The islands are settling into their more typical summer weather routine, with usually short afternoon or evening showers. Today there also was morning rain, sometimes overcast, and another thunderstorm expected later.

Lee County Mosquito Control has been flying at night when it is storm-free and doing a good job in keeping the skeeters under control. They are scheduled to be out again tonight.

Watching the national news reporting incredibly hot weather north and up the coast, it was no surprise when Dave called yesterday. He was on his way to a weekend reunion in Virginia and reported that his truck only reported temperatures over 100-degrees F when he got out of Florida. At my home, daytime temperatures consistently have been low- to mid-80’s, though occasionally my car registers 90+ when off-island.

For those looking to enjoy a Florida visit, I hear that there are plenty of vacancies for the holiday weekend. Even with recent rains, bright clear teal waters still surround the islands with good feedback from beachgoers, shellers, and fishermen, particularly when it is breezy.

SCCF photo

Looking Forward to July 4^th 2025

The islands continue to post announcements about upcoming holiday festivities. Sanibel July 4^th events are expanded to also celebrate the City’s 50^th anniversary and run the gamut from the morning parade to noon road rally/scavenger hunt, then evening fireworks.

There are plenty of celebrations in-between too, from the pancake breakfast at The Community Church, to post-parade fun at Jerry Shopping Center and the Rec Center.

South Seas Resort on Captiva usually has their own private holiday events, but the next day, on July 5^th, they with have a celebration at their new/renovated retail shops with an open-to-the-public “Sip & Shop” from 1 to 3 p.m. These shops at 14830 Captiva Drive include J. McLaughlin (men’s & women’s clothing), Outfitters (sporting gear & island apparel), Provisions (gourmet market & deli), South Seas Spirits, plus Starbucks. In addition to goodies, treats, food and drink samples, there will be live music, and face painting.

Re-openings/Restoration

The Bubble Room – announced yesterday that after nearly three years of restoration, they will be reopening on Monday July 14. Lunch will be served there from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 to 9 p.m. No reservations initially, just walk-ins.

SanCap Chamber of Commerce – this week marked their 100^th ribbon-cutting since the storms at VCA Sanibel Animal Hospital at 1509 Periwinkle Way.

Villa Sanibel – condos at 2321 West Gulf Dr just announced that their units will officially reopen on July 1 after 1002 days of recovery.

Village Shops on Sanibel – had some new tenants move in and already reopen. Most previously were at the shopping center at the end of Tarpon Bay Rd. Now in their new location at 2340 Periwinkle Way are J Rod’s, On Island, and Suncatcher’s Dream. Opening soon is the Over Easy Café. A new boutique, Island Pearl, also has opened at the Village Shops.

Florida Condo Rider

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed a bill with changes to section 718.403, Florida Statutes, of the Florida Condominium Act. As a result, Florida Realtors legal team is hosting a webinar this coming Monday afternoon to discuss the updates to the Florida sales contract Condo Rider, as well as other statutory changes. The bill goes into effect July 1. SanibelSusan is registered to attend. More details on that next week.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The June membership meeting of the islands Association of Realtors was yesterday with guest speaker Brighton Heard, the new General Manager of CEPD (Captiva Erosion Protection District). He spoke to attendees on the process of beach renourishment, dune restoration, and resiliency planning to mitigate the impacts of storms and sea-level rise. Following the meeting, seven Sanibel homes and a Sanibel condo were open for easy Caravan viewing.

This week, there were just four new sales posted in MLS: all residential on Sanibel: a condo and three homes.

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

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jun 20-27

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sandalfoot #1B3 2/2 $599K.

3 price changes: Sundial #I101 1/1 now $484.9K, Tantara #202 2/2 now $749K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 now $799K.

1 new sale: Captains Walk #F1 2/1.5 listed at $364,999.

2 closed sales: Sandpebble #3E 2/2 $425K, Sandpiper Beach #103 2/2 $675K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1043 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 6120 Henderson Rd 3/2.5 $1.65M, 1537 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 $1.8M, 500 Kinzie Island Ct 3/3 $1.995M.

11 price changes: 490 Marian Rd 2/2 now $749K, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.099M, 1825 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 now $1,149,900; 3008 Turtle Gait Ln 3/2 now $1.325M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $1.595M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.65M. 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.744M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.85M, 1321 Eagle Run Dr 3/3.5 now $1.898M, 6450 Pine Ave 3/3 now $2.295M, 970 Victoria Way 3/3.5 now $2.4M.

3 new sales: 720 Elinor Way 3/2 listed at $1.149M, 851 Angel Wing Dr 5/4 listed at $1,990,900; 4318 West Gulf Dr 3/4.5 listed at $2.995M.

6 closed sales: 9003 Mockingbird Dr 5/4 $665K, 235 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $710K, 9067 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $855K, 1590 Century Ct 3/3 $1.325M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 $1.5M, 9113 Mockingbird Dr 3/3.5 $1.88M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3119 1/1 $410K.

1 price change: Lands End Village #1602 3/2 now $2.95M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend & get your red, white, & blue ready!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Friday is here and this one is the longest day of the year and the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Here on sunny Sanibel, though June is recognized, we enjoy summer-like weather year-‘round.

As recovery continues with plenty of new construction plus more raising of homes, the islands are gearing up for the July 4^th festivities and summer visitors.

The Sanibel Marina this afternoon with the clouds rolling in.

The City (of Sanibel) also announced that vegetation trimming will continue this Sunday (June 22) from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Periwinkle Way from Causeway Blvd to Tarpon Bay Rd. Weather permitting, this will include both sides of the road including the shared use path.

Clean-up of the Gulf Dr roadway swales also continues with new sod going down in some areas where landscaping was disturbed.

Despite Unusual Session, Realtor Successes Shine Through

Posted this week on FloridaRealtors.org: “A look at how Florida Realtors helped shape legislation to benefit consumers and the state’s real estate industry during the 2025 Legislative Session.

“Late in the evening on June 16, the Florida Legislature declared Sine Die, officially ending the 2025 Legislative Session that began on March 4. Legislative leaders had extended session past its expected May 2 end date to work through budget differences that existed between both chambers. Numerous legislative victories were achieved during the extended 105-day lawmaking period that will benefit the profession, property owners and communities throughout Florida. Significant legislative victories include:

• Total elimination of Florida’s Business Rent Tax (BRT)
• $50 million for the Hometown Heroes Housing Program
• $310 million in new and unused funds to help Floridians harden their homes and condominiums
• $385 million for state and local affordable housing programs
• $1.5 billion for water quality and restoration projects
• Bringing additional transparency to transactions involving condominium units.
• Protecting the private property rights of commercial building and short-term rental owners dealing with squatters.
• Preserving and protecting the natural wonders of our state parks.
• Eliminating the negative consequences of lookback periods.
• Increasing the transparency of flood risk for long-term renters, as well as purchasers of condominiums, cooperatives and mobile home park lots.
• Helping landlords and tenants communicate through optional electronic notices.

These wins are in addition to numerous other laws passed by lawmakers that impact Realtors and their businesses. Bills passed head to the governor for final approval.

2025 Realtor Priority Wins

Elimination of Florida’s Business Rent Tax (BRT): HB 7031 includes a complete elimination of the BRT which represents an additional $900 million in tax relief for businesses throughout Florida. This elimination includes both the state sales tax rate, as well as the discretionary sales surtax that counties can levy on commercial leases. Effective: October 1, 2025.

More Money for the Hometown Heroes Housing Program: Senate Bill 2500 (the state budget), injects an additional $50 million into the Hometown Heroes Housing Program (HHHP), the state’s popular first-time homebuyer program for hard-working Floridians. Please note that certain occupation restrictions have been added to this funding. More information to come. Effective: July 1, 2025.

My Safe Florida Home Program Gets More Funding: Senate Bill 2500 includes $280 million in new funding for the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program. The My Safe Florida Condominium (MSFC) program had last year’s funding of $30 million reappropriated so previously approved grant applicants can receive their money. Both of these programs help Floridians protect their homes against storms and reduce their insurance premiums. More information on the availability of this funding will be available soon.

$385 Million for State and Local Affordable Housing Programs: Senate Bill 2500 allocates $385 million to the State and Local Government Housing Trust Funds. This includes $163.8 million for the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) for downpayment and closing cost assistance programs, and $221.2 million for the State Apartment Incentive Loan program (SAIL) which helps build affordable rental housing. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Over $1.5 Billion for the Everglades and Water Quality: The Florida Legislature continues to allocate significant funding for projects that improve Florida’s water. Senate Bill 2500 includes money for Everglades restoration ($546 million), Water Quality grants ($400 million) Flood/Sea level rise ($150 million) the C-51 Reservoir ($60 million), Biscayne Bay ($20 million), the Indian River Lagoon ($102 million), total maximum daily loads ($25 million), Resilient Florida Grant Program ($20 million), Land Acquisition and Restoration Trust Fund ($150 million), and Alternative Water Supply ($50 million). Effective: July 1, 2025.

Additional Transparency in Condominium Transactions: HB 913 is intended to ensure a smooth transition to safer buildings and increased financial health. One provision in the bill is a Realtor priority designed to improve street address transparency – condominium associations would be required to include approved BOD meeting minutes for the preceding 12 months on their website. This will help prospective purchasers learn of special assessments that have not yet been formally adopted. The bill also extends a buyer’s right to cancel the contract to seven days after receipt of the governing documents. This increased transparency will help reduce post-closing litigation. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Limiting Negative Consequences of Lookback Periods: SB 180 requires cities and counties to have a webpage dedicated to a hurricane and storm recovery permitting guide for residential and commercial property owners. This guide must include elevation quality requirements following substantial damage and substantial improvement in accordance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The bill also prohibits local governments participating in the NFIP from adopting or enforcing lookback periods. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Preserve and Protect Florida’s State Parks: HB 209 updates Florida’s management of state lands by prioritizing conservation-based recreational use, restricting environmentally harmful construction in state parks, and permitting camping cabins only if they do not harm natural resources. Also establishes new timelines for public hearings. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Helping Vacation Rental Owners Remove Squatters: SB 606 would make it easier for public lodging establishment operators (hotels and vacation rental owners) to remove problem guests by clarifying when a stay is temporary, setting clear removal rules, and allowing police to arrest guests who refuse to leave. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Speeding Up the Removal of Squatters from Commercial Properties: SB 322 helps commercial property owners remove illegal squatters more easily by letting owners file complaints with the sheriff, allowing immediate evictions, increasing penalties for property damage, and preventing fake property listings. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Making it Easier for Landlords And Tenants to Communicate: HB 615 allows landlords and tenants to send notices electronically via email if both parties agree through an addendum to the rental agreement. This agreement may be revoked at any time by either party with written notice. Notices are considered delivered when sent unless they are returned as undeliverable. The bill requires the sender to maintain a copy of the electronically sent notice and evidence of its transmission. Effective: July 1, 2025.

Increasing Transparency of Flood Risk: SB 948 requires landlords to provide the existing seller flood disclosure to tenants at or before they sign a lease for one year or longer. Condominium developers, cooperative developers, and mobile home park owners will also be required to provide the disclosure to prospective purchasers. This disclosure will help renters and buyers make more informed decisions about a property and reduce the number of legal disputes that occur. Effective October 1, 2025….”

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but a few new residential sales were posted in MLS: a condo and six homes on Sanibel, plus two Captiva condos.

Today, there was a baby shower for our CEO Bill Robinson and his wife Elizabeth. They are expecting their first, it’s a boy!

Below, with data from the island MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by an update about our listings, plus the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jun 13-20

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Captains Walk #D1 2/1 $350K, Blind Pass #E109 2/2 $450K, Sayana #102 2/2 $949K, Sanibel Arms West #C6 2/2 $1.15M.

9 price changes: Sanibel Moorings #212 1/1 now $475K, Spanish Cay #B3 2/2 now $499K, Lake Palms #5 2/2.5 now $499,999; Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 now $502K, Sanibel Moorings #232 2/2 now $675K, Blind Pass #G102 2/2 now $695K, Sundial #H402 2/2 now $719.9K. Shell Island Beach Club #5D 2/2 now $899K, Sundial #N301 2/2 now $1.195M.

1 new sale: Blind Pass #D105 2/2 listed at $499,999.

1 closed sale: Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 $900K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 1672 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/1 $455K. 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $675K, 1043 Blue Heron Dr 2/3 $919K, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.35M.

4 price changes: 773 Cardium St 2/2 now $825K, 926 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 now $1.299M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 now $1.465M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.745M.

6 new sales: 662 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed at $625K, 9436 Kava Ct 2/2 listed at $694K, 980 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 listed at $799K, 1111 Schooner Pl 3/3 listed at $1.395M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 listed at $1.797M, 461 Lake Murex Cir 4/3.5 listed at $2.225M.

6 closed sales: 1027 Bird Watch Way 3/2 $750K, 459 Lagoon Dr 2/2.5 $950K, 5855 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $1.26M, 544 Sea Oats Dr 4/4 $1.325M, 483 Sea Walk Ct 4/3 $1.865M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $4.15M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 554 Lake Murex Cir $850K, 4733 Rue Belle Mer $1.2M.

No price changes, new, or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3126 1/1 $309K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Bayside Villas #5112 1/2 listed at $295K, Bayside Villas #5208 1/2 listed at $400K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5.5 now $3.999M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Buttonwood Ln bayside 6/12/2025

It is another sunny Sanibel Friday, hopefully a lucky Friday the 13^th and happy start to the weekend, especially for those celebrating Fathers’ Day.

I admit I was wrong last week saying the gorgeous color of the water around the islands was done with the onset of the rainy season. After beautiful weather last Friday, more sunshine continued right through the weekend until late Wed on Sanibel with blue skies every day.

It was especially appreciated Tuesday when the SanibelSusan Team showed seven homes. We finished up in The Dunes stopping at their restaurant for a late lunch. It had been a couple of hurricanes ago since I had been there, so it was great to see that the décor, service, chow, and view still are wonderful. (A tropical chicken salad is a new menu addition and fabulous!)

On the Causeway heading to Sanibel 6/11/2025 5 p.m.

Late Wednesday, after some off-island chores, I was on the causeway heading home about 5 p.m. when a huge black cloud followed. The ominous black sky to the east, bright turquoise bay water, and sunshine to the west were an unusual color-combination and so striking that it was almost eerie. The colors were amazing, and I made it home before a soft rain began.

Yesterday also was sunny, until mid-afternoon when the clouds again rolled across the causeway late afternoon and thunder boomed in the distance. The island has had just enough rain this week that there was no need to add pool water and vegetation is growing like crazy, while Dave reports they have had daily showers, sometimes heavy, just off-island

The Sanibel forecast shows only 15-20% chance of rain next week, so maybe the brilliant water will stay around a bit longer.

Captivaville Songwriters Weekend

The Seventh Annual Captivaville Songwriters Weekend begins today and runs through Sunday at ‘Tween Waters Inn and Marina. It is Captiva’s largest music festival and features local singer-songwriters. Performances are scheduled with kick-off party from 5:15 to 8 p.m. tonight, poolside tomorrow from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday brunch in The Shipyard restaurant beginning at 11 a.m. Attendees need to purchase either a day-pass or have a room reservation. Call 239-472-5161 Ext 1 for more info.

Star Spangled Sanibel

Things are getting back to normal with the best July 4^th planned this year to also celebrate the City’s 50^th Anniversary. Below is a line-up of events to far:

• 4^th of July Pancake Breakfast – 7 to 9 a.m. at Sanibel Community Church.
• Independence Day Parade – begins at 9:30 a.m. on Tarpon Bay Rd where Island Inn Rd intersects, then up Periwinkle Way to Casa Ybel Rd.
• July 4^th Celebration at Jerry’s – at the shopping center, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Red, White, & 50-Years Bright Community Celebration – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Recreation Center.
• 45^th Annual Friends-of-Randy Road Rally – vehicle scavenger hunt begins at noon at The Timbers parking lot. This year it benefits C.R.O.W. (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife).
• 4^th of July Dinner at The Dunes With Danny Morgan – 6 to 10 p.m.
• Fireworks – 9 p.m. weather permitting from north end of Bailey Rd into bay.

Sanibel Vegetation Trimming

This Sunday, June 15 from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sanibel Public Works advises that the vegetation from Periwinkle Way will be trimmed from Casa Ybel Rd to Tarpon Bay Rd. Traffic may sometimes be reduced to one-lane. Roadsides then will be parade ready!

Condo-Tel Rates

Loan rates often are not the greatest for investors looking to purchase a condo-tel. Those units are in a building that is legally a condominium but operated as a hotel, offering short-term rentals, and maintaining a front desk. There are several of those on Sanibel including Sundial, Oceans Reach, Sandalfoot, etc. and many at South Seas Resort on Captiva.

I heard from one of our long-time local bankers this week. He handled the loan for the first property I purchased on Sanibel. He is with a portfolio mortgage lender which is funding non-warrantable condo-tel loans with just a 15% down payment and no PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance). They offer a 7-year ARM at 7.5% (3.375 points) and 10-year ARM at 7.625% with no points. These are available for both foreign and domestic 2^nd home buyers and investors, up to $3M loan amount for a purchase or re-finance.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Yesterday, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors had their first Caravan meeting in several weeks. It was open to any location, either island. Only seven Sanibel homes were open for viewing after the meeting. The next meeting is in two weeks on June 26. That is also our monthly membership meeting with guest speaker from CEPD (Captiva Erosion Protection District).

Below, with data from the island MLS are the details of the MLS action reported this week.

There were just four new residential sales posted in MLS this week, all on Sanibel: a gulf-front condo and three homes.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jun 6-13

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Sand Pointe #122 2/2 $699K, Sundial #J304 2/2 $899K.

1 price change: Sanibel Arms #A7 1/1 now $369K.

1 new sale: Sundial #L404 2/2 listed at $1.6M.

2 closed sales: Beach Road Villas #103 2/2 $549K, Loggerhead Cay #184 2/2 $845K.

HOMES

6 new listings: 1839 Farm Tr 3/2 $799K, 771 Rabbit Rd 2/2 (1/2 duplex) $849K, 1448 Albatross Rd 3/2 $879K, 1550 Center St 3/2 $900K, 1226 Par View Dr 3/2 $995K, 513 Lighthouse Way 3/3 $2.699M.

2 back-on-market: 654 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $985K, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $4.9M.

9 price changes: 220 Hurricane Ln 2/2 now $499K, 2126 Egret Cir 3/2 now $799K, 3314 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 now $899K, 9439 Cotton Ct 4/4.5 now $1.089M, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/2.5 now $1.199M, 3008 Turtle Gait Ln 3/2 now $1.399M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.746M, 2287 Starfish Ln 4/4 now $2,199,999; 461 Lake Murex Cir 4/3.5 now $2.225M.

3 new sales: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed at $499,999; 5089 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed at $798K, 1158 Golden Olive Ct 5/5.5 listed at $2.995M.

5 closed sales: 1660 Bunting Ln 4/3.5 $1.1M, 1672 Hibiscus Dr 4/4.5 $1.25M, 1870 Woodring Rd 3/3.5 $2.35M, 4352 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 $2.675M, 2307 Wulfert Rd 4/4 $3M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1030 White Ibis Dr $629K.

1 price change: 2438 Wulfert Rd now $399K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #5144 1/2 $545K.

4 price changes: Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 now $495K, Bayside Villas #4118 1/2 now $495K, Beach Villas #2323 1/1 now $645K, Gulf Beach Villas #2122 2/2 now $1.85M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #5124 1/2 $285K.

HOMES & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

The Causeway Islands sure were packed over the holiday weekend with beachgoers enjoying the wonderful weather. The rainy season still has not begun, so delight continues about the brilliant clear water.

From Wed 05-28-2025

There also have been plenty of boating fisherman, on either side of the causeway and out in the bay/gulf, particularly Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

Though rain is needed and popcorn clouds continue to occasionally threaten, there have been no showers since a quick one Sunday evening. The forecast says the odds are up to 50% for rain every day next week. Meanwhile, we keep marveling at the Caribbean-style water, as it could be stirred up soon, right on schedule with the arrival of June.

Sanibel Stormwater Repair Project Continues

The City posted another update this week on Sanibel’s island-wide stormwater repair project which began in April and is part of their stormwater master plan update. The system was inspected by Johnson Engineering and the repair project incorporates the results of that and City inspections. Sediment is being removed from swales/culverts and improvements made at catch basin inlets and pipe end treatments. The project is expected to take several months. Work is in areas within publicly maintained rights-of-way and drainage easements.

More Re-Openings

Lazy Flamingo 2 & Key Lime Bistro – Last Friday both Lazy Flamingo 2 on Sanibel and Key Lime Bistro on Captiva reopened. They both had been closed for repairs since Hurricane Ian. Great to see them busy all week, including with live music at Key Lime.

Love Sanibel Back 2025 – Kicked off Wednesday at the East-End shops. Every week for the next 13 weeks, different business areas of the island will be highlighted with fun shopping and dining opportunities to “love Sanibel back”.

Florida Legislature Passes Condo Reform

Condo owners and their associations struggling with new FL inspection and repair requirements may get some relief by a couple of recent bills that provide more time for them to meet the stricter safety standards. The new legislation:

• Clarifies that these inspections apply to buildings with three or more habitable stories.
• Extends the Dec 31 deadline for structural integrity studies by one year, to the end of 2026. (These studies are required by existing law if a milestone inspection reveals possible structural problems.)
• Pauses the requirement to create reserve funds for building repairs for two years after completing the structural integrity study.
• Allows associations to levy special assessments or use line of credit to fund repairs, with the approval of a majority of unit owners.
• Extends the deadline until Oct 1 for local authorities to report which condos have been inspected or deemed uninhabitable.

Island Real Estate Scoop

The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors had their monthly membership meeting yesterday followed by the first caravan in three weeks. Guest speaker, Sanibel Mayor Mike Miller provided an island update, while only one property was open for caravan viewing.

Through the summer slower season, the Caravan Meetings will be every other week, open for any island location, and go back to an earlier schedule of 9-10 a.m. That will mean earlier open houses too. The next one will be June 12.

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

On the residential side, there were seven new sales this week on Sanibel (three condos and four homes) and three on Captiva (a condo and two homes).

On the commercial side, Island Condo Maintenance (ICM), the pool service business came on the market for $1.3M. The commercial real estate at 1039 and 1041 Periwinkle Way (known as Sanibel Commons) also is for sale for $5.4M. This real estate includes 1.68 acres with three buildings, the flex building built in 2020 leased by ICM, the Bait Box building that was raised after Ian, and the building leased to Curio Cottage.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 23-30

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings.

4 price changes: Sundial #D206 1/1 now $499K, Sandalfoot #4D1 2/2 now $649K, Oceans Reach #3X1 1/1 now $679K, Lighthouse Point #215 3/2 now $895K.

3 new sales: Sandpebble #3E 2/2 listed at $438.5K, Sandpiper Beach #402 2/2 listed at $775K, Island Beach Club #P2E 2/2 listed at $960K.

3 closed sales: Lighthouse Point #211 2/2 $590K, Oceans Reach #3X3 1/1 $640K, La Playa #3B 3.2 $1.55M.

HOMES

5 new listings: 595 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $789.9K, 773 Cardium St 2/2 $875K, 654 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $985K, 1283 Par View Dr 2/2 $995K, 1589 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $1.33M.

2 back-on-market: 1062 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 $1.299M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 $1.695M.

11 price changes: 220 Hurricane Ln 2/2 now $575K, 910 Fitzhugh St 4/2 now $599K, 9436 Kava Ct 2/2 now $694K, 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $850K, 970 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $959K, 9439 Cotton Ct 4/4.5 now $1.145M, 702 Pyrula Ave 3/2 now $1.295M, 829 Pyrula Ave 3/3 now $1.39M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 now $1.748M, 985 Oyster Ct 5/4 now $2.295M, 1490 Angel Dr 4/3 now $3.795M.

4 new sales: 495 East Lake Rd 3/2 listed at $639K, 654 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed at $985K, 1590 Century Ct 3/3 listed at $1.395M, 3744 West Gulf Dr 4/4 listed at $1.599M.

3 closed sales: 604 Sea Oats Dr 4/3 $875K, 736 Windlass Way 3/2 $1.225M, 26010 White Heron Ln 3/2.5 $1.7M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2442 Blue Crab Ct $549K.

No price changes new, or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

3 price changes: Bayside Villas #5125 1/2 now $325K, Bayside Villas #5208 ½ now $400K, Captiva Beach Villas #E 5/4.5 now $3.489M.

1 new sale: Gulf Beach Villas #2011 1/1 listed at $680K.

1 closed sale: Beach Homes #29 4/4 $2.7M.

HOMES

1 new listing:  15009 Binder Dr 5/6.5 $8.495M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 listed at $1.979M, 11547 Laika Ln 4/4 listed at $2.995M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sunny southwest Florida weather continues with bright clear water still being enjoyed by island beachgoers and boaters. The rainy season has not begun, though the last couple of days some popcorn clouds have been spotted. Those usually are a warning that showers are coming, but I always joke that they must pay the island toll first. They often get stuck inland.

Daytime temperatures here remain in the mid- to high-80’s/low 90’s (degrees F) and hopefully good weather stays through the holiday weekend. Memorial Day usually brings more overnight visitors and day-trippers. Hopefully, some will be looking to buy real estate.

Restoration Continues

Again, this week, plenty of new landscaping was noticed during my island travels. A list below of just a few that I saw:

• Beachcomber – many new palms, plants, and sod. Looks completely new.
• Kings Crown has many new large palms. Project is ongoing.
• Seascape also looks to have completed their new plantings.
• Villa Sanibel also is sporting new vegetation. I heard they will be reopening for rentals on July 1.

Spring Nests

SCCF photo

Least Tern Chicks – SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) reports that their staff & volunteers have been working hard to protect at least 70 least tern nests on the causeway islands. The first babies were spotted this week. These chicks usually can walk within days but stay in the nest for several days. Then, after about two weeks. they venture a little further. With the holiday weekend approaching, causeway visitors are asked to watch out for these tiny vulnerable chicks. Tern nesting season runs until August, when the colony will head off to winter in Central or South America. This is the third straight year that these birds have nested here after a 30-year absence.

Sea Turtles – This week SCCF also documented the first 2025 green sea turtle nest on the islands. It was laid by the same sea turtle that SCCF has encountered 12 times over the last seven years. Nearly all sea turtle nests laid here are from loggerhead turtles, but there could be as many as 30 green turtle nests. SCCF documented the first loggerhead nest on April 25. As of SCCF has recorded 132 sea turble nests on the island (the same number as last year at this time). Turtle nesting season goes through October.

To assist SCCF, volunteer or donate, please contact them at SCCF.org. With snowbirds leaving, particularly now, they are looking for more help.

Island Real Estate Scoop

The island Association of Realtors had no Caravan Meeting this week, as classes for the SCIS (Sanibel Captiva Islands Specialist) designation were underway. There was, however, listing activity posted in the MLS as detailed below.

Market conditions continue to favor buyers and likely will until inventory goes down. In the meantime, year-to-date, there are 119 closed residential Sanibel sales (that including condos, homes, and residential lots), and just four on Captiva.

With 492 active residential listings on Sanibel and 96 on Captiva, it does not take an economist to say that there are years of inventory. Buyers have more choices than in years. Also, many properties now are in “like-new” condition. As recovery continues, more will come on the market.

This market is like much of Florida and the nation, where sales overall are down compared to last year, inventory is up, with prices easing.

Will it take a summer without a hurricane for sales here to improve? Probably, as that is the biggest objection, we hear from prospective purchasers. Betcha though that those willing to jump before the upward swing returns will benefit. As unique as the islands are, the market will come back.

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

There were five residential island sales this week, all on Sanibel (a condo and four homes). That is fewer than in many weeks, but typical for just after “season” when winter residents head north and before summer vacations begin.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 16-23

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sundial #H402 2/2 $725K.

8 price changes: Spanish Cay #F6 1/1 now $473K, Sanibel Moorings #212 1/1 now $485K, Lighthouse Point #319 2/2 now $599K, Sandy Bend #5 2/2 now $599K, Sanibel Moorings #232 2/2 now $685K, Sanibel Moorings #1541 3/2 now $849K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2B 3/3.5 now $1.095M.

1 new sale: Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 listed at $939K.

2 closed sales: Sundial #I207 1/1 $375K, Sandpiper Beach #505 2/2 $710K.

HOMES

6 new listings: 2612 Coconut Dr 3/2 $1.25M, 6180 Henderson Rd 2/2 $1.8M, 742 Nerita St 3/2 $1.8M, 4099 West Gulf Dr 5/5.5 $3.5M, 1581 San Carlos Bay Dr 4/3.5 $3.995M, 6401 Pine Ave 4/3.5 $4.995M.

2 back-on-market: 9439 Cotton Ct 4/4.5 $1.15M, 1590 Century Ct 3/3 $1.395M.

10 price changes: 1446 Sandpiper Cir (1/2 duplex) 2/2 now $589K, 3362 Barra Cir 2/2 now $725K, 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $995K, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $999.5K, 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 now $1.395M, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 now $1.485M, 5230 Caloosa End Ln 4/3.5 now $2.194M, 6450 Pine Ave 3/3 now $2.34M, 628 Lighthouse Way 4/5.5 now $4,099,995, 5071 Joewood Dr 4/5.5.5 now $4.95M.

4 new sales: 554 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed at $999K, 252 Daniel Dr 3/2 listed at $1.195M, 1441 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $1.599M, 1672 Hibiscus Dr 4/4.5 listed at $1.599M.

3 closed sales: 690 Purdy Dr 3/2 $399K, 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 $725K, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.01M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 4155, 4163, & 4171 West Gulf Dr $14M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 1377 Jamaica Dr $330K.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Captiva Hide-a-Way #2C 2/2 $1.395M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

5 price changes: 11525 Laika Ln 4/2.5.5 now $1.599M, 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 now $1.979M, 16891 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $3.5M, 15153 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $5.25M, 16886 Captiva Dr 5/4.5 now $6.9M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

With the rainy season just around the corner, there has been a noticeable increase in new landscaping going in around the island.  Since the summer showers have not begun yet (just a couple of quick sprinkles earlier this week), the gulf and bay waters remain a clear bright blue.

Folks enjoying the beach at Fulgur St Beach access.

Today at Tarpon Beach condos.

At Tarpon Beach condos, the new landscaping plan also includes a new entrance. Many owners and communities forward to getting free watering for their new vegetation and more greenery as the spring growing season continues. In addition to seeing new plants going in, there also has been a scurry of activity this week with swales and drainage areas being cleaned out along the Gulf Drives. I saw them today at Casa Ybel Resort.

There also has been serious tree trimming around East End utility lines and along the sides of roadways, including Tarpon Bay Rd. Anchor Drive took an entire day & then I saw them on Causeway Bldvd. Sanibel will be better prepared for rainy season this year!

Speaking of tarpon, many more fishing boats have been lined up next to the causeway bridges this week too. Today was the 13^th Annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament, but no results have announced yet.

Florida Tops U.S. For Economy

Posted Wednesday on Florida Realtors: “Florida ranks No. 1 for economy, No. 2 in education, and No 6 overall in U.S. News’ Best States list – up three spots from last year…

“The ranking, which looks at eight categories (health care, education, natural environment, opportunity, economy, crime and corrections, infrastructure and fiscal stability) across 71 different metrics, also placed Florida as second in the nation for education.

“U.S. News & World report said the state’s dramatic growth bolstered the economy for the No. 1 spot. “With millions of visitors each year to its beaches, major amusement parks centered around Orlando and cruise ships departing from ports on both coasts, tourism is a major contributor to Florida’s gross domestic product.

The state’s agriculture industry is also robust, with Florida groves producing many of the country’s oranges and a winter vegetable industry that makes agriculture a year-round enterprise,” U.S. News’ analysts said.

“Tourism, which pays a sizable share of the state’s sales tax, also has enabled Florida to remain among the states without a personal income tax – adding to the allure of the nation’s leading retirement haven.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis lauded the state’s ranking, noting Florida climbed three spots in Best State rankings overall from last year. “Great momentum!”

Florida was the only state in the South to make the top 10 list:

1. Utah
2. New Hampshire
3. Idaho
4. Minnesota
5. Nebraska
6. Florida
7. Vermont
8. South Dakota
9. Massachusetts
10. Washington

Causeway News

More folks also have been enjoying the causeway island beaches and this week the speed limit returned to 35, but just on the causeway. From the toll booth west, it remains 20 with construction continuing in that area.

Heading on/or off island, it still pays to drive cautiously as visitors are adjusting to the new causeway beach entrances. Bikers are back on the causeway too.

SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) also is monitoring least terns also have been observed nesting on the causeway again this year. This will be the third straight year with them there, after a 30-year absence. Last year, they successfully fledged chicks.

Sea Turtles

Daily monitoring of the 18 miles of Sanibel and Captiva beaches began on April 15 with SCCF documenting the first sea turtle nest of the year on April 25. Since then, their staff and volunteers, beginning each day at dawn, have reported ten loggerhead turtle nests and 28 false crawls. Nesting season will continue to pick up (particularly in June and July), so please remember to keep beach lights out after 9 p.m.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

It was an East-End Caravan meeting yesterday at the Islands Association of Realtors. The tour following the meeting had a Sanibel condo, a Sanibel home, and a Captiva home open for easy viewing. Next week is West-End Caravan, while at our monthly membership meeting on May 29, we look forward to hearing from guest speaker, Sanibel Mayor Mike Miller.

Real Estate Scoop

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

There have been seven new island sales this week: two Sanibel condos, four Sanibel homes, and a Captiva condo.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 2-9

Sanibel

CONDO

4 new listings: Lighthouse Point #111 2/2 $548K, Sanibel Surfside #113 2/2 $930K, Sanddollar #302 3/2 $1.499M, Sundial #A210 2/2 $1.95M.

7 price changes: Cottage Colony West #132 1/1 now $503K, Sandalfoot #2C2 2/2 now $725,555; Sundial #A308 2/2 now $849K, Sandalfoot #1A2 2/2 now $849K, Sandalfoot #5D2 2/2 now $849K, Sandalfoot #5D3 2/2 now $879K, Sundial #J104 2/2 now $985K.

2 new sales: By-the-Sea #B101 3/2 listed at $699K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-3A 3/2.5 listed at $1M.

3 closed sales: Sunset South #7D 2/2 $550K (SanibelSusan listing), Sanibel Inn #3511 2/2 $825K, Sundial #O406 2/2 $1.5M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 548 Chert Ct 3/2 $899K, 1202 Sand Castle Rd 4/3.5 $1.299M, 2337 Wulfert Rd 4/3 $1.694M.

1 back-on-market: 1062 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 $1.299M.

18 price changes: 9455 Beverly Ln 2/2 now $610K, 1651 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 now $669K, 9338 Belding Dr 2/2.5 now $749K, 5309 Umbrella Pool Ct 3/3 now $835K, 249 Christofer Ct 3/2 now $1.025M, 272 Ferry Landing Dr 3/3 now $1.095M, 458 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $1.139M, 717 Gopher Walk Way 3/3.5 now $1.195M, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 now $1.375M, 702 Pyrula Ave 3/2 now $1.395M,  713 Durion Ct 3/2 now $1.4M, 829 Pyrula Ave 3/3 now $1.495M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 now $1.495M, 821 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 now $1.595M, 848 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $2.05M, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 now $2.099M, 4972 Joewood Dr 4/3.5 now $2.55M, 1146 Golden Olive Ct 4/4.5 now $2.9M.

4 new sales: 551 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed at $675,555; 736 Windlass Way 3/2 listed at $1.399M, 9439 Cotten Ct 4/4.5 listed at $1.15M, 9113 Mockingbird Dr 3/3.5 listed at $1.995M.

4 closed sales: 4596 Buck Key Rd 3/2 $645K, 588 Hideaway Ct 3/2 $685K, 284 Ferry Landing Dr 3/2.5 $1.095M, 906 Snowberry Ln 4/4.5 $3.95M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1746 Windward Way $495K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

3 price changes: Bayside Villas #4110 1/2 now $325K, Bayside Villas #5208 1/2 now $450K, Tennis Villas #3132 2/2 now $672.5K.

1 new sale: Beach Homes #29 4/4 listed at $2.999M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 54 Sandpiper Ct 2/2 $1.36M.

2 price changes:  16500 Captiva Dr 6/5.5 now $6.995M, 1127 Longifolia Ct 4/4 now $7.4M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

 Happy Mothers’ Day weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan