K.

2 closed sales: Tantara #302 3/2 $1.8M, Somerset #B102 3/3.5 $1.9M.

HOMES

14 new listings; 4049 Coquina Dr 3/2 $575K, 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $750K, 293 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $998.9K, 4619 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 $999K, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 $1.095M, 5414 Osprey Ct 3/3 $1.406M, 944 Whelk Dr 3/2 $1.595M, 4428 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $1.6999M, 828 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3 $1.87M, 938 Pecten Ct 3/2.5 $1.895M, 2303 Troon Ct 3/3.5.5 $2.298M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 $2.499M, 5048 Joewood Dr 4/3.5 $2.55M, 1025 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $2.85M.

14 price changes: 3025 Royal Poinciana Cir 3/2 now $849K, 199 Southwinds Dr 3/3 now $995K, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 now $999.9K, 235 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $1.094M, 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1,199,999; 1450‑1460 Court Pl 5/4.5 now $1.2M, 1067 Sand Castle Rd 4/2 now $1.225M, 1306 Par View Dr 3/3.5 now $1.39M, 3708 Agate Ct 3/3.5 now $1.39M, 3822 Coquina Dr 4/3.5 now $1.395M, 4171 Dingman Dr 3/3 now $1.399M, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 now $2.174M, 1511 Angel Dr 4/3 now $2.199M, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $2.75M.

2 back-on-market: 863 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $678.5K, 218 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $1.488M.

11 new sales: 3902 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed at $539K, 1481 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 listed at $679K, 998 Greenwood Ct N 3/2.5 listed at $705K, 3312 Saint Kilda 3/2 listed at $777K, 737 Vinca Way 3/2 listed at $1.075M, 6460 Pine Ave 3/2 listed at $1.25M, 3212 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 listed at $1.3M, 1769 Venus Dr 3/2 listed at $1.949M, 2711 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5.5 listed at $1.998M, 4681 Rue Belle Mer 3/3.5 listed at $4.7M, 707 Anchor Dr 3/2.5 listed at $2.99M.

3 closed sales: 5151 San-Cap Rd 2/2 $399K, 9393 Peaceful Dr 3/2 $1.15M, 5690 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 $2.2M.

3 new listings: 5642 Baltusrol Ct $439, 5648 Baltusrol Ct $449K, Lot 19 Coquina Dr $515K.

2 price changes: 3730 Coquina Dr now $565K, 4657 Rue Belle Mer now $3.3M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 4163 West Gulf Dr $3.51M.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Gulf Beach Villas #2126 2/2 now $1.25M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 now $3.1M.

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

Another Friday is here following another week of mostly sunny sometimes chilly (or under 70 degrees F) weather. Temps are expected to reach the high 70’s soon, so the nice weather continues.

There seemed to be a few more visitors/vacationers here this week following the 3-day holiday weekend, a noticeable increase of both bikers and walkers on the shared use paths and side streets, and definitely more at the public beach parking areas.

Our Travels

Both teammate Dave and I have been out showing property again this week. Our challenges included some occasional cell phone service delays and the return of heavy contractor traffic after the long weekend.

Personally, I try not to leave the island often, but traveling from the East End, there are delays on Periwinkle leaving after 2 p.m. and returning anytime in the morning. Returning after 2 p.m. also usually results in a long delay at the 4-way stop with off-island vehicles given priority.

Leaving the island, Summerlin Rd from the toll booth to Port Comfort Rd (site of Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant) is now limited to one lane. The right-hand lane along what we often call “the mud flats” is completely closed off for about three months as contractors perform work to protect the shoreline. They will be clearing vegetation and installing underground marine mattresses. Expect slow going along that stretch.

More Progress

On the causeway, marine mattresses are also being installed, these from the water. With bridge travel now on what will become the permanent roadways, good progress continues too on the islands and bridges themselves.

The Sanibel beach restoration project work is also moving along nicely. At Lighthouse Beach, the bayside parking lot closed beginning this week, to be used as a staging area for the restoration underway between the Lighthouse and Donax St,

At the actual Lighthouse, scaffolding went up this week, as it soon will get a new coat of paint.

Re-Building, Re-Openings, Restoration

The Bubble Room – I saw a post this week saying that the Bubble Room Restaurant will be reopening later this year. They do not have a set month yet, but recently had a new roof put on. Meanwhile, Boop’s by The Bubble Room is open daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with their famous cakes and desserts, plus breakfast and lunch items. The Bubble Emporium Gift Shop is also open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with gifts, Bubble Room merchandise, and antiques.

Olde Sanibel East End Shops – At the Olde Sanibel East End shops, it’s wonderful to see the parking lot often busy with increased activity now that The Magic Bus is open. I see lotsa folks enjoying ice cream. Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant (in the former location of Lighthouse Café) also looks to be close to opening. They have their tables and chairs set up! Between the action there and the sand trucks heading to the Lighthouse, the East End is busier than in a very long time.

Kiwanis Annual Spaghetti Dinner – This annual event returns tomorrow night after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic and hurricane. If you were planning on buying your ticket at the door, it looks like it is too late for that, I just saw a notice that the event is sold out. With proceeds going to local youth education and recreation, this event always brings out islanders.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

The Caravan of Open Houses following the local island Association of Realtors® monthly membership meeting yesterday included 12 Sanibel homes, two Sanibel condos and a home on Captiva. The next Caravan is in two weeks.

As I prepared my company ad for the monthly Real Estate Guide magazine and collected sales data from the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service, I also noticed postings by colleagues about what many are calling a market correction. Those are normal occurrences in the real estate market when there is more inventory than buyers or more buyers than inventory. Sometimes prices go up, sometimes they go down.

On Sanibel and Captiva where the most sales usually occur when the most buyers are in town which typically is the winter, the end of February often is when prices are corrected to ensure a successful sale “in season”. This year not only is “high season” winding down, but it is happening as the number of listings continues to increase. Many of those are the result of the hurricane. I look at it as a transition period and actually a good time for both sellers and buyers as the islands continue to recover and bounce back to what probably will be a new normal.

The good news is that there are more choices for buyers whether they want a property ready for occupancy, investment, a project, or in a specific location or community. Below, with data from the islands MLS, are summary tables of the island residential sales statistics, followed by the MLS action reported this week.

First week in memory that there was no action posted on Captiva, while Sanibe shows twice as much action with homes as condos – double the number of listings, new listings, price reductions, new sales, and closed sales. Condos will catch up eventually.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 16‑23

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listing: Sanibel Arms #D3 1/1 $425K, Mariner Pointe #1073 2/2 $749K, Blind Pass #D204 3/2 $850K, Gulfside Place #125 3/2 $1.895M.

7 price changes: Spanish Cay #C6 2/2 now $449K, Mariner Pointe #951 1/1 now $529K, Loggerhead Cay #282 2/2 now $844K, Mariner Pointe #223 2/2.5 now $874.9K, Pointe Santo #B44 2/2 now $995K, Pointe Santo #E43 2/2 now $1.15M, Sanibel Moorings #721 3/2 now $1.3M.

1 back-on-market: Bandy Beach #E101 3/2 $1.05M.

3 new sales: Sanibel Shores #B2 1/1 listed at $529K, LaPlaya #2A 3/2 listed at $1.095M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 listed at $1.25M.

1 closed sale: Oceans Reach #2A2 2/2 $800K.

HOMES

11 new listings; 3902 Coquina Dr 3/2 $539K, 1866 Ibis Ln 2/2 $839K, 1625 Serenity Ln 3/2 $979K, 547 Chert Ct 3/3.5 $999K, 738 Durion Ct 3/3 $1.399M, 933 Whelk Dr 3/2 $1.695M, 819 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.895M, 1769 Venus Dr 3/2 $1.949M, 911 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 $2.285M, 1283 Isabel Dr 3/2 $2.82M, 4352 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 $3.395M.

14 price changes: 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 now $768.5K, 1719 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $819K, 1196 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $825K, 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 now $869,999; 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 now $994.5K, 9479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 now $999,990; 737 Vinca Way 3/2 now $1.075M, 3822 Coquina Dr 4/3.5 now $1.395M, 729 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3 now $1.395M, 742 Nerita St 3/2 now $1.75M, 3744 West Gulf Dr 4/4 now $1.95M, 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/7.5 now $3.195M, 918 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 now $3.225M, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 now $3.549M.

3 back-on-market: 931 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3.5 $998K, 932 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.15M, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $1.6M.

7 new sales: 1113 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $798K, 2166 Egret Cir 3/2 listed at $799K, 920 Almas Ct 3/2.5 listed at $1.595M, 6129 Starling Way 3/2.5 listed at $1.598M, 840 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 listed at $1.925M, 558 N Yachtsman 2/3 listed at $1.999M, 2871 Wulfert Rd 4/4 listed at $2.59M.

1 closed sale: 967 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/3 $1.275M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 5398 Osprey Ct $429K, 6008 White Heron Ln $1.195M.

1 price change: 2505 Island Inn Rd now $275K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 4717 Rue Belle Mer $3.2M.

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.

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Following another week of nice winter island weather (mostly sunny with mid-70-degree F days), the forecast shows a high chance of rain beginning late tomorrow and into Sunday. A couple of cooler days may follow, but it likely will be back into the 70’s soon.

With the 3-day Presidents weekend, it would be nice to have good weather for visitors. Island restaurants and shops are ready for more business. Maybe rain will bring them customers.

Re-Building, Re-Openings, Restoration

Cheeburger Cheeburger – A social media post says this restaurant in Tahitian Gardens is expected to reopen in nearly April under new ownership,

National Shell Museum – The new sign is up at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium. Rumor has it that their reopening will be announced soon.

Sanibel Marina – Gramma Dot’s at the Sanibel Marina at 634 N Yachtsman Dr recently reopened, It has been under new ownership since early January by Acme Marine Co. The prior owner had a food truck there for about nine months following the hurricane. The restaurant itself had a soft opening on Dec 13 and now is fully open. Operating for over three decades, their recipes remain the same, and they are open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. At Gramma Dot’s recent ribbon-cutting, two other businesses also opened at the Sanibel Marina: Adventures in Paradise (AIP) tours and Moke and Cabana Club rentals. Since 1986, AIP has run tours out of Port Sanibel Marina (off island). Following the hurricane, they rescued hundreds from the islands and transported many first responders. From the marina, Adventures in Paradise is offering morning, afternoon, and sunset dolphin and wildlife cruises, and a shelling beach and lunch cruise to Cabbage Key, plus private and holiday cruises. Moke and Cabana Club opened before Ian in 2022 and worked on a delivery basis after the storm. It now partners with the marina for office space, where it rents electric vehicles known as Mokes, golf carts, beach cabanas and chairs, and electric surfboards.

Signal Inn – Though the office and grounds are still a work in progress and the pool isn’t expected to be done until mid-March, Signal Inn just announced that they are accepting reservations for stays beginning in April. Signal Inn has 19 units and is one Sanibel’s few pet-friendly weekly rental condos (up to two dogs or cats allowed).

White Caps – News this week is that the nine little cottages at 2877 West Gulf Dr that the hurricane destroyed are being rebuilt and will be put on pilings. Once the site is ready, the new cottages will be delivered and elevated. Then, stairways and a small porch will be added to each one, exteriors painted, and interiors finished. This condo community originally had eight small 1-bedroom units and a single 3-bedroom. The rendering looks like they will be duplex-style.

The Future of Florida Real Estate

Looking at the state overall, Florida home values have increased about 80% over the past five years. Analysts that watch that market have weighed in on how rising interest rates have affected sales but agree that the Florida housing market is strong and a positive trend is expected for at least the next five years.

For sellers, this is good news, implying that property values are rising. Whether the country enters a recession, or not, the housing market appears to be in good shape in Florida for the foreseeable future. It’s a good time for real estate investors to capitalize on market possibilities.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

There was no meeting this week for the local island Association of Realtors®, but next Thursday at 11:30 a.m. is our monthly Membership Meeting which again will be at The Community House. A caravan of open houses will follow the meeting, until about 3 p.m.

Though the SanibelSusan Team has been showing property and talking with prospective purchasers, as we chat with island colleagues, the overall feeling is much the same – inventory has increased, but not many are buying. This is resulting in price reductions and that may continue until sales pick up.

Illustrating that below, with data from the islands MLS, are summary tables of the island residential sales statistics, followed by scoop about our listings, and the MLS action reported this week.

On the commercial side, another property was listed this week: 1025 Periwinkle Way (formerly Norris Furniture) $1.3M.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 9‑16

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listing: Tennisplace #C34 2/1.5 $574,999; Sunset South #9B 2/2 $599.9K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-1A 3/2.5 $1.15M.

3 price changes: Sundial #D309 1/1 now $449K, Gulfside Place #204 2/2 now $1.25M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 now $1,25M.

2 back-on-market: Sanibel Arms 1/1 $439K, Island Beach Club #220A 2/2 $560K.

2 new sales: Sunset South #12C 2/2 listed at $620K, Loggerhead Cay #324 2/2 listed at $879K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

9 new listings; 970 Greenwood Ct S 3/2 $829K, 1406 Causey Ct 3/2.5 $1.325M, 235 Daniel Dr 3/2 $1.495M, 920 Almas Ct 3/2.5 $1.595M, 6425 Pine Ave 4/3 $1.685M, 840 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.925M, 2711 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5.5 $1.998M, 2719 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5.5 $1.999M, 960 Victoria Way 3/3 $2.495M.

13 price changes: 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 now $1.099M, 198 Southwinds Dr 3/2 now $1.224M, 1321 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 now $1.325M, 930 Strangler Fig Ln 5/3.5 now $1.395M, 969 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 now $1.495M, 4573 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $1.495M, 696 Durion Ct 3/2.5 now $1.495M, 4400 Gulf Pines Dr 4/3 now $1.495M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.8M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 now $1.85M, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 ow $1.999M, 1052 Whisperwood Way 3/3 now $2.6M, 4461 Waters Edge Ln 3/3.5 now $5.85M.

9 new sales: 863 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2 listed at $678.5K, 657 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $779K, 931 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3.5 listed at $998K, 1396 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1.55M, 2745 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 listed at $1.558M, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 listed at $1.6M, 4415 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 listed at $1.695M, 1662 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/2.5 listed at $2.249M, 5235 Indian Ct 4/4 listed at $2.348M.

3 closed sales: 744 Martha’s Ln 3/2 $759K, 2228 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 $1.444M, 2477 Wulfert Rd 3/4 $1.715M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 4163 West Gulf Dr listed at $3.995M.

1 closed sale: 395 Bella Vista Way E $1.275M.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Villas #2227 1/1 $849K.

1 price change: Beach Homes #29 4/4 now $3.35M.

2 back-on-market: Beach Villas #2222 1/1 $799K, Sunset Captiva #204 2/2 $1.9M.

1 new sale: Captiva Beach Villas #1-B 3/2.5 listed at $3.295M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1127 Longifolia Ct 4/4 $10M, 11531 Paige Ct 3/3.5 $12.995M.

4 price changes: 57 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.545M, 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 now $3.499M, 11529 Andy Rosse Ln 4/4 now $3.91M, 16512 Captiva Dr 7/5.5 now $10.5M.

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

It’s great to be back on sunny Sanibel Island. After complaining last week about Florida’s cold weather, it has been delightful to again experience daytime temps in the 70’s and traveling with sunroof open. My car registered the outside temperature at 80 degrees F during my travels this morning.

Forecasters say another cold front may arrive here over the weekend so there could be a few more days in the 60’s next week, but it too will pass, as spring is in just 53 days.

Traffic seems to have picked up this week, but not unlike a typical January in “high season”. There may be fewer visitors and vacationers here this year, but the number of contractors more than makes up for them. Many construction jobs start early, so traffic leaving the island in the afternoon starts getting heavy at 2 p.m., so it is important to plan your travels if you need to go off or come on the island.

Lighthouse Update

The Lighthouse replacement leg has been installed and beach re-nourishment is underway at Lighthouse Beach. With the re-nourishment project already complete in some areas, it is proving to be a great step forward in recovery. Though the Lighthouse parking areas have been closed this week, they will be open for the weekend (tomorrow and Sunday), before closing again Mon-Fri (Jan 29 thru Feb 2) so the renourishment project may continue.

Sanibel Recycling Center

The Recycling Center began their new hours this week. Now open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., it is for residential use only, ID’s are checked. All items must be put inside the dumpsters which are for household trash (in sealed bags), cardboard (broken down), recycling (no plastic bags). NOT allowed are bulk items like appliances, electronics, construction material; vegetative waste; or hazardous waste of any kind (paint, oil, car batteries, etc.).

Island Re-Openings

Periwinkle Place – There are noticeably more cars at Periwinkle Place as more businesses have reopened there, including the original Chico’s, Everything But Water, One Island Sanibel, Sanibel Flip Flops, and Tiki Jims. Sanibel Day Spa also is open by appointment. Blue Giraffe food truck also is open.

Tahitian Gardens – The businesses open there include Adventures in Paradise Outfitters, Sanibel Café, Sanibel Sole, Shiney Objects, and Wilford & Lee. Maybe Cheeburger Cheeburger will be next.

SanCap Resilience Community Event

The next SanCap Resilience community event in collaboration with the City will be Thurs Feb 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at BIG ARTS. It also will be streamed live on the City’s Facebook page.

The event, “Emerging from Hurricane Ian Stronger and More Resilient – Part 4: Lessons Learned in Essential Services,” will explore key lessons learned, actions taken, and plans related to the resiliency of our power grid, water supply, and wastewater management. The program will feature a panel of experts including Tricia Dorn and Allan Ruth (LCEC), Diane Wilson (Island Water), and Scott Krawczuk (Sanibel Public Works).

Panelists will each provide a short presentation, followed by time for questions. The event is free with no registration required.

Florida Realtors® Mid-Winter Business Meetings Wrap-Up

Florida Realtors® leadership team wrapped up their winter meetings in Orlando last weekend. As a member of the Professional Development Committee, Saturday morning, we approved a whopping number of new instructors, classes, and training offerings that will help local associations keep their members up-to-date and motivated in educational advancement.

I sat with pals who also have been on this committee for years. One is the Education Director for the Miami Association which has over 55K members. That’s a far cry from the 195 Realtors members of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association, but we have common needs so it’s always great to share ideas and learn about others’ successes.

Before heading home, I also attended the Legal and Professional Standards Update provided by the Florida Realtors® legal team.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® News

Yesterday, our local Association of Realtors® had a meeting at The Community House. Info was provided by both CHR (Community Housing & Resources Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale) and Planning Dept (Craig Chandler) on the status of Sanibel’s low-rent housing program, and future City plans.

No new sales were announced but 14 Sanibel homes were open for Caravan viewing after the meeting. That’s the highest number “open” during Caravan since before the storm.

Next week is our annual Installation and Awards event. It will be at The Dunes restaurant and a first visit there for many since before the storm.

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

On the commercial side, the Lazy Flamingo Plaza in Santiva was reduced to $8.5M.

The SanibelSusan Team is thankful to have one of the four closings on Sanibel this week. It is a first-floor condo selling before the “white box” work funded by the Association’s insurance is complete.

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sanibel Arms #C8 2/2 $534.5K, Oceans Reach #3D1 2/2 $839K, Sanctuary Golf Villages #1-2 3/3 $1.275M, Somerset #B101 3/3.5 $1.996M.

4 price changes: Captains Walk #B5 2/1 now $499K, Oceans Reach #4B4 1/1 now $689K, Sanibel Arms #F4 2/2 now $949,995; Gulfside Place #204 2/2 now $1.325M.

6 new sales: Sanibel Arms #D7 1/1 listed at $439K, Island Beach Club #220A 2/2 listed at $560K, Sundial #G206 1/1 listed at $599.9K, Sunset South #1A 2/2 listed at $659K, Ibis at The Sanctuary #B101 2/2 listed at $729K, West Shore #5 3/3 listed at $1.595M.

3 closed sales: Blind Pass #C106 2/2 $403K (SanibelSusan listing), Sundial #D203 1/1 $450K, Sanibel Moorings #612 2/2 $810K.

HOMES

9 new listings; 863 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $678.5K, 9254 Kincaid Ct 2/2 $769.9K, 315 Periwinkle Way 3/2 $850K, 211 Southwinds Dr 3/3 $1.095M, 4279 Gulf Pines Dr 4/3 $1.249M, 5398 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 $1.495M, 4171 Dingman Dr 3/2.5 $1.499M, 1199 Par View Dr 3/4 $2.495M, 542 Kinzie Island Ct 3/4.5 $3.795M.

2 back on market: 455 Peachtree Rd 2/2 $795K, 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $799K.

10 price changes: 3312 Saint Kilda 3/2 now $777K, 1615 Bunting Ln 2/2 now $889K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $895K, 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $1.175M, 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $1.199M, 1306 Par View Dr 3/3.5 now $1.449M, 969 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 now $1.549M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 now $1.949M, Moon Shadows #1C 3/3 now $1.999M, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $2.9M.

4 new sales: 5151 San-Cap Rd 2/2 listed at $399K, 744 Marthas Ln 3/2 listed at $759K, 1658 Sabal Palm Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.095M, 957 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/3 listed at $1.295M.

1 closed sale: 549 East Rocks Dr 3/3.5 $1.6M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2438 Wulfert Rd $449K.

1 price change: 4646 Rue Bayou now $995K.

3 new sales: 4640 Rue Belle Mer listed at $1.495M, 4717 Rue Belle Mer listed at $3,395M, 4171 West Gulf Dr listed at $3.895M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Tennis Villas #3235 1/1 $595K, Beach Homes #25 3/2 $2,899,500.

1 price change: Beach Homes #24 3/2 now $3.25M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Marina Villas #804 2/2 $900K.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 16321 Captiva Dr 5/4 listed at $3.495M.

1 closed sale: 16211 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $4.85M.

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

Florida Realtors® Mid-Winter Business Meetings

Today it is a chilly but occasionally sunny day in Orlando where Florida Realtors® meetings are in full swing.

Yesterday a whopping nine Audition Panels met (a total of 49 panelists) to evaluate nearly 90 prospective instructors looking to teach state-approved classes. That is the most ever processed in a single day. We began at 7:30 a.m., but finished by 5 p.m., in time to hustle to a 6 p.m. event.

I know I’ve mentioned it before, but since the pandemic, with so many buyers flocking to Florida, the Realtor® population likewise has exploded, often requiring more instructors throughout the state to teach classes for license renewals, designations, and advancement. The process to be approved to teach requires training, experience, interviews, and this final step – being recommended by a state Audition Panel. That approval is needed to teach each individual class, so subjects vary, with new instructors trying out as well as seasoned ones looking to expand their class schedules. Auditions are offered every Jan at these Mid-Winter Meetings and in Aug during the Annual Meeting/Convention.

My panel heard nine auditions. Each takes 45 minutes. Evaluations are based on communication and podium presence, presentation, subject knowledge, plus time and class management. A bonus benefit as a panelist is learning new things, as classes change with technology, state and national laws, etc. I enjoy doing it and always come away with new knowledge.

Pals from all corners of Florida have complained about the unusual extended cold-fronts and overcast days in their area. Yesterday a Realtor auditioning said it was 23 degrees F when she left the Panhandle. Another, an Orlando gal, told me this morning that she doesn’t ever remember this many continual overcast days.

Though I’ve been in the hotel since Wed, today the outdoor temperature at sunup was a sunny 43 degrees F and hit 75 this afternoon while dreary and overcast. What a swing! The hotel pool was emptied as a precaution as even colder weather is expected over the weekend.

Last night, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors was a 4-time winner at the annual RPAC Award Event. The same five awards are given based on association membership size, i.e. small, medium, large, and mega boards. Of course, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are a small board.

Sanibel & Captiva 2023 RPAC Committee Co-chairs Dave Arter & Brendan Albright.

We set some new state records, showing that even with a hurricane, island Realtors® are pro-RPAC. Included was a Triple Crown award from national!

This morning was the Program Development Subcommittee meeting where I am one of 25 members. Tonight is the state Inaugural banquet followed by final committee meetings tomorrow. My last meeting is tomorrow (Professional Development Committee) followed by the Legal and Professional Standards Update.

It’s great to be back at these meetings in person, renewing friendships and networking. We often share common problems and solutions. Changes in the expanding short-term rental market remains a hot topic.

Lighthouse Beach News

A Sanibel City notice was issued this morning advising that Lighthouse Beach parking lots will be temporarily closed Mon Jan 22 through Fri Jan 26 for beach re-nourishment work and lighthouse repairs. It said contractors will be replacing the temporary wooden support at the lighthouse with a permanent cast-iron replica of the original support column with repairs also to be made to the ladder and window stops.

Regarding the ongoing beach re-nourishment project, contractors are expected to complete work near the Tradewinds neighborhood ahead of schedule and moving operations from the west end to Lighthouse Beach on Tues Jan 23.

Though I haven’t been on the island for a couple of days, I have heard that traffic exiting the island has again been backed up with long delays. This is probably to be expected now that more owners are back, “season” is here, and so many contractors are working on restorations. I must say again though that the sand trucks traveling to and from the island for the re-nourishment project are doing an amazing job. I often follow them on Sanibel roads but also followed five all the way to LaBelle on Wed. They are well organized, keep moving and have never caused a delay in any of my travels. Great to hear they are also ahead of schedule. If you haven’t checked out the beaches where the gullies have been filled you will be happy to see them. Those beaches are bigger and better than ever.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate News

The local Association of Realtors® did not have a caravan this week, but have one planned for next Thurs Jan 25 which also is our monthly membership meeting.

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Beach Rd Villas #104 2/2 $610K, Sanibel Arms #F2 1/1 $659K, Sanibel Moorings #1342 2/2 $929K, Mariner Pointe #321 3/2 $999K, LaPlaya #2A 3/2 $1.095M, Sanibel Moorings #121 2/2 $1.1M.

1 price change: Kings Crown #217 2/2 now $1.6M.

2 new sales: Sanibel Arms #E3 1/1 listed at $419.9K, Oceans Reach #2A2 2/2 listed at $850K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

12 new listings; 749 Martha’s Ln 3/2 $759K, 1719 Serenity Ln 3/2 $829K, 3343 Saint Kilda 3/2 $1.175M, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 $1.249M, 1018 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 $1.349M, 1112 Skiff Pl 3/2 $1.35M, 3822 Coquina Dr 4/3.5 $1.595M, 2239 Starfish 3/3 $1.75M, 479 Lagoon Dr 4/3 $2.3M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $2.348M, 837 Sanddollar Dr 4/3.5 $3.15M, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 $3.975M.

2 back on market: 1105 Skiff Pl 3/2 $749K, 2058 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $985K.

8 price changes: 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 now $879,999; 465 Lake Murex Cir 2/2.5 now $1.129M, 1011 S Yachtsman Dr 5/2.5 now $1.325M, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 now $1.799M, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 now $2.25M, 1318 Seaspray Ln 5/3.5 now $2.695M, 2287 Starfish Ln 4/4 now $2,799,999; 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $2.94M.

3 new sales: 2066 Wild Lime Dr 2/1 listed at $699.9K, 998 Greenwood Ct N 3/2.5 listed at $719K, 9393 Peaceful Dr 3/2 listed at $1.25M.

2 closed sales: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 $370K, 1603 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $765K.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 2761 West Gulf Dr now $1.795M, 4171 West Gulf Dr now $3.895M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Gulf Beach Villas #2126 2/2 $1.395M, Captiva Beach Villas #1-B 3/2.5 $3.295M.

No price changes, new. or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

2 price changes: 57 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.595M, 16321 Captiva Dr 5/4 now $3.495M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 15819 Captiva Dr now $15.5M.

No new or closed sales.

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