Happy Halloween on the Islands!

Posted on October 27, 2023 by SanibelSusan

It’s been another week of wonderful SW FL weather – lots of blue sky, sunshine, and breezes. No need to get out those winter flip flops yet. I just returned from doing some island chores. My car reports it is 87 degrees F. Not exactly Halloween weather, but here trick or treaters don’t need heavy costumes!

Gumbo Limbo is the Sanibel neighborhood that usually has the most trick or treaters, but I smiled when I saw these decorations today in The Dunes.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Yesterday morning was the annual meeting of the islands Association of Realtors®. It began with a buffet breakfast at BIG ARTS followed by presentations in the Performance Hall, including confirmation of election results, and reports by 2023 Association President Greg Demaras, Treasurer & Professional Development Committee Chair Becky Mulka, Communications & Public Relations Committee Chair Connie Walters, Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Eric Pfeifer, Affiliates & Special Events Committee Co-Chair Valerie Tutor, & RPAC Committee Co-Chairs Dave Arter & Brendan Albright.

CEO Bill Robinson also provided an update on the repairs/restoration underway at our Association building at 2353 Periwinkle Way. His Power Point had photos of its condition right after the storm, following interior demo, and today. Expected re-occupancy is sometime during 1^st quarter 2024. Like with so many damaged properties, we aren’t holding our breath, but it was good news to hear that the exterior work is about 70% complete, 30% done on the inside.

(Note: Our downstairs tenant Finnemore’s has been working from their spaces for some time, so if you are looking to rent a bike/trike, paddleboard, kayak, or other beach equipment, please consider giving them your business. I have also heard great feedback on their equipment repairs, so if your bike needs a post-storm tune-up, I bet they can help. www.Finnimores.com)

Advertised at the last minute as a costume contest, the Annual Meeting costume judging occurred just before the Caravan Meeting. Yours truly garnered 2^nd place with her version of “50 Shades of Grey” which included an outfit adorned with that many paint samples. VIP’s Ted Benjamin, as a Viking, won 1st. Thanks to Superior Title for donating the Halloween basket prizes. The pumpkin beer in my winnings went to teammate Dave!

The Caravan Meeting with announcements that followed included five Sanibel homes and one on Captiva open for viewing from 9 a.m. until noon. The next Caravan Meeting will be Thurs Nov 9 at 8:30 a.m. at The Community House.

Also, the evening of Nov 9, Association members will meet after work at Rosalita’s where the Association is hosting a “Merry FISHmas” drop-in event. We will donate toys, senior items, and gift cards which will be go to FISH for holiday disbursement to those in need.

Re-openings & Island News

Adopt a Mangrove – Now, more than ever, the coastal ecosystems need support. SCCF invites you to be a part of the solution by participating in their Coastal Watch Adopt-A-Mangrove Program. Join them tomorrow Saturday Oct 28 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Bailey Homestead Preserve, 1300 Periwinkle Way, for Adoption Day! You’ll be able to pick up mangrove seedlings and everything you need to nurture them at home. The process is simple: You receive a mangrove seedling, pots, and soil, along with all the guidance you need to take care of these vital coastal plants. These baby trees will grow under your loving care until they reach a certain size, when SCCF asks that you return them and they will be planted at one of SCCF’s many restoration sites, contributing to the preservation of coastal habitats. Mangroves are not only vital for the health of the ecosystems but also play a crucial role in climate resilience and the future of the planet. Learn more by visiting https://sccf.org/adoptamangrove/

Car Wash to Benefit Sanibel School Seahorse Chorale – This is another of fundraisers for their trip to NYC to perform at Carnegie Hall. Students will be washing cars Saturday Oct 28 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Bank of the Islands.

Fall Festival – The Sanibel Community House invites everyone to join them for a spooky Fall Festival Party Saturday Oct 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. (free admission with bag of wrapped candy per family). Enjoy games, prizes, candy, food.

Arts & Crafts Fair – After a year-long hiatus, the newly restored Community House at 2173 Periwinkle Way is hosting an indoor Arts & Craft Fair on Sunday Oct 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrating local artisans and the resilience of life on the islands, this event features handmade arts, crafts, and treasures of all kinds. Exceptional vendors have been specially recruited to participate. During the fair, the Sanibel School Seahorse Chorale, which has been invited to perform in the Big Apple’s Carnegie Hall, is raising $ for their trip by selling apple pies for $20.

Select Vacation Properties – This is a repeat of a Facebook post that may be helpful to those wondering what to do with their “white box”. I have known and referred business to Patience for decades: “We’re excited to present Select Vacation Properties design team package plan. Allow us to help turn your “white boxed” property to “turn key” ready. Includes kitchen (excluding appliances), bathrooms, flooring, cabinets, counters, hardware, paint, plumbing fixtures, closet finishes, furniture, decor, ceiling fans and light window treatment. Our office has been transformed into a showroom for your convenience. This is where you can see the product and schedule a meeting with the contractor and/or design team. Feel free to stop by anytime between 9 AM to 2 PM, Monday through Thursday. Our address is 703 Tarpon Bay Road Suite A, Sanibel FL. We’re located upstairs next-door to Timbers restaurant. Our package plan is level 1, 2 and 3. Our goal is to accommodate each individual budget while accommodating current travelers/buyers expectations thus maximizing opportunity. We’ve collaborated with a talented design team and 3 highly qualified contractors. All have been vetted. Each offers quality workmanship and competitive pricing. Our rebuild package is meant to be flexible, accommodating each owner’s individual needs. Length of project depends on the size of property and material selected. Approximate turnaround time for a typical two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo is two months. Getting your property to turnkey ready is a top priority, but it’s equally important to ensure you are guided by a qualified team. Please feel free to call or email with any questions. We are here to help. Patience Rodriguez, Select Vacation Properties, 1-866-455-0028 office, 1-239-223-1225 cell, Patience@selectvacationproperties.com”

Causeway Update

Florida Department of Transportation Sanibel Causeway Community Liaison Jennifer Dorning issued this notice this morning:

“On WEEKENDS through November and December, beginning on Friday, Nov 3, the Causeway will be limited to ONE LANE FOR BOTH DIRECTIONS of travel for the contractor to restore five bridge approaches. This is where the bridges meet the upland roadway (on the land). Flaggers will be controlling traffic during this weekend work. The contractor is making every effort not to impact the heavy weekday traffic. More details are below …:

On WEEKENDS through November and December, motorists should expect ONE LANE OPEN to two-way travel during ALL HOURS beginning 7 p.m. on Fridays through 6 a.m. on Mondays. Flaggers are scheduled to assist drivers as crews work around the clock to restore the causeway bridge approaches. Temporary signals may also be utilized to help with traffic control. Motorists should plan for traffic delays and allow additional travel time on these weekends.

“Crews will be working around the clock to replace five approach slabs, all except the undamaged approach from Sanibel onto the western span of the causeway. To expedite this work, the contractor is utilizing a special high early strength concrete that allows each phase of the reconstruction to be completed within 72 hours compared to the normal one-week construction time. Additionally, the contractor will sequence crews from many different disciplines to accomplish the accelerated restoration.

Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the roadway.

Thank you for your continued patience and support for this project.”

Chamber of Commerce Update

During their member presentation this week, the islands Chamber of Commerce posted a slide with the following recap – some sobering statistics for 13 months post hurricane.

Pre-Ian, the islands had ~7,500 residents, with up to 40,000 people here “in season”.

Now, there are ~1,000 annual residents.

Pre-Ian, the Chamber Visitors Center was seeing ~80,000 visitors a year or averaged 218 daily.

Now, they are averaging 41 per day.

Pre-Ian, there were ~2,600 short-term lodging units on the islands.

Now, there are 139 on Sanibel, 146 on Captiva, with it estimated that it will take until 2025 for 650 units (or ~25% of the number of pre-Ian units) to be ready.

These numbers confirm that restoration is going to take longer than most expected. But the good news is, many properties will be like-new and more resilient!

Sanibel Planning Commission Meeting

Following up on the public Special Planning Commission Meeting held last week about whether changes are needed in Sanibel’s building requirements, I listened in on Planning Commission’s regular Tuesday meeting where they voted unanimously to pass their recommendations on to City Council. The meeting audio can be heard through www.MySanibel.com and the City’s FB page.

Also on their agenda was a request to allow a flat roof on a new building proposed at Shalimar Resort. This was the first resort since Ian that needed special City approval. Shalimar’s rebuild plan includes 12 new cottages, beachside pool, and this new building which will be parallel to West Gulf Dr and hold 21 hotel-style rooms. Since part of the roof will be used for recreation (a sundeck during daytime hours), it was considered in keeping with Sanibel’s requirements and approved. Construction is expected to begin early next year.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

On the commercial side, the former Dairy Queen with its two surrounding properties closed this week for $1.65M.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale:	63	1,052,762	150	86	1,679,649	95	34	979,555	155
Under contract	8	1,143,375	83	19	1,537,713	99	2	317,000	12
Sold 2023 to 10/27	83	941,422	64	237	1,253,644	70	23	940,021	78
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	24	1,503,312	96	12	6,821,053	139	2	7,247,500	50
Under contract	5	1,051,000	35	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 10/27	11	848,363	108	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 20‑27

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Lake Palms #3 2/2.5 $599K, Mariner Pointe #533 2/2.5 $675K.

1 price reduction: Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 now $869K.

2 new sales: Sand Pointe #116 2/2 listed at $980K, Sundial #R406 2/2 listed at $1.799M.

1 closed sale: Sanctuary Golf Village #2-3 2/2.5 $975K

HOMES

8 new listings: 199 Southwinds Dr 3/2 $1.199M, 450 Leather Fern Pl 3/2 $1.495M, 1321 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.495M, 1646 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $1.495M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 $1.749M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 $1.85M, 900 Almas Ct 4/4.5 $2.295M, 1042 Blue Heron Dr 3/3.5 $2.495M.

1 back on market: 1365 Jamaica Dr 3/2.5 $1.85M.

5 price changes: 1806 Ibis Ln 3/2 now $875K, 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 now $1M, 1517 Sand Castle Rd 4/3.5 now $1.785M, 2294 Wulfert Rd 4/4 now $1.799M, 5235 Indian Ct 4/4 now $2.348M.

3 new sales: 5892 San-Cap Rd 3/3 listed at $775K, 579 Rabbit Rd 4/3.5 listed at $799K, 4355 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 listed at $5.25M.

2 closed sales: 5685 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $1.1M, 567 N. Yachtsman Dr 3/3 $1.45M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2486 Wulfert Rd $359K, 393 & 401 Raintree Pl $599K.

1 price change: 3730 Coquina Dr now $579K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #4220 1/2 $610K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Tennis Villas #3227 1/1 listed at $460K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 57 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 $1.699M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend! Happy Halloween! & please contact The SanibelSusan Team if we may help you!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Back to Sunshiny Days & Blue Skies on Sanibel & Captiva

Posted on October 20, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Fall has arrived on sunny Sanibel & Captiva Islands. It was wonderful this week to wake up to bright blue breezy skies every day with temperatures ranging from high 60’s to low 80’s. Great weather for opening the sunroof and checking out recovery progress.

Island roads and the causeway are getting busier as more snowbirds return and construction continues. Additional repairs along Summerlin Rd coming up to and at the toll booths have added to morning delays for those coming on island. I usually wait until after 10 a.m. if I need to go off island, so I have a short return drive. Dave does the same coming on. A new traffic pattern may be opening soon as yesterday they also paved the new higher roadway on the causeway island closest to Sanibel. (Photos below taken this afternoon as I was driving back on island.)

Just before the toll booth

Coming thru toll booth

From top of bridge looking to lighthouse

Coming down off big bridge

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

There was no local Association of Realtors® meeting this week, but the deadline of the “Real Estate Guide” is today, so SanibelSusan has reupped and signed a new annual contract. Our full-page color ad will be in the next issue coming out in early Nov. Available free in many boxes around the island, it also is mailed to every island property owner.

Sanibel Planning Commission Special Meeting

I listened in at the Sanibel Planning Commission meeting held last night at BIG ARTS. On Sept 11, when Sanibel City Council discussed concerns related to current City code requirements that may limit the ability to rebuild/restore homes that were storm damaged, they directed Planning and staff to make this a priority and to schedule a meeting to consider if amendments to Land Development Code are needed.

This was that meeting with the purpose of discussing possible changes to the City Code of Ordinances to adjust maximum building heights and angle of light requirements. Recommendations and input were provided by Planning Director Paula McMichael, City Attorney John Agnew, the Commissioners, and the public.

It was mentioned several times that this is not the same as Captiva issues because Sanibel has both a build-back ordinance and the Sanibel Plan which provide direction and flexibility. Wanting to allow resiliency to prevent property damage in future storms, it was reported that it has been the angle of light requirements that have caused the most objections in the permitting process. No one spoke in favor of increasing building heights to allow more floors or to make buildings larger, but rather to ensure that living levels are safer with less potential for flooding damage.

Audios of the meeting are posted on www.MySanibel.com and the City Facebook page. Recommendations and voting will be during the next Planning Commission Meeting on Oct 24.

Re-openings & Island News

Hirdie Girdie Gallery – at 2490 Library Way (corner of Tarpon Bay Rd & Library Way) has reopened & announced a 3-day fall art sale (paintings, photography, woodburning, ceramics, glass, sculpture, jewelry), Oct 20-22. They are open Mon-Sat from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.hirdiegirdiegallery.com.

Taste of the Islands – CROW (The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) will host its 42^nd Taste of the Islands on Nov 5-19. As the islands continue to rebuild from the effects of Hurricane Ian, “Taste of the Islands – Rebuilding” aims to aid in the recovery of CROW, Sanibel-Captiva restaurants, and the community. This year, participating off-island restaurants will support CROW for the first week, with the traditional on-island restaurants participating during the second week. On island, the Taste will be Nov 13-19 with the CROW “Crawl” on Nov 18, encouraging patrons to visit the CROW Ambassador Tent and get a “taste” of special dining opportunities on Sanibel and Captiva. CROW will offer physical and digital copies of their “Taste Passport” this year. A passport include lists of participating restaurants, advertising for local businesses, and a QR code linking to the People’s Choice Award voting page. They will be available at CROW Visitor and Education Center, Bank of the Islands on Sanibel, and participating off-island restaurants.

Wines in the Wild – Tickets are now on sale for SCCF’s 14^th annual welcome-back fall celebration which will be Fri, Nov 17 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. where a variety of outdoor stations around the grounds of the Bailey Homestead Preserve will feature specially selected wines to complement signature tastings from favorite local chefs. Tickets are available at www.SCCF.org.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

On the commercial side, the former real estate office building (damaged/ground-level across street from Tahitian Gardens) went under contract this week.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale:	63	1,076,969	146	80	1,684,161	100	32	1,011,340	157
Under contract	7	1,038,285	93	18	1,391,808	104	2	317,000	5
Sold 2023 to 10/20	82	941,013	61	235	1,253,462	69	23	940,021	78
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	22	1,531,340	98	12	6,825,250	133	2	7,247,500	43
Under contract	4	1,198.750	40	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 10/20	11	848,363	108	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 13‑20

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Mariner Pointe #733 2/2 $599K.

No price reductions.

2 new sales: Colonnades #17 1/1 listed at $299K, Mariner Pointe #711 3/2 listed at $895K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

8 new listings: 771 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $679K, 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.2749M, 1241 Junonia St 4/3 $1.545M, 1322 Seaspray Ln 3/2.5 $1.6M, 549 East Rocks Dr 3/3.5 $1.649M, 6003 Clam Bayou Ln 5/3 $1.695M, 417 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $2.9M, 4577 Waters Edge Ln 4/4 $4.895M.

2 back on market: 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3.2 $859M, 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 $1.199M.

5 price changes: 1251 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $790K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $935K, 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 now $1.195M, 1450 & 1460 Court Pl 5/4.5 now $1.325M, 6129 Starling Way 3/2.5 now $1.748M.

4 new sales: 1754 Windward Way 2/2 listed at $829K, 1684 Bunting Ln 2/2 listed at $829K, 1160 Buttonwood Ln 3/2 listed at $850K, 2564 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 listed at $3.595M.

4 closed sales: 1932 Roseate Ln 3/2 $375K, 976 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $859K, 1605 Bunting Ln 3/2 $899K, 1003 Fish Crow Rd 4/4 $975K.

LOTS

3 new listings: 1999 Sanibel Bayous Rd $350K, 6217 Starling Way $1.65M, 4717 Rue Belle Mer $3.395M.

2 price changes: 355 Cowry Ct now $547K, 4501 Waters Edge Ln now $2.895M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

3 new listings: Tennis Villas #3134 2/2 $730K, Marina Villas #805 2/2 $995K, Bayside Villas #4302 3/3 $1.78M.

1 price change: Bayside Villas #52261/2 now $689K.

1 new sale: Sunset Captiva #204 2/2 listed at $1.9M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $3.275M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Friday the 13th on Not-so-Sunny Sanibel

Posted on October 13, 2023 by SanibelSusan

Here it is Friday the 13th. Hopefully a lucky day for everyone. It seems the days/weeks are flying by. Wasn’t it just a minute ago that it was last Friday? Activities and traffic are picking up on Sanibel and Captiva,

The weather this week has included some overcast days plus a short taste of cooler weather, followed yesterday by the return of humidity, but with a breeze. This morning, the rainy season continued with huge showers until about noon. When the sun finally peeked out for a few minutes, I jumped in my car to check out some neigborhoods. Expecting to see flooding on Bailey Rd, that wasn’t the case. There are big puddles and full swales in some areas, probably enough to keep Lee County Mosquito Control extra busy in the upcoming days.

Noonish 10-13-23, at end of Dixie Beach Blvd, a little bay water sloshing onto the road.

Here on Anchor Dr, I had expected to see some just-emptied Friday trash cans floating up the street, instead it is probably more accurate to say that they now are just cleaner.

Fingers crossed that there more fall-like weather arrives next week. The islands are getting busier with snowbirds returning and repairs underway at more properties.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Continuing our local Association of Realtors® tradition, the 26^th Annual “End of Season” event with golf tournament, followed by party and auction for RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) was held Wed at The Sanctuary. Of course, the end of season usually is in April/May so this was a few months later than usual, but it was well attended, with many colleagues and business affiliates seeing each other in-person for the first time since the storm.

As an event sponsor and auction item donor, SanibelSusan Realty got some good advertising, while as always, The Sanctuary food and service were terrific. At least $13K was raised for RPAC which continually works for the good of real estate and the industry. Through the years, the islands have reaped their benefits.

Yesterday was a morning Caravan Meeting (held at BIG ARTS) with three new home listings open for viewing after the meeting.

Re-openings & Island News

BIG ARTS Community Chorus – The fall session began this week with rehearsals for upcoming events including holiday concerts in the performance hall on Dec 14 and 19 (this one with Sanibel School singers). Between the pandemic and hurricane, it had been years since I had seen some of these singers. It’s great to be back together again. No auditions are required to sing, with a fun repertoire planned. Sign up to join us and get concert tickets at BIG ARTS.

Captiva Cruises – Reported this week that the “Lady Chadwick” made her first trip back to Cabbage Key since the hurricane. See their cruise offerings and scheduling info at www.CaptivaCruises.com.

Community House – All are invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the grand reopening of The Sanibel Community House on Thurs Oct 26 at 11 a.m.

Pointe Santo – Has unit drywall work underway and recently posted on their Facebook page a rendering of their future Pointe Santo clubhouse. The clubhouse and children’s programs have always been a draw to the community. Their architect is a local favorite, Joyce Owens.

Sanibel Arms West – Posted on their website that all 13 of their condo roofs have been restored. Nine of their buildings and those units have rough electrical, plus six condo buildings/units have their rough plumbing in. Every day brings more progress.

Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market – Timbers Restaurant is reopening Thurs Oct 19 and will be open every day beginning at 5 p.m. Their elevator is working and the Fish Market is already open (daily from noon until 8 p.m.).

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

Just look at how many Sanibel homes have sold/closed year-to-date – 46 more than last year and nearly three times more than the number of condo sales.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale:	66	1,064,311	139	76	1,586,078	109	30	915,643	160
Under contract	5	1,214,800	108	18	1,282,364	93	2	317,000	5
Sold 2023 to 10/13	82	941,013	61	231	1,261,713	69	23	940,021	78
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	21	1,551,642	104	11	7,148,000	137	2	7,247,500	35
Under contract	3	965,000	53	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 10/13	11	848,363	108	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Oct 6‑13

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Mariner Pointe #951 1/1 $499K, Pointe Santo #E6 2/2 $1.595M.

2 price changes: Spanish Cay #C4 2/2 now $489K, Sundial #A303 1/1 now $699K.

1 back on market: Seashells #26 2/2 $450K.

2 new sale: Seascape #204 3/3.5 listed at $2.9M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1535 Wilton Ln 2/2 $599K, 579 Rabbit Rd 4/3.5 $799K, 1684 Bunting Ln 2/2 $829K, 455 Peachtree Rd 2/2 $850K, 1806 Ibis Ln 3/2 $889K, 1319 Par View Dr 3/2.5 $1,349M, 848 Birdie View Pt 4/3.5 $2.595M.

6 price changes: 1835 Ardsley Way 2/2 now $450K, 1258 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $799K, 4263 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 now $850K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $965K, 488 Lighthouse Way 4/4 now $4.695M, 4355 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 now $5.25M.

4 new sales: 1653 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 listed at $679K, 1683 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 listed at $489K, 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 listed at $859K, 1388 Tahiti Dr 3/2 listed at $1.199M.

3 closed sales: 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 $950K, 721 Cardium St 3/2.5 $1.3M, 676 Cardium St 4/2 $1.349M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 4580 Bowen Bayou Rd $349.9K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 1030 White Ibis Dr listed at $489K

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Tennis Villas #3126 1/1 $450K, Gulf Beach Villas #2613 1/1 $695K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Tennis Villas #3210 1/1 listed at $550K, Bayside Villas #5232 1/2 listed at $645K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 $1.75M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend! & enjoy one more pix! It always makes me smile when I pass this mermaid mailbox.

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Coming Up on Columbus Day Weekend on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on October 6, 2023 by SanibelSusan

SanibelSusan’s island scoop this week includes an update on commercial property. Several on Sanibel are for sale:

condo with tenant at 1149 Periwinkle Way $700K,
2359 Periwinkle Way (former swimwear shop with apartment above) $1.29M,
1544 Periwinkle Way (former seashell shop) $1.695M,
1020 Periwinkle Way (former site of Sanibel Fresh) $2.55M,
gas station at corner of Periwinkle Way and Bailey/Beach Rd $3.2M,
Anchor Inn at 1245 Periwinkle Way $3.5M,
1223 Periwinkle Way (former site of Jacaranda restaurant, then Tipsy Turtle) $3.65M,
1167 Buttonwood Ln (strip mall plus residential) $5M,
362 Periwinkle Way (shopping center) $6.5M,
6420 Pine Ave (former site of Lazy Flamingo, Sunset Grill, Santiva General Store,) $15M,
3287 West Gulf Dr (formerly Sunset Beach Inn) $23M.

I also heard that the former Dairy Queen location (1046/1048/1090 Periwinkle Way) sale which has been under contingent contract for a few weeks (priced at $1.799M) is now a “solid” sale, awaiting closing. Rumor has it that it probably will not continue as a Dairy Queen franchise but that building will be restored with the intention of continuing as a quick affordable spot to buy lunch. You may remember that behind that area a tree often is home to bald eagles which means no construction noise during their winter nesting season. Exterior work there already is beginning.

For those anxious for more businesses to reopen, I also noticed more activity this week at both Periwinkle Place and Tahitian Gardens shopping centers. Maybe we’ll soon see some re-openings there.

More vacationers and residents are needed for shops/restaurants to be successful. Hopefully the islands will see more visitors over the 3-day weekend beginning tomorrow.

I didn’t notice additional traffic during my island rounds this morning, but Tarpon Bay Explorers has reopened. They are the licensed concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, under contract with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and offer informative tours and eco-friendly recreational opportunities to visitors, Open Mon, Wed, Fri, and Sat from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (rentals stop at 3 p.m.).

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

Our local Association of Realtors® again didn’t meet this week, but their annual classes continued for members working to earn or recertify their SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) designation. Since I also needed to recertify (which requires completing three of 12 class modules), on Wed I both taught the “Resort & Second Homes” module and attended the other Realtor-taught sessions that followed, including Marketing Condos (by David Schuldenfrei & Eric Pfeifer), Waterways & Beaches (by Jeff Burns) and Differences In Selling Off-Island (by Greg Demaras).

Members are lucky that our local Association of Realtors® continually offers education specific to the work we do here. Thanks to our CEO Bill Robinson and his assistant, Jennifer Kelley who made the day go smoothly even with a press conference occurring at the same time at The Community House. (Read more about that below.)

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

It may be a few more months before our Association Office building is ready for occupancy. It is taking a long time to complete storm repairs, like much of the other damaged property here.

Florida’s Local Government Cybersecurity Grant Program

Wed at the Sanibel Community House, Florida Lt Governor Jeanette Nunez announced more cybersecurity funding though the new state Local Government Cybersecurity Grant Program. This money will help after natural disasters like Hurricane Ian when vulnerable Floridians could be exploited. This program was developed to harden infrastructure. It is part of an almost $500M effort that Florida has already invested in detection capabilities, retiring old legacy systems, and setting up the first-ever state Cybersecurity Operations Center.

Last year, the administration allocated $30M, This year, it is looking to increase that to $40M. With an integrated security system, more than 35 state agencies now are collaborating in real time, sharing information, and working with municipalities and other partners, like first responders. Over the last several months, many local government agencies joined the program. In Southwest Florida, those include the City of Sanibel and the Lee County Tax Appraisers Office.

SanibelSusan Realty Associates

Sep 2010 photo

While the team and I continue to work from home, this week I quizzed our Sanibel Square landlord for an update on when our office space may be ready for us to return. Thankfully he personally has finally moved back into his home after spending many months in a camper on the property grounds. Unfortunately, the restoration of the commercial spaces is not progressing quickly. There is no defined end-date, so once again, like many displaced Realtor colleagues, we are grateful for today’s technology. From the pandemic until now, we have learned to overcome challenges including successfully working wherever we are.

Island Weather

The weather has been nice so far this week, though there was an unusual hiccup Tues when what I thought looked like heavy morning fog turned out to be smoke from Canada. There were huge delays coming onto the island that morning. the result of FDOT continuing with nighttime causeway paving and lane changes.

I went off-island briefly in the early afternoon, noticing more severe overcast smoggy (actually smoky) skies inland. By the next day, it was back to clear blue skies. That continues today with forecasters saying there is little chance of rain until the middle of next week – then, just a 50% chance. The rainy season is wrapping up!

Causeway Update

Yesterday, the City sent out the following announcement:

“FDOT Announces Sanibel Causeway Construction Update for the Week of 10/5/2023

The City of Sanibel received the following information from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) regarding Causeway construction activities in October and November.

Sanibel Causeway Emergency Restoration: As a part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Emergency Restoration of the Sanibel Causeway, crews continue work on McGregor Boulevard and the Sanibel Causeway from Port Comfort Road to Sanibel Island. The causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and are currently closed for public access, including from the water.

Motorists should be aware that through October and November, portions of the travel lanes near the bridges on the Causeway will be narrowed to 10 feet with a one-foot shoulder and barrier wall on each side. Oversized loads will only be permitted during the nighttime/overnight hours with this restriction.
During the hours of 6:30 am to noon, motorists leaving Sanibel should expect eastbound McGregor Boulevard to be reduced to one lane from just east of the toll plaza to Port Comfort Road. This closed lane will be used as a dedicated lane for concrete delivery trucks arriving to the project. Concrete trucks will be escorted by FHP when using this lane. During this time, motorists traveling to Sanibel should expect FHP to intermittently stop traffic to allow concrete trucks to cross westbound travel lanes to reach the staging area.
On weekdays, beginning no earlier than 10 am, motorists traveling westbound to Sanibel on McGregor Boulevard should expect the outside lane closed to traffic for crews to install guardrail from Port Comfort Road to the toll plaza.
Motorists should expect isolated flagging operations on the Causeway. Crews anticipate opening all lanes between the hours of 7 – 9 am and 3 – 5 pm.
Motorists should expect uneven road surface on the causeway through the end of the year. The contractor continuously monitors road conditions and is prepared to make repairs as needed.
Crews are relocating utilities along McGregor Boulevard. Motorists are asked to use caution as work activities may be close to the roadway.
Crews continue driving sheet pile on the causeway islands.
Motorists should expect numerous dump trucks entering and exiting Punta Rassa. They are delivering armor stone to be used throughout the project.
Motorists should expect periodic daytime delays for delivery/removal of materials, transfer of equipment, and for crews to remove trash from the roadway.

Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the island. Please be patient as travel may be slower than usual. Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted on the Sanibel Causeway. Expect shoulder closures throughout the project.

MOTORISTS ARE REMINDED TO OBEY THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT OF 20 MPH. Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the roadway. For further questions, please contact Jennifer Dorning by email at Jennifer.Dorning@dot.state.fl.us or by phone at (239) 338-7723. Please visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway for additional information.”

Sundial News

Sanibel Fire & Rescue posted Wed on Facebook that they were happy to be part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Sundial East Condo Association which reopened 141 units to their residents.

Last week, on Sep 28, the resort celebrated a ribbon-cutting for its pickleball facilities. Following the debut of its resurfaced original 12 courts in August, four additional new courts (formerly tennis courts across the street) were added.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

As expected, more condos are coming on the market. We chatted about them during the classes Wed. Colleagues agreed that there likely will be many for sale when owners realize that though it has already been a year, it may not be just a few more months, but perhaps years in some complexes before they are ready for occupancy or rentals. Delays in insurance monies, utilities, permits, parts, and labor continue to slow restoration.

SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
SANIBEL RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale:	63	1,075,421	140	73	1,540,054	114	30	920,280	154
Under contract	5	724,800	108	17	1,387,503	89	1	145,000	6
Sold 2023 to 10/6	82	941,013	61	228	1,262,529	69	23	940,021	78
Sold 2022	123	1,136,199	44	185	1,602,745	52	26	779,528	223
Sold 2021	287	875,127	113	355	1,341,881	89	69	698,862	442

CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	CONDOS			HOMES			LOTS
CAPTIVA RESIDENTIAL	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM	#	Avg Price	DOM
For sale	21	1,554,023	105	10	7,687,800	145	2	7,247,500	29
Under contract	1	1,700,000	4	0	N/A	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2023 to 10/6	11	848,363	108	17	2,716,647	70	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2022	28	1,458,983	52	22	5,636,386	133	0	N/A	N/A
Sold 2021	64	1,150,373	145	44	2,988,520	261	2	2,950,000	731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Sep 29‑Oct 6

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Lighthouse Point #319 2/2 $625K, Sundial #D408 1/1 $649K, Sanibel Inn #3511 2/2 $789K, Sandalfoot #2A2 2/2 $929K, Pointe Santo #C2 2/2 $960K, Loggerhead Cay #513 2/2 $1.295M.

1 price change: Sundial #D203 1/1 now $579.9K.

2 new sales: Seashells #26 2/2 listed at $450K, Spanish Cay #D4 2/2 listed at $579K.

3 closed sales: Colonnades #15 1/1 $274K, Sanibel Siesta #403 2/2 $734K, Wedgewood #206 3/3.5 $2.8M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 653 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/3.5 $679K, 198 Southwinds Dr 3/2 $1.25M, 1158 Golden Olive Ct 5/5.5 $3.345M.

1 back on market: 9428 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $899K.

7 price changes: 2991 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 now $550K, 1143 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 now $849K, 1011 S Yachtsman Dr 5/2.5 now $1.395M, 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 now $1.55M. 915 Limpet Dr 5/3 now $2.039M, 1740 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/2.5 now $2.095M, 4340 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 now $2.395M.

2 new sales: 1003 Fish Crow Rd 4/4 listed at $1.25M, 4273 West Gulf Dr 5/4.5 listed at $6.9M.

3 closed sales: 9008 Mockingbird Dr 3/3 $1.125M, 1533 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.4M, 1352 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 $1.49M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 1030 White Ibis Dr $489K, 1757 Windward Way $499K.

1 price change: 2807 West Gulf Dr now $995K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 809 Pyrula Ave $535K.

Captiva

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy the long weekend, including Columbus Day!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Fabulous Fall Friday on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on September 29, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

$388 Million Awarded to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Ian

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

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

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

Island Weather

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

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

Events & Re-Openings

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

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

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

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

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

Sanibel Final Budget Hearing

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

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

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

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

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

Regarding the budget:

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

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

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

Florida Tops NY in Home Values

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New York: Up 4.2 %

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

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

Tampa: Up 3.7 %

Sacramento, Calif: Down 5.4%

Portland, Ore.: Down 4.0%.”

Attorney Files Comments with State Agencies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

No new sales.

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

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

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Almost Fall & Almost an Anniversary

Posted on September 22, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

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

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

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

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

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

Events & Re-openings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

No new sales.

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

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

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

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

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend!

’til next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Blue Skies & Popcorn Clouds on Sunny Sanibel

Posted on September 15, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

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

Sundial West 09-15-23

Sandalfoot Bldg 3 09-15-23

Seagull Estates Clubhouse 09-15-23

Thinking of Selling?

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

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

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

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

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

Reopenings Announced

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coming Soon

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

No price changes.

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

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

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

No new sales.

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

Captiva

CONDOS

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

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

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

Nothing to report.

LOTS

1 new listing: 11539 Wightman Ln $2.495M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews aka SanibelSusan

Another Sunny Sanibel Friday Afternoon

Posted on September 8, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

Thursday Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting

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

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

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

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

Friday Update on Causeway & Association of Realtors Building

Gulfside City Park, Algiers Beach 09-08-23

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

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

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

Lee County Commissioners Approve Lee Plan Amendments

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

No price changes or new sales.

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

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

1 price change: 972 Fitzhugh St now $350K

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

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

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

No new sales.

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

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

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

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Labor Day Weekend 2023 on Sunny-Again Sanibel

Posted on September 1, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

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

Shell Harbor canal between Beach Rd & Lindgren Blvd

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

Beach access at Fulgur St

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

Bridge/Causeway Update

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

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

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

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

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

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

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

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

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

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

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

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

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

1 new listing: 16280 Captiva Dr $12M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Enjoy your long weekend! Happy Labor Day!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Back to Life Today on Sanibel Island

Posted on August 25, 2023 by SanibelSusan

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

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

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

Roof work underway at Sandpebble.

Roof work at Spanish Cay

Workers on roof at Seashells

Sundial Resort, workers on Sundial West roof

New roofs underway at Sunset South

Compass Point

Sanibel Siesta

Sanibel Surfside roofers atop several bldgs

Coquina Beach

Beachcomber

Kinzie Island condos

Colony Resort, aka Colonnades

Bridge/Causeway Update

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SanibelSusan Team

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

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

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

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

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

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

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

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

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

HOMES

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

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

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

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

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

LOTS

1 new listing: 2490 Coconut Dr $1.5M.

No price changes.

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

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

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

No price changes, new sales, or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

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

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

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

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