Another Fabulous Friday on Sunny Sanibel Island

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The good news is that the Sanibel and Captiva weather this week has been fabulous. That also resulted in more traffic, including on the shared use paths. With sunsets now not until after 6 p.m., the additional time to enjoy the sunshine, also brings more smiles. The islands need that!

 

Business & Reopening News

With the nice weather, it seems that restoration progress is speeding up. The islands need that too. Here are a few observations from this week:

Congress Jewelers – has been back in their former Periwinkle Place location for a few months but had their reopening ribbon-cutting yesterday. It has been positive to see more vehicles at Periwinkle Place as more businesses reopen there.

Doc Ford’s – on Sanibel has been a consistent dining favorite for years. I am giving them an extra shout-out this week as I think it is the first time I have been there three times in a five-day period. I easily enjoy their Southwestern Chicken Salad every visit, beginning back with it first was a weekly special when they were on Rabbit Rd. Yesterday, I met some long-time BIG ARTS Chorus pals there for a catch-up lunch. With the pandemic and hurricanes, and schedules often going in different directions, we are not all singing this winter, but it was special to share storm stories and reminisce about our singing gigs. Their upcoming event is a combined spring concert with the BIG ARTS Community Chorus and the Concert Band on Friday, Apr 4. Music includes Golden Oldies from the 1940’s through 1980’s with tickets already on sale.

Pine Cove – noticed today, another sign of progress is the new sign at their entrance.

Pointe Santo – began renting units Feb 1. They report that elevators are running in Bldgs A and E with the other buildings coming online soon. Their tennis/pickleball courts also are ready. Construction will be later this year on a new saltwater pool and spa, plus a poolside pavilion. Their new landscaping, shuffleboard, and BBQ areas also are expected to be done this year, while a new Association Office and kids programs are planned in 2026.

Sanibel Air & Electric – if like me, you were not able to get your AC to work after switching it out of heating mode, contact Sanibel Air & Electric. Their technicians said they often get calls because storm damage can take months to cause a problem. I got a new system after Ian and have it serviced through annual agreement, including just last month. This week when the air would not kick on, they found that the service disconnect box next to the compressor was filled with sand and rusty wires. If you have a similar need, try Sanibel Air and Electric. I have used and recommended them for decades. Always great service!

Sanibel Inn – welcomed their first guests back this week and I heard from some locals that their Tiki Bar also has reopened. During my drive-by today, I saw many workers adding new landscaping. That is a welcome sight on East Gulf Dr where Lindgren Blvd meets the beach.

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa – is advertising a limited-time offer for daycation passes (7 days a week) at two for one. Also, on Feb 1, the resort began renting units in their on-site program (nightly rentals). Some Sundial East owners enrolled in off-site programs have begun renting again too. Those have a weekly minimum. There are several ways to enjoy the resort including their newly-remodeled food and beverage offerings which are open to the public. Shima Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar has been open for some time, while Captains Catch just opened yesterday (Feb 6). Turtle’s Tiki Bar on the beach also is open, while Beach Bites is expected to open Feb 13.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Attendance was light at the Association of Realtors Caravan meeting yesterday. Traffic continues to be heavy, both coming on the island and on Periwinkle Way so perhaps that contributed as several attendees arrived late.

Most announcements were about new listings and price reductions. A new sale announced was off island. After the meeting, the Caravan of Open Houses itself was full – with a maximum is 15 properties. Those included 11 homes and two condos on Sanibel, plus two Captiva homes. The next Association meeting with Caravan is our monthly Membership Meeting on Thurs Feb 20.

This week, the Sanibel and Captiva Multiple Listing (MLS) hot sheets for residential property posted more new/back-on-market listings, and price changes – a total of 81, considerably more than the 57 reported last Friday, and surpassing even the whopping 70 reported the preceding week.

During the same seven days, nine new island sales were posted, all on Sanibel – four condos and five homes. Also since last Friday, four island closings were posted, two Sanibel condos and two Sanibel homes.

Though the islands have heavier traffic now, it looks like it could be a long time before the current inventory sells. Those buyers waiting for when the market is in their favor, should be purchasing now.

With commercial inventory, there were three new island listings this week. The former Lily & Co building at the corner of Tarpon Bay Rd and Island Inn Rd is on the market for $1.5M. Also, at 1551 Periwinkle Way, Traders building is for sale for $5.5M and Traders business for $1.2M.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 143 1,043,516 122 254 1,835,143 90 39 1,030,610 246
Under contract 19 830,710 83 27 1,817,996 63 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 2/7/25 5 969,333 171 13 1,284,153 68 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 75 818,493 117 165 1,472,757 114 15 1,403,533 192
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 45 1,209,168 167 30 6,430,700 122 3 9,916,666 182
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 2/7/25 0 N/A N/A 1 910,100 86 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 13 1,728,846 185 8 4,887,187 182 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2023 17 834,176 98 17 2,716,647 70 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2022 28 1,458,983 52 22 5,636,386 133 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2021 64 1,150,373 145 44 2,988,520 261 2 2,950,000 731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 1 – Feb 7

Sanibel

CONDOS

13 new listings: Tennisplace #C31 2/1 $519K, Spanish Cay #E4 2/2 $595K, Blind Pass #C207 2/2.5 $599K, Lighthouse Point #216 2/2 $777K, Loggerhead Cay #583 2/2 $879.5K, Loggerhead Cay #362 2/2 $883K; Pointe Santo #E21 2/2 $1.05M, Sanctuary Golf Villages #1-2 3/3 $1.175M, Sundial #O205 2/2 $1.295M, Sundial #L402 3/2 $1.35M, Beachcomber #B302 2/2 $1.595M, Tamarind #B302 3/2 $2.389M, Sedgemoor #106 3/3.5 $5.4M.

9 price changes: Captains Walk #C6 1/1 now $225K, Sandpebble #2E 2/2 now $544K, Spanish Cay #E3 2/2 now $559K, Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 now $566K, Mariner Pointe #1083 2/2 now $569.9K, Donax Village #19 2/2 now $649K,  Sanibel Moorings #632 2/2 now $699K, Sanibel Sunset #102 3/2 now $1.35M, High Tide #B101 3/2 now $2.395M.

4 new sales: Sundial #F105 1/1 listed at $499K, Loggerhead Cay #162 2/2 listed at $899K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-1A 3/2.5 listed at $949K, Seascape #302 3/3.5 listed at $1.499M.

2 closed sales: Captains Walk #F2 2/1.5 $280K, Pointe Santo #B25 2/2 $849K.

HOMES

21 new listings: 974 Greenwood Ct S 3/2,5 $775K, 551 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 $799,555; 2126 Egret Cir 3/2 $839K, 1684 Bunting Ln 2/2 $850K, 996 Greenwood Ct N (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $950K, 3941 Coquina Dr 3/2 $987.5K, 9490 Peaceful Dr 3/3 $995K, 3314 St Kilda Rd 3/2 $1.1M, 1056 S Yachtsman Dr 3/2 $1.199M,  920 Snowberry Ln 3/3.5 $1.295M, 727 Periwinkle Way 3/3 $1.475M, 335 East Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.495M, 933 Whelk Dr 3/2 $1.525M, 1172 Kittiwake Cir 5/3 $1,649,555; 6076 Castaways Ln 3/2 $1.78M, 6101 Starling Way 4/3.5 $1.795M, 706  Gopher Walk Way 3/4 $1,995,706; 6407 Pine Ave 3/2 $1.99M, 6010 White Heron Ln 3/2.5 $2.025M, 3615 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $13.9M.

1 back on market: 2319 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 listed at $3.247M.

28 price changes: 690 Purdy Dr 3/2 now $550K, 1657 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 now $734K, 1607 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 now $775K, 1046 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $799K, 1978 Roseate Ln 3/2 now $845.8K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3,5 now $899K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (multi-family) 5/3 now $945,500; 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $999K, 1406 Causey Ct 3/2.5 now $1.095M, 4400 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 now $1.275M, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 now $1.3M,  5243 Indian Ct 2/2 now $1.349M, 592 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 now $1.349M, 3285 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 now $1.368M, 1002 Kings Crown Dr 3/2 now $1.395M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 now $1.399M, 946 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 now $1.449M, 799 Birdie View 3/3 now $1.499M, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 now $1.575M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 now $1.595M, 4546 Waters Edge Ln 4/3 $1.699M, 829 Pyrula Ave 3/3 now $1.7M, 6440 Pine Ave 3/3.5.5 now $1,849M, 1607 Angel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.899M, 6407 Pine Ave 3/2 now $1.99M, 519 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 now $2.449M, 762 Sand Dollar Dr 4/4.5.5 now $3.249M, 880 Limpet Dr 4/3.5 now $3.299M 1083 Bird Ln 4/2.5.5 now $4.9M.

5 new sales: 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 listed at $595K, 4372 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 listed at $823K, 1154 Harbor Cottage Ct (1/2 duplex) 3/2 listed at $1.25M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/3 listed at $1.699M, 589 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 listed at $2.489M.

2 closed sales: 229 Daniel Dr 4/3 $1.375M, 6211 Starling Way 4/4.5 $3.475M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 1755 Jewel Box Dr now $1.25M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #4216 1/2 $579K.

No price changes, new, or closed sales.

HOMES

5 new listings: 11535 Laika Ln 4/2.5.5 $1.995M, 15200 Captiva Dr 3/2 $2.049M, 16309 Captiva Dr 6/4.5 $5.35M, 15899 Captiva Dr 4/3 $6.25M, 16777 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 $9.45M.

1 price change: 15161 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 now $6.295M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

1 new listing: 15819 Captiva Dr $12M.

No price changes, new, or closed sales.

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

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Warm Sunny Friday on Sanibel Island

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Hooray! The island winter weather this week has been warm and sunny, 70+degree F days. 60’s at night. Nice conditions for the many contractors still working outside and even better for the visitors here from colder areas. Forecasters say more of the same is expected next week.

During my travels yesterday, I spotted many white birds (ibis, heron, egret) on either side of the road at the culvert that goes under Bay Dr. It is not the first time since the hurricanes that I have seen a variety congregating there. Everyone including wildlife are adapting to landscape changes.

For beachgoers, the good news is that all Sanibel public beach parking lots are now open.

There have been plenty of vacant spots in the bayside lot at lighthouse beach, but usually just a handful on the gulf side.

On Captiva, the Turner Beach lot, just over the bridge remains closed.

IPicture taken at Lighthouse Beach bayside yesterday, 1/30/2025.)

Red Tide

Recent cold weather in Florida has kept red tide away. But lately SW Florida has had several health alerts issued for red tide along beaches. (Today the alert was at Bowman’s.) Meteorologists have been tracking the bloom for months.

According to Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) Marine Lab Director Dr Eric Milbrandt, the bloom is quite large, extending from the lighthouse and central Sanibel almost down to Naples. It started near Tampa after Hurricane Milton and cold fronts have pushed it south.

Dr Milbrandt said, “This one is sort of in the medium development phase, where it is using nutrients that are coming off the coast and it is continuing to sustain itself.” Not only is runoff fueling the bloom, but waters in the Gulf soon will start to warm-up. “Red tide blooms that typically form in the fall, then can continue into the winter and spring months. If they continue into the summer, that is when they have become, in the past, sort of super blooms,” said Dr Milbrandt.

While a lot can happen between now and summer, it is something SCCF is watching. Given the bloom location and how the coastline is laid out, the effects of it may be felt if southerly winds get more common.

Restoration & Reopening News

Bailey Tract Reopens – The Bailey Tract on Tarpon Bay Rd has reopened after a four-week closure for trail enhancements to increase accessibility to the Mindfulness and Ani Pond trails. Renovations included resurfacing with fine rock and gravel and leveling/widening the trail.

The Bubble Room – posted Wed on social media: “A monumental day for The Bubble Room Restaurant: after 854 days we officially have permanent power! We are not ready to give an official opening date quite yet, but our timeline is between March 1st and April 31st. We appreciate everyone’s patience and enthusiasm for our reopening. Our staff and contractors are working tirelessly to reopen as soon as possible. Thank you for your continued support.”

News from Florida Realtors

Florida Realtors Mid-Winter Business Meetings are underway through Sunday in Orlando. I heard yesterday from pals serving on the day-long state Professional Development Committee Audition Panel evaluating prospective instructors.

Sanibel/Captiva CEO Bill Robinson & RPAC Committee Chair Dave Arter

Also, last night, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association took home four awards at the RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) Awards Ceremony: Triple Crown, Highest Percentage of Goal – Small Board, Highest Total Cash Raised – Small Board, and Highest Participation – Small Board. Congrats to all contributors!

The Sanibel and Captiva’s real estate market is so unique and specialized that state and national trends do not always directly apply, but it is important to stay aware of what is happening around us.

Earlier this afternoon, Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr Brad O’Connor shared his insights into state economy and real estate. Here are some tidbits from his presentation:

Last year, Florida had the lowest number of closed single-family home sales since 2014. The number of sales was down 2% from 2023 which was the earlier low.

Condo/townhome sales were even weaker last year. It was the worst year since 2010.

“In some areas, like SW Florida where prices went up more than the rest of the state, when that changes, more buyers will come.”

He said, Florida housing demand was weaker in 2024 for several reasons:

  • Mortgage rates still elevated
  • Property insurance rates still elevated
  • Market disrupted by two major hurricanes
  • Domestic in-migration has slowed
  • International buyer demand still tepid
  • Job growth has slowed
  • Condo issues (insurability and reserve requirements)

Regarding the number of new listings in 2024, that number for single-family homes was up 9.5% from 2023, but got back to normal. For condos/townhomes, that number was highest. It is a buyers’ market in Florida for condos, that started even before the new state requirements.

Looking to the future, it is too soon to predict market changes resulting from the new administration. The Fed watches job and inflation rates, we should too. He said this also, “Even if everyone in the government loses their job, that only would reduce the budget by 4%.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Though the island Association of Realtors did not meet this week, I chatted with several about their showing activity, pricing, etc. Like me, they are optimistic that Feb and Mar will bring more buyers, but also recognize that it will take time for today’s inventory to move.

Many are surprised that prices are not dipping but agree that most listings are priced based on the competition, not on comparable closed prices – or some just agree to client-suggested prices. As the market stabilizes, more price reductions are expected.

The next island Caravan Meeting is Thurs Feb 6. This week, the Sanibel and Captiva Multiple Listing (MLS) hot sheets added more new/back-on-market listings, and price changes, a total of 57, somewhat fewer than the whopping 70 reported last Friday.

During the last seven days, 12 new island sales were posted, all on Sanibel – four condos and eight homes.

Also since last Friday, five island closings were recorded, two Sanibel condos, two Sanibel homes, and a Captiva home.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 134 1,019,092 127 242 1,986,298 94 40 1,039,720 234
Under contract 16 773,617 84 25 2,027,276 50 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 1/31/25 3 1,239,221 223 12 1,120,333 67 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 75 818,493 117 164 1,471,981 115 15 1,403,533 192
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 44 1,223,488 165 25 6,721,080 138 2 8,875,000 264
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 1/31/25 0 N/A N/A 1 910,100 86 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 13 1,728,846 185 8 4,887,187 182 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2023 17 834,176 98 17 2,716,647 70 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2022 28 1,458,983 52 22 5,636,386 133 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2021 64 1,150,373 145 44 2,988,520 261 2 2,950,000 731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 24-31:

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Sanibel Siesta #105 2/2 $649K, Sanibel Arms West #M4 2/2 $749.5K, Lighthouse Point #231 2/2 $819.5K, Loggerhead Cay #162 2/2 $899K, Oceans Reach #4D1 2/2 $925K, Oceans Reach #3A3 $980K, Lighthouse Point #124 3/2 $1.499M.  .

5 price changes: Colonnades #1 1/1 now $289,078; Cottage Colony West #102 1/1 now $575K, Sanibel Moorings #342 2/2 now $699K, Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 now $939K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2B 3/3.5 now $1.249M.

4 new sales: Blind Pass #A106 2/2 listed at $435K, Cottage Colony West #139 1/1 listed at $575K, Oceans Reach #4C2 2/2 listed at $989K, Lighthouse Point #323 3/2 listed at $1.025M.

 HOMES

17 new listings: 1258 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $645K, 1410 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $899K, 686 Spartina Ct 3/2 $1.199M, 1052 Fish Crow Rd 3/3 $1.225M, 604 Sea Oats Dr 4/3 $1.249M, 2449 Harbour Ln 2/2 $1.5M, 1973 Wild Lime Dr 4/3 $1.55M, 544 Sea Oats Dr 4/4 $1.695M, 1159 Junonia St 3/3 $1.795M, 1731 Venus Dr 3/3 $2.395M, 1656 Hibiscus Dr 4/3.5 $2.695M, 985 Oyster Ct 5/4 $2.795M, 880 Limpet Dr 4/3.5 $3.229M, 1114 Seagrape Ln 3/2 $3.3M, 1004 Bayview Dr 5/4 $4.595M, 906 Snowberry Ln 4/4.5 $4.75M, 5270 Indian Ct 6/6.5 $5.995M.

18 price changes: 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 now $649K, 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $775K, 4372 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 now $823K, 846 Farm Tr 3/2 now $849K, 5089 San-Cap Rd 3/2 now $898K, 1242 Par View Dr 3/2 now $949K, 1073 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $994.5K, 5300 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 now $1.247M, 218 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.295M, 3131 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $1,399,999; 5422 Osprey Ct 3/2.5 now $1.427M, 1985 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $1.495M, 748 Windlass Way 3/2 now $1.495M, 2711 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5.5 now $1.699M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $1.795M, 5810 Pine Tree Dr 4/3 now $1,999,999; 1321 Eagle Run Dr 4/4.5 now $2.2M, 1290 Bay Dr 3/2 now $3.675M.

8 new sales: 1950 Periwinkle Way (1/2 duplex) 3/2 listed at $699.9K, 1550 Wilton Ln 3/2.5 listed at $899K, 284 Ferry Landing Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.095M, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/4.5 listed at $1.695M, 539 N Yachtsman 4/3.5 listed at $1.699M, 5250 Caloosa End Ln 3/2.5 listed at $1.849M, 1052 Whisperwood Way 3/3 listed at $2M, 2319 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 listed at $3.247M.

2 closed sales: 660/664 Periwinkle Way (multi-family) 4/2.5.5 $830K, 1866 Farm Tr 3/2 $758K.

LOTS

2 new listings: 5398 Osprey Ct $430K, 4741 Tradewinds Dr $2.7M.

3 price changes: 355 Cowry Ct now $499K, 1340 Eagle Run now $539K, 4501 Waters Edge Ln now $2.499M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Captiva Hide-a-Way #1C 2/2 $1.475M.

2 price changes: Bayside Villas #5112 1/2 now $350K, Bayside Villas #5208 1/2 now $540K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11530 Chapin Ln 3/2 $2.15M.

1 price change: 15891 Captiva Dr 5/4.5 now $6.25M.

No new, or closed sales.

1 closed sale: 11527 Wightman Ln 3/2 $910K.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Chilly Paradise With Lotsa Real Estate News

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This probably is not the week to be boasting about Florida weather. Though we did not see freezing temperatures here, in many Florida Panhandle locations, not only were single-day and event snowfall records broken, but the state record also was broken. The system this week brought 8-9” of snow in Milton, FL. That more than doubles the 4” state record in 1954.

Here on Sanibel and Captiva, where we are used to balmy winters, anything under 60 degrees F can feel frigid. I chuckle about the comments received when wearing a jacket with flip flops. It’s the Sanibel way!

Yesterday, it was drizzly and didn’t get out of the 40’s, but it is warming up today with the sun out. Has already crept up to 60 but expected to be another cold morning tomorrow. (I haven’t seen any iguanas lately but got a kick of this image posted by Wink news.)

Starting Sunday, forecasters say it will be back into the 70’s right through next week. Hooray!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The island Realtor Meeting yesterday was well attended and a full caravan (15 properties are allowed).

During announcements, members were asked to update their residential listings. A new Multiple Listing Service (MLS) field now is required and provides another search criteria. It identifies if a property is elevated (yes or no).

During the community discussion, I advised that the 2025 budget package for Sanibel Arms West is now posted with our listing, as well as details about the change in their on-site rental program condo commission (now 15.75%, which still is less than the traditional off-site programs at 20%).

After the meeting, 10 Sanibel homes, three Sanibel condos, and one Captiva condo were open for easy viewing. One condo was cancelled due to the weather.

The next Sanibel/Captiva Caravan meeting is Feb 6, but between now and then are the Florida Realtors Md-Winter Business Meetings in Orlando. I will be listening next Friday to their 14th Real Estate Trends presentation when Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr Brad O’Connor will share his insights into where Florida’s economy and the real estate market are heading over the coming year.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Again, this week, teammate Dave and I met with more owners considering selling. It is not fun describing how the market has sifted in favor of buyers, but they appreciate our honesty.

I also again heard from Realtors wondering if we are getting showings at our ground-level listings. It still seems that many properties are not getting showings whether they are elevated or not. It seems unanimous that round-levels particularly are not being shown. Hopefully that improves as the islands get busier.

It also was a pleasure to refer several owners to businesses that have provided good service to us and our clients through the years. Getting thank-you calls and messages from those colleagues after contacts are made are further signs of their professionalism.

This week, we acknowledge and appreciate relationships with Amanda Curran at Superior Title, Carol McCarley at Noack & Co CPA’s, Attorney Gus Simmons, Rob Pailes with SBL Vacation Rentals, and Patience Rodriguez with Select Vacation Properties.

I also should mention a couple of companies with accomplishments this week at my home. John Grey Painting has done work for me for years, but who knew they would have a crew working through the weekend (Fri, Sat, and Sun). Then midweek, during the chill, a duo from Sliderman quickly removed and serviced my sliders, so they now work smoothly!

Please let us know if you also have service providers/vendors that you are happy with. We often are asked for recommendations, update our hand-out list periodically, and are always looking for additions.

Restoration News

Though restoration progress sometimes seems slow, it is always positive to hear about and see changes.

At the 2nd annual “State of the Islands” event this week hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and SCCF, it was announced that though the percentage of accommodations ready for occupancy still is low, it is expected to increase to 48% by April.

(Unfortunately, I also heard that one complex that has been open for many months, has only 30% of their available units booked now. Visitor traffic is way down.)

More new landscaping is going in at several complexes and new signage at others. Several are expected to reopen for rentals in Feb. while Sanibel Arms West hopes to partially open this weekend.

Beach renourishment also continues. It has been a steady stream of sand trucks on the East End and Middle Gulf Dr.

More Island Real Estate Scoop

Again, this week on Sanibel and Captiva, our MLS hot sheets included more new and back-on-market listings, and price changes, with a whopping 70 in total,

During the same seven days, there were seven new sales posted (five Sanibel condos and two homes).

Also, since last Friday, four island closings were recorded, three Sanibel homes, one on Captiva.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 131 1,019,059 124 232 1,950,651 96 38 1,020,494 239
Under contract 15 795,100 102 19 2,074,315 37 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 1/24/25 1 1,967,665 397 10 1,185,600 77 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 75 818,493 117 164 1,471,981 115 15 1,403,533 192
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 44 1,230,761 163 24 6,938,625 137 2 8,875,000 257
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 1 999,999 34 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 1/24/25 0 N/A N/A 1 910,100 86 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 13 1,728,846 185 8 4,887,187 182 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2023 17 834,176 98 17 2,716,647 70 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2022 28 1,458,983 52 22 5,636,386 133 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2021 64 1,150,373 145 44 2,988,520 261 2 2,950,000 731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 17-24:

Sanibel

CONDOS

13 new listings: Sanibel Arms #A7 1/1 $420K, Tennisplace #B32 2/1 $449K, Captains Walk #D4 2/1 $469K, Spanish Cay #F7 1/1 $549K, Blind Pass #D201 2/2 $669.9K, Sanibel Arms West #L1 2/2 $749K, 2/2.5 $1.175M, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2B 3/3.5 $1.275M, Nutmeg Village #309 2/2 $1.275M, Sanibel Surfside #111 2/2 $1.625M, Chelsea Place #2 4/4.5 $3.695M.

3 price changes: Sandalfoot #5B2 1/1 now $599K, Sanibel Moorings #1422 2/2 now $729K, Gulfside Place #108 2/2 now $1.599M.

5 new sales: Captains Walk #F2 2/1.5 listed at $315K, Captains Walk #A4 2/2 listed at $379K, Lighthouse Point #317 3/2 listed at $599K, Pointe Santo #B25 2/2 listed at $899K, Loggerhead Cay #142 2/2 listed at $987.5K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

21 new listings: 1651 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 $715K, 455 Peachtree Rd 2/2 $855K, 9436 Sage Ct 3/2 $995K, 3362 Barra Cir 2/2 $999K, 555 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $1.075M, 1105 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.095M, 284 Ferry Landing Dr 3/2.5 $1.095M, 4739 Rue Belle Mer 3/2.5 $1.150M, 1825 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.249M, 1154 Harbor Cottage Ct (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $1.25M, 1062 S Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $1.349M, 736 Durion Ct 3/3 $1.395M, 702 Pyrula Ave 3/2 $1.559M, 1250 Christofer Ct 4/3.5 $1.599M, 1441 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.649M, 4353 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2.5 $1.75M, 6440 Pine Ave 3/3.5.5 $1.995M, 479 Lagoon Dr 3/3 $1.998M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 $2.149M, 1543 San Carlos Bay Dr 5/4 $3.199M, 2319 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $3.247M.

1 back-on-market: 5243 Indian Ct 2/2 $1.689M.

22 price changes: 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $595K, 1806 Ibis Ln 3/2 now $699K, 1950 Periwinkle Way (1/2 duplex) 3/2 now $699.9K, 1636 Jamaica Dr 2/2 now $729K, 575 Hideaway Ct 3/2 now $849K, 235 Palm Lake Dr 2/2 now $874K, 1625 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $880K, 9003 Mockingbird Dr 5/4 $899.9K, 754-756 Donax St 4/2 now $995.5K, 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1,074,999; 1646 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 now $1.149M, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 now $1.394M, 592 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 now $1.399M, 1985 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $1.589M, 941 Pecten Ct 3/2 now $1.595M, 2450 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $1.845M, 939 Beach Rd 4/3.5 now $1.95M, 1052 Whisperwood Way 3/3 now $2M, 2667 Coconut Dr 3/3 now $2.195M, 1044 Whisperwood Way 4/4.5 now $2.289M, 589 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 now $2.489M, 1730 Jewel Box Dr 4/3 now $3.495M.

2 new sales: 485 Peachtree Rd 3/3 listed at $1.05M, 5045 Joewood Dr 3/3 listed at $3.995M.

3 closed sales: 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $625K, 746 Nerita St 4/2 $1.55M, 6153 Starling Way 3/2 $1.6M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 651 Donax St $569K.

1 price change: 2453 Wulfert Rd now $450K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

3 new listings: Tennis Villas #3221 1/1 $414.5K, Bayside Villas #4112 1/2 $579K, Gulf Beach Villas #2121 3/3 $1.475M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 11547 Laika Ln 4/4 $2.995M, 16950 Captiva Dr 7/7 $23M.

1 price change: 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 now $2.249M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 11527 Wightman Ln 3/2 $910K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 16970 Captiva Dr $5.75M.

No price changes, new, or closed sales.

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

Enjoy your weekend & come to Sanibel & Captiva to get warm,

Susan Andrews aka SanibelSusan

Great Time to Buy With 50+ Sanibel/Captiva Listings & Price Reductions Just This Week

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Another Friday is here as the islands have made it through another week of mostly 60-degree daytime weather with sunshine and a few cloudy days too. With what is happening in other areas, we should not complain about Florida weather, but many look forward to those more-loved moderate days in the 70’s when it also stays light longer.

The warmest days in the upcoming forecast are tomorrow and Sunday when it may reach 73 degrees F, but with an 80% chance of rain Sunday. After that, next week is expected to be back to 60-degree days, 50-degree nights. More winter in paradise!

News on Island Openings

City pix of Blind Pass beach access.

Blind Pass Parking Lot reopened today. Only two public beach access lots still are closed:  bayside of Lighthouse Beach and the Turner Beach lot on Captiva. All other public access parking areas have reopened.

Lazy Flamingo 2 on Periwinkle still has their food truck. The restaurant itself is expected to reopen in late Feb/early Mar.

Oceans Reach ribbon cutting 2025.

Oceans Reach condos had their grand opening with ribbon-cutting this week.

With The Sanibel Inn to reopen soon, Dante’s Coal-Fired Pizza, their on-site restaurant, has been looking for staff for their Feb 1 reopening.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

It was another great event Wed evening when the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors celebrated their 40th anniversary, installed their 2025 officers/board of directors, and announced their 2024 awards.

Plenty of past Presidents had a hand in the program and I was happy to lead the pledge, first honoring military veterans, those serving, and their families.

It also was a surprise to be added to the Association’s Hall of Fame, which usually is reserved for those who have retired. Maybe that is a subtle message, but I love what I do and hope to continue.

2024 Affiliate Honor Society: Attorney Gus Simmons, Dave Arter with Private Client Insurance Services, Amanda Curran owner of Superior Title, & CPA Carol McCarley with Noack & Co (she speaks FIRPTA).

Those recognized for achieving 2024 Honor Society included four affiliate members and 21 Realtors (my 32nd year). Also winning Affiliate of the Year was Amanda Curran with Superior Title. (Her company holds SanibelSusan Realty escrow deposits and is recommended for our closings.)

2024 Honor Society Realtors: Valerie Tutor, Becky Mulka, George Kohlbrenner, Kelly Huguenin, Melanie Holaway, Eric Pfeifer, Jim Hall, Bryan Hall, Milissa Sprecher, Tina DiCharia, Brendan Albright, Greg Demaras, Cathie Lewis, Marvell Bradley, Ted Benjamin, & Susan Andrews

Our new Prez Becky Mulka with her daughter Audrey, husband Wally, & our CEO Bill Robinson.

Big congratulations to all award winners & the 2025 officers and Board of Directors.

Incoming President Becky Mulka’s speech likened our organization to mangroves as a symbol of who we are – strong, flexible, and deeply rooted, able to withstand storms and nurture life in countless ways. Like our Realtors, mangroves also thrive best when they grow together in a group, so we each were gifted with a baby mangrove plant to take home to grow so we can donate them to SCCF later in the year, as we work collectively to create a brighter future for the islands.

The next Realtor Caravan Meeting is Thurs Jan 23.

More Island Real Estate Scoop

Like at other recent meetings, the big topic behind the scenes last night was the real estate market. In speaking with our Florida District V (SW FL) leadership team, including several from the Royal Palm Coast (Fort Myers, Cape Coral, & Fort Myers Beach), Bonita Springs, and Naples, comments were that inventory is up everywhere, and sales are down. Only Naples is not struggling.

Again, this week on Sanibel and Captiva, our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) posts included many new/back-on-market listings and price changes (51 in total), with just nine new sales posted (five condos and four homes on Sanibel). There again were no sales on Captiva. Just three closings were posted, all Sanibel homes.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 125 992,183 127 211 2,011,522 99 37 1,034,724 23
Under contract 10 874,700 116 19 1,929,526 61 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 1/17/25 1 1,967,665 397 7 1,154,428 37 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 75 818,493 117 164 1,471,981 115 15 1,403,533 192
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 40 1,275,250 172 24 6,197,721 144 1 12,000,000 505
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 1 999,999 34 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 1/17/25 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 13 1,728,846 185 8 4,887,187 182 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2023 17 834,176 98 17 2,716,647 70 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2022 28 1,458,983 52 22 5,636,386 133 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2021 64 1,150,373 145 44 2,988,520 261 2 2,950,000 731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 10-17:

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Spanish Cay #F2 1/1 $399K, Spanish Cay #B2 2/2 $575K, Sanibel Moorings #3331 2/2 $749K, Sundial West #K103 2/2 $1.05M.

2 back-on-market: Blind Pass #B211 2/2 $579K, Sanibel Moorings #1441 1/1 $625K.

3 price changes: Lighthouse Point #317 3/2 now $599K, Lighthouse Point #215 3/2 now $998K, Sanibel Surfside #135 2/3 now $999K.

5 new sales: Captains Walk #A2 1/1 listed at $250K, Blind Pass #C101 2/2 listed at $450K, Sanibel Moorings #1541 3/2 listed at $859K, Gulfside Place #209 2/2 listed at $1.195M, Beachcomber #C201 2/2 listed at $1.249M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

15 new listings: 1971 Roseate Ln 2/2 $648K, 966 Greenwood Ct S (1/2 duplex) 3/2.5 $739K, 4596 Buck Key Rd 3/2 $849K, 713 Durion Ct 3/2 $949,995: 1521 Wilton Ln 3/2 $1.05M, 5901 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $1.075M, 254 Daniel Dr 3/2 $1.196M, 720 Elinor Way 3/2 $1.295M, 672 Durion Ct 3/2 $1.495M, 954 Whelk Dr 3/3 $2.15M, 865 Birdie View Pt 4/4.5 $2.195M, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 $2.299M, 4090 West Gulf Dr 5/3 $2.6M, 5045 Joewood Dr 3/3 $3.995M, 5105 Joewood Dr 5/4 $4.35M.

18 price changes: 209 Robinwood Cir 3/2 now $599K, 1225 Captains Walk St 3/3 now $625K, 231 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $645K, 1390 Middle Gulf Dr (1/2 duplex) 3/3 now $799K, 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $799K, 5307 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 now $879.9K, 4372 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 now $898K, 9228 Belding Dr 2/2.5 now $950K, 754-756 Donax St 4/2 now $995.5K, 218 Daniel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.395M, 2276 Wulfert Rd 4/5.5 now $1.4M, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 now $1.434M, 9439 Cotten Ct 3/2.4 now $1.475M, 941 Pecten Ct 3/2 now $1.595M,  4775 Rue Helene 4/3 now $1.645M, 815 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $1.699M, 829 Pyrula Ave 3/3 now $1.775M, 5250 Caloosa End Ln 3/2.5 now $1.849M.

4 new sales: 1322 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 436 Glory Cir 3/3 listed at $1.22M, 837 Sand Dollar Rd 4/3.5 listed at $2.995M, 4039 West Gulf Dr 3/4 listed at $4.975M.

3 closed sales: 706 Nerita St 3/2.5 $1.149M, 345 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.27M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 $2.348M.

LOTS

2 new listings; 2090 Wild Lime Dr $365K, 5085 Joewood Dr $3.495M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

2 new listings: Gulf Beach Villas #2117 1/1 $675K, Beach Cottages #1408 2/2 $1.65M.

1 back-on-market: Bayside Villas #5112 1/2 $385K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

3 new listings: 27 Urchin Ct 2/2.5 $1.25M, 17181 Captiva Dr 5/4.5 $6.975M, 15735 Captiva Dr 5/5 $13.995M.

1 price change: 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 now $7.5M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Has Been a Tad Chilly on Sunny Sanibel & Captiva

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Happy Friday! The “Jan/Feb 2025 Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate Guide” comes out today. Our ad is above. If you’d like to see the full document, here’s a link to it on-line:  https://www.sanibelrealtors.com/real-estate-guide

Island Weather

The novelty of wearing jackets and sweaters is over with the lowest temperature at my home registered both Wed and Thurs mornings at 45 degrees F. Warmed up to 47 degrees this morning.

Even so, there have been plenty of bikers and joggers in shorts with daytime temps into the breezy 60’s/low 70’s some days. Most local and visitors are thankful to be here, away from the more serious cold/white stuff up north and the terrible fire devastation in CA.

The forecast for next week is much the same as this, with most days not expected to be out of the 60’s, but with blue skies and sunshine still generating smiles.

Final Paving of Causeway

A Wed notice from Sanibel City Manager said, “Final paving of Sanibel Causeway begins tonight, Jan 8.” With details provided by the FL Dept of Transportation it continued to say that the work includes the causeway islands and bridge approaches. “Motorists should expect one lane of travel with a flagging operation during the overnight hours of 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. This work is anticipated to occur during these nighttime overnight hours through the end of January.”

My Travel Across Causeway Yesterday

I had a quick errand in Ft Myers after our Realtor Caravan Meeting yesterday. The drive turned out to not be too quick. At noon, going from the Assoc of Realtors building to the toll booth took 55 minutes (usually 15). But no workers or holdups were noticed anywhere, just continued stop-and-go traffic. Maybe that was during a worker lunch break as when I returned about 30 minutes later, there was a flagger on the Sanibel side of the toll booth and heavy equipment on the causeway with concrete side barriers being moved. Traffic was moving OK in both directions, but the City later posted a “heavy traffic advisory” for the rest of the day and evening, saying it was due to FDOT crews completing underground causeway inspections. More restoration progress!

Sanibel Natural Resources Dept Updates

Blind Pass – Also on Wed, Jan 8, the City provided an update on some post-Milton recovery efforts. Following that storm, the City’s disaster contractor Crowder Gulf removed sand from the roadway that was impacting access to/from Captiva. They have screened and stockpiled 3 to 4 thousand cubic yards of sand at Turner Beach. Now Crowder-Gulf will be removing additional sand from the right of way and returning the clean screened sand back on northern Sanibel beaches to restore critically eroded areas adjacent to the road protection wall. That work has begun and is expected to take about a week, but no lane closures are expected. Flaggers will direct traffic as equipment and sand are moved across the roadway.

Lighthouse Beach – Phase II of the City’s beach renourishment project at Lighthouse Beach resumed this week, after a holiday break. Crews will continue to place the remaining 105K tons of sand on the bayside of Lighthouse Beach Park to strengthen the beach coastline and protect the Sanibel Lighthouse. Work should be completed by mid-Feb. Both bayside parking lots are closed while the remainder of this sand is moved, but the gulf-side parking lot is open. Crews will temporarily close portions of the beach to the public while placing sand. (That work is being accomplished Mon-Fri from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate News

At the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors first Caravan Meeting of the year yesterday, there was chatter about the judge’s decision this week to deny the motion for the summary judgement filed and argued by Lee County and South Seas Resort. That essentially means that the total number of units at South Seas Resort remains and cannot exceed 912, or at least the county will not issue permits for more than that number. (That’s probably not the end of this issue though, some think South Seas may now apply for a zoning change to allow building higher. Stay tuned.)

We also heard that South Seas has sent existing owners notices of cancellation of their previous rental agreements. They are offering new agreements to owners who sign-up quickly, with an incentive of not requiring the $50K initial resort membership fee. The annual price to then use the resort amenities has yet to be clarified, proving again that it always pays to do your homework when signing contracts. We can help with that.

The other continued topic of conversation among colleagues was the volume of inquiries many are getting from owners looking to list. One long-timer said, “We need to start getting tough with these sellers. Many don’t recognize how much the market has changed.”

When our members get together, it also is a popular Realtor topic to ask each other about how many buyer inquiries and showings their listings are getting. Many are getting none – and have never seen a market like this. We agree and understand that frustration. Attracting potential purchasers often requires attracting their Realtor. (One listing agent recently emailed about a commission increase (to a level not seen here in many years). Another has copied that, as I received another notice this morning about a new listing offering the same.)

A pal also got them said “If we don’t have buyers, it doesn’t matter how much sellers are willing to pay us. Besides, we are obligated to introduce buyers to all the listings that match their requirements.”

During the Caravan Meeting, just one sale was announced, but there were many new listings and price reductions. Following the meeting,13 Sanibel homes and a condo were open for easy viewing. Next Wed is the Association 2025 Installation/2024 Awards Banquet. The next Caravan is in two weeks, on Thurs Jan 23.

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

Again, this week, there were no Captiva sales, but on Sanibel five homes and one condo went under contract. Those compare to a whopping 30 new and back-on-market listings and 22 price changes.

My crystal ball says the Florida real estate market will start to stabilize this year. From the recession to the pandemic to hurricanes, to real estate rules changing nationally, there have been so many ups and downs that it will be positive to see stabilization. With election uncertainty over, many are feeling better economically, as that further improves and the islands continue to bounce back, more sales should follow. Fingers crossed (just in case).

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

123

992,048

131

202

2,036,454

98

35

983,565

245

Under contract

5

938,800

105

17

1,727,411

62

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/10/25

1

1,967,665

397

5

1,132,400

37

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

75

818,493

117

164

1,471,981

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

38

1,288,815

174

21

6,025,095

157

1

12M

498

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

999,999

34

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/10/25

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Jan 3-10:

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Sundial #F105 1/1 $499K, Sandpiper Beach #505 2/2 $750K, Oceans Reach #2B2 1/1 $789K, Oceans Reach #4C2 2/2 $989K, Sealoft Village #105 2/2 $995K, Lighthouse Point #323 3/2 $1.025M, Beachcomber #D201 3/2 $1.125M.

1 back-on-market: Somerset #D201 3/2.5 $1.725M.

3 price changes: Captains Walk #A2 1/1 now $250K, Tantara #202 2/2 now $895K, Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 now $990K.

1 new sale: Tanglewood #5A 3/2 listed at $1.149M.

1 closed sale: Sandpiper West #4 3/2.5 $1,967,655.

HOMES

12 new listings: 1315 Par View Dr 3/2 $999K, 1925 Roseate Ln 2/2 $999,900; 971 Main St 3/2 $1.149M, 1113 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.149M, 4619 Rue Bayou 3/2 $1.195M, 3131 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1,419,999; 640 Periwinkle Way 3/2 $1.449M, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 $1.449M, 5243 Indian Ct 2/2 $1.689M, 930 Kings Crown Dr 4/3 $2.4M, 1730 Jewel Box Dr 4/3 $3.8M, 3611 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $6.995M.

3 back-on-market: 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 $1,199,999; 978 Oyster Ct 4/4 $2.749M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $5.45M.

13 price changes: 209 Robinwood Cir 3/2 now $629K, 1322 Sand Castle Dr 3/2 now $699K, 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 now $699K, 1846 Farm Trail 3/2 now $875K, 588 Hideaway Ct 3/2 now $890K, 1677 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 now $895K, 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $949K, 560 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $995K, 1048 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 now $1.199M, 5300 Umbrella Pool 3/3 now $1.325M, 1311 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.35M, 1310 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.45M, 1985 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 now $1.689M.

5 new sales: 3898 West Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $795K, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 listed at $1.44M, 746 Nerita St 4/2 listed at $1.595M, 1870 Woodring Rd 3/3.5 listed at $2.498M, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 listed at $2.989M.

4 closed sales: 490 & 460 Old Trail Rd 3/3 $570K, 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 $725K, 761 Nerita St 3/2 $1.215M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 $2.348M.

LOTS

2 new listings; 1377 Jamaica Dr $425K, 460 Sawgrass Pl $925K.

1 back-on-market: 2807 West Gulf Dr $819K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: Lands End Village #1650 3/3 $2.399M.

3 price changes: Tennis Villas #3135 1/1 now $429K, Tennis Villas #3132 2/2 now $699K, Gulf Beach Villas #2011 1/1 now $710K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 15161 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $6.495M, 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 $8.495M.

1 back-on-market: 16632 Captiva Dr 5/4 $6.25M.

3 price changes: 58 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.525M, 11550 Paige Ct 5l5.5.5 now $6.5M, 16979 Captiva Dr 7/7.5 now $7.5M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

 Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy First Friday 2025

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Cheers to the first Friday in 2025! May the new year speed up island recovery with quicker restoration, return of visitors, and more business. The SanibelSusan Team is ready for that and many others are too.

On the plus side, more vegetation that survived the recent storms is greening up. This month marks 33 years since my family moved to Sanibel, but I don’t think I will ever get used to seeing tropical growth and flowering over the holidays.

At my home, the bougainvillea bounced back best, but a few hibiscuses, and now some beach roses are blooming. This is the dry season, but blue sky and sunshine do wonders.

Island Weather

With local weather continuing to be mid- to high-70’s (degrees F) most days, Southwest Florida often boasts being the warmest spot in the nation. This week, there have been a few foggy mornings and evenings. Those are rare here and remind me of growing up on the Maine coast.

With fireworks not allowed on Sanibel, some islanders gather annually on New Year’s Eve at Lighthouse Beach to watch the distant fireworks on Fort Myers Beach. Because of fog, I heard only a few attempted that this year – and they couldn’t see the display through the pea soup.

It was chilly this morning (50’s) but up to 75 mid-afternoon. Tomorrow (Sat) reports are that temps may not get out of the 60’s but warmer weather is expected again Sun and Mon, or until another cold front arrives early Tues. After that, forecasters say nighttime temps will be in the 40’s, with days only in the 60’s, through next week and into next weekend.

Yikes! Time to get the winter flip flops back out.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week. Next Thursday (Jan 9) is an 11 a.m. Caravan Meeting followed by Open Houses at new listings.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

As far as Multiple Listing Service activity, it was another week with many more new and back-on-market listings and price reductions (37 in total). This compares to just five new sales. There again were none on Captiva. On Sanibel, no new lot sales, but three homes and two condos went under contract.

On the commercial side, the Anchor Inn at 1245 Periwinkle Way closed this week for $3.2M. That’s a sign in the right direction!

Yesterday, out on Captiva, I saw that many big sand piles remain from the Sept/Oct storms and both of their public beach parking areas still are closed (Tuner Beach Lot just after the bridge and Alison Hagerup Beach Park just past the Captiva Post office). The Blind Pass Beach Lot on the Sanibel side of the Captiva Bridge also still is closed. Restoration work with heavy equipment continues.

Even so, on both islands, there seemed to be more bikers and joggers than last week, but overall, there has been very little real estate activity compared to past holiday years. One year, I even sold a home on Christmas Day – squeezed it in between brunch and dinner.

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

117

997,025

124

193

2,017,05

99

32

1,007,993

260

Under contract

5

1,169,000

102

17

1,800,676

17

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/3/2025

0

N/A

N/A

1

804,000

44

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

75

818,493

117

164

1,471,981

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

36

1,225,722

155

20

6,152,550

174

1

12M

491

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

999,999

34

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 1/3/2025

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 27 – Jan 3:

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Lighthouse Point #315 3/2 $895K, Sanibel Moorings #1641 2/2 $899K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #2-1 2/2.5 $1.095M, Tanglewood #5A 3/2 $1.149M.

2 price changes: Sayana #203 2/2 now $895K, Gulfside Place #125 2/2 now $1.795M.

2 new sales: Sandalfoot #4D3 2/2 listed at $650K, Sandpiper West #4 3/2.5 listed at $2.25M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

8 new listings: 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $899K, 1165 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $995K, 754/756 Donax 4/2 $999,999; St 731 Nerita St 3/2 $1.1M, 4245 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $1.279M, 3285 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2.5 $1.495M, 803 Lindgren Blvd 4/4.5 $1.695M, 939 Beach Rd 4/3.5 $2.1M.

3 back-on-market: 4400 Gulf Pines Dr 3/3 $1.375M, 837 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3.5 $2.995M, 4257 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $12M.

14 price changes: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $559K, 589 Rabbit Rd 2/2 now $875K, 1674 Bunting Ln 3/2 now $899K, 497 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $899K, 3784 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $949K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 now $949K, 1410 Albatross Rd 3/3 now $1.099M, 673 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $1.249M, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 now $1.389M, 517 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $1.499M, 746 Nerita St 4/2 now $1.595M, 539 N Yachtsman Dr 4/3.5 now $1.699M, 888 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.699M, 1199 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $1.895M.

3 new sales: 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 5769 San-Cap Rd 2/2 listed at $1M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 listed at $5.45M.

2 closed sales: 567 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $765K, 5297 Punta Caloosa Ct 3/2 $804K.

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 4019 Coquina Dr now $440K, 4037 Coquina Dr now $999K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing; Bayside Villas #5120 1/2 $545K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 15161 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $6.495M, 16500 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 $8.495M.

1 price change: 16770 Captiva Dr 5/4.4 now $9.7M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend,
Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Benween Christmas & New Year’s Eve 2024

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It was a quiet Christmas week here on sunny Sanibel. With roadways often vehicle-free and most gulf-front accommodations still not open, the contractor vehicles seem to outnumber the holiday visitors. Now that FEMA-funded debris removal is over and Lighthouse Beach has reopened, there is continued evidence of storm recovery progress, albeit slowly. Seeing 2024 in the rear view mirror will be a plus!

Island Weather

Meanwhile, southwest Florida weather remains some of the best in the nation. Daytime temperatures have been in the mid-70’s (degrees F) with colder days not forecast until after the New Year. The few bikers and joggers are usually in shorts, while we locals enjoy the rare use of our sweaters and jackets. It has been a little overcast today, but 78 degrees mid-afternoon.

Re-opening & Holiday Sightings

During my island travels yesterday, it was nice to see another business has opened. At 2400 Palm Ridge Rd, in the corner of the building that formerly was ReMax of the Islands, the new shop is Bubby Latitude.

This home décor and gift store was in Bell Tower after Hurricane Ian and is back on-island in this new location – open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon through Sat.

Palm Ridge Rd also gets my vote for some of the cutest outdoor holiday decorations. If you get a chance check them out in front of Pak-n-Ship, John Grey Painting, Landgraphics, and Kingfisher.

There are a surfing Santa, several Christmas pelicans, an alligator bearing gifts, a minion, and a pink octopus.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

The local Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but it was great last Saturday to see many colleagues at the Celebration of Life for our Realtor pal, Mary Lou Bailey. The stories shared and memories highlighted were a tribute to her island success for more than 45 years.

The next Association Caravan Meetings will be Jan 9 and 23, with new listings open for viewing beginning at noon. We also look forward to the annual Installation and Awards Banquet, on Jan 15.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

Again, it was a week with more new and back-on-market listings and price reductions than sales. Just three new Sanibel sales were reported, a duplex and two unique high-end homes.

It is probably a little soon to compare 2024 sales to past years, but several conversations this week with owners thinking of selling, made it hard not to relay that what we are experiencing here now is a serious post-hurricane dip in the market.

For years, we looked at larger communities and complexes as bellwethers. Below is where a few of those stand today, compared to the last few years. First are a few Sanibel residential communities showing number of homes for sale, under contract, and the number of home sales by year,

Then similar data for a few of the larger island condominium complexes. (Data from Sanibel & Captiva Islands MLS 12/27/24) (Also note: Pointe Santo and Sundial are not yet open for paying guests and have not been since late 2022.)

The statistics illustrate that even after the pandemic which began in late 2019/early 2020, Sanibel real estate was moving well. A whopping 355 homes and 287 condos closed in 2021.

Then came Ian in 2022, followed by Helene and Milton. This year when compared to 2021, not even half the number of homes sold and just a quarter the number of condos.  When economists say it likely will take a few more years for the market to rebound, I agree.

That’s not to say, don’t list if you want to sell. The SanibelSusan Team is always looking forward to new listings and ways to get existing listings sold, just like we are always looking for new buyers. There are some excellent offerings out there for today’s buyers, but finding buyers is challenging.

 A week with 30 island listings and price changes, and just three sales, doesn’t help.

Sanibel #

For Sale

# for

Sale

# Under

Contract

Sold to

12/27/24

Sold

2023

Sold

2022

Sold

2021

Sold

2020

Sold

2019

Sold

2018

Sold

2017

HOMES:

The Dunes

15

0

20

29

18

29

39

18

29

20

Gumbo Limbo

9

1

7

12

6

21

16

11

6

12

The Sanctuary

8

1

6

6

7

14

10

13

5

3

Sanibel Estates

10

1

10

10

6

13

16

7

13

11

Shell Harbor

17

1

6

27

13

18

18

11

11

13

All Communities

186

16

163

263

185

355

289

211

218

186

CONDOS

Loggerhead Cay

3

0

7

4

5

14

13

7

16

11

Pointe Santo

3

0

1

3

7

25

4

3

3

4

Sanibel Moorings

8

0

4

0

5

7

5

3

7

4

Sundial

9

0

12

16

14

30

26

20

20

22

All Complexes

116

4

75

98

123

287

193

127

155

140

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

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

116

990,232

134

186

2,004,848

98

32

1,014,837

253

Under contract

4

1,373,750

183

16

1,569,406

15

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/27/24

75

818,493

117

163

1,476,319

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

35

1,214,457

168

22

6,597,545

241

1

12M

484

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

999,999

34

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/27/24

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 20-27:

Sanibel

CONDOS

7 new listings: Spanish Cay #F6 1/1 $475K, Donax Village #11 2/2 $625K, Sunset South #10A 2/2 $659K, Loggerhead Cay #142 2/2 $987.5K, Kings Crown #217 2/2 $1.599M, High Tide #B101 3/2 $2.495M, Seascape #102 3/3 $3M.

1 price change: Tennisplace #D31 1/1 now $369K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Moorings #1342 2/2 $840K.

HOMES

8 new listings: 1312 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.089M, 1965 Roseate Ln 3/2 $1.199M, 9067 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 $1.199M, 734 Anchor Dr 3/2 $1.2M, 755 Pen Shell Dr 3/2 $1.475M, 1508 Middle Gulf Dr 3/4 $1.695M, 2450 Wulfert Rd 4/3 $1.895M, 4039 West Gulf Dr 3/4 $4.975M.

7 back-on-market: 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 $550K, 1731 Serenity Ln 4/3 $750K, 3744 West Gulf Dr 4//4 $1.849M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 $1.95M, 4988 Joewood Dr 4/4 $2.45M, 408 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 $3.484M, 542 Kinzie Island Ct 3/4.5 $3.489M.

2 price changes: 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $849K, 5309 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 now $890K (SanibelSusan listing).

3 new sales: 1712 Sand Pebble Way (duplex) 4/2 listed at $599K, 5606 Baltusrol Ct 5/6 listed at $3.195M, 6195 Henderson Rd 3/3.5 listed at $3.495M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 back on market: 3730 Coquina Dr $499K.

1 price change: 4801 Tradewinds Dr now $1.98M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: Lands End #1666 3/3 $2.485M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 back-on-market: 14865 Mango Ct 2/2 $1.595M.

1 price change: 15153 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $5.898M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 1119 Schefflera Ct 5/4.5 $9.675M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Happy New Year!
Susan Andrews
aka SanibelSusan

Looking Forward to Christmas on Sunny Sanibel

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As the islands prepare for Christmas, it has been surprising that visitor traffic has not picked up. Contractor vehicles continue with morning back-ups coming on island and when departing starting mid-afternoons. Many trucks also have been delivering sand to Lighthouse Beach during the workday, but that project may be finishing soon.

On the causeway islands, it was a change this week to see many of the concrete construction barricades lining the roadway being moved. Those areas still are under construction and not accessible, but newly installed wooden stakes and grass edging now give a glimpse of how those islands may look eventually.

Today, there was further roadway construction progress heading off the island with both lanes now open, beginning just past the mudflats.

Weatherwise, looking ahead to Christmas, next week daytime temperatures here are forecast to be mid- to high-70’s (degrees F) with plenty of blue skies and sunshine. Great weather for those here to escape snow/ice. Maybe tomorrow, Saturday check-ins will bring more families vacationing. Their business is needed and appreciated.

Upcoming Island Events

BIG ARTS Holiday Family Film – This free event to see the movie “The Polar Express” in the BIG ARTS Christensen Performance Hall is Monday, Dec 23 at 6:30 p.m. For tickets, visit https://bigarts.org/event/the-polar-express-2024/.

Captiva Chapel by the Sea – The chapel itself is not open, but a Christmas Eve service will be held outside at 6 p.m. with holiday music beginning at 5:30.

South Seas Holiday Stroll – is this weekend, Dec 20 & 21 (Friday and Saturday) from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Shops at South Seas, 14830 Captiva Dr, with live music/entertainment, arts and crafts, and more.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate Scoop

At the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors last 2024 membership meeting yesterday, guest speaker John Lai from the islands Chamber of Commerce provided updates on recovery, tourism, accommodations, and island promotion.

He said the Chamber website gets over 2M visitors annually and now is focusing on what returning visitors can “expect” when they come back. His slide said, “It’s Not Perfect, But Still Paradise!”

Today, 31% of pre-Ian accommodations are available. That number was up to 36% before Helene. It had been down to 17%. By Feb, he expects that number may be up to 46%, with Sundial, Oceans Reach, Sanibel Inn, and Shell Island scheduled to reopen.

With Easter being late this year and winter weather up north drawing visitors south, the Chamber has new advertising beginning in January in areas where it snows hard (New England, Midwest, internationally, etc.).
Those ads will include a scan link to Wandermap which the Chamber has found to be a successful tool for visitors looking to find what is open. The map app already has had 167K downloads. It provides details on what accommodations, restaurants, shops, and recreation are open, including their website links, hours of operation, and directions. It also provides info back to the Chamber on where these visitors come from and what/where they visit here.
Looking to 2025, John encouraged attendees to register for the Chamber’s upcoming State of the Islands breakfast event which will be Jan 22 at the Mariott Sanibel Harbor Resort and Spa. With a variety of speakers, it will highlight the Economic Outlook. This is the second year for this event. Next year, it will be back on island.

John also encouraged posting Sanibel anniversary events on the Chamber calendar at 50YearsOfSanibel.com. He then fielded a few questions before wrapping up.

During the Caravan Meeting that followed, mostly new listings and price reductions were announced. The standard agenda for these meetings includes new sales, new listings, price reductions, buyer wants, and changes to resource documents (fee changes, etc.). When “buyer wants” were requested, many attendees hollered out “we want buyers”. The Tour after the meeting had five homes open for easy viewing.

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

Again, it was a slow week for both showings and sales. On Sanibel, there were no condo or lot sales, and no sales at all on Captiva. Four Sanibel homes went under contract, all relatively new listings. Note in the table below that the Sanibel homes that are under contract average just 17 days on the market. It has been the unique well-priced properties that have gone under contract quickly. Even so, 100 fewer Sanibel homes have sold/closed this year compared to last.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

110

969,558

134

175

2,015,247

101

31

1,022,445

254

Under contract

6

1,268,800

152

13

1,370,884

17

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/20/24

74

818,203

118

163

1,476,319

115

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

35

1,182,742

163

20

6,882,650

258

1

12M

477

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

5,499,999

40

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/20/24

13

1,728,846

185

7

4,203,214

185

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 13-20:

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sundial #C307 1/1 $575K, Kings Crown #308 2/2 $849K, Sanibel Moorings #1541 3/2 $859K, Gulfside Place #108 2/2 $1.625M, Sundial #O406 2/2 $1.675M.

3 back-on-market: Sanibel Moorings #1422 2/2 $749K, Sanibel Moorings #121 2/2 $929K, Gulfside Place #209 2/2 $1.195M.

2 price changes: Coquina Beach #4B 2/2 now $699K, Kings Crown #217 2/2 now $1.599M.

No new sales.

3 closed sales: Sandalfoot #1C2 2/2 $780K, Loggerhead Cay #472 2/2 $855K, Compass Point #122 3/2 $1.25M.

HOMES

12 new listings: 690 Purdy Dr 3/2 $599K, 1549 Wilton Ln 3/2 $629K, 1950 Periwinkle Way (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $749.9K, 4452 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $799K, 1526 Wilton Ln 4/2 $850K, 1978 Roseate Ln 3/2 $899.5K, 589 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $924K, 1660 Bunting Ln 4/3.5 $1.4M, 1266-68 Par View Dr 4/4 $2.695M, 4318 West Gulf Dr 3/4.5 $2.995M, 659 Anchor Dr 3/4.5 $2.997M, 4513 Waters Edge Ln 3/2.5 $5.45M.

4 back-on-market: 5089 San-Cap Rd 3/2 $950K, 557 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 $1.44M, 979 Whelk Dr 3/3 $1.849M, 2287 Starfish Ln 4/4 $2,489,900.

3 price changes: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $565K, 4546 Buck Key Rd 4/2 now $949K, 1311 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.375M.

4 new sales: 490 & 460 Old Trail Rd 3/3 listed at $638.5K, 660/664 Periwinkle Way (duplex) 4/2.5.5 listed at $869K, 706 Nerita St 3/2.5 listed at $1.195M, 6211 Starling Way 4/4.5 listed at $3.75M.

2 closed sales: 248 Christofer Ct 2/2.5 $895K, 819 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.595M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1729 Jewel Box Dr $1.295M.

1 price change: 1801 Olde Middle Gulf Dr now $6.5M.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS, HOMES, & LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy Lucky Friday the 13th from Sunny Sanibel

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After a quick shower Wednesday, a breezy cool front arrived on the islands with temperatures dipping into the low 40’s (degrees F) Thursday morning. Thankfully, it warmed up today, so that chill was short lived.

Last Friday, Sanibel Luminary was a big success. Islanders were thrilled to have this annual event return after missing it the last two years. The weather was delightful. Many businesses and organizations went all out with decorations, music, festivities, food, family activities, sales, and more. Kudos also to Kiwanis members who handled distributing the luminary bags. They were out early and plentiful, lining the Periwinkle shared-use paths from Tarpon Bay Rd to the East End shops.

On Saturday morning, the F.I.S.H. Jog N Jam reported a record number of runners. I saw a few local Realtors were in the 5K including Kerri Maw, Mary Bondurant, Joel Goodman, and Kelly Huguenin. The later evening beach concert and fireworks on Captiva at Tween Waters also were well attended and another win.

Congratulations to the many supporters and volunteers that made these events possible. As community spirit here thrives and grows, these were more steps in returning to normalcy.

Upcoming Island Events

Holiday Movie Night on the Lawn – tonight, Friday, Dec 13 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on the grounds of the Sanibel School. Hosted by the school PTA, it is free and open to the public, featuring a showing of “Arthur Christmas”, along with food truck offerings and concessions. Bring your own chairs/blankets. The movie begins at 6 p.m.

Special Island-Wide Roadside Cleanup – tomorrow, Saturday, Dec 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s Coastal Watch in partnership with the City of Sanibel has organized an event, as part of Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary Celebration. Participants will work in designated areas focusing on clearing debris from roadways, conservation land adjacent to roadways, and right-of-way areas.

Arts & Crafts Fair – Sunday, Dec 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Community House. Free admission and parking.

Expanded Holiday Hours at Tarpon Bay Explorers – The Refuge concession at Tarpon Bay will be open every day from Friday, Dec 20, until Saturday, Jan 4. Kayak tours will be available throughout the day (times vary according to tides). Tram tours will run Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For those that like exploring on their own, bike rentals also are available.

Guided Native Vegetation & Landscaping Tours – at Sanibel City Hall resumed this month. Though City Hall grounds were damaged from Ian and recent storms, its ongoing garden recovery provides an opportunity to view groundcover, shrubs, and trees that require little maintenance and are well adapted to Sanibel’s unique environmental conditions. Scheduled through the end of April, these walking tours begin at 9 a.m. in front of the main entrance to City Hall. Registration is not required. The next ones are Saturday. Dec 28, and Wednesday, Jan 8.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Superior Title of Sanibel team, Chelsea, Amanda, & Dustyn

There was no Realtor Caravan Meeting this week, but Tuesday, Superior Title of Sanibel hosted a “Lunch & Learn” at the Association Office where Old Republic Title provided a 2-hour continuing-education class on “Fraud and Scams Affecting Real Estate Transactions”. The event was delayed 30 minutes by an accident on the causeway that backed up on-coming island traffic for miles. The delay provided more  networking time for the early birds. Well attended by both sales associates and brokers, there was commiseration about the shortage of buyers, showings, and sales. But there was optimism that the market would improve as the islands further recover, accommodations become available, and visitors come back.

One important class take-away is for us to remind buyers and sellers that SanibelSusan Realtors will never provide wiring instructions. Those always come from the title company. Superior Title of Sanibel holds our escrow deposits. We have a long successful relationship with them.

So, if you ever receive an email about a change in wiring instructions, talk to the title company personally, before sending any money. Be aware that title companies rarely, if ever, change their wiring instructions.

Anther tidbit: Did you know that today most of the crooks successfully stealing proceeds from fraudulent transactions are in Nigeria and the money is funneled to terrorists? It totals billions of dollars a year.

We all can always be more careful when responding to emails, texts, and calls. With AI, any email may be polished to appear “real”. Always be on the lookout for red flags in any unexpected correspondence.

More Island Real Estate Scoop

Our next Association of Realtors Caravan will be after the last membership meeting of the year, next Thursday, Dec 19. Guest speaker will be John Lai, President and CEO of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce will update members on tourism and accommodations. To add to the holiday fun, the meeting also will feature our annual Ugly Christmas Sweater contest.

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

Again, this week, there were more new listings and price reductions than sales, but it was good to see a few sales. No sales on Captiva, and no condo or lot sales on Sanibel, but seven Sanibel homes have gone under contract since last Friday – a huge improvement over last week.

On the commercial side, the former gas station at 1067 Bailey Rd on the corner of Periwinkle, near the 4-way stop is again under contract (third time). The asking price is $2.5M.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 102 951,916 137 163 2,034,405 101 30 1,029,993 256
Under contract 7 1,144,857 110 11 1,268,909 16 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 12/13/24 71 878,446 122 161 1,479,192 116 15 1,403,533 192
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 35 1,182,742 156 20 6,882,650 251 1 12M 470
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 2 5,499,999 40 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 12/13/24 13 1,728,846 185 7 4,203,214 185 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2022 28 1,458,983 52 22 5,636,386 133 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2021 64 1,150,373 145 44 2,988,520 261 2 2,950,000 731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Dec 6-13:

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Blind Pass #A106 2/2 $435K, Sanctuary Heron #III-3A 3/2.5 $1.35M.

1 back-on-market: Sanibel Moorings #1112 2/2 $949K.

1 price change: Donax Village #19 2/2 now $589K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Sanibel Siesta #804 2/2 $736K.

HOMES

9 new listings: 2115 Sunset Cir 3/2 $625K, 1657 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 $749K, 660/664 Periwinkle Way (duplex) 4/2.5.5 $869K, 662 Donax St 2/2.5 $995K, 575 Hideaway Ct 3/2 $999K, 706 Nerita St 3/2.5 $1.195M, 799 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.649M, 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 $1.695M, 1290 Bay Dr 3/2 $3.85M.

2 back-on-market: 9226 Kincaid Ct 3/2 $879.9K, 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 $2.989M.

7 price changes: 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 now $744K, 4660 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $895K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 now $929K, 1018 S Yachtsman Dr 3/3 now $1.079M, 1646 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 now $1.195M, 4752 Rue Helene 2/2 now $1.25M, 811 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 now $1.595M.

7 new sales: 567 Rabbit Rd 2/2 listed at $798K, 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 listed at $800K, 761 Nerita St 3/2 listed at $1.179M, 345 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.399M, 862 Beach Rd 3/2 listed at $1.449M, 229 Daniel Dr 4/3 listed at $1.45M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 listed at $2.395M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 4657 Rue Belle Mer $3.05M.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

2 new listings: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/6.5 $5.2M, 944 South Seas Plantation Rd 3/3 $5.95M.

2 price changes: 11505 Gore Ln 6/6 now $3.795M, 16512 Captiva Dr 7/5.5 now $9.45M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

I hope you Friday the 13th was lucky & that you enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sanibel & Captiva Luminary Strolls Are Back!

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 Though Southwest Florida continues to be one of the warmest spots in the nation, you can bet there was grumbling this week when we turned our HVAC systems to heat. Thankfully, though chilly, the daytime weather has continued with blue skies with sunshine. Most warmed up into the 70’s (degrees F), but it got down into the low 50’s most nights – timely for decorating for the holiday events this weekend.

Upcoming Island Events

Luminary Festival – After a 2-year storm delay, Sanibel’s Luminary Stroll is back – tonight from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tomorrow at the same time is the Captiva Stroll.

Jog N Jam – Also tomorrow, Saturday, Dec 7 is the FISH 2024 Jog N Jam Celebration which begins with both 5K and 10K races in the morning at The Sanibel Community House, including a Kids Fun Run at the Community Park. Later tomorrow evening, a beach concert and fireworks will be at Tween Waters Resort & Spa on Captiva.

Final Pass for Storm Debris Pickup – Sanibel property owners are asked to place storm-generated debris on their public right-of-way by Sunday, Dec 8 to ensure pickup by the City contractor. The City has authorization from FEMA for reimbursement of debris removal costs including for commercial properties, i.e. condos. The public right-of-way is the area that extends from the street to the sidewalk, ditch, utility pole, or easement. Starting Dec 8, once debris trucks make their final passes, they will not be returning. Please separate the debris by vegetative, building demolition debris, appliances/white goods, electronic waste, and household hazardous waste. Only loose debris will be collected. Bagged debris should not be placed in the right-of-way. Also avoid stacking debris below low hanging power or utility lines, and do not place within 4’ of mailboxes, water meters, fire hydrants, or any other above-ground utility. For questions, call Public Works at 239-472-6397.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

At the islands’ Association of Realtors Caravan Meeting yesterday, no new sales were announced, but a caravan of 11 new listings followed with ten homes and one condo open for viewing.

Our next Caravan will be after the last membership meeting of the year on Dec 19 when guest speaker John Lai, President and CEO of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce will update members on tourism and accommodations.

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

Another week with no showings and poor sales activity sure is not good news for those looking to sell. There is better than a year’s worth of inventory now in all property types on both islands. We have heard too many times recently that it will take years to recover from these last storms. Some say it is because these caused such far-reaching damage, resulting in more national exposure than Ian two years ago.

It likely also will take years for this inventory to move. Though the storms have taught us to be more patient, I am afraid there will be more listings and serious price reductions required before the market swings back to favor sellers.
Unfortunately, colleagues report that they now are working with few, if any, buyers. Hopefully that changes when more snowbirds and visitors arrive.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

99

953,529

134

160

2,051,869

94

30

1,029,993

249

Under contract

8

1,095,375

99

4

1,097,000

14

1

3,300,000

499

Sold to 12/6/24

70

813,228

124

161

1,479,192

116

14

1,285,928

170

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

35

1,182,742

149

18

7,097,111

271

1

12M

463

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

5,499,999

40

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 12/6/24

13

1,728,846

185

7

4,203,214

185

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Nov 29 – Dec 6:

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sandpebble #2E 2/2 $549K, Spanish Cay #D5 2/2 $599K, Lighthouse Point #317 3/2 $649K, Blind Pass #F104 2/2 $699K, Sand Pointe #238 2/2 $875K.

3 price changes: Mariner Pointe #1023 2/2 now $499K, Captains Walk #F3 2/2 now $550K, Spanish Cay #E3 2/2 now $625K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: Captains Walk #B5 2/1 $340K.

HOMES

16 new listings: 490 & 460 Old Trail Rd 3/3 $638.5K, 1309 Middle Gulf Dr (Sea Pines E) (1/2 duplex) 3/3 $859K, 5307 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 $899K, 499 Leather Fern Pl 3/2 $920.8K, 5769 San-Cap Rd 2/2 $1M, 4639 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2.5 $1.195M, 1048 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $1.299M, 345 East Gulf Dr 3/2.5 $1.399M, 862 Beach Rd 3/2 $1.449M, 229 Daniel Dr 4/3 $1.45M, 946 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 $1.55M, 748 Windlass Way 3/3 $1.595M, 2688 Coconut Dr 3/2 $2.395M, 961 Limpet Dr 3/2 $2.595M, 5606 Baltusrol Ct 5/6 $3.195M, 1083 Bird Ln 4/2.5 $5.3M.

1 back-on-market: 2960 Wulfert Rd 5/5.5 $2.989M.

7 price changes: 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $959K, 4221 Old Banyan Way 3/2 now $1.195M, 729 Sand Dollar Dr 4/3 now $1.24M, 1293 Par View Dr 3/3 now $1.395M, 2313 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $1.624M, 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/7.5 now $2.85M, 918 Limpet Dr 4/4.5 now $3.125M.

1 new sale: 5297 Punta Caloosa Ct 3/2 listed at $850K.

2 closed sales: 431 Rabbit Rd 3/2.5 $900K, 5387 Shearwater Dr 4/4.5 $1.875M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 closed sale: 6492 San-Cap Rd $850K.

No new sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Marina Villas #608 2/2 $850K.

1 price change: Beach Homes #29 4/4 now $3,299,500.

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 or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan