Another Friday with Gorgeous Weather & Hot Real Estate Activity on Sanibel Island

Posted on April 4, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s SanibelSusan reporting another week of good real estate activity on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Remember those four new condo listings that I mentioned in my blog last Friday? Well, one already is under contract. Another condo listing sold over the weekend and our only home listing now is under contract too. I also was out two days showing homes this week. We love being busy, especially when there are good results!

View from Kings Crown #302

“Season” is Winding Down

None of our new listings were vacant for Realtor Caravan this week, so we were not able to hold them open, but occupancy will be changing.

I heard at the Post Office yesterday that they already are fielding inquiries from snowbirds getting ready to forward their mail for the summer. Some may be ready to head north, meaning traffic will most likely be easing up in the upcoming weeks. Our rental company colleagues advise that some properties have already transitioned from their high “season” winter rates to shoulder rates and even summer rates.

Below are a few news items followed by the week’s Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service activity report which shows the islands real estate busy-ness. Sanibel inventory is now less than it has been in a long time. Until sales have closed, the general public does not know how the market has changed, but here is a little sampling:

Last year, Jan 1 to Apr 4, 34 Sanibel condos closed. This year during the same period, 37 have closed, BUT another 48 are under contract. That’s 84 condo sales already this year, compared to 161 in all of 2013 (compared to 86 in all of 2007). 140 Sanibel condos remain for sale.
Last year, Jan 1 to Apr 4, 51 Sanibel homes closed. This year during the same period, 54 have closed, BUT another 46 are under contract. That’s 100 home sales already this year, compared to 197 in all of 2013 (compared to 124 in all of 2010). 194 Sanibel homes remain for sale.
Last year, Jan 1 to Apr 4, 5 Sanibel lots closed. This year during the same period, 7 have closed, BUT another 7 are under contract. That’s 14 lot sales already this year, compared to 26 in all of 2013 (compared to 11 in all of 2009). 90 Sanibel lots remain for sale.

As follow-up to my blog posting last week about the good funding in Florida’s new budget for water quality improvement solutions, here is some more positive news on the same subject.

Pumping Polluted Water Into Lake Okeechobee Must Stop, Judge Rules

Posted on Earthjustice.org on Friday, March 28:

“A major decision in federal court today will put an end to government-sanctioned pollution that’s been fouling Lake Okeechobee for more than three decades. The case, first filed in 2002 by Earthjustice, challenged the practice of “back-pumping.” For years, South Florida sugar and vegetable growers have used the public’s waters, pumped out of giant Lake Okeechobee, to irrigate their fields. They wash the water over their industrial-sized crops, where it is contaminated with fertilizers and other pollutants. Then, they get taxpayers in the South Florida Water Management District to pay to pump the contaminated water back into Lake Okeechobee, where it pollutes public drinking water supplies. Lake Okeechobee provides drinking water for West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, and the entire Lower East Coast metropolitan area.

“Earthjustice contended that the South Florida Water Management District was violating the Clean Water Act by allowing the agricultural companies to send fertilizer-laden water into public water supplies, instead of cleaning it up first.

“U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas in the Southern District of New York ruled today that the water transfer practice does, indeed, violate the Clean Water Act. The case ended up in New York because clean-water groups and several states also challenged the practice of allowing dirty water transfers into public water supplies without Clean Water Act protections. All the cases – including Earthjustice’s Florida case – on behalf of Friends of the Everglades, Florida Wildlife Federation and the Sierra Club – were bundled together.

“”It’s well established by now that a city can’t just dump sewage into a river – they’ve got to clean it first,” said Earthjustice attorney David Guest. “The same principal applies here with water pumped from contaminated drainage canals.” “This victory has been a long time coming,” said Florida Wildlife Federation president Manley Fuller. “Stopping pollution at the source is the key to cleaning up South Florida’s water pollution problems – the toxic green slime in the rivers, the dead wildlife washing up in the shores, the contaminated drinking water — and this decision will make that happen at long last.” “Big sugar corporations have been illegally dumping dirty water into Lake Okeechobee for years. They won’t be able to do that anymore, thanks to this very important decision by the federal courts,” said Sierra Club’s Florida Staff Director, Frank Jackalone.

“Transfers of contaminated water have triggered numerous toxic algae outbreaks around the United States. The algae growths can make people sick and sometimes kill livestock or pets that drink the water. The drinking water supplies for millions of Americans across the country have been affected, including notable cases in Florida, Colorado, New Hampshire, and California. The dirty water is a health risk for pregnant women, and taxpayers are on the hook for hundreds of millions of dollars in additional treatment costs while polluters put more profits in their pockets.

““Instead of tightening protections and cleaning up the pollution, the EPA chose to legalize it,” said Albert Slap, attorney for Friends of the Everglades. “Now the courts have settled it – the South Florida Water Management District has to comply with the Clean Water Act.””

BIG ARTS 2nd Annual Photography Scavenger Hunt

SanibelSusan is the sponsor for this BIG ARTS scholarship program fundraiser next week (Tues April 8). At this 2nd Annual event, BIG ARTS invites all aspiring photography buffs to embark on a conceptual scavenger hunt. The adventure begins at 3 p.m. when teams pick up their clues at BIG ARTS. Each team will use one digital camera to capture images inspired by the given clues. Thinking “outside the box” is encouraged.

Teams must return by 5 p.m. and hand in their camera’s memory chip. While the teams are enjoying a gourmet boxed dinner, the collected images will be gathered together for judging and display.

Steve Greenstein will serve as the emcee. During a wine and desert reception at 6 p.m., the images will be showcased on the big screen at BIG ARTS and prizes will be awarded for the best images. Team member tickets are $45 which includes dinner and reception. Reception only tickets are $8.

Sanibel’s Civic Core Master Plan Updated

The latest version of the civic and cultural core plan was presented to Sanibel City Council this week. The architect creating the conceptual plan that would consolidate BIG ARTS, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, Center4Life, and The Community House onto a 25-acre site along with City Hall, the Sanibel Public Library, and the Public Works Department shared the most recent plans for the project which was earlier approved by all stakeholders.

The plan is both bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly, plus provides a net gain of almost twice as many parking spaces. It has gone through 33 versions. Unanimously approved by Council to move forward, future work on the plan will continue a “village approach” relying upon stakeholder and public input, developing a budget which may include applying for grants.

It’s Snowy Plover Time Again

If you need education on the staked nests on the beach now or the families of little birds with tiny chicks running around, be sure to go to the SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) presentation on Tues Apr 8.

Learn more about their ongoing snowy plover research and the conservation efforts on Sanibel and around Florida.

Site Names Top 10 Best Downtowns in U.S.

Photo by Jeremy Harvey/Courtesy of the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association

Having lived in Olde Town Alexandria, VA for many years before moving to Sanibel, I got a kick out of reading this article in “Daily Real Estate News”, sourced to www.Livability.com.

““The best downtowns instill a sense of pride in their cities,” according to Livability.com. The website recently ranked the top 10 best downtowns for 2014. Among the factors analyzed for the list, say the editors, were data on improvement in retail and office vacancy rates, the number of people moving to the area, income growth, unemployment, and the ratio of people who live and work in the downtown.

“Having a great downtown is about more than just having a great main street,” says Matt Carmichael, Livability.com editor. “A downtown should have a cultural and retail focal point, like a main street, but it has to expand beyond that, providing a solid core for the entire community.”

“Livability listed the following downtowns as tops in 2014:

Fort Worth, TX
Providence, RI
Indianapolis
Provo, UT
Alexandria, VA
Frederick, MD
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Bellingham, WA
Eugene, OR
Birmingham, AL.”

Vacation Home Tip Sheet

As the author and instructor for one of the segments required for Realtors® to earn the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Specialist designation, SanibelSusan is always on the lookout for information to share on the “Resort and Second-Home” market. I hold the Resort & Second Home Property Specialist designation.

Here’s a summary tip sheet posted on-line at “RealtorMag” by Barbara Ballinger with the six factors buyers need to consider when investing in a second home.

“1. Keep costs within the budget.

2. Determine the frequency of use.

3. Pick the right location.

4. Understand upkeep.

5. Research rental potential and costs.

6. Think about resale and changing needs.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 28-April 4, 2014

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sanibel Shores #2 2/1 $299K, Seashells #6 2/2 $369K, Coquina Beach #3H 2/2 $2/2 $424K, Breakers West #B5 2/2 $459K, Beachcomber #C102 2/2 $1.575M.

4 price changes: Sanibel Arms West #3 2/2 now $493K, Pointe Santo #A2 2/2 now $849K, Seascape #104 3/3 now $2.27M, Plantation Village #B321 3/3 now $2.299M.

8 new sales: Seawind #A102 2/2.5 listed for $397.9K, Island Beach Club #310F 2/2 listed for $474K (our listing), Sunset South #1B 2/2 listed for $534K, Sandpiper Beach #302 2/2 listed for $599K, Pointe Santo #E21 2/2 listed for $715K, Pine Cove 31A 2/2 listed for $779K, Kings Crown #302 2/2 listed for $899K (our listing), High Tide #A102 3/2.5 listed for $1.299M.

7 closed sales: Duggers Tropical Cottages #5 1/1 $269K, Sundial #G105 1/1 $305K, Sundial #G401 2/2 $412K, Blind Pass #C203 3/2.5 $ 461K, Sunset South #6A 2/2 $490K, Lighthouse Point #324 3/2 $635K, Kings Crown #303 2/2 $930K.

HOMES

5 new listings: 340 East Gulf Dr 2/2 $489K, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 $799K, 1818 Buckthorn Ln 3/3 $875K, 1237 Isabel Dr 6/6.5 $3.345M, 3911 West Gulf Dr 5/5.5 $5.295M.

15 price changes: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 now $315K, 2186 Egret Cir 3/2 now $439K, 1364 Jamaica Dr 2/2 now $489K, 950 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $499K, 778 Cardium St 3/3 now $499K, 1325 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $710K, 3131 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $725K, 475 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 now $799K, 1528 Angel Dr 3/2 now $889.5K, 1516 Angel Dr 3/2 now $890K, 1001 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 now $925K, 6433 Pine Ave 4/3 now $949K, 1740 Middle Gulf Dr 4/3 now $979K, 2729 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 now $1.098M, 660 Anchor Dr 4/4 now $1.35M (short sale).

8 new sales: 3837 Coquina Dr 2/2 listed for $449K, 1344 Tahiti Dr 2/1 listed for $450K, 1625 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed for $499K, 710 Pyrula Ave 2/2 listed for $598K, 1213 Par View Dr 3/2.5 listed for $770K, 1130 Seagrape Ln 4/3 listed for $799K, 820 Angel Wing Dr 3/2 listed for $999K (our listing), 5115 Joewood Dr 4/3 listed for $1M.

6 closed sales: 1565 Bunting Ln 3/2 $425K, 1787 Serenity Ln 3/2 $520K, 617 E Rocks Dr 3/2 $585K, 231 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $935K, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $995K, 4992 Joewood Dr 3/3.5 $1.35M.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 9239 Dimmick Dr now $165.9K, 2324 Starfish Ln now $495K.

1 new sale: 3334 Saint Kilda Rd listed for $315K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Ventura Captiva #5B 3/3.5 now $1.045M.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: Bayside Villas #5136 1/2 $258.5K, Tennis Villas #3139 2/2 $380K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 14860 Mango Ct 5/4 $2.394M.

2 price changes: 11411 Old Lodge Ln 4/2 now $929K, 16814 Captiva Dr 5/4.5 now $7.495M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

1 new listing: 16297 Captiva Dr $1.749M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

This representation is based, in whole, or in part, on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® or its Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.

Happy weekend to all, from SanibelSusan…

More fantastic weather with temperatures in the 70’s is expected for the next week…island perfect!

Traffic Kindness & Real Estate Happenings on Sanibel & Captiva

Posted on March 28, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s another Happy Friday at SanibelSusan Realty. Once again it was a busy seven days on the islands. SanibelSusan listings had good inquiries and showing activity. One listing went under contract. Another has been accepted verbally, and several offers on other listings are being negotiated. We got four new condo listings too, all with showings already scheduled tomorrow. A report below after a couple of news items lists all of the action posted in the Sanibel and Captiva Multiple Listing Service. It was another good week for real estate even with the heavy traffic.

Speaking of traffic, I read the below editorial by Sidney B. Simon in yesterday’s edition of the “Island Reporter” and asked him if I could share it in my blog. With his permission, here it is:

Traffic Kindness

“To the editor: Traffic is awful. Tempers flare. Road rage is pending. And just think what it would be like without those marvelous, competent Traffic Police? So yell a thanks as you go by.

“But, there’s something else each of us could do. We could, yes we could, let someone in. For example, when we see a car that has to make a left turn coming down from the library. Or even a right turn coming out of Dixie Beach. Or any turn coming out of one of the shopping centers or the post office.

“A little traffic kindness could ease the pain. And, here’s a simple plan to encourage that.

“If you drive an SUV and you see an SUV trying to get onto Periwinkle, you stop traffic and let it in, and include one other car behind it, not matter what it is. It’s amazing what one SUV can do to help.

“Now, take it further. Every pickup truck lets in a pickup truck. Every convertible could make it a habit to let any other convertible in. Every German car lets a German car onto Periwinkle. You know you German cars can recognize a Mercedes, a BMW, or VW. Let one in. Then every Japanese or Korean car owner, stops and welcomes in one of their breed. Hummers and Yugos may have some problems. If you drive anything else, I leave it to you to figure out what kindness you want to perform.

“One of the nice things about being stuck in traffic, you and your passengers can start a conversation about kindness, how it needs to be encouraged, and what we can teach our grandkids about some of the kindnesses we have done during our long life. Kindness is one of the legacies we leave behind. I welcome your comments. Sidney B. Simon, Sanibel Island”

REALTORS® Forecast Home Price Increases

This article was posted on Monday on “Daily Real Estate News”. With the wonderful weather in Florida this winter, I bet Florida ends up leading the pack in this year – particularly on the islands where most buyers pay cash.

“REALTORS® expect home prices to continue to rise over the next 12 months. But they expect them to do so at a moderate pace, given tight credit conditions and the chipping away of home affordability, according to the latest REALTORS® Confidence Index, a monthly survey distributed to more than 50,000 real estate practitioners to gauge expectations over home sales, prices, and market conditions.

“Real estate professionals reported a median price expectation of 3.9% over the next 12 months. The states where practitioners are predicting the biggest increases—5 to 7%—are in California, Florida, Alaska, and Hawaii. Tight inventories have helped to lift home values in these areas, according to the survey. “In states with booming economies like Washington, North Dakota, Texas, Michigan, and the D.C.-metro area, the expected price increase is about 3 to 5%,” according to the report.

“Real estate professionals also expressed several concerns over the housing market holding back some buyers, particularly due to “unreasonably” tight credit conditions. “Access to credit was often cited as a deterrent to home buying,” according to the report. “About 13% of REALTORS® who did not close a sale in February reported having clients who could not obtain financing.” In those cases, about 6% of the professionals said their buyer gave up, while 7% said their buyer continued to seek new or other financing. Other transaction hang-ups were lack of agreement on a price (accounting for 11%); buyer losing a home to competition (10%); and appraisal issues (3%).”

FEMA Outlines Next Steps for Flood Insurance Law

FloridaRealtors® on-line posted the following notice yesterday:

“In testimony before a U.S. House subcommittee, Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate talked about the timing of implementation. He suggested that homeowners and buyers be patient – it may take awhile for the law’s mandates to filter down to insurance agents.

“President Obama signed the flood insurance law on Friday, but FEMA has up to eight months to develop guidance for insurance companies, according to Lisa Jones, a consultant hired by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) to navigate the complicated law. And after FEMA solidifies the new rules, insurers have up to six months to retool their software.

“Rep. Steven Palazzo, vice chairman of the House Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications, asked Fugate at a hearing yesterday if there was a way to fast-track the process. According to Fugate, the first step is to explain the grandfathering clause – where a homebuyer pays the same rate as a home seller in areas where FEMA subsidizes some flood insurance rates – to insurance agents in the field because “It’s going to take time to get that out there to every agent and get that into the system.”

“Fugate says buyers, at least in the short term, may have to work with both their insurance agent and FEMA to get the correct flood insurance rate. FEMA “may need to handle some of the immediate (flood insurance rate requests) – literally, hand-walk it through the process until the system is fully up and running with the new changes,” he testified.

“Fugate pointed to one part of the new law that would take time to calculate: A mandate that no single premium exceed 18%, and “we’re looking at the timeframes you gave us to do refunds” for homeowners who already paid a higher flood insurance premium.

“Fugate said the new mandatory caps will also impact all calculations for rate increases, and it will take FEMA time to do that, followed by software changes to programs that insurers use to quote rates to homeowners.”

Florida Working to Protect Water Quality

Here is some excellent news. These excerpts are from a www.flgov.org article entitled “Governor Rick Scott’s FY 2014-2015 Recommended Budget Highlights”. That budget is now approved! This is all good news for Southwest Florida. The next step is to get the Federal Government to be more proactive on water quality too. Florida Realtors® locally, state, and nationally have been pushing for this for years!

“Protecting Florida’s Economy, Water Supply, and Environment through the Restoration of the South Florida Ecosystem and Florida’s Everglades: The Governor’s It’s Your Money Tax Cut Budget commits an historic $180 million dollars towards restoring and protecting the Everglades and Florida Keys. This is a $110 million increase from the FY 2013-2014 budget.

“Florida’s Everglades: The Governor continues his commitment to Everglades by committing $130 million for restoration projects.

• Restoring America’s Everglades means reestablishing its natural water flow to the 2.4 million-acre marsh, reviving habitat for more than 60 threatened and endangered species, creating a reliable water supply for millions of Floridians and providing flood control to South Florida.

• The funds provided will implement the Governor’s water quality plan for the Everglades and continue the state’s commitment to the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). It will also fund critical projects such as the Kissimissee River restoration and the raising of an additional 2.6 miles of Tamiami Trail to allow more water to flow into Everglades National Park.

• In addition, funding is provided to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for implementation of agricultural nonpoint source controls in the Okeechobee, Caloosahatchee, and St. Lucie River watersheds. Together, these projects will provide clean water for the Everglades and reduce the excessive flow of water into the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee River estuaries.

“Wastewater Treatment Upgrades: The Governor’s Budget also provides $50 million for wastewater treatment upgrades in the Florida Keys.

“Protecting Florida’s Springs, Lakes, Rivers, and Estuaries: Governor Scott’s Budget provides $55 million for springs protection and restoration, including ensuring the protection of the groundwater supply in Central and North Florida. This is a $45 million increase in funding from FY 2013-14.
Governor Scott’s Budget also provides the following funding for water resource protection:
• $17 million for nonpoint source pollution management grants;
• $9.4 million for total maximum daily loads;
• $77.2 million for drinking water facility construction, an increase of $4.3 million from FY 2013-2014;
• $161.6 for wastewater treatment facility/storm water construction, an increase of $18.8 million from FY 2013-2014; and $8 million for lake restoration.

“Protecting Beaches: Over 220 miles of beaches, or 55% of all Florida beaches, that were designated as critically eroded have been restored and maintained through partnerships with local, state, and federal governments. Governor Scott’s Budget provides $25 million of financial assistance to local and state governments and special taxing authorities for beach and dune restoration, beach nourishment, inlet sand bypassing, regional sediment management and innovative projects. This funding adds to the more than $393 million in state funding for beach and inlet management provided over the last 10 years.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 21-28, 2014

Sanibel
CONDOS
6 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #1322 2/2 $419K, Cottage Colony West #119 1/1 $599K (our listing), Sand Pointe #122 2/2 $749K (our listing), Sanibel Surfside #123 2/2 $874K (our listing), Kings Crown #302 2/2 $899K (our listing), Sanibel Seaview #B1 3/3 $1.395M.
6 price changes: Captains Walk #C1 2/1 now $310K, Sunset South #1C 2/2 now $455K, Island Beach Club #P2A 2/2 now $474K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 now $595K, Sandals #D 4/3 now $1.975M, Seascape #104 3/3 now $2.295M.
9 new sales: Donax Village #9 1/1 listed for $249.9K, Kimball Lodge #263 1/1.5 listed for $349K, Sanibel Arms #C4 2/2 listed for $489.9K, Compass Point #212 2/2 listed for $569K, Pointe Santo #E32 2/2 listed for $739K, Sundial #E208 2/2 listed for $799K, Surfside 12 #B1 3/2 listed for $869K, Beachcomber #C302 2/2 listed for $1.695M, Sedgemoor #103 3/3.5 listed for $2.55M.
2 closed sales: Tennisplace #D33 1/1 $170K, Sundial #O205 2/2 $755K.

HOMES
5 new listings: 5141 SanCap Rd 2/2 $350K, 1827 Middle Gulf Dr 2/2 $525K, 553 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $579K, 739 Elinor Way 3/3 $599K, 564 Hideaway Ct 3/2 $599K.
11 price changes: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 now $324K; 1481 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $524K; 3001 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 now $569,555; 3168 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $614K; 1744 Bunting Ln 4/2 now $627.7K; 4279 Gulf Pines Dr 4/3 now $729.75K; 987 Sand Castle Rd 4/3.5 now $749K; 1291 Sand Castle Rd 5/3.5 now $825K; 1232 Isabel Dr 3/3 now $1.79M; 1800 Woodring Rd 2/2 now $1.795M; 696 Kinzie Island Ct 4/5 now $2.459M.
8 new sales: 531 Birdsong Place 3/2 listed for $448K; 1555 Bunting Ln 2/2 listed for $449K; 1121 Skiff Pl 3/2 listed for $545K; 1252 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed for $549K; 1356 Tahiti Dr 2/2 listed for $674K; 2667 Coconut Dr 3/3 listed for $825K; 909 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed for $1,199,999; 5423 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 listed for $1.479M.
3 closed sales: 9459 Begonia Ct 3/4 $545K, 1705 Serenity Ln 3/2.5 $551.75K, 211 Daniel Dr 3/2 $725K.

LOTS
1 new listing: 0 Dinkins Lake Rd $240K.
2 price changes: 667 Birdie View Pt now $349K, 5830 SanCap Rd now $395,555.
2 new sales: 1118 Sand Castle Rd listed for $199K (our listing), 5749 San Cap Rd listed for $399,555.
1 closed sale: 990 Beach Rd $525K.

Captiva
CONDOS
2 new listings: Bayside Villas #5128 1/2 $325K, Gulf Beach Villas #2012 2/2 $622.5K.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES
1 new listing: 15009 Binder Dr 4/5.5 $4.495M.
1 price change: 16249 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $2.495M.
No new sales.
1 closed sale: 15127 Captiva Dr 8/8 multi-family $1.45M.
LOTS
Nothing to report.

’til next Friday, this Realtor will be working 24/7.
It’s a great time of the year in the real estate business on the islands! Woohooo!
SanibelSusan

What’s Happening on Sanibel & at SanibelSusan Realty Associates

Posted on March 14, 2014 by SanibelSusan

All continues to be well on Sanibel and Captiva with fabulous weather, lots of fun-filled activities, heavy traffic, and good solid real estate action. Next week is spring break for the Lee County Schools so the islands may even be busier. Here are the upcoming permitted special events posted today on mySanibel.com.

Sat – 3/15 is the Sanibel Antiques Show at The Community House, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., also Sun 3/16, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sun – 3/16 – Sanibel Farmers’ Market at City Hall Grounds, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sun – 3/16 – Norm Zeigler’s Fly Shop Shrimp Boil, (Norm is the tenant at the other end of our building in Sanibel Square), noon to 2 p.m.
Mon – 3/17 – IrishFest at Bailey’s Center 2 to 5 p.m. (BIG ARTS Chorus kicks things off at 2 p.m.)
Mon – 3/17 – St Patty’s Day Celebration at Doc Fords Rum Bar & Grille, 5 to 10 p.m.

Below is a cool vehicle that was parked behind our office yesterday!

Island Real Estate Action

Dave held open houses two days this week, Elise has been juggling showing appointments with tenants and Realtors®, and I was out showing property again yesterday. We had a nice smooth condo closing on Wed and another will occur later today.

Probably the best news of the week is in the item that follows about the flood insurance vote yesterday in the Senate. After that are a couple of other real estate items, followed by the activity posted this week in the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service.

Senate Passes Flood Insurance With House Amendments

As posted this morning on Realtor.org: Yesterday, “the United States Senate voted 72-22 to approve the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act (H.R. 3370). The Senate acted quickly to pass the bill as amended by the House to avoid the need for a conference committee to reconcile any differences. The new bill further reins in and holds the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) accountable for the Biggert-Waters implementation issues.

“As passed, the bill repeals FEMA’s authority to increase premium rates at time of sale or new flood map, and refunds the excessive premium to those who bought a property before FEMA warned them of the rate increase. The bill limits premium increases to 18% annually on newer properties and 25% for some older ones. Additionally, the bill adds a small assessment on policies until everyone is paying full cost for flood insurance. President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law when it arrives at the White House. NAR (National Association of Realtors®) had urged a swift vote in the Senate.”

SanibelSusan’s Scoop on Island Real Estate

Now that the islands are a full two-plus months into “season”, it is interesting to hear today’s prospective buyers say that they are surprised that Sanibel and Captiva real estate has rebounded so quickly. Some think they may have missed out.

2013 was a good year of continued progress toward a more balanced market. The islands did not have the same big spike in property values seen in some parts of the country but solid recovery has been obvious since the end of 2012. Continuing through today, the numbers of sales are up, while inventory has declined considerably.

In considering consumer profiles, cash sales continue to be king, yet another indication that buyers see the investment value in island real estate.

Here is an updated summary of the Sanibel sales statistics compared to last year and the heydays of 2006. Notice how volume is up, prices are on the upswing. DOM (days-on-market) of the sold listings have improved too, mostly showing the new listings priced-right are what are selling.

Sanibel CONDOS HOMES LOTS

# / Avg $ / DOM # / Avg $ / DOM # / Avg $ / DOM

For Sale 153 / $718,734 / 375 200 / $1,341,749 / 292 91 / $676,677 / 785

Closings pending: 40 / $708,712 282 36 / $1,055,178 / 266 6 / $706,667 / 578

Sold & closed in

2014 thru 3/14 18 / $658,881 / 228 43 / $797,709 / 266 4 / $386,139 / 420

2013 161 / $573,557 / 326 197 / $910,321 / 287 26/ $416,503 / 475

2006 143 / $866,972 / 147 156 / $1,143,682 / 186 18 / $523,917 / 158

(Note: “For Sale” & “Closings Pending” prices are asking prices.)

New Garden Trends in 2014

The following article by Barbara Ballinger from the February on-line issue of “Realtor®Mag” has some good points whether you are a year-’round islander or a northern friend dreaming of the upcoming spring gardening seasons. From a real estate standpoint, “a backyard oasis for low-maintenance entertaining and calming tranquility is sure to catch buyers’ eyes.”

“While winter still casts its chill, blankets snow, and layers ice in many parts of the country, landscape experts are busy studying garden catalogs, nursery websites, and interior design trends that can work outdoors. Improving a home’s landscaping offers a win-win-win: greater enjoyment, increased home values, and enhanced curb appeal that may help attract buyers.

“To gain the biggest bang for their dollars, home owners should understand their site’s topography, orientation, climate, and economy, as well as their own budget. What’s popular in one city experiencing growth may not appeal where the economy is stagnant, says landscape architect Stephen Wlodarczyk of Botanical Decorators in Olney, Md.

“Here are popular trends reported from around the country and tips you can pass on to your clients:

“Low maintenance. Busy home owners want to enjoy yards that don’t require a lot of time and effort to maintain. This trend is translating into more low-maintenance, carefree choices for outdoor spaces, such materials for decks, patios, and columns that don’t require repainting or replacing, furnishings that can be left outdoors throughout the year and won’t fade, and plant materials that don’t have to be constantly watered, fertilized, or pruned. This, in turn, is leading to greater use of perennials instead of annuals in gardens, since annuals require yearly replacement. To compensate for the color advantage of annuals, landscape specialists suggest that color come from accessories such as pillows, placemats, and dishes.

Wildflowers, too, are less labor-intensive than cottage and cutting garden choices, and also less pricey.

Simpler in design and care, yet still pleasing, are gardens that incorporate five to seven varieties of flowers rather than dozens, says Daniel Richards, general manager of design at Hicks Nurseries in Westbury, N.Y. “You can go with one big bank of roses in one color rather than 20 different kinds in multiple colors,” he says. Container gardens also pare down maintenance, and pots can winter indoors. But the downside is that they need to be watered more frequently since water in smaller containers will evaporate faster than it will in the ground. Although water features remain popular, these, too, are beginning to reflect the desire for less intense care. More home owners install pools with salt water to decrease the need for chlorination, and some go with natural pools where rocks and plantings cleanse water. Still others opt for small fountains for the soothing sight and sound of trickling water. And if they want a more lavish water wall or cascade, they ask for water to be recirculated for conservation, says Chris Cipriano, owner of Cipriano Landscape Design in Mahway, N.J. The size of pipes can also reduce evaporation, with oversized designs slowing the velocity and loss, he adds. When it comes to grass, “Grassology’s” grass-like product requires less water and feeding since its roots go deeper than ordinary grass to find water and nutrients instead of depending on traditional methods. The “grass” also doesn’t grow as high, so less mowing is needed.

“Entertaining outdoors. Today’s home owners want an outdoor entertainment space, so more are adding patios, decks, or terraces large enough to accommodate comfortable seating; often the finished result resembles an indoor room. The furnishings selected for outdoor entertainment areas are also sturdier — sometimes indistinguishable in quality and look from what home owners use indoors — and upholstery is more fade-resistant. Bells and whistles make outdoor living even more pleasurable, whether it’s surround sound, weatherproof TVs, or well-equipped kitchens. While some home owners still find a good grill sufficient, especially if their indoor kitchen is close by, others are ramping up their cooking zones with appliances specifically designed for outdoor use — sinks, refrigerators, beer taps, pizza ovens, and rotisseries. Storage and countertops are also more frost-proof. To shade those who lounge or dine, pergolas continue to flourish, matched stylistically to a home’s design or favorite vacation paradise — perhaps Tuscany or the South Seas. To shade better, many are planted with flowering vines.

For those who aren’t as focused on saving dollars, water features are ever more lavish and resort-like. Vanishing-edge pools, where water seems to spill over indefinitely, are increasing popular, says Cipriano. “Home owners want to feel they’re going to their own five-star hotel,” he says.

“Sustainably savvy. Native vegetation choices have caught on in landscaping because they don’t require frequent watering or as much feeding, fertilizing, and pruning, and these plants know how to survive in their region. They also offer the plus of attracting more native wild life, bees, butterflies, and bugs. Green gardening also means less lawn for many, and more hardscape that’s permeable such as gravel or brick, so water can seep through and be reused. But be sure home owners understand that all hardscape isn’t the goal either, since some greenness is key to a home looking residential and inviting, says Sacramento, Calif., landscape designer Michael Glassman, whose state has experienced a terrible drought. If home owners insist on lawn and plants, they should consider going with a choices that can be left more natural to resemble a meadow or prairie, or they might consider synthetic turf, which now looks much more realistic. Many home owners are also planting vegetable and herb beds to grow more of their own food, which inspired Elizabeth Robinson Edwards and her husband Williams recently to launch their Edwards Yards business to help home owners learn how to amend poor soil and grow food sustainably.

Drip irrigation systems help conserve water better than sprays, which often throw into the air haphazardly, says Jim Drzewiecki of Ginkgo Leaf Studio in Cedarburg, Wisc. For home owners eager to lower water use, they should consider installing rain barrels and other collection methods. More home owners also want to incorporate local, recycled, and renewable materials, such as stone quarried nearby and reclaimed lumber, says landscape designer Laurie Van Zandt, whose firm, The Ardent Gardener is based in Huntsville, Utah.

“Extended use. Better lighting and warmth are key for extending backyard enjoyment into the night and for a greater part of the year (even in colder climates). For illumination, LEDs are replacing halogen bulbs because of their greater energy efficiency, particularly as their prices come down. These lights are being used not just for eating and sitting, but also to accent specimen trees, garden furnishings, and artwork. Richards says make sure the lighting effect is visible while concealing the source of the light. Adding a fire pit or fireplace also encourages home owners to use their outdoors as the weather becomes nippier. Fire pits are a more affordable option, but if home owners are planning to stay in their home for a long time, a permanent outdoor fireplace can bring many years of beauty and enjoyment. Before home owners install either, they should know their community’s regulations regarding having a fire outdoors and how far the structure must be from the house. A fire bowl offers a less intense flame, but still provides the effect, and several can be placed around the perimeter of a terrace or by a pool, says Glassman. For those homeowners who prefer going barefoot, he also suggests radiant heat installed under wood boards, in the same manner as indoors kitchens and bathrooms.

“All the senses. Attracting bees, birds, and other animals can add pleasant outdoor sounds. And an array of smells from plants, flowers, and herbs also can enhance home owners’ pleasure, says Van Zandt, but try not to have too many that may overpower one another. Bolder colors outdoors rank high on wish lists, as they do inside, from periwinkle blue to zesty orange, but know that classic white and blue rarely loses its cachet. The Perennial Plant Association named Panicum virgatum, “Northwind,” the 2014 plant of the year with its vertical ornamental grass with blue green foliage forming a clump 4 to 5′ high and 2 to 3′ wide, Wlodarczyk says.

“More personalized curb appeal. A front yard can become more appealing through a host of features beyond a lawn and decorative walk, says Van Zandt. Suggest to home owners they use textured plantings, different height materials, some variation in color throughout the year, a piece of garden art or interesting furniture such as an antique bench, maybe a small water feature, and even a painted wall that coordinates with their home’s façade and architectural elements.

“And whatever choices home owners consider, advise them to keep costs to no more than 5 to 10% of their home’s value, so they don’t over improve.

59 Metros Back to Normal

Here’s some positive info from Sunday’s “Daily Real Estate News”:

“Out of 350 metros evaluated across the country, 59 housing markets have returned to or have exceeded their last normal level of economic and housing activity, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/First American Leading Markets Index.

“Overall, markets nationwide are running at about 87% of their normal economic and housing activity. The index evaluates metro areas to see if they’re approaching or exceeding their previous normal levels of economic and housing activity. The index factors in average single-family permits, home prices, and employment levels for the past 12 months and then compares that to the market’s historical levels.

Topping the list of major metros on the Leading Markets Index is Baton Rouge, LA, which is performing 41% better than its last normal market level. Other top performing markets are Honolulu, Oklahoma City, Austin and Houston, TX, and Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, PA. All of those markets are experiencing economic and housing activity that exceeds their previous norms.

“Looking at the smaller metros, Odessa, TX, and Midland, TX, have seen economic and housing activity double when compared to activity prior to the recession. Other smaller metros that are also performing strong: Casper, WY; Bismarck, ND; and Grand Forks, ND.

“”The strong energy sector is at the forefront of the recovery and centered in many small and mid-sized markets in Texas, Louisiana, North Dakota and Wyoming,” says NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “In fact, these four states account for eight of the top 10 markets on the LMI and 45% of the markets that are at or above normal.””

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 7-14, 2014

Sanibel
CONDOS
5 new listings: Beach Road Villas #102 2/2 $349K, Sundial #F207 1/1 $349K, Sanibel Arms West #J3 2/2 $525K, Lighthouse Point #130 2/2 $530K, Sanibel Surfside #211 2/2 $839K.
4 price changes: Donax Village #9 1/1 now $249.9K, Sundial #D207 1/1 now $264.9K, Loggerhead Cay #453 2/2 now $519K, Seascape #104 3/3 now $2.345M.
7 new sales: Sundial #H107 1/1 listed for $299K, Sundial #G305 1/1 listed for $339K, Mariner Pointe #1091 2/2 listed for $399K, Sundial #G401 2/2 listed for $459K, Sandpiper Beach #505 2/2 listed for $599K (short sale), Lighthouse Point #324 3/2 listed for $679.9K, Janthina #1A 3/2 listed for $1.1M.
3 closed sales: Sundial #C308 1/1 $285K, Seawind #A109 2/2.5 $375K, Mariner Pointe #812 2/2 $440K (our listing).

HOMES
5 new listings: 1048 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $795K, 2552 Harbour Ln 3/2 $895K, 6010 White Heron Ln 3/2.5 $959K, 927 Kings Crown Dr 3/3.5 $1.595M, 5075 Joewood Dr 3/4.5 $3.89M.
9 price changes: 1526 Bunting Ln 2/2 now $399.9K, 1481 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $529K, 1121 Skiff Pl 3/2 now $545K, 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $549K, 1526 Bunting Ln 5/3 now $553K, 5690 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 now $799.9K, 261 Ferry Landing Dr 2/2 now $998.5K, 1500 Angel Dr 3/2 now $1.195M, 1206 Bay Dr 4/4.5 now $3.395M.
1 new sale: 660 Anchor Dr 4/4 listed for $1.2M (short sale).
2 closed sales: 5284 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/2 $470K, 2529 Harbour Ln 3/3 $675K.

LOTS
No new listings.
1 price change: 2324 Starfish Ln now $499K.
1 new sale: 761 Donax St listed for $219K.
2 closed sales: 3037 Poinciana Cir $195K, 4318 West Gulf Dr $635K.

Captiva

CONDOS
3 new listings: Sunset Beach Villas #2217 1/1 $510K, Beach Villas #2628 2/2 $629K, Beach Homes #1 3/2 $2.195M.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES
3 new listings: 11490 Old Lodge Ln 3/3.5 $1.349M, 1 Sunset Captiva Ln 2/2.5 2.495M, 15361 Captiva Dr 5/4 $2.595M.
1 price change: 11411 Old Lodge Ln 4/2 now $959K.
No new or closed sales.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

Best weekend wishes & here’s to good luck to everyone on Monday during the wearin’ of the green!

SanibelSusan

It’s Spring-Ahead Weekend on Sanibel Island

Posted on March 7, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s another perfect Friday on Sanibel Island. We are all ready to turn the clocks ahead on Sunday so we can enjoy more of this wonderful weather, later in the evenings.

Here are a few quick news items, followed by the week’s real estate action as reported in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service.

Florida Realtors® Applaud House Passage of Flood Insurance Bill

Florida Realtors® posted the following notice on-line on Wednesday:

“Realtors across Florida support the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, H.R. 3370, overwhelmingly passed by the U.S. House Tuesday, 306-91.

““This action in Congress will bring the much-needed certainty our real estate market has been missing since Biggert-Waters went into effect, and provide immediate relief to Florida homeowners who were facing financial ruin due to sudden and drastic flood insurance premium increases,” said 2014 Florida Realtors® President Sherri Meadows, CEO and team leader, Keller Williams, with market centers in Gainesville, Ocala and the Villages. Meadows added, “While good-intentioned, the Biggert-Waters Act had the effect of stigmatizing properties that are in flood zones. Current property owners, as well as those looking to buy, didn’t know if a new flood map might be adopted next week or next year. This legislation will give property owners in Florida and across the country peace of mind, by ensuring a slow and steady phase-in of risked-based increases.”

“Cyndee Haydon, associate broker with Future Home Realty in Clearwater, noted that the unintended consequences of the Biggert-Waters Act was making Florida locations less attractive to families, retirees and others looking to move here because of the dramatic, soaring cost of flood insurance in many areas. “I’m excited that the legislation addresses the affordability of flood insurance and provides a ‘glide path’ for premium increases of about 15% a year (for those not paying the full rates yet),” Haydon said. “This takes out the fear and the unknown factor.”

“Brandi Gabbard, chair of the Pinellas Suncoast Association of Realtors and broker-associate with Smith & Associates in St. Petersburg, said that the House bill allows for homeowners of properties that currently have subsidized policies with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to be “grandfathered in” again. “That’s a huge win for homeowners,” Gabbard said. “We also hope to see more interest from private insurers to offer flood insurance policies. The Pinellas County area has seen good success with Lloyds of London and Homeowners’ Choice Property and Casualty Insurance Company. There are several bills legislators are introducing in Tallahassee to support the private market for flood insurance. Encouraging competition among private insurers will be the long-term, sustainable answer for this issue.”

“Under the U.S. House bill:

Immediate increases in flood insurance premiums up to 10 times the previous cost are eliminated.

Those who already paid such increases receive refunds.

Primary homeowners not already paying full rates could see their annual rate increases average 15% and be capped at 18%.

Second homes and businesses not already paying full rates could receive premium increases of about 25% per year.

Renewal increases are capped at 18% for homes in newly mapped flood zones.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a goal of having annual premiums not exceed 1% of total coverage provided by the policy.”

77th Annual Sanibel Shell Festival is NOW

Photo by Pam Rambo at www.ILoveShelling.com

Photo by Pam Rambo at http://www.ILoveShelling.com

Featuring shells, shell art, crafts and books, juried artistic and scientific exhibits, this annual event at The Sanibel Community House began on Thursday and runs through tomorrow (Saturday).

It unexpectedly got closed down early yesterday when Southwest Florida experienced a brief period of wind and heavy rain, but it is back in business again today.

New Sanibel Cell Tower is Up & Running

The City’s new cell phone tower located on utility department lands just off Donax Street now is operational. Verizon built the tower on land leased from the City to boost cell service on the east-end. The tower doubles as a flag pole, with positive comments already received from those driving onto the island and viewing the huge new American flag waving. There are spaces on the tower for other carriers and rumor has it that AT&T is in negotiation for the 2nd tower slot.

News from The Sanctuary Golf Club

Sheryl Tatum, Director of Membership at The Sanctuary emailed her March newsletter this week. It announced that they have reached their maximum 100 Social Memberships. A Waiting List now has been implemented. Effective March 1, the Social Membership Fee is $15,000. The other membership categories include: Equity Membership $110,000; Introductory Membership $10,000; and Temporary Membership $5,000 for 1 month or $7,500 for 2 months.

Troubled by Tightened Lending Restrictions?

That is certainly what I have heard more than once lately from well-qualified buyers, even those only looking to borrow a small percentage of the funds needed to purchase their new property. The following article by Michael Kodsi in the March issue of “FloridaRealtor®” magazine may explain why.

“Don’t be. Here are the facts about the new residential Qualified Mortgage rule and what you can expect.

“For the past few years, securing financing for your customers has been a challenge. Tighter loan restrictions and fewer lending programs have stymied many a real estate purchaser. So it’s understandable that real estate professionals are a little concerned about the new Qualified Mortgage rule that went into effect in January. How will homebuyers be impacted? Will this slow housing sales? Here are the facts to help you understand what a Qualified Mortgage is so you can prepare your customers for the changes. You’ll also know what to expect from lenders.

“Simply put, the new Qualified Mortgage rule – also know as the ability-to-repay rule – is designed to make sure that borrowers can repay their mortgage loans.

“As defined by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a Qualified Mortgage is a loan with a term no longer than 30 years, with the points and fees paid by the borrower not exceeding 3% of the total loan amount. Lenders must also document the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and must confirm a debt-to-income ration of no more than 43%. Lenders may still make any loan they like. However, lenders who go outside the Qualified Mortgage rule lose protection against borrower lawsuits that claim the loan was unfair.

“Will Homebuyers Be Impacted? The CFPB predicts that most homebuyers won’t be affected by the new rule because many lenders have already tightened their lending criteria. However, you should be prepared for a few changes relating to the mortgage process and be ready to advise your customers that lenders may increase the paperwork required for a home mortgage. Because lenders need to justify their underwriting decisions, many are requiring more documentation from borrowers.

“Some lenders may tighten their underwriting standards so that certain categories, including some lower- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers, may find it more difficult to obtain mortgage financing. Self-employed homebuyers who don’t have a long history of consistent income may have a tougher time getting a mortgage. It’s certainly not impossible, but more paperwork will likely be required.
“Be aware that customers looking to buy more expensive homes will probably be affected because jumbo loans – those over $417,000 – may be more difficult to qualify for.

“The bottom line? Education and preparation will go a long way when working with homebuyers. By starting the mortgage process a little earlier – perhaps even before customers begin searching for a home – you can ease any anxiety they may feel over the new mortgage rules.”

7 Bathroom Remodeling Trends

“Home Trends” remodeling adviser Mellisa Tracey posted the following article recently in “REALTOR®” magazine:

“What’s trending in bathroom remodels? Houzz recently released its 2014 Winter Bathroom Trends Study showing the top bathroom remodel preferences of more than 7,500 homeowners in the U.S. and Canada. The report shows that 60% of homeowners are targeting the master bathroom for their bathroom remodels. The two main drivers for their remodels: To upgrade features and fixtures as well as to make space more functional.

“Here are some of the growing trends that emerged from the Houzz report:

“#1 Goodbye, bathtubs. The bathtub is starting to move out of the master bathroom. More than four in ten – 43% – are forgoing a bathtub in the master bathroom, according to the report.

“#2 Frameless glass is “in”. The majority of the homeowners surveyed say they prefer glass shower enclosures and frameless glass. Glass block is “out,” according to the report.

“#3 Let there be lots of light. Adding light was one of the top goals for homeowners with their bathroom remodels, from adding windows to skylights to LED lights in the showerhead.

“#4 Showing showerhead preferences. Rain and multiple showerheads are the clear choice for homeowners under 45, while the 55-plus age group tends to prefer hand showers and sliding bars.

“#5 Seeing white. White cabinets are the top choice in master bathrooms (with medium and dark wood coming in No. 2 and No. 3, respectively). Maple is the most common type of wood used, followed by cherry and oak.

“#6 Silver bling. Silver-tone faucets remain the most popular, with brushed nickel topping the list. Polished chrome is also popular, while brushed bronze came in as the least popular choice for current bathroom remodels.

“#7 Unique powder rooms. The powder room is getting more unique features than other bathrooms. Hardwood floors, wallpaper, pedestal sinks, and furniture-like cabinets are more commonly used in these spaces than in other bathrooms.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 28 – Mar 7, 2014

Sanibel
CONDOS
4 new listings: Sundial #I207 1/1 $324.9K, Island Beach Club #F240 2/2 $599K, Sandpiper Beach #505 2/2 $599K, Villa Sanibel#1G 2/2 $875K.
6 price changes: Sunset South #1B 2/2 now $534K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 now $569K, Sanibel Surfside #133 2/2 now $885K, Pointe Santo #A2 now $898.5K, Pine Cove of Sanibel #302 2/2 now $1.15M, Seascape of Sanibel #104 3/3 now $2.37M.
5 new sales: Sundial #G206 1/1 listed for $299K, Sandpiper Beach #103 2/2 listed for $589K, Kings Crown #313 2/2 listed for $590K, Sundial #O205 2/2 listed for $768K, Sanibel Seaview #B2 3/3 listed for $1.395M.
5 closed sales: Bind Pass #E102 2/2 $365K, Heron at the Sanctuary #2B 3/3 $610K, Island Beach Club #D220 2/2 $762K, Kings Crown #218 3/2 $1.070M, By the Sea #102 2/2 $1.285M.
HOMES
9 new listings: 3837 Coquina Dr 2/2 $449K, 9455 Calla Ct 3/3 $669K, 4648 Buck Key Rd 3/2 $699K, 732 Durion Ct 3/2 $749K, 1021 Fish Crow Rd 4/3 $775K, 4500 Waters Edge Ln 2/2 $839K, 857 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.049M, 904 Almas Ct 3/2.5 $1.129M, 749 Pyrula Ave 3/3 $ 1.295M.
8 price changes: 2186 Egret Cir 3/2 now $449K, 581 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $495K, 9446 Beverly Ln 3/3.5 now $649K, 419 Lighthouse Way 4/3 now $877K, 228 Violet Dr 3/2.5 now $880K, 512 Periwinkle Way 3/3 now $925K, 5115 Joewood Dr 4/3 now $1M, 2981 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 now $ 1.675M.
7 new sales: 1890 Farm Tr 3/2 listed for $449K, 1565 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed for $479K, 450 Leather Fern Pl 3/2 listed for $599K, 601 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed for $599K, 923 Pepper Tree Pl 3/2 listed for $729K, 2498 Harbour Ln 4/3 listed for $825K, 1838 Buckthorn Ln 3/2 listed for $1.1M.
6 closed sales: 1809 Bowmans Beach Rd 3/2 435K, 579 Rabbit Rd 3/3 550K, 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $570K, 9474 Balsa Ct 3/3 $860K, 1444 Causey Ct 4/4 $1M, 1664 Hibiscus Dr 3/2 $1.075M.
LOTS
1 new listing: 1770 Dixie Beach Blvd $729K.
2 price changes: 4626 Buck Key Rd now $188K, 5749 Sanibel Captiva Rd now $399,555.
No new or closed sales.

Captiva
CONDOS
No new listings.

1 new sale: Marina Villas #708 2/2 listed for $595K.

No closed sales.
HOMES
1 new listing: 15879 Captiva Dr 3/3 $2.995M.
No price changes.
1 new sale: 15127 Captiva Dr 8/8 listed for $1.595M.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

Looking for a Sanibel Condo? Here are a few photos of the views & amenities from some of SanibelSusan’s current listings…

Best wishes from Susan & The SanibelSusan Team for another great weekend!

Real Estate is Selling on Sanibel Island

Posted on February 28, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s been another fun and busy week of real estate action for The SanibelSusan Team. The glorious weather must have something to do with it!

Our listings again had good showing action. Several new buyers came in to chat about the purchasing process and to begin their property search. Dave accompanied five different inspections. Dave, Lisa, and I were out several days with different prospective buyers showing property, while Elise has been juggling showing appointments and follow-up on the feedback. But, even more importantly, more offers were negotiated. Another productive week here – what we wait for all year!

The 7-day activity report from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service below illustrates. I don’t remember when the island has had 12 condo sales in a single week (two our listings). We definitely want that business to continue. March usually is a good time for condo sales too. New month-long renters arrive tomorrow in addition to the typical weekly Saturday turn-over guests.

Here are a couple of quick news items, including an update on flood insurance (the subject on the minds of many), followed by that report.

House to Vote on Flood Insurance

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) posted on-line the below notice for its members this week.

“The House is scheduled to vote up-or-down on an amended version of H.R. 3370, the Flood Insurance Affordability Act, during the first week of March. The original bill text has been stripped and replaced by substitute language that considerably strengthens the bill. The substitute bill will be considered under an expedited set of “suspended rules” procedures that limits debate and amendments, and requires a 2/3 majority to pass. This is a critical vote on a top NAR member priority. We cannot predict the fall-out if this vote fails.

“The substitute bill to be considered differs significantly from the version that the Senate passed on Jan. 30:

REPEALS (the Senate bill only delayed) the property-sales provision in the Biggert Waters law (sec. 205) that has triggered the most excessive and inaccurate premium increases over the past year.
REFUNDS (the Senate bill would not refund) excessive premiums to those who have already seen an increase but were not warned by FEMA prior to purchasing the property. (This would apply to ALL purchases of property including purchases of a second home or commercial property).
RESTORES (the Senate bill only delayed) the grandfathering of lower rates when new flood maps are issued by repealing Section 207 of the law before any increases can be implemented.”

Annual Clothesline Sale

The Sanibel-Captiva Art League’s annual sale is tomorrow (Saturday, March 1) across the street from SanibelSusan Realty and Sanibel Square at The Community House from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

More info at www.sancapart.com

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity February 21-28, 2014

Sanibel
CONDOS
5 new listings: Tennisplace #E31 2/1 $325K, Blind Pass #G205 2/2 $439K, Sundial #G101 2/2 $445K, Mariner Pointe #842 2/2 $515K, Sundial #E104 2/2 $869K.
6 price changes: Sundial #H107 1/1 now $299K, Tennisplace #B24 2/1 now $315K, Kimball Lodge #263 1/1.5 now $349K, Sanibel Moorings #422 2/2 now $465K, Loggerhead Cay #411 now $529K, Seascape #104 3/3 now $2.395M.
12 new sales: Beach Road Villas #104 2/2 listed for $335K (our listing), Beach Road Villas #103 2/2 listed for $359.9K, Nutmeg Village #103 2/2 listed for $612K, Sundial #Q302 2/2 listed for $649K, Kings Crown #210 2/2 listed for $649K, Sundial #L202 2/2 listed for $695K, Surfside 12 #C3 3/2 listed for $749K, Pine Cove #C 2/2 listed for $839K, Pointe Santo #C25 3/2 listed for $895K, Gulfside Place #307 2/2 listed for $1.225M, Gulfside Place #319 3/2 listed for $1.295M (our listing), Sedgemoor #202 3/3.5 listed for $2.22M.
No closed sales.

HOMES
8 new listings: 1744 Bunting Ln 4/2 $637,555; 1827 Buckthorn Ln 3/2 $849K; 2538 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $850K; 1225 Seagrape Ln 3/3 $879K; 791 Pen Shell Dr 4/3 $1.195M; 5612 Baltusrol Ct 4/3.5 $1.695M; 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/6/2 $1.95M, 1470 Middle Gulf 4/5.5 $2.495M.
10 price changes: 490 Elizabeth Dr 2/2 now $399K; 3001 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 now $580,555; 2550 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 half-duplex now $698.5K; 1340 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 now $1.148.5M; 1203 Isabel Dr 2/3 now $1.195M; 1307 Seaspray Ln 4/3.5 now $1.595M; 1232 Isabel Dr 3/3 now $1.8M; 428 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 half-duplex now $1.895M; 1266 Isabel Dr 3/3 now $1.999M; 1133 Golden Olive Ct 3/3 now $2.1M.
2 new sales: 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed for $599.9K, 5049 Joewood Dr 6/7.5 listed for $3.995M.
7 closed sales: 1327 Tahiti Dr 2/2 $390K, 1826 Ardsley Way 4/3 $461K, 4546 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 $485K, 1342 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $550K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 $750K, 2507 Blind Pass Ct 3/3 $1.01M, 988 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 $1.035M.

LOTS
No new listings.
1 price change: 247 + 255 Robinwood Cir now $298K.
No new or closed sales.

Captiva
CONDOS
3 new listings: Tennis Villas #3217 1/1 $225K, Sunset Beach Villas #2335 3/2 $829K, Lands End Village #1637 2/2 $1.275M.
1 price change: Sunset Beach Villas #2332 2/2 now $739K.
No new sales.
2 closed sales: Bayside Villas #5132 1/2 $243.5K, Captiva Hide-A-Way #2B 2/2 $800K.

HOMES
4 new listings: 11504 Wightman Ln 4/4 $1.295M, 15879 Captiva Dr 3/3 $2.995M, 16464 Captiva Dr 8/8.5 $7.995M, 16660 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 $17M.
1 price change: 4 Sunset Captiva Ln 3/2 now $2.375M.
1 new sale: 11541 Laika Ln 4/4 listed for $1.65M.
1 closed sale: 11522 Andy Rosse Ln 5/4.5 $2.35M.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

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

Here’s to another fun-filled weekend with roseate spoonbills & more real estate sales!

SanibelSusan

Woohoo, It’s Another Great Friday at SanibelSusan Realty

Posted on February 21, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s Susan and The SanibelSusan Team reporting that it has been another busy week on Sanibel. Glorious weather, more real estate showings, and sales activity, plus traffic traffic traffic.

This is the view from the Mariner Pointe condo that closed on Tues (SanibelSusan’s sale)

One of the lessons learned this week is that I may need to change my tune about open houses not being productive for the property being featured. During the 3-hour open house held last Saturday at our Sanibel Lake Estates home listing, there were three showings. One turned into an offer. Turns out, before the day was done, I received two offers. It is always great to get them and it can be especially good for a seller when there are multiples; but it can be a bit disheartening too, as someone always loses out.

View from Kings Crown #104

It was not the only instance of multiple bids this week. Plenty of sales activity has been and continues to be reported. In addition to the Roseate home sale, I put a Kings Crown condo under contract, then this morning put a Sanibel Center home under contract, while this afternoon our 2-bedroom condo listing at Mariner Pointe #812 sold.

Four sales in a week make us and our clients happy!

It’s not just our office that is getting sales as the weekly report of the listing action reported in the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service below shows. It follows a few news items. We hope the momentum continues. Tomorrow is expected to the biggest check-out/check-in day of the year, so new prospective buyers will be arriving.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of REALTORS® February Membership Meeting

There was standing room only yesterday morning at our Realtors® monthly membership meeting. In addition to chatter about the increased sales activity, a short educational program was presented about Island Landscaping and Native Vegetation. Presenters were SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) Education Director, Kristie Anders, and Becca Grotrian from the Native Plant Nursery.

For years in cooperation with our local Association of REALTORS®, SCCF has offered a welcome package for new island owners. It includes an introductory free 1-year SCCF membership and a property visit by one of SCCF’s Native Plant Nursery specialists, like Becca.

If you too are wondering how you can reduce landscaping and water costs, aid the environment and critters, and want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, here are a few of the tidbits I learned from their “show and tell”:

• Coral bean – looks like a Charlie Brown tree when it blooms, because it has no leaves then, but the rose-colored tubular blooms attract hummingbirds.
• Gammagrass – is well suited to banks & steep slopes. A good choice along the side of a lake/river/bayou for alligator diversion.
• Joewood – the official tree of Sanibel is slow growing (10-15′) & has small white fragrant blooms, butterflies love it & it’s on the endangered species list.

• Firebush – fun colorful & showy shrub blooms for months & attracts both birds & butterflies. Hummingbirds especially love this plant too.

• Mimosa – often used as a grass replacement/ground cover, has pinky puffy flowers & acts as a host for sulphur butterflies.

• Spiderwort – often used as ground cover has a small blue flower.
• Simpson’s stopper – has small flowers & an orange fruit that birds love.

• Coontie – ground cover that will eventually clump to 3’x3′, it’s a cycad, an ancient plant, with cones both male & female. Birds & small animals like the seeds, & is a host for the atala butterfly, also called arrowroot & Seminole bread because early settlers extracted their edible starch.
• Buccaneer palm – on the endangered list, grows to 10-15′.

• Caroline jessamine vine – has yellow blooms in the winter & grows to 20′.

More info on SCCF’s website: http://sccf.org.

Sanibel Presidents’ Week Traffic

Here’s my traffic story of the week. On the Monday holiday, Periwinkle Way in front of SanibelSusan Realty was blocked in both directions starting mid-afternoon. By 6 p.m. when I was ready to go home and it still was blocked both ways, I decided to be resourceful and head west, thinking I could travel Tarpon Bay Road as a way to get to the Gulf Drives – so I could eventually head east via what we call “the back way”. This time, it didn’t work as when I got to Tarpon Bay Road, it was blocked in both directions too.

My next idea was to take the path of least resistance and to go even further west, by traveling Tarpon Bay Road to San-Cap Road, then to Rabbit Road and West Gulf Drive. That entire trip took an hour. As the cars crawled down Tarpon Bay Road passing the post office, up ahead along the side of the road I spied Matt Asen, owner of The Timbers and The Sanibel Grill. He was standing at the restaurant entrance waving a cardboard sign that said “Beat the Rush Hour Traffic, Come in For Happy Hour”. Since the cars weren’t moving much, that sign may not have been very effective, but it sure gave me a laugh. A little traffic is a small price to pay for the extra business and wonderful weather we enjoyed here this week.

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

Sanibel
CONDOS
2 new listings: Loggerhead Cay #474 2/2 $490K, Loggerhead Cay #373 2/2 $559K.
7 price changes: Blind Pass #E206 2/2.5 now $464.9K, Sunset South #1C 2/2 now $474K, Sundial #O302 2/2 now $699K, Shell island Beach Club #5D 2/2 now $775K, Pine Cove #1A 2/2 now $779K, Sundial #E208 2/2 now $799K, Anglers Key #201 3/3 $1.699M.
8 new sales: Sundial #G105 1/1 listed for $319K, Seawind #109 2/2.5 listed for $399K, Mariner Pointe #812 2/2 listed for $459K (our listing), Sunset South #6A 2/2 listed for $520K, Heron at The Sanctuary #2B 3/3.5 listed for $625K, Nutmeg Village #105 2/2 listed for $689.9K, Kings Crown #104 2/2 listed for $895K (our buyer), Plantation Village #A112 3/2 listed for $1.1M.
4 closed sales: Seashells #21 2/2 $316,356; Mariner Pointe #112 2/2 $535K (our sale); Sunset South #14A 2/2 $710K; Bougainvillea #4 3/3 $937.5K.

HOMES
6 new listings: 2079 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 $535K, 696 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $575K, 706 Emeril Ct 3/2 $679.9K, 5690 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 $839.9K, 5743 Baltusrol Ct 3/3.5 $1.475M, 4265 West Gulf Dr 3/4.5 $4.495M.
9 price changes: 1596 Bunting Ln 2/2 now $409K, 1890 Farm Trl 3/2 now $449K, 1364 Jamaica Dr 2/2 now $499.9K, 778 Cardium St 3/3 now $525K, 590 Lake Murex Cir 2/2 now $699K, 497 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $759K, 475 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 now $835K, 1130 Seagrape Ln 4/3 now $839K, 800 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 now $1.099M.
11 new sales: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 listed for $333K (our sale), 1960 Roseate Ln 3/2 listed for $449K (our listing), 4546 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 listed for $499K, 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed for $569K, 1787 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed for $$579K, 977 Black Skimmer Way 3/2 listed for $599.9K, 706 Emeril Ct 3/2 listed for $679.9K, 1306 Par View Dr 3/3.5 listed for $799K. 231 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 listed for $998.5K, 988 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.095M, 1480 Angel Dr 3/3 listed for $1.545M.
3 closed sales: 696 Durion Ct 3/2.5 $565K, 991 Whelk Dr 4/3 $1.05M, 2380 Troon Ct 4/5 $1.75M.

LOTS
3 new listings: 861 Birdie View Pt $369K, 4363 Gulf Pines Dr $389.9K, 6159 Starling Way $589.9K.
1 price change: 6081 Henderson Rd now $199.9K.
No new sales.
1 closed sale: 3351 Saint Kilda Rd $349,555.

Captiva
CONDOS
No new listings.
1 price change: Beach Homes #6 3/3 now $1.895M.
1 new sale: Bayside Villas #5136 1/2 listed for $295K.
No closed sales.

HOMES
No new listings.
2 price changes: 15127 Captiva Dr 8/8 now $1.595M, 1114 Schefflera Ct 4/3.5 now $1.849M.
1 new sale: 11527 Andy Rosse Ln 4/4 listed for $2.695M.
3 closed sales: 11515 Laika Ln 4/4.5 $2.05M, 1133 Longifolia Ct 3/3 $3.487.5M, 15017 Binder Dr 3/3.5 $3.4M.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

Here’s to another busy weekend of real estate sales & sunny weather on Sanibel!

Weekend wishes to all…SanibelSusan

Valentines Day 2014 & Real Estate Action on Sanibel Island

Posted on February 14, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s been another busy busy week on Sanibel Island. Many of our listings had showings and good sales activity is reported. Our 2-bedroom listing at Pointe Santo was one of the six condos that went under contract this week. Island-wide, seven homes and three lots have gone under contract since last Friday too. We also got another nice listing at Mariner Pointe. It’s #332, which is a thoughtfully remodeled 2nd floor 2 bedroom (the wide floor plan) with terrific view of the Shell Harbor canals and the marina, plus a peek of the bay. A few photos are below.

I was out showing property today and will be holding an open house tomorrow during the busy Rotary Arts & Crafts Fair. Dave and I both have been busy opening properties and accompanying showings, while Elise has been juggling all of the showing appointments, providing the property fliers, and getting the feedback. Lisa will be working with me tomorrow.

This afternoon, Dave and I did a walk-thru for a closing. Here are a couple of photos also taken from Mariner Pointe. One is of the inlet to the Shell Harbor canal system from San Carlos Bay. It shows the good progress made from the recent dredging project.

The other is of the Sanibel Marina. There sure are some nice boats docked there today!

Rumor has it that with the new Saturday check-ins arriving tomorrow, there most likely will be no accommodations vacancies on the island – nary a broom closet left. That nasty weather up north sure is helping us again this week!

Below are a couple of new items, followed by the action report in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service this week. The busy-ness should continue until Easter! Wooohooo!

Thursday Sanibel & Captiva Islands REALTOR® Caravan Meeting

Island insurance company owner, Chris Heidrick, is an affiliate member of The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of REALTORS® and a member of Sanibel’s Planning Commission. He also just returned from Washington where he and a group from Sanibel went to meet wiith representatives on the Hill about the Biggert Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act. He said that he and Sanibel Mayor Ruane got out of the City just in the “nick of time”, before Thursday’s snowstorm. In updating our membership about that trip, his report echoes the following email that our Association Executive received that morning from John Seebree, Florida REALTORS® Senior VP of Public Policy:

“The U.S. House now is expected to vote during the week of February 24 on some relief from the Biggert-Waters Lood Insurance Reform Act. We do know that the House will not approve the 4-year delay that was approved by the U.S. Senate, but we do expect them to pass some immediate relief and we expect it to be retroactive. The bill they are working from is HR 3370 which has many Florida cosponsors, however, this bill will change dramatically over the next week or so. Below is a press release dated February from U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor who has taken control of this issue. This is positive movement….”

Leader Cantor’s announcement said that “The House will consider a modified version of the Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act the week of February 24…The Senate bill irresponsibly removed much need reforms and imposes additional costs of taxpayers. The House will act to protect the flood insurance program but also protect homeowners from unreasonable and unrealistic premium increases.”

Chris Heidrick said that House leaders want to do away with the Senate’s language that would delay rate hikes under the National Flood Insurance Program for up to four years.

Rumor has it that instead, the House version could stipulate that the program cannot increase insurance premiums by more than 15% each year on any property, even if a property has been sold or its flood insurance policy lapses. House leaders also want to make those changes apply retroactively so that property owners who have seen a sudden spike to full-risk rates will get a refund. Under the legislation that Congress enacted in 2012 to overhaul the program, FEMA is ordered to increase premiums by up to 20% each year on all properties that have been subsidized.

City to Review “Dark Sky” Ordinance

As reported in island newspapers today, “The Sanibel City Manager’s office was recently directed to compile information about the Dark Sky Ordnance so council could address concerns raised by residents that it wasn’t reasonable.

“By January 1, 2015 properties are expected to comply with the ordinance, which passed in 2000 to protect the island’s natural beauty and habitat for nocturnal and crepuscular species – such as sea turtles in nesting season – by minimizing the amount of light pollution.”

“Jeff Molnar, owner and operator of Molnar Electric on the island, said the Dark Sky Ordinance had undergone 17 revisions over the course of a year-and-a-half before it was passed, and that included regular consultation with the International Dark Skies Association.

“He said there aren’t a lot of reasonably priced, compliant light fixtures on the market today. When the ordinance was passed in 2000 the presiding council believed that 15 years was enough time for the upgrades to be made and for new technology to be developed, but it didn’t work out that way….”

Several island residents and representatives from condominium associations also addressed City Council earlier this month to discuss the costs associated with updating light fixtures and local safety concerns at night. One mentioned that according to their research, Sanibel Island is one of only four cities in the United States with a dark skies ordinance and the other cities on the list aren’t in Florida.

“Mayor Ruane said City staff would study all of the information on the Dark Sky Ordinance so council could decide on how to deal with the issue.”

SCCF Annual Open House is Monday

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s 36th annual open house is Monday – President’s Day – and a school holiday.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. the Nature Center and trails are open FREE.

From 11 a.m. on, there are a variety of exhibits and events planned, including the 27th annual Nature Sounds Contest. All educational and good fun. More info at www.sccf.org

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Captains Walk #C1 2/1 $319K, Mariner Pointe #332 2/2 $520K (our listing), Pointe Santo #E32 2/2 $739K, Kings Crown #104 2/2 $895K.

3 price changes: Sundial #H107 1/1 now $322K, Sundial #J307 2/2 now $539K, Sundial #Q202 2/2 now $739K.

6 new sales: Sundial #H203 2/2 listed for $475K, Sundial #J108 2/2 listed for $490K, Loggerhead Cay #362 2/2 listed for $512K, Pointe Santo #B23 2/2 listed for $649.9K (our listing), White Pelican #123 2/2 listed for $799K, Kings Crown #303 2/2 listed for $978K.

1 closed sale: Oceans Reach #4C1 2/2 $779K.

HOMES

9 new listings: 1565 Bunting Ln 3/2 $479K; 4546 Waters Edge Ln 2/3 $499K; 1526 Bunting Ln 5/3 $578K; 601 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $599K; 938 Strangler Fig Ln 2/2 $629K; 917 Pepper Tree Pl 4/3 $849,407; 4444 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 $975; 820 Angel Wing Dr 3/2 $999K (our listing); 830 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 $1.895M.

9 price changes: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 now $333K, 1709 Sand Pebble Way 4/3 duplex now $429.9K, 736 Cardium St 3/2 now $451K, 1481 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $539K, 4563 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/3 now $629K, 1504 Angel Dr 4/3 now $795K, 2498 Harbour Ln 4/3 now $825K, 659 Anchor Dr 3/2 now $929K, 6433 Pine Ave 4/3 now $1.2M.

7 new sales: 1327 Tahiti Dr 2/2 listed for $424.9K, 1826 Ardsley Way 4/3 listed for $484.7K, 5284 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/2 listed for $525K, 460 East Lake Rd 2/2 listed for $589K, 4472 Waters Edge Ln 3/3 listed for $849K, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed for $1.189M, 542 Kinzie Island Ct 3/3.5 listed for $2.1M.

4 closed sales: 5750 Pine Tree Dr 2/2 $660K, 1013 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 $762K, 720 Periwinkle Way 3/3.5 $1.275M, 829 Tulip Ln 5/4.5 $2.25M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 3792 Coquina Dr now $349K.

3 new sales: 3037 Poinciana Cir listed for $199,555; 1340 Eagle Run Dr listed for $279K; 1898 Woodring Rd listed for $2.495M.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11514 Wightman Ln 5/5 now $1,985,589.

1 new sale: 11522 Andy Rosse Ln 5/4.5 listed for $2.45M.

1 closed sale: 17041 Captiva Dr 2/2 $1.49M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Happy Valentines Day!

from Susan

& The SanibelSusan Team (Dave, Elise, & Lisa)

Another Sunny Friday & Real Estate is Moving on Sanibel Island

Posted on February 7, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s been another week of wonderful weather on Sanibel and the islands continue to be busy. Shops and restaurants are hoppin’ and many of us have resorted to the “always turn right” traffic pattern to ensure getting around. Funny how we always forget what really happens February 1st when it seems the flood gates open and visitors arrive in full force. The extreme weather elsewhere has obviously contributed to additional island business this year. It’s all good!

We got another nice listing this week, a wonderful canal-front home near the beach. At Sellers’ request, it will not be posted in the Multiple Listing Service until Monday, but if you know of anyone looking for an east-end easy-living property with pool and 2 boat lifts, please have them give me a call. Teammate Dave has already taken some terrific photos. Here are a few:

We had some very good showings this week too. So far, we have two offers to show for them and I am working on those negotiations. A few more showings are scheduled for the weekend too. Some of those are getting more complicated in the investment-type condos that have tenants, particularly the ones with long-term renters. So far, we were pretty lucky with that though, and this week we managed to convince two month-long tenants that we had “real” prospective buyers. One resulted in one of the offers. An offer is possible on the second one too!

Here are some news items followed by the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service activity for the past seven days.

Nearly Every U.S. City Can Expect a Good 2014

If you missed the article in “USA Today” last week, it was repeated in our REALTORS ® “Daily Real Estate News” on January 23.

“Nearly every city in the U.S. is expected to see economic growth in 2014, according to a new report by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. The city expected to lead the country in economic growth and job gains is Naples, FL.

“Other large cities expected to see big growth this year: Raleigh, NC; Atlanta; and Austin, TX, according to the report, which was conducted by IHS Global Insight.

“Cities that were hit hard by the decline in manufacturing or the housing crisis are also forecasted to see a big turnaround. For example, Youngstown, OH, and Buffalo, NY, are expected to see economic growth of 1.6% and 1.5%, respectively.

“”The key thing in the northeast was the stabilization of housing,” says Jim Diffley, a senior director at IHS and lead author of the report. “When prices normalized and people weren’t underwater anymore, small but positive job growth has been able to stimulate spending.”

“One of the biggest turnaround towns is expected to be Shreveport, LA, which, the report shows, will grow by 1.6% after a 5.2% decrease last year.

College towns, such as Austin, Charlottesville, VA, and Lawrence, KS, are expected to be strong performers this year. However, large urban areas, such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, are expected to grow more slowly than the national average. Diffley says that many large cities such as those have already recovered many of the local jobs that had been lost in the recession, and that’s why they likely will only experience slow growth this year.

“Overall, IHS predicts that 340 of 363 metro areas will see their economies grow by at least 1% this year. That’s an increase from 183 metros last year. What’s more, 69 of those metros are expected to see growth of 3% or more. Only seven of the 363 metro areas will likely not see their economies grow this year, still an improvement over last year’s 97 metros that saw their economies stagnate.

“”Two thirds of metros have still not gotten back to 2007 or 2008 peak levels of employment, and half of those won’t get there for another three years,” Diffley says. “Financial crises do not produce normal recessions in the U.S.””

Shell Harbor Entrance Channel Dredging Begins

This is an old photo take some years ago when the canal entrance was similarly sanded in.

The City of Sanibel announced yesterday that the dredging of the entrance channel to Shell Harbor begins today. The channel will remain open during the dredging; however, there may be short periods when boat traffic will need to be stopped. Boaters are advised to be alert and aware of the construction operations taking place. The work will take a few weeks to complete.

Official Opening of The Bailey Homestead Preserve’s Shipley Trail

The February issue of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) Member Update announced that on Thurs morning, March 6, at 11 a.m. SCCF will officially open the Bailey Homestead Preserve’s Shipley Trail, Conservation Gateway Kiosk and the boardwalk that SCCF and the City of Sanibel created to connect the Bailey Homestead Preserve to the City’s Pond Apple Park.

The opening of the rest of the homestead will be announced at a future date. Watch www.sccf.org for more details.

(Photos here taken by Andy Johnson, owner of Sanibel Surveys, who performed their post construction survey work. Thanks for sharing your pictures, Andy!)

Prices May Not Return to Peak Levels Until 2021

An articled posted on-line at www.FloridaREALTORS.org advises that “Clear Capital says there’s no housing bubble.” Sourced to a HousingWiring article posted on Monday, it says:

“Though home prices are projected to grow at a 3% to 5% appreciation rate, economists at Clear Capital say there should be no worries about a housing bubble brewing any time soon. In fact, according to Clear Capital’s Home Data Index, if home appreciation continues at its current pace, prices may not return to peak levels until 2021.

“The National Association of Realtors reported in its December existing-home sales report that home prices rose 11.5% in 2013 compared to 2012. That marked the strongest gain since 2005, when median prices for existing homes rose 12.4%.

“Following the double-digit growth in home prices last year, however, Clear Capital economists predict that national home prices will now fall into line with inflation and follow more historical rates of growth. “Double-digit gains over the last year, while similar to rates of growth in the run-up to the bubble, are off a much lower price floor,” says Alex Villacorta, vice president of research and analytics at Clear Capital.

“However, Villacorta did note that Phoenix and Las Vegas are showing signs of overheating and should be watched closely. Both markets saw yearly gains around 30%, but home prices have since been cooling. Home prices in Las Vegas remain 20.8% below 2000 levels when adjusted for inflation, but prices in Phoenix are about 1.9% above 2000 levels, according to Clear Capital.

“Home prices at the metro level, when adjusted for inflation, reveal 46 out of 50 metro markets have home price levels that are at pre-2003 levels. Twenty-five of 50 markets are reporting prices below 2000 levels. “With the majority of metro markets still so far below peak prices, it’s time for conversations surrounding price trends to shift away from the 2006 peak as the point of reference, and back to current trends and forecasts,” says Villacorta. “While there are certainly investors and homeowners holding real estate assets that will be underwater for seven years or more, the current housing market is positioned to behave very similar, or even below, historical norms, given the current economic climate.””

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity January 31-February 7

Sanibel
CONDOS
8 new listings: Sundial #D307 1/1 $268K, Sundial #G305 1/1 $339K, Loggerhead Cay #461 2/2 $509K, Sandpiper Beach #302 2/2 $599K, Sundial #Q302 2/2 $649K, Nutmeg Village #105 2/2 $689.9K, Pointe Santo #E21 2/2 $725K, Pine Cove #C 2/2 $839K.
2 price changes: Beach Road Villas #103 2/2 now $359K, Kings Crown #210 2/2 now $649K.
1 new sale: Kings Crown #218 3/2 listed for $1.25M.
2 closed sales: Sundial #L304 2/2 $930K, Golden Beach #2 3/2.5 $1.05M.

HOMES
14 new listings: 531 Birdsong Place 3/2 $448K, 1555 Bunting Ln 2/2 $449K, 2186 Egret Cir 3/2 $475K, 315 East Gulf Dr 2/2 half-duplex $479K, 317 East Gulf Dr 2/2 half-duplex $499K, 460 East Lake Rd 2/2 $589K, 923 Pepper Tree Pl 3/2 $729K, 3351 Barra Cir 3/2.5 $939K, 231 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 $998.5K, 1740 Middle Gulf Dr 4/3 $999K, 660 Anchor Dr 3/4 $1.2M (short sale), 3400 West Gulf Dr 4/3 $1.249M, 829 Pyrula Ave 3/3 1.279M, 1048 Kings Crown Dr 4/4 $1.395M.
8 price changes: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 now $334K; 236 Hurricane Ln 3/3 now $549K; 1213 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $770K; 501 Sea Walk Ct 3/2 now $849K; 512 Periwinkle Way 3/3 now $950K; 2520 Harbour Ln 3/2.5 now $1.195M; 909 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 now $1,199,999; 696 Kinzie Island Ct 4/5 now $2.549M; 1206 Bay Dr 4/4.5 now $3.495M.
7 new sales: 9459 Begonia Ct 3/4 listed for $549.9K, 1705 Serenity Ln 3/2.5 listed for $574.5K, 9474 Balsa Ct 3/3.5 listed for $895K, 988 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.095M, 5423 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 listed for $1.479M, 2964 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 listed for $1.947M, 906 Snowberry Ln 4/4.5 listed for $4.35M.
3 closed sales: 984 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $332.5K, 420 Lighthouse Way 3/2 $475K, 6123 Starling Way 3/2.5 $805K.

LOTS
4 new listings: 2486 Wulfert Rd $219K (short sale), 9232 Dimmick Dr $235K, 3334 Saint Kilda Rd $325K, 9066 Mockingbird Dr $410K.
2 price changes: 3037 Poinciana Cir now $199,555; 761 Donax St now $219K.
1 new sale: 3351 Saint Kilda Rd listed for $349,555.
No closed sales.

Captiva
CONDOS
1 new listing: Beach Homes #3 3/2 $1.899M.
No price changes.
2 new sales: Bayside Villas #5132 1/2 listed for $273.9K, Ventura Captiva #2B 3/3 listed for $799K.
No closed sales.

HOMES
3 new listings: 11541 Laika Ln 4/4 $1.65M, 11527 Andy Rosse Ln 4/4 $2.695M, 17130 Captiva Dr 4/4 $4.949M.
1 price change: 11490 Dickey Ln 3/2 now $849K.
No new or closed sales.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

The Weekend Forecast Says Sunny & Mid-70’s on Sanibel Island

Posted on January 31, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It sure is nice to be back on Sanibel this week where the outside temperature is warmer than the inside temperature at that chilly Orlando hotel I visited last week for the Florida REALTORS® Mid-Winter Business Meetings. Kidding aside, the islands had a couple of cool (60-degree) days recently as well as some much-needed rain. Starting tomorrow, just in time for the February arrivals, temperatures are expected to be back into the mid-70’s to low 80’s and the forecast for the immediate future is sunny! Now is a great time to vacation on Sanibel and Captiva Islands and to show and sell property.

SanibelSusan Realty got a nice home listing this week at 1960 Roseate Lane in Sanibel Lakes Estates. Our professional photographer will be filming tomorrow but there are some initial photos are below.

Several of our listings had some solid positive feedback from showings this week. There will be lots more showings tomorrow in those investment rental properties during that brief window when some tenants depart, cleaners do their magic, and other renters arrive.

Following a few news items, below is the action reported in the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service over the past seven days. It’s getting busy!

City of Sanibel Designated 4th Safest City in Florida

The following was posted early this week on the City’s website:

“The City of Sanibel has been designated the 4th safest city in Florida. To determine the ten safest places in Florida, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 2012 crime statistics were evaluated. The 202 cities in Florida with populations over 5,000 were each evaluated in the study. The study evaluated crimes in each community in three categories:

Property crimes (theft, burglary, motor thefts)
Violent crimes (rape, murder, theft)
Chance a resident will be a victim of crime.

“The above criteria were weighted with a greater emphasis on violent crime, followed by property crime and then the likelihood a resident would be a crime victim. Thus, violent crimes account for 50% of the ranking, property crimes account for 30% of the ranking and a resident’s likelihood of being a crime victim accounts for 20% of the ranking.

“To place the study in perspective, 421,192 crimes were committed in 2012, in the 202 cities analyzed. In 2012, 114 of these crimes occurred within the Sanibel city limits and none were violent crimes. To view the full announcement click here.

“Upon reviewing the report, Sanibel Mayor Kevin Ruane stated, “By design, the safety of citizens and visitors is our community’s highest priority. While this recognition is appreciated, we are recommitted to remaining a safe town in which to live, work and recreate.”

“Sanibel Chief of Police Bill Tomlinson added, “We are a safe community because our citizen’s care and we work together in partnership with our residents and businesses. We encourage our community to report suspicious activity and vehicles, and they do. Crime prevention is the major focus of our Department.”

“”Investments by the Sanibel City Council into best available technology, training and equipment support our safety initiatives. Furthermore, our Police Officers regularly meet with homeowner’s associations and business owners to be certain that everyone understands that suspicious behaviors should be reported, and reported promptly to the Police Department,” stated Sanibel City Manager Judith Zimomra.

“In 2013, the Sanibel Police Department responded to 24,790 calls for service. Any Sanibel organization that would like to schedule a presentation by the Sanibel Police Department should contact Chief Tomlinson at (239) 472-3111.”

What’s on REALTORS®’ Minds

The following was posted on “Daily Real Estate News” this week and echoes the concern that I have heard from local colleagues and at the Florida REALTORS® Mid-Winter Business Meetings:

“Though the market is poised to continue its gains in 2014, a number of issues cited by members of the National Association of REALTORS® have the potential to slow things down, according to a new survey.

The REALTORS® Confidence Index is a key indicator of housing market strength based on a monthly survey sent to …real estate practitioners. The survey routinely asks for expectations regarding home sales, prices, and market conditions… As 2014 begins, REALTORS® noted a number of concerns that they felt could be a drag on the recovery:

regulations pertaining to Qualified Mortgage (QM) loans
reductions in FHA loan ceiling limits
a further increase in mortgage rates
slow job growth
uncertainties associated with the cost of flood insurance
potential impacts from the Affordable Care Act

“NAR’s outlook for the coming year is overwhelmingly positive, but the organization says that the market “is essentially moving sideways—growing at a more tempered pace than was the case last year. Future prices are generally projected to continue to increase, but at a more subdued pace than was previously the case.””

LCEC News – Rate Decrease in 2014

Great news reported in the “LCEC News” January newsletter: “While many utilities are increasing electric rates, LCEC (Lee County Electric Co-op) is reducing rates in 2014. We have not raised electric rates for five years and we continue to work hard to keep rates competitive. LCEC will decrease the power cost adjustment (PCA) beginning January 1, 2014. Natural gas prices recently reached a historical low, allowing power suppliers with diverse fuel mixes to take advantage of reduced fuel costs. LCEC shares these savings with customers. The LCEC Board of Trustees approved a decrease in the PCA from $17.96 per 1,000kWh to $16.65 per 1,000 kWh.

“Although the cost of materials, labor and purchased power has risen over the past few years, a calculated business strategy has helped LCEC manage operating costs. Process improvements, proactive maintenance, constant budget oversight, the use of technology and the diligence of employees have all contributed to holding the line on LCEC electric rates.”

Citizens Property Insurance Says Clearinghouse Works

Here is some interesting news on wind insurance. Wednesday, Florida REALTORS® sourced this article to “The Palm Beach Post” (West Palm Beach, FL).

“A new computer clearinghouse launched Monday to steer insurance customers out of state-run Citizens and into private insurers seems to be functioning properly, officials said, and agents reminded consumers it contains only four private carriers so shop around. Citizens officials said they processed 500 requests for information by noon Monday, though the early going includes tests that are not necessarily transactions affecting real customers.

“The launch comes in a rocky few months for government websites, with the federal healthcare.gov and the state’s unemployment website having more than a few well-publicized problems. The clearinghouse debut was delayed from Jan 2 to Monday so participating insurers could get better prepared technologically, officials said. The number of carriers initially taking part has gone from four to an expected seven back to four.

““The clearinghouse is functioning successfully, and we are pleased with the preliminary results,” said Steve Bitar, Citizens vice president of consumer and agent services. “We are continuing to monitor clearinghouse activity and expect to have more detailed information available at the Board of Governors meeting Wednesday. The initial response has been very positive.”

“The system is designed to shrink Citizens by making would-be customers ineligible for the state-run company’s coverage if a private insurer is offering coverage priced up to 15% more. During the second quarter of the year, renewing Citizens customers will not be able to stay with the company if a private insurer is offering coverage priced the same or less.

“Brightway Insurance agent Bill Goldman of Jupiter noted the clearinghouse does not necessarily represent all the options a consumer may have, so homeowners may want to shop around on their own. “If you’re put through Citizens’ clearinghouse, you’ll get quotes from just a small subset of companies in the state,” Goldman said.

“Those participating initially include Ark Royal, Florida Peninsula, Safe Harbor and United Property & Casualty, Citizens said. Up to 16 more carriers are expected to join the clearinghouse in March through July, including Heritage Property and Casualty of St. Petersburg.

“Under traditional transfer offers, customers can choose to stay with Citizens, but they will not have that choice if the clearinghouse rules them ineligible. That’s one reason it’s important the clearinghouse works accurately. At least 14,000 transfer letters from a private insurer, First Community, contained erroneously high Citizens renewal premiums this month, The Palm Beach Post reported. Citizens has more than 1 million customers including more than 100,000 in Palm Beach County, meaning it remains the biggest insurer locally and statewide.”

Discover ‘Ding’ App Combines Learning, Technology & Fun

As a REALTOR® often glued to their Smart phone, I enjoyed reading this recent post by the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society:

“A new smart phone app under development for the Refuge promises to raise the interpretive bar on national wildlife refuges by delivering the first-ever GPS and game-based learning experience to visitors. The Discover “Ding” App combines game play, GPS and social media to create a fun experience that encourages users to observe and analyze what they see, and better understand the Refuge’s wildlife conservation mission. “The Discover ‘Ding’ App will offer the public a fun new way to experience the refuge, further enhancing our effort to integrate new technology and social media into our interpretive programming,” said Paul Tritaik, manager of “Ding” Darling NWR.

“A collaboration among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s “Ding” Darling refuge, the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) and app developer, Discover Nature Apps (DNA), the Discover “Ding” App is designed to adapt to the public’s expanding reliance on smart devices by creating a positive interactive experience that encourages smart phone users to immerse themselves into their natural surroundings.

“The Discover “Ding” App helps to fulfill a key recommendation of the National Wildlife Refuge System’s Conserving the Future strategic vision, which recommends developing “integrated mechanisms for using web-based and other emerging technologies to store and share data, communicate within the System, and inspire and educate visitors and the public.” “We’re excited to be on the leading edge of what we believe will become a vital tool with which to engage refuge visitors,” said John McCabe, president of DDWS. As the refuge’s volunteer friends group, the society has been instrumental over the years in helping to underwrite innovative visitor outreach strategies and has played a leading role in promoting development of the Discover “Ding” App.

““Smart phones have become central to the lives of a vast majority of Americans – it’s how they learn, play games, and interact with others,” said Discover Nature Apps’ co-founder Sam Serebin. “It’s only natural that we leverage that remarkable functionality to offer an unparalleled interpretive experience at our national wildlife refuges and other public lands,” said Evan Hirsche, DNA’s other co-Founder.

“The Discover “Ding” App will be launched in the late spring of 2014, and will be the first of such for many to follow for national wildlife refuges and national parks throughout the country.”

Update on Flood Insurance Legislation

Late yesterday, Florida REALTORS® leadership team got a quick email update from John Sebree, Senior VP of Public Policy, on the progress of flood insurance legislation. His email said “The US Senate has just passed the Menendez-Isakson bill that would delay rate increases for four years. The final tally was 67 to 32. The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives where is it unknown when a vote will take place. Both of our US Senators (in Florida) voted for passage of this bill.”

John’s email also referred to the latest briefing from NAR (National Association of REALTORS® at http://www.realtor.org/topics/national-flood-insurance-program-nfip/nar-issue-brief-homeowner-flood-insurance-affordability-act. This article is definitely worth the read.

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

Sanibel
CONDOS
5 new listings: Donax Village #9 1/1 $289.9K, Sundial #C301 1/1 $350K, Sundial #H103 2/2 $460K, Compass Point #133 2/2 $1.185M, Sandals #D 4/3 $2.25M.
6 price changes: Kimball Lodge #263 1/1.5 now $374K, Mariner Pointe #732 2/2 now $384.9K, Sundial #I304 1/1 now $389K, Mariner Pointe #1052 2/2 now $435K, Shell Island Beach Club #7A 2/2 now $668.5K, West Shore #3 3/3 now $1.795M.
3 new sales: Sundial #C308 1/1 listed for $339K, Blind Pass #E102 2/2 listed for $395K, Sunset South #14A 2/2 listed for $729K.
1 closed sale: Pointe Santo #C4 1/1 $430K.

HOMES
4 new listings: 1960 Roseate Ln 3/2 $449K (our listing), 1555 Bunting Ln 2/2 $449K, 1344 Tahiti Dr 2/1 $479.9K, 6019 Clam Bayou Ln 4/3 $1.595M.
3 price changes: 512 Periwinkle Way 3/3 now $950K, 1001 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 now $975K, 4622 Rue Belle Mer 4/2 now $819K.
7 new sales: 972 Fitzhugh St 3/2 listed for $379K, 1809 Bowman’s Beach Rd 3/2 listed for $475K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 listed for $769.5M, 1013 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed for $799K, 2507 Blind Pass Ct 3/3 listed for $1.049M, 988 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.095M, 1480 Angel Dr 3/3 listed for $1.499M.
8 closed sales: 5111 SanCap Rd 3/2 $249K, 724 Rabbit Rd 2/1 $430K, 4570 Bowen Bayou Rd 2/2 $550K, 2450 Wulfert Rd 3/3 $625K, 562 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $685K, 5742 Pine Tree Dr 4/2 $703K, 6123 Starling Way 3/2.5 $805K, 340 Cowry Ct 5/3.5 $1.039M.

LOTS
1 new listing: 9066 Mockingbird Dr $410K.
3 price changes: 223 Robinwood Cir now $195K, 761 Donax St now $219K, 690 Birdie View Pt now $384K.
3 new sales: 3351 Saint Kilda Rd listed for $349.555K, 990 Beach Rd listed for $549K, 4318 West Gulf Dr listed for $749K.
No closed sales.

Captiva
CONDOS
2 new listings: Bayside Villas #5136 1/2 $295K, Ventura Captiva #5B 3/3.5 $1.095M.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES
2 new listings: 15127 Captiva Dr 8/8 multi-family $1.695M, 16861 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 $2.149M.
No price changes.
1 new sale: 15017 Binder Dr 3/3.5 listed for $3.899M.
1 closed sale: 1133 Longifolia Ct 3/3 $3.478.5M.

LOTS
Nothing to report.
This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors or its Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions. If your property currently is listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.

May your weekend be wonderful – wherever you are… Happy Friday, from SanibelSusan

Chilly Weather, But Still Lots of Real Estate Happenings in Orlando & Sanibel Island

Posted on January 24, 2014 by SanibelSusan

It’s SanibelSusan reporting from Orlando that it was 46 degrees both here and on Sanibel this morning. Most of us are ready for this cold weather to be gone. It looks like Sanibel finally could get into the low 70’s again by tomorrow, but another cool-front is on its way next Wed. Ugh!

Yesterday, I finished up on the all-day audition panel for new real estate instructors and have been enjoying networking here with the Florida Realtors 2014 leadership team. Last night, the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® again was recognized for their significant RPAC (REALTOR® Political Action Committee) contributions. This year, we took away four of the five awards presented to a small board, which is a new record for us.

L to R, from The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Assoc of Realtors: Shane Spring 2013 Realtor of the Year, SanibelSusan, Peggy Hummel CEO, Eric Pfeifer 2014 Prez-Elect, & Bill Robinson, MLS Director.

With flood insurance and water quality being such important issues in island real estate sales and property values, our association benefits from every cent that we collect and contribute to political action. Last night after the awards ceremony, several of us met with a national association Washington staff member. He gave us his prognosis on what is happening with the related bills currently on the hill. More pressure is needed on both of these issues.

At dinner last night, we also ran into one of the seven FREC (Florida Real Estate Commission) members. FREC is the group that administers and enforces state real estate laws. We are hoping to get her to Sanibel this year for an educational event for our members.

Subcommittee meetings are today, followed by committee meetings and forums tomorrow. Then after the 2014 Officers are installed tomorrow night, the Florida REALTORS® Directors meet bright and early Sunday morning. If all goes well, I’ll be back in the office by early afternoon. Lots of progress has already been made here for our industry (and I’ve gotten some referral business too). I am excited that I was asked to be part of the new Professionalism group that meets for the first time this afternoon. Tomorrow is the big day with our Professional Standards skit and the Resort and 2nd Home Property Specialist Forum.

Here are a couple of other news items, followed by the action posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service over the past seven days.

Tarpon Bay Explorers Schedule

A few folks recently have told me that they were not aware of the many activities available through Tarpon Bay Explorers. Here is an abbreviated schedule. Confirm the schedule at http://www.tarponbayexplorers.com. Reservations are needed for most events.

Kayak Trail Tour: Daily at 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.; 1 or 2:30 p.m.

Sunset Rookery Paddle: Daily 2 hours before sunset.

Standup Paddleboard Tour: Tues, Thur, Sat at 9 a.m.

Breakfast Cruise: Mon, Wed, Fri at 8:30 a.m.

Nature & Sea Life Cruise: Daily at 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Evening Cruise: Daily 2 hours before sunset

Aquarium & Touch Tank: Daily at 11 a.m. & 1:30 & 3 p.m.

Refuge Tram Tour: Daily (except Fri) hourly 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Rentals & Fishing Charters: Daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting Feb 15.

Loan Demand Back On the Upswing

On Wed, “Daily Real Estate News” sourced this article to “The Wall Street Journal”:

“After reaching a 13-year low at the end of last year, mortgage applications were back on the rise last week, the Mortgage Bankers Association reports. Mortgage applications, which include those for refinancing and home purchases, rose 4.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis for the week ending Jan 17. Broken out, demand for applications for refinancings increased 10% over the prior week, while applications for home purchases, viewed as a future gauge of home buying, dropped 4%, the MBA reports.

“The MBA’s mortgage application index had posted its lowest level in about 13 years at the end of last year, when the Federal Reserve announced it would be tapering its $85 billion per month bond-buying program in the new year. However, for the last two weeks, mortgage rates have been declining. The average rate on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages fell from 4.66% to 4.57% last week, MBA reports. That marks the lowest average for 30-year rates since this past November, according to the MBA.”

Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service Activity January 17-24

Sanibel

CONDOS

10 new listings: Sundial #D207 1/1 $269K, Tennisplace #B24 2/1.5 $325K, Sundial #D304 1/1 $339K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 $595K, Kings Crown #210 2/2 $695K, Sanibel Surfside #133 2/2 $929K, High Tide #A101 3/2 $1.199M, Pine Cove #302 2/2 $1.2M, Somerset #301 3/2.5 $1.899M, Sedgemoor #106 3/3.5 $2.935M.

5 price changes: Beach Road Villas #103 2/2 now $369K, Seawind #A102 2/2.5 now $397.9K, Loggerhead Cay #453 2/2 now $547.9K, Pelicans Roost #101 2/2 now $775K, Sanddollar #C101 2/2 now $854K.

3 new sales: Duggers Tropical Cottages #5 1/1 listed for $289.9K, Blind Pass #C203 3/2 listed for $499K, Atrium #206 3/2 listed for $1.295M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

5 new listings: 972 Fitzhugh St 3/2 $379K, 490 Elizabeth Rd 2/2 $419.5K, 419 Lighthouse Way 4/3 $895K, 5427 Osprey Ct 3/3.5 $1.247M, 906 Snowberry Ln 3/3.5 $4.35M.

8 price changes: 1826 Ardsley Way 4/3 now $484.7K, 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $569K, 617 E Rocks Dr 3/2 now $599.9K, 3168 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $619K, 1306 Par View Dr 3/3.5 now $799K, 1500 Angel Dr 3/2 now $1.249M, 1480 Angel Dr 3/3 now $1.499M, 2981 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 now $1.749M.

4 new sales: 1475 Court Pl 2/1 listed for $289K, 2529 Harbour Ln 3/3 listed for $725K, 1444 Causey Ct 4/4 listed for $1.1M, 4994 Joewood Dr 3/3.5 listed for $1.459M.

3 closed sales: 1645 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 half-duplex 3/2.5 $395K, 398 Old Trail Rd 3/3 $320K, 575 Kinzie Island Ct 3/3 $1.25M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 898 Rabbit Rd 299K, 218 Violet Dr $390K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 1837 Buckthorn Ln listed for $349K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

3 new listings: Beach Villas #2618 2/2 $685K, Captiva Bay Villas #B 3/3.5 $1.875M, Beach Homes #18 4/3 $2.675M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 16813 Captiva Dr 3/2.5 $1.995M, 16428 Captiva Dr 7/8/2 $10.75M.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 17041 Captiva Dr 2/2 listed for $1.695M.

3 closed sales: 15631 Captiva Dr 5/4.5 $1.55M, 15899 Captiva Dr 4/3 $2.71M, 16838 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 $4.5M.

LOTS
Nothing to report.
This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors or its Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions. If your property currently is listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.

Here’s hoping it warms up sooner rather than later, my flip flop wearing feet are chilly! Happy weekend, SanibelSusan

Sanibel Scoop & Captiva Chatter

SanibelSusan's Blog About What's Happening on the Islands

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