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

Post Thanksgiving 2024 on Sunny Sanibel Island

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It was a quiet but sunny Thanksgiving week on Sanibel with daytime temperatures mostly in the low to mid-70 degrees F, My car registered 79 mid-day both yesterday and today when traveling the Gulf Drives. I also noticed more bikers than vehicles on the roadways. There still are very few gulf-front properties ready for occupancy so the islands continue to be very quiet except when contractors are working. The one building the home next door to me, even worked yesterday.

Today I snapped a couple of pix at the pond (former site of By-the-Sea condos) when I spotted a roseate spoonbill amid a huge flock of white birds. A little unusual to see one there.

Roseate spoonbill at far right.

Rpseate spoonbill near middle

SanibelSusan News

On the home-front, though it continues to be a relief to be back living in mine, my hot water heater quit last weekend. Seems that even those can be hurricane casualties. This year may be a test to see how many challenges one can overcome. After two storms, losing my car, electric meter and appliances at home, replacing a hot water heater is easy. Aztec Plumbing came to my rescue and a new one was installed quickly. Don’t ask the price.

That hiccup meant I wasn’t prepared to cook Thanksgiving dinner so out we went. Though it was a nice treat not to spend hours preparing the meal, when my dinner plate arrived with the cranberry sauce being the warmest item on it, it made me rethink going back to cooking. Thankful I am, just the same, to be residing and working on Sanibel Island where the community spirit thrives, island leaders tackle challenges, and the laid-back lifestyle is like no other.

Last weekend, I had dinner with a couple of long-time friends, fellow altos from the BIG ARTS Community Chorus. Between the pandemic and hurricanes, we haven’t been singing or together in several years, so it was great fun catching up. Unlike the restaurant yesterday, Traders continues to serve consistently wonderful meals – and their lobster bisque is still terrific.

In Aruba on her bday

Speaking of friends, the announcement about the Celebration of Life for my pal Realtor Mary Lou Bailey was in “The Islander” this week. Many know that we were friends for decades. Competing sometimes in business, we had a lot of respect for each other, often kibitzed about real estate, and usually attended two annual events together – the Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner and the Association of Realtors RPAC Auction. We went to the Kiwanis event in February and then in early March, went on our first girls’ trip, a cruise to celebrate her 80th birthday. Though it was a successful voyage, a couple of weeks after returning, Mary Lou had a massive stroke that caused her to become bedridden and eventually led to her death earlier this month. She did not deserve the eight months she spent trying to recover. She was a special gal, putting clients ahead of herself, and honest to a fault. She will be missed. Her Celebration of Life will be at The Community House on Saturday, Dec 21 at 10 a.m.

Upcoming Island Events

Is it just me, or does it seem like every year Christmas decorations start going up sooner? Some even before the Halloween pumpkins are put away. Even after spending 31 Decembers here, it’s still special to see twinkling lights on palm trees. Get ready to see those this week! The inflatables are already up at Jerry’s and some of the best events of the year are coming up.

Captiva Tree Lighting Celebration – is tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. at Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa.

Sanibel Tree Lighting Celebration – is tomorrow night, Saturday, Nov 30 at 5 p.m. at Sanibel Community Park next to The Community House with sing-along followed by celebration inside The Community House until 8 p.m. with more music, food, ice cream, holiday activity tables, and photo ops.

Luminary Festival – The islands’ Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 36th annual Luminary Festival next weekend, Friday, Dec 6 on Sanibel and Saturday, Dec 7 on Captiva. The Luminary Strolls (from 5:30 to 9 p.m.) are island-wide holiday events that bring together residents, visitors, businesses, and organizations promoting goodwill and community spirit. As you stroll the luminary trails, look for many fun places to stop and enjoy. There are music and activities for the entire family, including a live nativity and photo opportunities.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The Association of Realtors did not meet this week, but next Thursday, Dec 5 is another Caravan Meeting, followed by a caravan of new listings open for viewing (from noon to 3 p.m.) Dave and I will be at our new listing at 5309 Umbrella Pool Rd.

5309 Umbrella Pool Rd

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.

Just two new sales were posted this week, a Sanibel condo and a Captiva home. Just two closed sales were posted too, also a Sanibel condo and a Captiva Home.

With more new listings and price reductions, it doesn’t take much analysis to see that there now are years of inventory. Between now and mid-January usually are not busy times for sales, but I sold a home once on Christmas Day so remain optimistic. There are some excellent offerings for those looking to buy.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

93

973,854

141

142

2,087,365

100

31

1,020,929

242

Under contract

9

1,014,666

85

5

1,281,600

88

2

2,095,000

301

Sold to 11/29/24

69

820,087

125

159

1,480,345

115

13

1,319,461

175

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:

33

1,128,681

151

18

7,097,111

264

1

12M

456

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

5,499,999

158

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 11/29/24

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 22-29:

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Mariner Pointe #1062 2/2 $539K, Sandalfoot #5B2 1/1 $695K, Heron at The Sanctuary #III-2B 3/2.5 $1.091M.

4 back-on-market: Captains Walk #A4 2/2 $379K, Blind Pass #G102 2/2 $739K, Sandpiper Beach #502 2/2 $865K, Nutmeg Village #104 2/2 $1.1M.

2 price changes: Mariner Pointe #733 2/2 now $549K, Nutmeg Village #211 now $1.075M.

1 new sale: Sanibel Siesta #804 2/2 listed at $749K.

1 closed sale: Heron at The Sanctuary #1-3B 3/2.5 $1.398M.

HOMES

12 new listings: 969 Fish Crow Rd 3/2 $649K, 1322 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $749K, 1436 Jamaica Dr 2/2 $769K, 653 Oliva St 3/2 $874,950; 1426 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.095M, 436 Glory Cir 3/3 $1.22M, 761 Nerita St 3/2 $1.279M, 1255 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.7959M, 5250 Caloosa End Ln 3/2.5 $1.995M, 788 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1,999,999; 6211 Starling Way 4/4.5 $3.75M, 3577 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 $10.5M.

6 price changes: 2604 Coconut Dr 3/2 now $800K, 1625 Serenity Ln 3/2 nor $945K, 497 Lake Murex Cir 4/3 now $979K, 3784 Coquina Dr 3/3 now $989K, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 now $1.585M, 888 Limpet Dr 3/2 now $1.7749M.

No new & no closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

1 new listing: Bayside Villas #5114 1/2 $525K.

1 price change: Captiva Beach Villas #3E 5/4.5 now $3.989M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 11527 Wightman Ln 3/2 listed at $999,999.

1 closed sale: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/3 $2.7M.

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

The White Pelicans Are Back

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As the islands prepare for the holidays, there also was more noticeable storm recovery progress this week plus the annual arrival of the white pelicans!

It was a rare overcast day on Wednesday when a few sprinkles probably washed away more salt residue from the recent storms. Vegetation is greening up.

Then, last night a cool front arrived with temperatures down into the 50’s this morning.

It is up to 72 degrees F and sunny this afternoon, but probably time to get out the winter flip flops!

SCCF News on Vegetation

SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) has posted good advice if you have trees and shrubs that have lost their leaves and appear struggling since the recent storms when high winds and surges shocked them. SCCF says these plants are simply stressed and many will rebound.

The issue started two years ago with Hurricane Ian when that high storm surge left pools of salt water in many areas for an extended period. This caused a high percentage of hardwood trees and vegetation, including exotics, to perish and caused root rot in others. Many have been dying over the last two years. Then, the surges this fall from Helene and Milton pushed many to fail completely. SCCF reports that gumbo limbo and strangler fig trees seem to be the most affected now, while after Ian, it was buttonwood.

Salt-tolerant grasses and plants usually recover quickly from storm events, and not all plants with no leaves are dead. SCCF suggests scratching a little bit of bark off a branch or two or even the stem and if you see green underneath, the plant is alive. Many in my yard are coming back slowly, others are “wait and see”.

Upcoming Island Events & Re-Openings

Community Thanksgiving Celebration – with holiday meal is hosted by FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will be at The Community House, Tuesday, Nov 26 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Farmers Markets – Local Roots, the Sanibel gals that have operated eight markets in SWFL announced that the Captiva Market will reopen on Tuesdays, beginning Nov 28 through Apr from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Shops at South Seas. Parking is across the street. The Sanibel Market has been open for several weeks (Oct through May), on Sundays at City Hall (also 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). More info on all the markets at BuyLocalLee.com.

Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop – at Saint Michael’s & All Angels Episcopal Church will again begin accepting donations next Friday, Nov 29. Please drop them off at the loading dock. The shop itself reopens Tuesday, Dec 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sanibel Tree Lighting Celebration – a continuation of the City 50th Anniversary Celebration will be Saturday, Nov 30 at 5 p.m. at Sanibel Community Park next to The Community House with sing-along led by the BIG ARTS Community Chorus. Once the tree is lit, the event will continue inside The Community House until 8 p.m. with more music, food, ice cream, holiday activity tables, and photo ops.

Captiva Tree Lighting Celebration – a tradition since 1995 at Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, Friday, Nov 29 from 5 to 9 p.m.  More details & tickets at https://tween-waters.com/event/annual-tree-lighting

Wildlife Dr – at J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge reopens tomorrow, Saturday, Nov 23, following hurricane restoration. It will be open 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day except Fridays. It also has been reported that the white pelicans are back! Tarpon Bay Explorers will begin offering their narrated tours too.

YOLO Water Sports – on Captiva reopened this week, on Wed. https://YoLoWaterSports.com

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

Yesterday at the monthly membership meeting of the islands Association of Realtors, I enjoyed introducing one of Florida Realtors most in-demand instructors, my friend from Tallahassee, Patti Ketchum.

As the incoming Chair for the National Association’s Professional Development Committee, her 30-minute presentation provided up-to-date advice on the latest buyer broker agreements. Those are needed whenever a Realtor begins providing service to a prospective buyer. The presentation was videoed and posted for members to revisit.

During the Caravan Meeting that followed, many new listings and price reductions were announced, but no new sales. After the meeting, nine new home listings, including ours at 9436 Yucca Ct, and two condos were open for easy viewing. The next Caravan is Thursday, Dec 5.

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

Many of the listings coming back on the market continue to be properties that were taken off for the summer or for work to be completed. That likely will continue, particularly as condo complexes reopen.

On the commercial side, the gas/service station at 1067 Bailey Rd (facing Periwinkle) was reduced from $2.85M to $2.5M.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

87

988,384

145

132

2,076,659

101

31

1,020,929

235

Under contract

9

1,086,777

92

5

1,281,600

86

2

2,095,000

301

Sold to 11/22/24

68

811,588

126

159

1,480,345

115

13

1,319,461

175

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:

32

1,163,359

149

19

6,786,631

245

1

12M

449

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

6.499,500

220

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 11/22/24

13

1,728,846

185

6

4,453,750

150

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 15-22:

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #1412 1/1 $475K, Blind Pass #F206 2/2.5 $719K, Lighthouse Point #233 3/2 $849K, Heron at The Sanctuary #I-3A 3/2.5 $1.45M.

1 back-on-market: Sanibel Moorings #822 2/2 $779K.

3 price changes: Coquina Beach #4B 2/2 now $599K, Sanctuary Golf Village I #6-PH6 2/2.5 now $1.068M, Tamarind #B201 2/2 now $1.895M.

2 new sales: Sanibel Moorings #1342 2/2 listed at $849K, Heron at The Sanctuary #I-3B 3/2.5 listed at $1.45M.

1 closed sale: Heron at The Sanctuary #I-1B 3/3.5 $922.5K.

HOMES

9 new listings: 766 Donax St 2/2 (duplex) $645K, 495 East Lake Rd 3/2 $789.5K, 5297 Punta Caloosa Rd 3/2 $850K, 4560 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 $949K, 9228 Belding Dr 2/2.5 $975K, 560 Boulder Dr 3/2 $1.049M, 1311 Par View Dr 3/3 $1.425M, 203 Daniel Dr 3/3 $1.65M, 4709 Rue Belle Mer 3/2 $4.2M.

8 back-on-market: 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 $699K, 209 Robinwood Cir 3/2 $699K, 2105 Sunset Cir 3/2 $749K, 697 Spartina Ct 3/2.5 $1.15M, 1310 Par View Dr 3/3 $1.549M, 5810 Pine Tree Dr 4/3 $2.3M, 411 Bella Vista Way 4/4 $3.595M, 3767 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $8.95M.

6 price changes: 421 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $1.045M, 1073 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $1.197M, 5300 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 now $1.375M, 1044 Whisperwood Way 4/4.5 now $2.449M, 1870 Woodring Rd 3/3.5 now $2.498M, 519 Kinzie Island Ct 5/3.5 now $2.595M.

3 new sales: 9475 Beverly Ln 3/2 listed at $949K. 819 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 listed at $1.595M, 5387 Shearwater Dr 4/4.5 listed at $1.875M.

6 closed sales: 1215 Periwinkle Way 1/1.5 $239K, 3180 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.035M, 3205 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $1.125M, 628 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 $1.5M, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5.5 $2.15M, 4355 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5.5 $8M.

LOTS

1 new listings: 1755 Jewel Box Dr $1.35M.

1 back-on-market: 5633 Baltusrol Ct $449K.

1 price change: 4501 Waters Edge Ln now $2.75M.

1 new sale: 6492 San-Cap Rd listed at $890K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: 1667 Lands End Village 2/2 $1.449M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1071 South Seas Plantation Rd 3/3.5 $4.6M.

1 back-on-market: 1127 Longifolia Ct 4/4 $8.5M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Best wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Yippee! Back Home & Back to Sunshiny Fridays on Sunny Sanibel

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Good grief! Would this hurricane season finally be over? Again, this week, all eyes have been on Caribbean forecasts. Mother Nature sure has been keeping us on our toes this year, but it looks like we may be wrapping up that season without another storm here. The below photo posted today by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation is a good island reminder.

Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation photo of 11-14-2024

Personally excited to have moved back home today. House is livable though not fully complete. New appliances don’t arrive until next week, so I will be glamping for a few days, but so grateful. After being out of my house for 8.5 months after Ian, it sure is great to be back after just 7 weeks. Much appreciation goes to those that made it possible. Even getting a nail in my tire didn’t dampen the day. There is nothing like “home sweet home”, with computer and printer reinstalled even before suitcase opened. Always ready for business!

More Island Re-Openings

Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop – at Saint Michael’s & All Angels Episcopal Church is reopening Dec 3. Hours will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays. No word yet on when they will begin accepting donations.

Sanibel Skin Spa & Salt Cave – is reopening in a new location (across from CVS at 2330 Palm Ridge Rd, Suite 16). Their grand opening is Tuesday, Nov 26.

Sunshine Seafood Café & Wire Bar – on Andy Rosse Ln, Captiva, reopened today. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Easy to make reservations on-line at www.SunshineSeafoodCaptiva.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

The islands Association of Realtors did not have a Caravan Meeting this week, but there is one next Thurs after the monthly membership meeting on Nov 21. I will introduce the speaker at that meeting, my friend Patti Ketchum from Tallahassee. Patti is a respected instructor at Florida Realtors and a long-time member of the state Professional Development Committee, in addition to managing her brokerage and serving on the Florida Real Estate Commission. Next year, she will Chair the National Association Professional Development Committee. At our upcoming meeting, she will cover the new industry Buyer Brokerage requirements.

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

Though snowbirds are arriving, there still was not a lot a lot of real estate action this week, short of new listings and price reductions. Also, several listings that were pulled off the market for the summer came back on.

Some communities are already holding annual meetings and discussing budgets for 2025. Of course, we will post that info on our listings as fees change. The 2024 real estate tax bills also are out, with a reminder to pay them in Nov to get the full discount.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

82

999,981

146

116

2,085,315

107

30

1,027,826

240

Under contract

9

1,036,666

112

7

1,125,700

119

1

3,300,000

499

Sold to 11/15/24

67

809,933

125

153

1,446,575

116

13

1,319,461

175

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:

32

1,131,984

151

17

6,814,470

267

1

12M

442

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

2

6.499,500

220

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 11/15/24

13

1,728,846

185

6

4,453,750

150

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 Nov 8-15:

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Blind Pass #G206 2/2 $675K, Sanibel Arms West #M7 2/2 $795K (SanibelSusan listing), Loggerhead Cay #264 2/2 $949K, Loggerhead Cay #191 2/2 $949,555.

7 price changes: Mariner Pointe #312 2/2 now $524K (SanibelSusan listing), Cottage Colony West #110 1/1 now $599K, Coquina Beach #4B 2/2 now $699K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-1A 3/2.5 now $949K, Shell Island Beach Club #7B 2/2 now $960K (SanibelSusan listing), Heron at The Sanctuary #1-2A 3/2.5 now $1.198M, Compass Point #191 3/3 now $1.699M.

Mariner Pointe

1 new sale: Sanibel Moorings #1342 2/2 listed at $849K.

3 closed sales: Seashells #40 2/2 $425K, Sundial #A303 1/1 $700K, Loggerhead Cay #212 2/2 $855K.

HOMES

6 new listings: 9436 Yucca Ct 3/2 $1.095M (SanibelSusan listing), 941 Pecten Ct 3/2 $1.695M, 5230 Caloosa End Ln 4/4.5 $2.195M, 589 Kinzie Island Ct 4/3.5 $2.75M, 766 Sand Dollar Dr 4/4;5.5 $3.299M, 4352 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 $3.33M.

6 back-on-market: 4372 Gulf Pines Dr 2/2 $998K, 465 Lake Murex Cir 3/3.5 $1.089M, 819 Birdie View Pt 3/2.5 $1.595M, 1272 Par View Dr 4/3.5 $2.49M, 1158 Golden Olive Ct 5/5.5 $2.995M, 848 Angel Wing Dr 4/4.5 $2.995M.

4 price changes: 1806 Ibis Ln 3/2 now $725K, 1646 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 now $1.295M, 3361 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 now $1.875M, 2402 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 now $1.895M.

2 new sales: 812 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 248 Christofer Ct 2/2.5 listed at $994K.

2 closed sales: 530 Leather Fern Pl 2/2 $340K, 1426 Sanderling Cir 3/2 $850K.

LOTS

2 new listing: 5170 Sea Bell Rd $349K, 1321 Seaspray Ln $879K.

1 price change: 2486 Wulfert Rd now $339K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Marina Villas #807 2/2 $875K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 15155 Willes Dr 3/2 $2.389M.

1 price change: 11527 Wightman Ln 3/2 now $1.198M.

1 new sale: 11517 Wightman Ln 4/2 listed at $2.999M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Coming Up To Veterans Day 2024 on Sunny Sanibel Island

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It was another week with eyes on the weather as islanders look forward to the 2024 Hurricane Season wrapping up the end of this month. It can’t come soon enough for many of us.

Beach is narrow next to the Jensen’s on the Gulf curve on Captiva Dr

Turner Beach lot 11-08-24

The SanibelSusan Team looks forward to a sunshiny winter as restorations from the last storms progress and more re-openings are announced. I took a drive out to Captiva this morning where sand was being moved on San-Cap Rd near the Pine Ave intersection.

The public beach parking areas at both Blind Pass and Turner Beach remain closed.

The sand piles on the Captiva side remain huge! Still saw plenty of recovery occurring along the way though, with blue skies and sunshine.

Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

The City 50th Anniversary began on Tuesday at City Hall when a time capsule was opened, beginning the celebration of when Sanibel registered voters on Nov 5, 1974, changed the future of the island by casting ballots in favor of incorporation.

Opting for home rule allowed residents to establish their own government and land use policies, taking that control away from Lee County. (Interesting that those poll results from 1974 were 689 in favor of incorporation, 394 voted no.)

Mayor Richard Johnson led the time capsule program which began with patriotic music performances by students from The Sanibel School. Past and present City leaders were recognized with it especially inspiring to hear remarks from first mayor Porter Goss who spearheaded the incorporation in 1974.

Former Mike Klein (now 105 years young) who served on City Council for two terms and then Mayor (1982-1988) also was in attendance and recognized. Even in the rain, it was a well-attended event with others watching by Zoom.

Upcoming Island Events & ReOpenings

Blind Pass Condos – Are reopening their on-site rental program for weekly reservations in their 2nd floor units beginning tomorrow (Nov 9). Reservations are easily made thru their website at www.blind-pass.com.

Holiday Tree Lighting – At Sanibel Community Park, next door to The Community House, will be Saturday, Nov 30 at 5 p.m. This free event includes light refreshments and flipping the switch on the 20’ tree plus other festive decorations that will remain on display thru Dec.

Lighthouse Beach Park (Bayside) – Parking reopened this week at Lighthouse Beach bayside. The gulf-side parking area remains closed as crews work on the next phase of beach sand replenishment.

Sanibel Inn – Restoration is progressing so well that they have announced that they are accepting bookings beginning Feb. All rooms are new and include kitchenettes. www.TheInnsofSanibel.com.

36th Annual Sanibel Luminary Stroll – Will be Friday, Dec 6 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. After two years absence, the stroll this year will be extra jolly with the 50th Celebration added. Luminary candles and lights will deck the shared use paths while there will be special treats and deals at businesses along the way, plus photos with Santa, live nativity scene, music, and general merriment. Captiva’s stroll takes place the following night on Saturday, Dec 7.

Veterans Day 2024 – The Lee County Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), in partnership with the City of Sanibel will host the annual Veterans Day Celebration at City Hall on Monday, Nov 11 at 11 a.m. Click here to view the program.

Island Real Estate Scoop

The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors© held their 27th Annual RPAC Auction last night at the Association Office.

Usually held as an end-of-season party with golf tournament and auction, it was postponed this year due to the summer storms. Even without golf, it was another success.

Funds are being tallied now with RPAC proceeds being key to protecting and promoting real estate.

Again this year, SanibelSusan donated a $500 gift certificate to The Lobster Net.

There were on-line, silent, and live auction items), and winners of the R-quack duck prizes. Congrats to all the lucky bidders!

Next Thursday evening, Nov 14, at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, the Association is holding another special event. This one, Merry F.I.S.H.mas is where member donations will be collected for F.I.S.H. to distribute over the holidays to local children, teens, and seniors.

There was not a Caravan Meeting this week, the next one is after the monthly membership meeting on Nov 21. Below with data from the islands MLS are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the Sanibel/Captiva MLS action reported this week.

The only new sale reported this week on either island is a beachfront 2nd floor unit at Oceans Reach listed at $625K.

The election results this week should help sales, but as we have told many owners, our crystal ball has never dealt with three major hurricanes. We advise to price listings fairly and competitively but have no guarantee on when sales may occur.

SanibelSusan Realty added two new listings to our inventory this week. Thanks to JMA Photography for filming them quickly. As soon as the professional pix are received, the properties will be posted in MLS as “active”. We always want our listings to give a good first impression.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

76

1,008,998

151

106

2,051,499

113

29

1,038,475

260

Under contract

11

961,000

120

7

1,069,414

108

1

3,300,000

499

Sold to 11/8/24

64

816,961

125

151

1,457,854

115

13

1,319,461

175

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:

32

1,299,953

151

17

6,853.352

283

1

12M

435

Under contract

0

N/A

N/A

1

10M

47

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 11/8/24

13

1,728,846

185

6

4,453,750

150

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 Nov 1-8:

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Spanish Cay #E3 2/2 $670K, Lighthouse Point #319 2/2 $699K, Coquina Beach #4B 2/2 $729K, Sanibel Siesta #502 2/2 $939K, Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 $1.125M.

4 price changes: Sandalfoot #4D3 2/2 now $650K, Sanibel Siesta #804 2/2 now $749K, Tantara #202 2/2 now $959K, Sunward #102 2/2 now $1.2M.

1 new sale: Oceans Reach #3B2 1/1 listed at $625K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

7 new listings: 1607 Sand Castle Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $795K, 1046 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $850K, 566 Boulder Dr 3/2 $925K, 9225 Dimmick Dr 4/2.5 $950K, 240 Southwinds Dr 4/3 $999K, 3311 Twin Lakes Ln 3/3 $1.089M, 1421 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1,195,450.

2 back-on-market: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 $599K, 567 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $875K.

7 price changes: 1813 Long Point Ln 4/2.5 now $850K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 now $949K, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.275M, 5300 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 now $1.449M, 539 N Yachtsman 4/3.5 now $1.749M, 2364 Wulfert Rd 4/4 now $1.848M, 5387 Shearwater Dr 4/4.5 now $1.875M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 2474 Wulfert Rd 4/4.5 $1.9M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 2310 Wulfert Rd $349K.

1 back on market: 967 Fitzhugh St $265K.

1 price change: 4801 Tradewinds Dr now $1.7M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

4 new listings: Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 $595K, Bayside Villas #4118 1/2 $595K, Bayside Villas #5122 1/2 $599K, Bayside Villas #5301 3/3 $1.45M.

1 price change: Gulf Beach Villas #2011 1/1 now $720K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 16632 Captiva Dr 5/4 now $6.25M.

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, more blue skies and mid-80-degree days are expected here,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Another Friday & Already November!

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The good news this week is that the islands are bouncing back with more re-openings and events scheduled. Dare I say, things are getting back to normal? Slowly, but surely, they really are. Plus, the weather has been fabulous with blue skies and sunshine nearly every day with a couple of quick showers Wednesday night that washed away more storm salt remnants. Also, today during my travels, I noticed more new community signs popping up. All good indicators of recovery!

Sanibel Happenings & A Captiva Re-Opening

Boops By The Bubble Room on Captiva re-opens tomorrow, Saturday Nov 2, Hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stop in for breakfast sandwiches and treats!

Love Sanibel Community Gathering is a celebration at The Community House on Sunday, Nov 3 from noon to 3 p.m. Program begins at 1 p.m. with live music from The Sanibel School and remarks by City leaders. Enjoy food, ice cream, crafts for adults & children, photo booth, door prizes, community info, and gifts kiddos.

Pine Island Sounds 2024-2025 Concert Series which benefits SCCF, kicks off Sunday, Nov 17 with live monthly sunset music events aboard the Lady Chadwick. SCCF launched Pine Island Sounds in 2019 to support critical research and programs to protect water quality. Cruises set sail from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva. More details at www.SCCF.org with tickets through www.Events.Humanitix.com.

SanCap Motor Club is revving up to welcome everyone back to Periwinkle Place Shopping Center from 9 to 11 a.m. tomorrow, Saturday, Nov 2. They will be serving coffee and donuts and be there for the first Saturday of every month through season.

Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary is next week, on Nov 5, which is the 50th anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Sanibel. Beginning then and continuing through Luminary Stroll in Dec 2025, a 13-month celebration is planned. See https://sanibel-captiva.org/50th-anniversary/ for a calendar of events beginning with the City of Sanibel Time Capsule reveal on Tuesday Nov 5 at 4 p.m. at City Hall.

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village reopened this week following their annual late summer closure. It now is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with admission sold until 1 p.m. From Oct 29 to Jan 4, a special admission is offered at $10 for adults. Annual memberships begin at $40 and include free admittance. The Village Gift Shop in Shore Haven also is open. Founded in 1984, the Village tour experience includes an orientation video and historic buildings displaying artifacts while telling engaging stories. All buildings are handicap accessible. More info at www.SanibelMuseum.org.

Taste of the Islands CROW’s long-standing annual fundraiser has been postponed to Saturday Mar 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the grounds of Sanibel City Hall. The week leading up to the event, participating island restaurants also will be featuring special items at their restaurants. More info at www.TasteoftheIslands.org.

Wines in The Wild SCCF’s annual event will be on the ground of the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Friday, Jan 10 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets go on sale Nov 12. More info at www.SCCF.org.

Island Real Estate Scoop

Yesterday was a Halloween Costume Caravan Meeting at the Sanibel& Captiva Islands Association of Realtors. Black-Eyed Susan garnered 2nd place, winning a holiday gift basket donated by Superior Title of Sanibel. it was fun and a nice diversion with some creative costumes.

Like last week, most of the real estate announcements were new listings and price reduction. There were no new sales announced, and the only property scheduled for the Caravan that was to follow was cancelled. I was happy, however, to promote two more “coming soon” listings which will be posted next week once JMA Photography does his magic. Our earlier “coming soon” listing hit the “active” market today.

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

2024 is proving to be the least productive year for sales since I have been here (32 years), but once the election is in the rear-view mirror and more accommodations are ready for visitors, it should be a better winter “season”. There certainly are more choices for those buyers waiting in the wings.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 72 1,019,554 159 96 2,172,361 120 27 1,096,362 263
Under contract 10 994,600 123 9 1,153,655 114 1 3,300,000 499
Sold to 11/1/24 64 816,961 125 150 1,454,906 115 13 1,319,461 175
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: 30 1,330,366 168 15 6,890,466 284 1 12M 428
Under contract 0 N/A N/A 1 10M 47 0 N/A N/A
Sold to 11/1/24 13 1,728,846 185 6 4,453,750 150 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 Oct 25-Nov 1:

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sundial #D206 1/1 $549K, Mariner Pointe #1083 2/2 $599K, Blind Pass #F111 2/2 $679K.

2 price changes: Captains Walk #F2 2/1.5 now $315K, Seascape #302 3/3.5 now $1.499M.

1 back-on-market: Lighthouse Point #232 3/2 $869K.

4 new sales: Captains Walk #B5 2/1 listed at $369K, Sandalfoot #1C2 2/2 listed at $795K, Loggerhead Cay #472 2/2 listed at $875K, Heron at The Sanctuary #1-1B 3/3.5 listed at $999K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

11 new listings: 231 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $680K, 970 Greenwood Ct S (1/2 duplex) 3/2,5 $759.9K, 1615 Serenity Ln 3/2 $869K, 9475 Beverly Ln 3/2 $949K, 248 Christofer Ct 2/2.5 $994K, 5309 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 $995K (SanibelSusan listing), 1677 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 $999,555; 1425 Causey Ct 4/3 $1.199M, 580 Boulder Dr 3/2 $1.65M, 1428 Albatross Rd 3/2.5 $1.69M, 1052 Whisperwood Way 3/3 $2.25M.

5309 Umbrella Pool Rd

4 price changes: 9247 Dimmick Dr 3/2 now $979K, 431 Rabbit Rd 3/2.5 now $995K, 1199 Par View Dr 3/2.5 now $1.995M, 2667 Coconut Dr 3/3 now $2.249M.

2 new sales: 530 Leather Fern Pl 2/2 listed at $350K, 431 Rabbit Rd 3/2.5 listed at $995K.

1 closed sale: 2501 Key Lime Pl 2/2 $689K.

LOTS

1 new listing: 565 Birdsong Pl $274K.

1 price change: 6492 San-Cap Rd now $890K.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

3 price changes: Bayside Villas #4306 3/3 now $1.439M, Sunset Captiva #101 2/2 now $1.75M, Sunset Captiva #103 2/2 now $1.75M.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 58 Sandpiper Ct 3/2 now $1.599M.

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, more blue skies and mid-80-degree days are expected here,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan