Almost Fall & Almost an Anniversary

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 26th 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
# 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
# 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.

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!

’til next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Blue Skies & Popcorn Clouds on Sunny Sanibel

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 9th season on Friday Oct 6 at 751 Tarpon Bay Rd

Sanibel Farmers Market – reopens for its 16th season on Sunday Oct 1st. 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

#

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

#

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 saleSandpiper 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.

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 Sunny Sanibel Friday Afternoon

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
# 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
# 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.

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

Labor Day Weekend 2023 on Sunny-Again Sanibel

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
# 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
# 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.

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 long weekend! Happy Labor Day!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Back to Life Today on Sanibel Island

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
# 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
# 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.

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. Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Friday With Florida Realtors & Island Happenings

Florida Realtors 2023 Convention/Expo & Business Meetings

As I finish up the week in Orlando, Florida Realtors 2023 Convention and Trade Expo are complete. Tim Tebow speaking on “Mission Possible” at the General Session Wednesday was awesome. What an inspiring man he is.
Yesterday, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors had good representation at the annual Awards Luncheon with 12 of us there. (next 4 pix)
The Florida Realtors leadership team is now holding their annual committee and business meetings. Those finish when the Board of Directors meets on Sunday. Tomorrow the state Professional Development Committee hopefully will approve the instructors recommended by our Audition Panels. This year the panels processed a record number of 64 live auditions and 15 written in a single day. It was special to sit on a panel again and see many colleagues for the first time in several years (that darn pandemic). The networking done during these events is also worthwhile.

Florida now has 235,000 Realtors so ensuring that there are instructors and classes available to cover their license renewals, continuing education, and designations is a big undertaking. Keeping up with fast moving technology is also required to keep curriculum current. Many new class topics are on tomorrow’s agenda including such subjects as Crypto, Bitcoin, Blockchain, and ChatG. (I am still shaking my head at an Artificial Intelligence class I attended while here.)

While I’ve been away, teammate Dave has been on the island every day including this morning with an update on our listings. Below is a photo that he took coming across the bridge, showing the new road paving he noticed on the causeway island closest to Sanibel.

When I mentioned last week that we hoped to get more action while I was out of town, we have. Dave has been working with buyers, while between meetings, I have chatted with several owners who likely will be listing soon. Though it still is hurricane season, island sales are occurring, and inventory is needed. An update of the real estate action this week is after a couple of news items below.

Island Scoop & Upcoming Events

Beach Sand Coming – A message issued yesterday by Sanibel’s Natural Resources Director says “Trucks will begin hauling sand to northwest Sanibel on Monday, Aug 21 to replace sand lost to erosion due to Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole last year. The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted in January to accept grant funds of $5 million from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for Hurricane Ian and Nicole Emergency Recovery to replace sand on Lee County beaches. The sand on Sanibel will reinforce the shoreline south of Blind Pass and reduce the vulnerability of Sanibel-Captiva Road, an evacuation route. Engineering estimates from the City of Sanibel determined that approximately 70,000 tons of sand are needed. About 25 trucks will deliver sand each day which means fewer trucks on the road compared with other recent sand hauling operations in Southwest Florida. Sand will be obtained from the Stewart mine in Immokalee. The sand is approved as beach compatible by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The trucking route will be from Immokalee to Sanibel avoiding Corkscrew Road between Alico Road and Interstate 75. The work is expected to be complete in about 90 days. Public access at Blind Pass Beach Park and Turner Beach Park will remain open. Work hours will be from dawn to dusk on weekdays. The city and county ask that motorists and beach goers be aware and abide by all signs and instructions provided by traffic control personnel in the area….”

Community United Event Sep 30 – The Community House is hosting a social event on Sat Sep 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. celebrating coming together a year after the storm. It will feature free ice cream, cookie baking contest, live music by the Sanibel School steel drum band, an Eagle Scout project reveal, and a fun community art project.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

57

1,162,855

143

78

1,636,093

99

28

976,371

142

Under contract

10

1,102,200

122

38

1,471,218

107

4

1,255,000

102

Sold 2023 to 8/18

70

918,672

52

201

1,244,328

63

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

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

20

1,627,650

80

13

6,713,230

100

0

N/A

N/A

Under contract

1

478,000

22

1

3,150,000

87

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023 to 8/18

10

888,200

111

14

2,820,214

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 11-18

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sand Pointe #124 2/2 $850K, White Sands #11 2/2 $950K, Gulfside Place #228 3/3 $2.2M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Seashells #33 2/2 listed at $435K, Sundial #N402 2/2 listed at $1.225M.

2 closed sales: White Sands #22 2/2 $800K, Sandals #B 3/3 $959K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 9226 Kincaid Ct 3/2 $1.039M, 501 Lagoon Dr 3/2 $1.248M, 676 Cardium St 4/2 $1.349M, 924 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $1.695M.

4 price changes: 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $825K, 1067 Sand Castle Rd 4/2 $1.275M, 595 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $1.559, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 $1.6M.

3 new sales: 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 listed at $799K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed at $1.1M. 2228 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.495M.

1 closed sale: 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 $680K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 4640 Rue Belle Mer $1.495M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 2356 Wulfert Rd $290K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 now $1.295M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Tennis Villas #3129 1/1 $410K.

HOMES

2 new listings: 57 Sandpiper Ct 2/2 $1.899M, 32 Urchin Ct 3/3 $2.195M.

No price changes.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 11535 Murmond Ln 3/3.5 $3.2M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Another Friday With More Progress on Sanibel & Captiva

It’s another sunny Friday on the islands with more Sanibel home sales. Both teammate Dave and I worked with prospective buyers and sellers this week, while also following up on listings we have closing later this month. I continue to post social media updates as we notice changes during our travels. We are happy to assist if anyone needs “boots on the ground” observations about a particular property.

Taken from my car this afternoon on Woodring Rd showing the revetment & living shoreline at work!

Regarding island inventory, it might be high hurricane season, but we see no reason for owners to wait to list unless a property cannot be shown or if there are significant improvements that affect listing now. Today, smart buyers can easily figure out when a property was first listed, so those taking their property off the market to “give it a rest” really are not fooling anyone. When it comes back on the market, it’s not a new listing, it’s just a relisted listing.

Association of Realtors

The local Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but the Florida Realtors annual committee meetings have begun. I will head to Orlando soon for many of those events. This afternoon was the Zoom meeting of the Resort and Second-Home Specialist breakout group which is part of the Legislative Think Tank. It is always interesting to hear how other similar areas problem solve and compare to Sanibel and Captiva. For example, Marco Island is currently working to resolve four lawsuits, including one from Florida Realtors, about their new vacation rentals ordinance.

Another tidbit from the state Resort & Second-Home Specialist breakout group meeting this afternoon is that there has been a huge increase in Florida visitors and vacation rentals. According to Visit Florida, in 2022 over 137.4 million tourists came to Florida. That is 12.8% growth over 2021. Just in the first quarter of 2023, 37.9 million international visitors came here. For the fiscal year that just ended in June, Florida vacation rentals produced over $35 billion in taxable revenue. That’s a $13.3 billion increase over 2022, a 161% increase, a record-breaking year! Guests are staying longer, spending more, and the trend is expected to continue.

Next week, before I head to Orlando for the state in-person meetings, is the Sanibel-Captiva Association’s Professional Development Committee. More on that next Friday.

Island Scoop

Progress continues with some Sanibel businesses moving and others posting reopening dates. Below are a few tidbits and announcements I heard about this week:

American Legion Post 123 – The only American Legion post on the islands (4249 San-Cap Rd) is reopening its Tiki Bar tomorrow and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. offering burgers, hotdogs, and pulled pork. Serving both veterans and the public, it offers a casual setting to socialize. See more info on their Facebook page.

Free Sunday Causeway Tolls – Tuesday, Lee County Commissioners announced that in efforts to increase weekend island business and in support of “Save Our Shores” campaign, the causeway tools are waived coming onto the island for the next six Sundays (from August 6 to September 10).

Heart of the Island Shops – This shopping center which covers 1614-1628 Periwinkle Way, is the new home of Sanibel Art & Frame. It is the only store open there so far and I have become a regular as I slowly empty my garage of hurricane damaged art and photos. They do an amazing job! Today when picking up a piece, I heard that two other long-time island businesses have signed leases there and will be moving in. So, when you are looking for a former favorite shop, be aware that they may have or are moving. Stay tuned for more details when the shops have made their own announcements.

Lighthouse Café – posted on social media that they have signed a lease to occupy the former Sanibel Fresh building at 1020 Periwinkle Way, between Dairy Queen and Lazy Flamingo. They are sad to leave the Seahorse Shopping Center, but certainly will have more space in their new location. No opening date announced yet.

Sanibel Community House – The Sanibel Community Association announced that the renovation of The Community House is going well. Target for completion is September 30. They encourage users to book now as spaces are filling up for the 2023/2024 season.

Sanibel Rec Center – Was closed this week for maintenance which involved scheduling several repairs and improvements during the same timeframe to minimize disruption. Those include repaving of the parking lot, installation of new weight equipment, and acid washing of pools. They reopen Monday morning, August 7.

2nd Lee County Public Meeting on Land-Use Changes

Wednesday night, I attended the county-sponsored public meeting at BIG ARTS as the local community continues to oppose changes to building height and density on Captiva. These changes include removing height restrictions and allowing South Seas Resort to request increased density, changes that island-lovers unanimously oppose because they would harm the character, environment, and resiliency of both Sanibel and Captiva.

The meeting was recorded and began with remarks by County Commissioner Kevin Ruane, followed by a presentation by Lee County Department of Community Development Zoning Manager Anthony Rodriguez. Comments followed from the Captiva Community Panel, Captiva Civic Association, and the public. All comments were in opposition, including those by SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) CEO James Evans and their Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis. I sat with SCCF former (now retired) Director of Education, Kristie Anders. Having worked in SW FL since the mid 70’s and for 30+years at SCCF, her heartfelt comments provided some excellent context. They begin at about the 39-minute mark of the 1+hour presentation: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=257708607031529

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

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

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

58

1,126,566

127

85

1,693,850

96

26

974,784

138

Under contract

8

1,198,625

91

24

1,261,979

131

8

905,375

63

Sold 2023 to 8/4

68

919,824

53

197

1,249,141

61

16

922,593

79

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

18

1,687,500

75

12

7,206,583

102

0

N/A

N/A

Under contract

2

438,500

27

2

2,795,000

72

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023 to 8/4

9

941,333

117

12

2,865,250

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 July 28 – August 4

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sanibel Arms #H7 1/1 $399K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: White Sands #22 2/2 listed at $850K, Sandals #B 3/3 listed at $900K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

4 new listings: 2228 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 $1.495M, 813 Angel Wing Dr 5/5.5 $3.5M, 411 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $3.595M, 1558 & 1545 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3.5 & dock lot $3.999M.

6 price changes: 2991 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 now $549K, 4752 Rue Helene 2/2 now $624K, 4269 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 now $769K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $995K, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 now $1.1M, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.385M.

2 back on market: 922 Main St 3/1 $539K, 2479 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $1.15M.

8 new sales: 1683 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 listed at $510K, 1932 Roseate Ln 3/2 listed at $545K, 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 listed at $599K, 566 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed at $674.5K, 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 listed at $714K, 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 listed at $799K, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 listed at $1.349M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 listed at $4.25M.

7 closed sales: 658 Donax St 3/2 $699K, 1171 Seagrape Ln 3/3 duplex $825K, 209 Daniel Dr 3/2 $900K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.075M, 425 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $1.1M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $3.55M, 568 Lighthouse Way 3/3.5 $4.6M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 395 Bella Vista Way E now $1.5M.

1 new sale: 809 Pyrula Ave listed at $545K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

2 new listings: Captiva Hide-a-Way #2C 2/2 $999K, Gulf Beach Villas #2118 3/2 $1.25M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings, price reductions, new or closed sales.

1 back on market: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 $3.75M.

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

Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests

Last week, we reported that the number of Sanibel home sale closings for 2023 already exceed the total number reported in all of 2022.

Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests

Loggerhead sea turtle

This week, the big record is with sea turtle nests. As of July 26, SCCF (Sanibel & Captiva Conservation Foundation) Turtle Patrol reports that 1,171 sea turtle nests have been laid on the islands this year, compared to 760 in 2022. Already, 8,482 hatchlings have emerged and made their way to the Gulf. Most of these nests are loggerhead turtles, but the islands usually also have a few green turtle nests, with higher green nest counts every other year. This year, 23 green sea turtle nests have been recorded so far.

Green sea turtle

Each species possesses unique characteristics. Here are some of the differences between loggerhead and green sea turtles (gleaned from “SCCF News” posted July 26):

Tracks – These differences can be distinct. Loggerheads crawl with an alternating gait, using their right and left front and rear flippers separately, which leaves asymmetrical marks in the sand. Alternatively, green turtles crawl using their left and right flippers simultaneously, producing a track with symmetrical flipper marks. Green turtles tails also typically cause a drag mark through the center of the crawl markings, while loggerhead tails usually don’t. Green turtles also tend to be larger than loggerheads, so their tracks are wider. A green turtle crawl markings may be 3 to 4.5’ wide, while a loggerhead crawl is usually less, around 2.5 to 4’ wide.

Nests – Compared to loggerheads, a green turtle nest is much larger and they disturb a larger area of sand during the nesting process and spend a long time covering and camouflaging the nest, throwing large amounts of sand and digging a secondary body pit after laying. Loggerhead nests, by comparison, are smaller.

Head Sizes – Loggerheads are aptly named with their large bulky heads equipped with powerful jaws. Green turtles have much smaller heads, especially in proportion to their body size. Green turtles are named because their fat tissue has a green tint due to their mostly herbivorous diet.

Nest Timing – In Florida, loggerhead nesting season starts in April and usually winds down by the end of August, while green turtle nesting season typically runs from June through September.

Please remember to turn off beachfront lights after 9 p.m., fill in holes, level sandcastles, pick up trash and furniture, and respect posted nesting areas. SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline is 978-728-3663.

City 50th Anniversary Plans, No Luminary This Year

Many have asked if the islands will be having their annual Luminary events this year which usually occur on the first Friday in December on Sanibel, and the first Saturday on Captiva. The short answer is “no”, but In partnership with the City and other island organizations, the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce has taken the lead in planning a 13-month celebration of Sanibel’s 50th anniversary. That anniversary is November 5, 2024.

With hurricane recovery efforts still underway, many businesses often open for Luminary events may not be ready this year.

So, with Sanibel’s 1974 incorporation falling in November, plans are in the works for a special 13-month celebration that will kick-off on that anniversary and continue until what would normally be Luminary 2025. To that end, the traditional Luminary for 2023 has been postponed.

The Chamber plan is that all island events between November 5, 2024, and December 6, 2025, will be co-branded with the 50th anniversary celebration. By then, more restoration and recovery will be complete, more businesses back open and more property owners will have returned. Stay tuned. I bet it will be special!

30-Year Mortgage Rates Head Back Up, Hit 6.81%

After hearing about the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rates moving closer to 7%. I quizzed David Wright, Senior Vice President of Residential Mortgage Lending at the Sanibel & Captiva Community Bank. He was at our Association of Realtors membership meeting yesterday. With most island sales contracts being cash, it was a surprise to hear him say that this year is likely going to set records for them. He said they are doing plenty of mortgages, including for damaged property needing construction loans.

So even though the average long-term U.S. mortgage rate ticked back up this week, you can bet if I have a client needing a loan, I will continue to suggest calling David or another of our Association Affiliate Members. I have done business with the SanCap Bank since they opened 20+years ago and they have always exceeded expectations. (It’s also great to have them back open on Sanibel, including the drive-thru.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

The July membership meeting of the islands Association of Realtors was held yesterday morning at the Midland Trust building in Fort Myers, where our Association offices have made their temporary home while their island office building is under restoration.

Speaker Theresa Knower who heads Midland’s 1031 division, provided a refresher overview of the 1031 tax-deferred exchange process. Following that was info on self-directed IRA’s.

The Caravan that followed the meeting included three Sanibel homes and one on Captiva within South Seas Resort. This gave teammate Dave and I a great opportunity to see the progress at the resort. It really is amazing how little damage some northern areas received from the hurricane.

At Lands End looking over Red Fish Pass to North Captiva Island

At Lands End (Captiva’s north end) some repairs and roof work were underway, but the landscaping was beautiful in many areas. As we crossed the long stretch of the resort that has mangroves on either side of the road, I remember thinking that the damage to those looked worse after Charley.

Golf course at South Seas Resort under construction.

The golf course at South Seas is under construction and many resort properties are undergoing restoration, but the damage, particularly at the condos and timeshares appears to be much less than on Sanibel.

Crossing the bridge at Blind Pass coming back onto Sanibel, we noticed the sandbar making its way across the channel which is nearly closed. It was a bit overcast, so the beach was not overly busy.

From Captiva side of the bridge overlooking Blind Pass to Sanibel

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.

On the commercial side, the real estate at 2359 Periwinkle Way (formerly home of CJ’s Swimwear) was listed for $1.29M.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale 60 1,118,980 126 89 1,587,345 98 27 972,755 136
Under contract 6 1,306,500 116 26 1,434,265 106 7 956,857 34
Sold 2023 to 7/28 68 919,824 53 190 1,228,062 61 16 922,593 79
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale 17 1,650,647 93 12 7,206,583 95 0 N/A N/A
Under contract 2 438,500 27 2 2,795,000 72 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2023 to 7/28 9 941,333 117 12 2,865,250 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 July 21-28

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sandals #B 3/3 $900K.

3 price changes: Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 now $889K, Gulfside Place #204 2/2 now $1.35M, Gulfside Place #208 2/2 now $1,370,555.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listings: 313 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 $799K.

3 price changes: 1377 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $724,999; 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 now $799K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 $3.395M.

2 back on market: 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 $1,249,900.

3 new sales: 530 Piedmont Rd 3/2 listed at $549K, 951 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $629K, 6401 Pine Ave 4/3.5 listed at $4.195M.

2 closed sales: 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.1M, 913 Kings Crown Dr 4//3 $1.3M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 2505 Island Inn Rd now $345K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $3.45M.

No price reductions, 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

Number of 2023 Sanibel Home Sales Already Exceed Last Year

It seems when we are busier the Fridays arrive quicker. Now that it is late July, temperatures and humidity are keeping the days toasty, while vegetation is growing like crazy, particularly after the quick showers which are more often. The East End had three humdingers this week, accompanied by plenty of lightning. As summer progresses, big clouds make it across the causeway, usually resulting in fabulous colorful sunsets.

I took a quick spin this morning to several of the public beach parking areas to see how busy they are. Only one spot available at Gulfside City Park, a couple free at Lighthouse Beach gulf-side, but no one parked then at the bayside parking areas.

Lighthouse beach this morning 7/21/23.

Sanibel lighthouse 7/21/23

Lighthouse bayside parking beach access 7/21/23.

Working from home much of yesterday, it was astounding to see a crew of workers on the 3rd story roof of the home across the street from me. They were at it from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. installing a metal roof in temperatures that knocked me over just walking from air-conditioned home to air-conditioned car. They were back again today also. Those roofers and the many workers helping with recovery sure deserve gratitude.

The SanibelSusan Team is also thankful for the two condo listings that went under contract this week. When checking out the islands’ Multiple Listing Service (MLS) statistics, after a couple of news items below, be sure and note that with this week’s home closings, the number of Sanibel home sales in 2023 surpassed the total number sold in all of 2022. The average sale price may be down because many of the sold properties had damage, but unit volume for homes is up. Now that condo complexes are showing improvement, maybe condo sales will pick up.

Bailey’s General Store

Bailey’s Center demo with Wink news interview 7/21/23

It was posted last night that demolition of Bailey’s Shopping Center began this morning and will take about a week. The historic service station is excluded but will be redeveloped along with the rest of the property. The Bailey family is excited for their future resilient plans to begin, but sad so see the buildings go that have served the islands well for over 60 years. Including earlier locations, Bailey’s has been on the island for over 100 years. (Viewing is only available from the shared-use path. The entire Center is a construction zone and not available for public access. Be cautious as large trucks and equipment will be moving in and out.)

Causeway Update

FL DOT photo of bridge damage post-Ian

More construction news was provided at the July Sanibel City Council Meeting during a presentation by Jennifer Dorning who is the Sanibel Causeway Community Liaison with Florida Dept of Transportation. She opened her talk with some background on the 12’ surge that topped with 8’ waves during the peak of Hurricane Ian. As she shared photos of damage, she highlighted that by Day 7 (Oct 11, 2022) the first convoy crossed and by Day 15 (Oct 19) the temporary roadway was open to traffic.

Today, the temporary roadway continues, and the speed limit remains 20 mph. Delays should be expected until construction is complete, but their goal is for 2-way traffic to continue during daytime hours.

Accomplishments to date include adding armor stone to stabilize sheet piles with 80% of the galvanized steel sheeting in.

An unexpected hiccup was the rare least tern nesting noticed a few weeks ago. DOT is working with SCCF to keep these nesting areas undisturbed.

What is happening now:

·        Armor stone is being delivered and could be as many as 30 trucks a day for the next year. These are the huge stones. They are being barged from Punta Rassa over the water to where they will be installed.

·        Installing buried island sheet piles.

·        Removing traffic railing.

·        Delivery of prep material.

·        Begin new road construction. (This has been delayed awaiting a permit from Army Corps for work that needs to be done in the water.) The new road will be raised 2’.  Hurricane Ian was defined by coastal engineers as a 300-year storm. The new construction will be built to withstand that.

·        Much of the work that is being done now, won’t be seen when the roadway is complete.

What’s next?

·        Continue installing sheet piles. Once Army Corps permit is received, installing piles in water begins.

·        Raise road 2’.

·        Protect sides with mattresses.

·        Bury toe protection.

County advises that the new causeway islands will have free parking and the same amenities as were there before, though some may be in different locations.

Total cost estimated at $285 million with Federal government hopefully to reimburse much of that (though it could take years).

Coming up phases of construction may require more night work and limit causeway traffic to one lane during some of those hours. Expect to see those areas well lit and with flagmen.

Public access to the causeway is prohibited during construction. Expect to see the new roadway approximately 3’ higher than before. It was also noted that the Punta Rassa boat ramp needs repair and probably won’t be open to the public until some time in 2024.

For more info, photos, her presentation, and to sign up for construction updates, go to www.SWFLroads.com/SanibelCauseway.
 

Sanibel City Council Post-Ian Update

At the Tuesday monthly City Council Meeting, City Manager Dana Souza announced what he said was the last formal monthly Post-Ian Update. He said finance updates will continue to be provided during the budget process which runs through the end of September. Below are highlights from his presentation:

Both Building & Planning Departments are settled at 2475 Library Way available to help owners and contractors looking for guidance.

All Sanibel public beach parking facilities have reopened with the last being Lighthouse Bayside Park on June 30. For the parking areas requiring a permit, only Access 4 on West Gulf Dr is still closed.

Parking permit revenues are up, while causeway counts are sluggish compared to 2022. Sunday traffic has been exceeding 4,000 vehicles indicating that more day-visitors are coming. The Chamber of Commerce is working with the County in hopes of convincing them to forgive weekend tolls for a period for those visitors coming to support restaurants/businesses. May be in August, stay tuned.

Debris removal total is up to 2,392,390 cubic yards. All removal registrations have ended, though waterway cleanup continues. Expected to finish by the end of the month. If you notice any water areas needing help, contact Public Works. Note: Waste management (weekly trash pickup) will not pick up construction debris.

Building permits – 5,500 have been issued. Code enforcement efforts are for compliance, but 234 stop work orders have been issued or construction stopped.

Huge thanks were offered to Public Works for their efforts in getting public areas and beach parking open.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

There was no Association of Realtors meeting this week, but our listings sure had action. Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics. After that are the activity with our listings this week and that posted in the MLS since last Friday.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

60

1,145,788

123

93

1,616,589

93

29

1,000,600

127

Under contract

7

1,204,128

102

27

1,373,622

103

7

956,857

34

Sold 2023 to 7/21

68

919,824

53

188

1,228,361

61

16

922,593

79

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

18

1,584,494

83

11

7,520,818

79

0

N/A

N/A

Under contract

2

736,500

19

3

3,113,333

108

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023 to 7/21

8

934,625

130

12

2,865,250

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 July 14-21

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Sanibel Siesta #403 2/2 now $734K.

3 new sales: Sunset South #11A 2/2 listed at $599K, Sandpiper Beach #206 2/2 (SanibelSusan listing) listed at $799K, Gulfside Place #318 2/2 (SanibelSusan listing) listed at $1.295M.

3 closed sales: Sundial #I105 1/1 $310,095; Sundial #I104 1/1 $450K, Snug Harbor #122 2/2 $1.575M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1624 Bunting Ln 3/2 $724K, 5892 San-Cap Rd 3/3 $775K, 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $859K, 1258 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $879,900; 5685 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $1.265M; 4355 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 $5.75M.

5 price changes: 1284 Par View Dr 2/2 now $599K, 1535 Centre St 2/2 now $649,555; 1835 Farm Tr 3/2 now $845K, 2042 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $849K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 now $3.495M.

3 back on market: 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $845K, 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 $1.348M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 $4.25M.

6 new sales: 1399 Albatross Rd 3/2 listed at $714K, 4052 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed at $725K, 540 East Lake Rd 3/2 listed at $975K, 1171 Seagrape Ln 3/3 listed at $999K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 listed at $1.2499M, 1036 Whisperwood Way 3/3 listed at $1.299M.

7 closed sales: 9421 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $625K, 228 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $850K, 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $950K, 3251 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.075M, 950 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/2 $1.225M, 513 Lighthouse Way 3/3 $2.1M, 2963 Wulfert Rd 4/6 $3.3M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $3.45M.

No price reductions

1 new sale: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 listed at $3.75M.

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

Quick Afternoon Shower on Sunny Sanibel

Wouldn’t you know just as I was uploading this update, a quick (& much needed) afternoon shower hit Sanibel’s east end knocking out electricity for a couple of seconds. Enough that I didn’t get this posted by 5 p.m., but otherwise good. Below are a couple of photos taken during my travels earlier this afternoon:

Blooming Yucca palms in Gumbo Limbo

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

Islanders already are getting ready for school to begin. Lee County Schools start August 10, less than a month from now. Where did the summer go?

Visiting vacationers are enjoying the beaches and open businesses which are very thankful for them, but there still are few places to stay. We continue to get inquiries from owners and visitors wanting to be here.

Rental organizations and the Chamber of Commerce are working hard to stay up to date on what accommodations are available and businesses open. Understandably they can’t advertise a property that hasn’t been approved for occupancy yet. But stay tuned, new offerings will be coming. Progress continues. (& the Chamber of Commerce now will be open every day!}

Driving around the island this afternoon, I again saw many workers at Tahitian Gardens including on the roof. Also, more roof work is obvious at Sanibel Inn, while Sanibel Beach Resort (formerly the Holiday Inn) also shows more evidence of repairs. In The Dunes, Gumbo Limbo, Sanibel Harbour, and Sanibel Isles, I saw many more homes with work underway. That is typical of homes throughout the islands. Others have new landscaping.

Sanibel City Council has their regular meeting Tuesday morning with items on the agenda that affect commercial rebuilds so I will be following that as well as their update on Post-Ian progress.

Island News

Lee County Land Development Code – Last night Lee County hosted a public meeting at the Captiva Civic Association about county Land Development Code changes that will affect density and height limits on Captiva. I saw a post this morning that there was trouble with their recording equipment so they advised that additional info should be posted on-line this week. A similar County informational meeting is scheduled to be on Sanibel Wednesday, August 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at BIG ARTS Performance Hall. It will also be available through Zoom. A third informational meeting will be on Wednesday August 9, also from 6 to 8 p.m. at the county Public Works building in downtown Fort Myers.

Sanibel Arms West – On their blog at SanibelArmsWest.com, they posted this week, that their restoration work continues with their goal to be open by next summer. Roof work underway, electrical next, then windows, doors, interior walls.

Sanibel Community Assoc – The Community House – The Sanibel Community Association posted this week that they were pouring the concrete in this historic (front) room. They have started Phase 3 of their restoration, the final phase in getting the property open by October 1.

Sweet Melissa’s Cafe – Sweet Melissa’s posted a photo yesterday of what their new building will look like. No date yet on when construction begins, but in the meantime, Melissa is cooking special dinner items both Thursday and Friday nights at her restaurant next door, Island Pizza. I dined there last night and it was wonderful to see Melissa and Island Pizza’s Tammy again. Melissa hopes to have the new restaurant open by Christmas 2025.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate

After the biweekly Caravan meeting yesterday, only one new listing was open for viewing (in Island Woods).

At the Association’s monthly Professional Development Committee Meeting on Tuesday, discussion continued regarding speakers for the upcoming membership meetings, the SCIS designation classes which likely will be last week in Sept/first week in Oct (pending completion of repairs at our Association building), and the instructors for the 14-hour continuing education classes that will be scheduled soon.

Below with data from the islands MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are updated summary tables of the residential sales statistics. After that is the activity posted in the MLS since last Friday. The number of Sanibel homes sold and closed soon will exceed the number of sales in 2022. Homes are hot!

On the commercial side, ReMax Center (formerly Palm Ridge Plaza) at 2400 Palm Ridge Rd closed for $2.35M.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

64

1,128,035

117

96

1,573,352

96

29

1,000,600

120

Under contract

7

1,182,685

67

31

1,575,319

86

7

956,857

34

Sold 2023 to 7/14

64

925,281

52

181

1,219,927

60

16

922,593

79

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale

18

1,584,494

76

11

7,548,090

89

0

N/A

N/A

Under contract

2

736,500

19

2

2,795,000

59

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023 to 7/14

8

934,625

130

12

2,865,250

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 July 7-14

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Blind Pass #B211 2/2 $575K.

5 price changes: Spanish Cay #D4 2/2 now $630K, Sanibel Siesta #501 2/2 now $779K, Loggerhead Cay #212 2/2 now $879K, Sanddollar #A302 3/2 now 41.599M, Seascape #204 3/3.5 now $2.995M.

No new sales.

No closed sales.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.2499M, 3302 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 $1.35M, 580 Boulder Dr 3/2 $1.7M, 2284 Troon Ct 4/4.5 $3.333M.

9 price changes: 1294 Par View Dr 2/2 now $649K, 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $674.5K, 766 Donax St (duplex) 4/2.5 now $699K, 1986 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $859K, 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $995K, 1003 Fish Crow Rd 4/4 now $1.25M, 235 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $1.294M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 now $1.349M, 488 Lighthouse Way 4/4 now $4.495M.

1 back on market: 1932 Roseate Ln 3/2 $545K.

5 new sales: 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 listed at $550K, 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 listed at $845K, 1578 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.08M, 4797 Rue Helene 3/2 listed at $1.348M, 963 Kings Crow Dr 3/3 listed at $1.995M.

5 closed sales: 1859 Farm Tr 3/2 $550K, 683 Durion Ct 3/2 $730K, 1643 Bunting Ln 2/2 $785K, 1326 Tahiti Dr 2/2 $895K, 3924 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $930K.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

2 closed sales: 2615 Tamarind Rd $365K, 2651 Coconut Dr $1.25M.

Captiva

CONDOS

3 new listings: Marina Villas #603 2/2 $1.189M, Beach Villas #2521 2/2 $1.199M, Lands End Village #1666 3/3 $2.525M

No price change, new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 15819 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $23.5M.

No price reductions or new sales.

1 closed sale: 1 Sunset Captiva Ln 2/2.5 $3.1M.

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