Tag Archives: Florida real estate

It’s Almost 2022 on Sunny Sanibel

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As the sun gets ready to set on another year, why is it always a surprise when the islands are snarled with traffic during Christmas/New Year week? With mostly delightful weather (sunny with daytime temperatures high-70’s to mid-80’s), the causeway has been a slow crawl in the mornings from before the toll booth coming onto the island through the 4-way stop and down Periwinkle Way.

About 3 p.m., the same crawl begins in reverse making it a fun ride home in the evening. It sure appears that more folks have been enjoying things on-island this year.

Today, with holiday closings, there is less traffic and it started out foggy – an unusual occurrence here. It burned off about noon, but more fog is expected tomorrow morning with a cool front forecast to pass through Florida Monday. (That probably means daytime temperatures then will only go into the low 70’s that day.) Otherwise, the next ten days are expected to be sunny and warm.

A summary of the week’s real estate activity is after a couple of news items below. There have been a few more year-end closings so first an updated island inventory table. (Data from Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service as of 12/31/21.)

Hard to believe that there are only 19 Sanibel condos/homes for sale and that nearly 700 have gone under contract/sold this year.

 

 

Status

 SANIBEL CAPTIVA
Condos Homes Lots Condos Homes Lots
# Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $
For sale 14 1,160,628 15 2,922,733 19 630,210 4 2,684,750 8 6,248,000 0 N/A
Under contract 27 900,883 31 1,662,258 7 676,840 5 905,600 3 5,361,333 0 N/A
Sold 2021 284 877,655 355 1,341,881 68 703,830 62 1,161,369 44 2,988,520 2 2,950,000

New Year Weekend Happenings

  • San-Cap Motor Club Cars and Coffee Cruise-in – Sat, Jan 1 at Periwinkle Place – 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society Bird Walk – Sat, Jan 1 on Wildlife Dr at J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge at 9 a.m. Meet in overflow parking lot on left as you enter the Refuge. On a side note, the Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count conducted Sun, Dec 18, with 108 participants counted a total of 10,869 birds comprised of 96 different species. The results of the San-Cap count are reported to the National Audubon Society and will become part of the 122nd Audubon Christmas Bird Count. The overall count was below average. Warm temperatures up north may have delayed migrations could have played a part.
  • Sanibel-Captiva Polar Bear Plunge 2022 – Sat, Jan 1 at northside of Sanibel Causeway Island B. (Island closest to Sanibel). Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. At “crack of noon”, swimmers will plunge into the “frigid” (70 degree) water to kick off the new year!
  • Community House Arts & Crafts Show – Sun, Jan 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

New Lending Rules Threaten Some Condo Sales

By Kerry Smith, the below article was posted Dec 22 on FloridaRealtors®:

“Fannie and Freddie tighten condo-lending rules. Details vary, but they generally won’t back single-unit condo loans if a building has deferred maintenance issues.

“ORLANDO, Fla. – In response to the Surfside tragedy, Freddie Mac announced last week that it would immediately start taking a closer look at a condo development’s maintenance issues before approving individual loans. The change follows a similar announcement made earlier by Fannie Mae. The two mortgage giants back over half of all U.S. loans.

“The new requirements can be complex – Freddie Mac posted its announcement online – but they will generally deny condo and co-op unit loans if the building has deferred maintenance issues, special assessments to fix deferred issues or other problems.

“All changes announced in Freddie Mac’s bulletin “will be effective for Mortgages with Settlement Dates on or after Feb. 28, 2022.” Fannie Mae’s earlier bulletin says its rules will be “effective for whole loans purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2022, and for loans delivered into MBS pools with issue dates on or after Jan. 1, 2022.”

“Both policies “remain in effect until further notice.”

“As part of the process, Fannie Mae lenders will send condo managers a five-page form that must be completely filled out. Under the section that covers insurance types and amounts, it even includes instructions, such as “Do NOT enter ‘contact agent.’” The regulations apply to all condominiums with five or more units, even if that complex is otherwise exempt from review.

“While individual condo buyers may immediately face hurdles getting a loan approved, the tighter policies could have a longer-term impact on entire condominium complexes. Even condo associations without concerning maintenance issues could find that unit owners – without the backing of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – will have a harder time selling their property if the new paperwork isn’t filled out correctly and returned promptly.

““Loans secured by units in condo and co-op projects with significant deferred maintenance or in projects that have received a directive from a regulatory authority or inspection agency to make repairs due to unsafe conditions are not eligible for purchase,” Fannie Mae states in its Oct. 13 announcement. And those projects “will remain ineligible until the required repairs have been made and documented.”

Fannie Mae considers acceptable documentation to be “a satisfactory engineering or inspection report, certificate of occupancy, or other substantially similar documentation that shows the repairs have been completed in a manner that resolves the building’s safety, soundness, structural integrity, or habitability concerns.”

“While Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s changes apply nationwide, Florida may feel a greater impact due to the number of condo buildings across the state. In addition, condo complexes that have deferred maintenance issues or one of the other problems noted won’t be approved for Fannie Mae- or Freddie Mac-backed loans until those issues have been fixed.”

Updated Captiva Land Development Code & Regulations

Realtors® were noticed this week (see letter below) following amendment approvals to Captiva’s land development code by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners. The new code revisions are shown below in red while some rule reminders are included too:

“CAPTIVA COMMUNITY PANEL

P.O. Box 72, Captiva, FL 33924-0072

“Dear Captiva Property Owners and Companies Doing Business on Captiva:

“The Lee County Board of County Commissioners has just approved amendments to the Captiva land development code. These changes were recommended by the Captiva Community Panel and they will keep our Village beaches pristine at the end of each day, protect our dark skies and reduce unnecessary light trespass onto neighboring properties, protect our bicyclists and pedestrians from dangerous conditions caused by overgrown vegetation on Captiva Drive, and reduce the number of contractor, design professional and real estate signs on our islands.

“It is important that all of us who live and work on Captiva review these new updates to the code as well as existing provisions which protect and preserve our fragile barrier island. The Panel believes in the power of community and in voluntary compliance with our codes and ordinances. Enforcement on Captiva should be necessary only as a last resort.

“To assist us, the Panel has summarized the new code provisions (in red) and reminds everyone of some of the existing regulations that apply to Captiva (in black). Please remember that Captiva is an unincorporated part of the Lee County and that many Lee County regulations (in addition to the Captiva-specific rules) apply to Captiva. We ask everyone to comply with them all.

“Beach Furniture and Equipment

All beach furniture and equipment when not in use and unoccupied must be removed from the beach between 9:00 p.m. and 8 a.m. at all times of the year between Alison Hagerup Park and the south end of Wiles Drive. Beach furniture and equipment not removed shall be considered abandoned property and subject to removal.

Remember: A similar rule applies to the rest of Captiva’s beaches during turtle season – from May 1 to October 31.

“Outdoor Lighting

            All new outdoor lighting, including landscape spotlights, must be hooded or shielded so that the light source is masked, and does not shine beyond or above the structure, property or highest foliage to be illuminated or spill onto adjacent property. Fixtures attached to poles, trees or buildings must also be hooded or shielded, shall be no more than 15 feet above grade, and directed downward. No new or existing lights may be aimed, directed, focused onto adjacent property, or allowed to cause direct light or glare to be projected onto adjacent property. Seasonal decorations are permitted for up to 60 days per year.

“Captiva Drive Landscaping

No vegetation shall be allowed to grow on Captiva Drive or its paved shoulder. A setback of at least 2 feet from the edge of the pavement must be maintained at all times for all vegetation below the height of 8 feet.

“Signs on Captiva

            All residential identification signs shall not exceed 6 square feet. Remember: The height of these signs may not exceed 4 feet above grade. If illuminated, the lights must shine downward and wattage may not exceed 36 watts per sign. Uplighting is prohibited and approval for electric hookup to illuminate a new sign must be obtained from Lee County.

All contractor, subcontractor, or design professional signs shall not exceed 6 square feet. There may be no more than 2 signs per property and they must be removed within 10 days of the issuance of the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance. Remember: Any design professional, landscaper or contractor signs not located at a work site under construction are prohibited and must be removed.

All real estate signs advertising a property for sale or rent in a residential neighborhood may not exceed 2 square feet in size with the bottom edge of the sign no more than 12 inches above the ground. A property is limited to one real estate sign at any given time.

Remember: Sandwich signs, banner signs, pennants, flying signs and neon signs are prohibited on Captiva. (There are some exceptions for short-term special events.)

“DON’T FORGET

            Rentals: Residential dwelling units cannot be rented for less than a week on Captiva. The one-week minimum does not apply to rooms in hotels and motels.

Golf Carts: Golf carts can operate between South Seas and ‘Tween Waters, and at night with the required lights and equipment. But no one can operate a golf cart on Captiva without a valid driver’s license.

Parking: Parking on all Captiva streets is prohibited.

Littering: It is unlawful for any person to place litter on a street, beach, or waterway on Captiva. Litter includes cans, bottles, boxes, straws, paper, and cigarette butts.

Open Containers: It is illegal to carry an open alcoholic beverage or drink any alcoholic beverage on a street, sidewalk, beach, or parking lot on Captiva. It is also illegal to have an open container of an alcoholic beverage while a passenger in a car or on a golf cart.

Dunes: No person may harm or destroy a dune or dune vegetation on Captiva, or harass, molest or disturb wildlife. And no one may light or maintain any open fire on the beach.

Building Height Restrictions: Captiva has very strict building height restrictions and requirements from which no variances or deviations can be permitted. Anyone planning construction should review these regulations carefully.

“Please remember: This letter only summarizes the new regulations – and only lists some of the existing ones. If any of them apply to you, it is important to review the full text of the regulation. Amendments to our Noise, Fertilizer, Parking, Golf Cart and Septic regulations have been presented to the County for future adoption.

“2021 CAPTIVA COMMUNITY PANEL

Members: Ann Brady – Jay Brown – Ken Gill – John Jensen – Mike Kelly – Linda Laird

Mike Lanigan – Tony Lapi – R. Bruce McDonald – David Mintz – Bob Walter”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity December 24-31, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Pointe Santo #D41 2/2 $1.45M.

1 price change: Gulfside Place #117 2/2 now $1.789M.

3 new sales: Blind Pass #D102 2/2 listed at $625K, Sanibel Moorings #1132 2/2 listed at $799K, Pointe Santo #D37 2/2 listed at $1.395M.

3 closed sales: Captains Walk #B4 2/2 $510K, Loggerhead Cay #422 2/2 $769.9K, Sedgemoor #205 3/4 $4.27M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 2114 Egret Cir 3/2 $769K.

No price changes.

4 new sales: 9217 Dimmick Dr 3/2 listed at $699K, 5307 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 listed at $865K, 1347 Jamaica Dr 2/2 listed at $1.498M, 2711 Wulfert Rd 4/4/2 listed at $1.595M.

9 closed sales:  1667 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/1.5 $650K, 1841 Ibis Ln 2/2 $680K, 4226 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $852K, 2539 Coconut Dr 2/2 $1.1M, 1585 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 $1.2M, 1410 Sanderling Cir 3/2 $1.2M, 737 Periwinkle Way 3/3 $1.9M, 807 Limpet Dr 3/2 $2.15M, 1146 Golden Olive Ct 5/4 $2.9M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #5320 3/3 $1M.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: 16897 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 listed at $4.989M, 11548 Wightman Ln 4/4.5 listed at $7.5M.

1 closed sale: 15300 Captiva Dr 9/7 $6.19M.

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.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Happy New Year! Wishing your good health & safety, happiness & colorful sunsets in 2022!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

White Christmas Here = Beach Sand & Seashells

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Susan here, reporting that Florida warm weather continued this week with daytime temperatures in the high 70’s to mid-80 degrees F. Island roadways have been getting busier by the day with early arrivals of holiday visitors.
Even after living almost 30 years on Sanibel, it still is a surprise when Christmas sneaks in with temperatures like this. It’s great!

At SanibelSusan Realty

Our phones were noticeably quieter this week, probably with many shopping and concentrating on upcoming celebrations.
The activity posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service follows a couple of other news items below.
Next Friday (Christmas Eve day), the SanibelSusan Team has the day off. Like on New Year’s Eve the following Friday, you still can expect to see an update posted on the week’s happenings. I won’t ever forget the year that I sold a house on Christmas Day, so even when we are not in the office, we are just a phone call or electronic message away, and always respond quickly. Technology is our friend.
This morning, I had a pre-closing walk-through and seller document signing at Superior Title, before the actual buyer walk-through on Sunday, and closing on Monday. Title companies are super busy in December with many sales to finalize before the end of the year. We always appreciate when some of the closing activities can be done before the actual closing day, especially with holidays fast approaching. That will be our last closing of 2021 and a nice one to report next week.

Singing Your Way Into Christmas

Always fun this time of the year to remember some familiar tunes that have been modified to fit our island paradise. Here are a couple of songs that the BIG ARTS Community performed in past years and still apropos now. Bet if you read the words, you start humming.
Sung to the tune of “Winter Wonderland”, words by Doug MacGregor:
Seagulls sing, are you list’nin’?
At the beach, surf is glist’nin’
A beautiful sight, a sunset tonight
Walking’ in a winter wonderland.
Stored away are the snow skis
Here we stay in our short sleeves
You sing a new song, “This is where I belong!
Livin’ in a winter wonderland.
In the yard, we can trim a palm tree,
Then pretend to shovel lots of snow
You’ll say “Do you miss it?”, I’ll say, “no ma’am”
“I feel younger by the minute don’t you know.
Later on, we’ll conspire
And grill some shrimp on the fire
The plans we have made include sun and some shade
Walkin’ in a winter wonderland.
This one with words modified by Mike Bugler is to the tune of ”Here Comes Santa Claus”:
We’re on Sanibel, we’re on Sanibel
We just got here by plane
Escaped the snow & bitter cold
Snowbird is my name
Seashell bringin’, ocean swimmin’
The sun is always real bright
So, let’s give a thought to our friends up north
Whilst we’re having fun tonight
We love Sanibel, we love Sanibel
Warmer down here than Maine
Deck chairs set out on the beach
More sunshine here than rain
Sip that cocktail, spray that suntan
All here just seems just so right
We’re not going north for another few months
So, let’s all have fun tonight

Realtors® Get Update on Water

Yesterday was the December membership breakfast meeting at the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®. Chauncey Goss, former Sanibel City Councilor and son of Sanibel’s first mayor was the guest speaker. With a long career in public service, Chauncey currently is Chairman of the governing board of the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). Here are few highlights from his presentation:
SFWMD began in 1949 and expanded as a result of the Water Responsibilities Act of 1972. Today several projects are underway that are part of the solution to improving Florida’s water quality. The C-44 reservoir project which mostly affects the St. Lucie River and Florida’s east coast was just completed in November. The filling of that reservoir has just begun. This is the first major project to be completed in 21 years. (I can attest to that with our local and state Realtors® working hard during that time to keep water issues in the hearts and minds of FL property owners and their legislators. The fight must continue as water is a major ingredient in real estate here.)
Chauncey offered some distance references to put the expansive work of SFWMD in perspective. Would you believe the distance of the waterways they manage is like from going from here to Quebec. Over a million acres are under their management including some big marshes which are wonderful not only for the protection they provide, but for birdwatching!
C-43 is the west coast basin which more greatly affects what happens with water here. That project is expected to complete in May 2022. About 67% complete now, you can see it on the right on Rte 80 on way to LaBelle. The storage reservoir for that project is expected to be completed in Dec 2023 and will be ~3 miles by 6 miles (that’s like half the size of Sanibel).
The third project he highlighted is the FAA Reservoir Project which is in the Everglades Agricultural Area. This one also will have a storm water treatment area. Construction is expected to complete in Sep 2023.
Managing Florida’s water quality requires efforts from multi-agencies and multi-solutions. Chauncey urged attendees to remind their customers to stay attuned to water quality issues.

Islands To Receive $ for Beach Shoreline Projects

At their Dec 7 Lee County Board of County Commissioners meeting, funds were approved for local beach and shoreline projects including approximately $2.43 million for Sanibel/Captiva. The commissioners voted to approve interlocal agreements to fund 17 projects across Lee County using more than $4.5 million tourist development tax dollars. Among the agreements, Sanibel will receive $2,070,100 and the Captiva Erosion Control District (CEPD) will get $358,500.
On Sanibel, the City requested and received in full: $1,605,100 for facility beach maintenance, $225,000 for the Bowman’s Beach bridge replacement, $200,000 for changing room rehabilitation at Bowman’s Park, and $40,000 for beach erosion monitoring.
On Captiva, the CEPD requested and received $127,500 for beach park maintenance. It also requested $680,000 for Alison Hagerup parking lot upgrades but was approved for $231,000.
The county reported that beach and shoreline project funding accounts for 26.4% of the proceeds from the tourist development tax assessed on short-term lodging, such as hotels, resorts, and motels. For more info, visit www.leevcb.com/funding-programs/beach-and-shoreline.

New Restaurant Alert

I saw yesterday on Facebook that Bamboo Pan Asian Kitchen just opened. Located on Tarpon Bay Rd behind Tower Gallery, their message said “Come on in, today, Friday, Saturday 4pm to 8 p.m. We will update our hours after the opening 3 days!”.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity December 10‑17, 2021

Sanibel
CONDOS
1 new listing: Duggers Tropical Cottages #1 1/1 $475K.
No price changes.
2 new sales: Pointe Santo #A26 2/2 listed at $1.35M, Atrium #106 2/2 listed at $1.71M.
5 closed sales: Spanish Cay #F8 2/2 $479K, Blind Pass #C207 2/2.5 $625K, Coquina Beach #3E 2/2 $875K, Sanibel Arms West #E3 2/2 $915K, Junonia #101 3/2 $1.579M.
HOMES
3 new listings: 3702 Coquina Dr 2/2 $899K, 1196 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $899K, 2711 Wulfert Rd 4/4/2 $1.595M.
No price changes.
1 new sale: 1195 Sand Castle 3/2.5 listed at $1.225M.
7 closed sales: 5308 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 $779K, 328 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 $925K, 1187 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $1.2M, 993 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 $1.4M, 924 Pecten Ct 4/4 $1.865M, 1511 Angel Dr 3/3 $1.996M, 4014 West Gulf Dr 4/4 $3.8M.
LOTS
No new listings, price changes, or new sales.
1 closed sale: 5850 Sanibel-Captiva Rd $450K.
Captiva
CONDOS
No new listings or price changes.
2 new sales: Bayside Villas #4306 3/3 listed at $850K, Bayside Villas #5341 3/3 listed at $969K.
3 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3217 1/1 $405K, Tennis Villas #3120 1/1 $470K, Bayside Villas #4220 1/2 $535K.
HOMES
1 new listing: 11548 Wightman Ln 4/4.5 $7.5M.
No price changes.
1 new sale: 5 Sunset Captiva Ln 2/2.5 listed at $3.595M.
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.
Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.
Until Christmas Eve day! Best wishes, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Post Thanksgiving Update from Sunny Sanibel Island

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Susan here reporting that the island has had nice holiday weather with mostly blue skies since Wednesday. Though temperatures have dipped into the 50’s a couple of nights and are expected to do the same over the weekend, the mostly sunny daytime temperatures in the mid to high 70’s are delightful.

Christmas holiday decorations are starting to go up in a few locations. Islanders are excited to again experience more traditional local luminary festivities this year. Sanibel Luminary, always the first Friday evening in December, is next Friday Dec 3, followed by Captiva’s, the next evening, on the first Saturday or Dec 4. These celebrations are 5 to 9 p.m. when bike paths and roadways are lined with luminary candles and shops/businesses are open offering holiday cheer, special sales, and family events. Below are some upcoming special happenings on and around the islands:

Upcoming Events

Tween Waters 2021 Tree Lighting Celebration – is today, Friday, Nov 26 from 5 to 9 p.m. following the tree lighting at 4:30 p.m.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates 46th Annual “Holiday Nights” – celebration kicks off tonight, Nov 26 with tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “Holidays Under the Stars”, incorporating elements of nature & the outdoors. Holiday Nights will be open on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, but closed Christmas Day. Through Jan 2, guided Holiday Tradition Tours will be offered at 6 and 7 p.m. every night, or attendees may meander at their own pace on a self-guided tour. Guided Inside-the-Homes tours will be offered on Dec 1, 8, and 15 at 6:30 p.m. To view the complete schedule of events, visit http://www.Edison-Ford.org.

Sanibel-Captiva Lions Club Christmas Tree Sale – begins tomorrow, Saturday Nov 27, and runs through Sunday, Dec 19 (or until they run out). Located at the old gas station in Bailey’s Shopping Center, sales are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wed through Sun, offering fresh Michigan Frasier Fir trees, tree stands, & wreaths.

Pre-Luminary Open House at Sanibel Historical Village – featuring “Trees, Timelines, & Special Memories”, village admission is free from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec 3.

Luminary at Sanibel Community Church – Friday, Dec 3, Holly & Ivy Bazaar & Silent Auction from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with the out-door events from 5 to 9 p.m. They include live nativity, music, petting zoo, kids snowball play area, Christmas carol sing-along, food, & fun.

Luminary at Jerry’s Center – Friday, Dec 3 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Their celebration includes photos with Santa, Girl Scouts serving hot dogs & soda, live music, wine & food tastings, & more.

Luminary at Olde Sanibel Shoppes – Friday, Dec 3 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Island Brass is playing at the Over Easy Café outdoor patio. Join their sing-along at 8.

Sentimental Journey by Captiva Historical Society – This salute to the WWI years on Captiva through imagery, narrative, & song is Tuesday, Dec 7 at 7 p.m. in the South Seas Island Resort ballroom. Complimentary tickets for WWII veterans & spouses, others $12/person through EventBrite.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Real Estate Update

It is that time of the year when more listings pop on the market as owners return to get their properties ready for “season”. Some are selling quickly, others taking a little longer. The large ones, particularly on the beach, continue to move best.

The post-pandemic pent-up demand includes many buyers wanting not just a reprieve from winter weather, but a place where they can spend more time, often working remotely.

Below is an update with data from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service as of today, Nov 26. Unbelievable that there are just 58 properties for sale on Sanibel and 12 on Captiva when this quarter and next are usually when there are the most island sales.

Year-to-date on Sanibel, a whopping 656 properties have sold, 98 on Captiva. Another 75 on Sanibel are under contract, 14 on Captiva. It certainly is a year for the record books in many ways. Inventory today, sales this year, and comparisons to 2020 and 2005 (when there were the most sales) are shown.

Also, this week, The Blue Dolphin Cottages, a commercial property at 4227 West Gulf Dr closing was posted for $5,300,000.

If you are thinking of selling or buying, please contact us. Now more than ever, it is important to have a well-connected island Realtor® in your corner. This one celebrates her 30th year here in January. Time flies!

 

 

Status

 SANIBEL CAPTIVA
Condos Homes Lots Condos Homes Lots
# Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $
For sale 17 1,035,282 21 2,764,285 20 686,450 4 2,709,750 8 5,627,375 0 N/A
Under contract 29 1,006,408 39 1,686,769 7 530,982 7 732,000 7 4,062,571 0 N/A
Sold to 11/26/21 263 857,884 326 1,321,737 67 707,619 58 1,199,912 38 2,874,865 2 2,950,000
Sold 2020 192 733,876 290 954,718 23 606,233 47 821,713 27 2,923,148 4 2,537,500
Most Sold 2005 232 758,507 260 1,028,584 68 496,726 45 863,642 31 2,309,758 0 N/A

Next is all the island action posted this week in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity November 19-26, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Donax Village #7 2/2 $699K (our listing).

Donax Village #7, 732 Donax St

4 price changes: Sandalfoot #5B1 1/1 now $768K, Pointe Santo #C3 3/2 now $1.095M, Gulfside Place #124 2/2 now $1.459M, Gulfside Place #210 2/2 now $1.649M.

8 new sales: Donax Village #10 1/2 listed at $539K, Blind Pass #A202 2/2 listed at $629K, Donax Village #17 2/2 listed at $719K, Sanibel Inn #3421 2/2 listed at $899K, Sand Pointe #228 2/2 listed at $1.095M, Compass Point #141 3/2 listed at $1.407M, Gulfside Place #124 2/2 listed at $1,459M, Sedgemoor #205 3/4 listed at $4.295M.

4 closed sales: Mariner Pointe #231 2/2 $636K, Villa Sanibel #3A 2/2 $817K; Pointe Santo #B36 2/2 $1,389,100; Pointe Santo #B46 2/2 $1.395M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 9217 Dimmick Dr 3/2 $699K, 1356 Eagle Run Dr 5/5.5 $2.295M, 807 Limpet Dr 3/2 $2.295M.

1 price change: 1320 Seapray Ln 3/4.5 now $4.195M.

3 new sales: 6429 Pine Ave 3/2 listed at $869K, 1410 Sanderling Cir 3/2 listed at $1.2M, 1146 Golden Olive Ct 5/4 listed at $2,999,999.

2 closed sales: 700 Birdie View Pt 3/2 $850K, 5298 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/2.5 $985K.

LOTS

2 new listings: 223 Robinwood Cir $425K, 1340 Eagle Run Dr $520K.

1 price change: 4767 Tradewinds Dr now $2.149M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 5633 Baltusrol Ct $365K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: Tennis Villas #3120 1/1 listed at $480K.

2 closed sales: Bayside Villas #5102 1/2 $549K, Lands End Village #1663 2/2 $1.35M.

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.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Enjoy your weekend! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

 

More Delightful Island Weather & White Pelicans Return

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SanibelSusan reporting another week of delightful island weather with plenty of blue skies and sunshine. No rain, though there is a chance of a couple of quick showers over the weekend. A few vacationers have complained that the shelling is not so great, but without storms stirring things up in the gulf, finding special shells is more challenging. It cannot always be both ways – great weather and great shelling. Here are a few photos taken this week bayside.

On the real estate front, there were a few more island listings and sales this week. The article below posted yesterday by FloridaRealtors® describes how the market is doing state-wide. Island activity is much the same.

Year-to-date, there have been 680 sales on Sanibel, 102 on Captiva. That compares to just 73 Sanibel properties for sale (all property types) and 11 available on Captiva. It is going to take a very long time for supply to meet demand.

After the news items below are the details on the residential activity posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

Florida’s Housing Market Shows Rising Prices, More All-Cash Sales

Below are excerpts from an article posted on-line October 21, 2021) on FloridaRealtors®:

“Florida’s housing market reported higher median prices, a rise in all-cash sales and constrained inventory levels in September compared to a year ago, according to Florida Realtors® latest housing data….

“The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in September was… up 18.3% from the previous year, according to data from Florida Realtors Research Department in partnership with local Realtor boards/associations. Last month’s statewide median price for condo-townhouse units was… up 17.2% over September 2020….

“Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor said, “However, a year ago in September, we were in the midst of a huge surge in sales resulting, in part, from the pandemic shifting transactions that would otherwise have occurred during spring, into the late summer and fall. If we instead compare this September’s sales counts to those two years ago from September 2019, closed sales of single-family homes were up by over 20%, and closed sales of condos and townhouses were up by 31.5%. And so, relative to pre-pandemic levels, the Florida resale housing market is still performing exceptionally.”

In a continuing trend, the share of closed sales that were all-cash purchases rose last month compared to the previous year. In September, single-family existing home sales paid in all cash increased by 38.5% year-over-year, while all-cash sales of condo-townhouse units rose by 22.9%.

“On the supply side of the market, new listings and inventory (active listings) remained restricted last month, O’Connor said. “New listings of single-family homes only increased by 2.2% year-over-year in September, the lowest increase since February 2021,” he noted. “New listings of condos and townhomes, meanwhile, declined on a year-over-year basis for the first time since January, down by 7.3%. This slowdown in new listings relative to the pace of sales has resulted in our levels of inventory stalling out. While it’s good news that inventory isn’t falling again, that scenario isn’t entirely out of the cards in the coming months. In the longer run, the only way this shortage can be addressed is by building more new homes.”

“Single-family existing homes continued at a very low 1.3-months’ supply in September, while condo-townhouse inventory was at a 1.7-months’ supply.

“According to Freddie Mac, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 2.90% in September 2021, a slight uptick from the 2.89% averaged during the same month a year earlier.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Commercial Real Estate

If you are wondering about commercial offerings (that sometimes comes up when we report just residential, which covers homes, condos, and lots), today there are only four commercial properties for sale on Sanibel according to the local MLS. A couple came on the market this week. There are none for sale on Captiva.

  • Tipsy Turtle, real estate & business at 1223 Periwinkle Way – $6,500,000
  • Fish House, real estate & business at 1523 Periwinkle Way – $4,950,000
  • Office building condo, real estate at 1149 Periwinkle Way, #2 – $969,000
  • Office building condo, real estate at1025 Periwinkle Way, #1 – $799,000.

White Pelicans

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge posted this message yesterday, October 21, 2021:

SCCF photo

“NATURE NEWS by sightings volunteer Ed Combs: American White Pelicans will return soon — perhaps some time this coming week. Look for them flying very high in large migrating flocks or feeding and resting along Wildlife Drive. They are very large birds, weighing 16 pounds as compared with our year-round Brown Pelican’s 8 pounds. With a wingspread of approximately nine feet, they, along with the California Condor, are the largest North American birds. Thanks to Bob Pelkey for our in-flight photo. Be on the lookout!”

In seeing that message, I immediately thought of friend Cheri Hollis, who posted a Facebook photo two days earlier on Tuesday, October 19. Her post said: “They’re backkkkkk…. At exactly 4:00 pm today, snowbird season officially started in SWFL. Huge flocks of migrating white pelicans were circling overhead, caught a thermal and headed off due east.”

Here is her photo. Thanks for sharing, Cheri.

Cheri Hollis photo 10-19-2021

COVID-19 Improvement

Good news today when Lee Health reported fewer than 50 cases in their hospitals. That is a big change from their peak of 690 on August 25. Here is hoping the trend continues. Stay safe!

Sanibel 2022 Beach Parking Permits

Beach parking permits for Sanibel residents and property owners go on sale Monday, October 25 at the Sanibel Recreation Center, 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Rd, which is open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 a.m.to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The vehicle registration or lease agreement for each vehicle to be permitted must be presented. Acceptable proof of residency or property ownership are:
Driver’s License with Sanibel address
Valid government-issued photo ID with Sanibel address
Lee County voter registration card with Sanibel address
Tax Bill with Homestead Exemption for Sanibel property, the applicant owns
Tax Bill with property ownership on Sanibel
Notarized Declaration of Domicile listing Sanibel residence

To save time, it is suggested coming with completed application. Those are on-line at www.MySanibel.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity October 15-22, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Coquina Beach #3E 2/2 $852K, Nutmeg Village #308 2/2 $1.2999M.

2 price changes: Sanibel Surfside #213 2/2 now $899K, Gulfside Place #117 2/2 now $1.82M.

4 new sales: Spanish Cay #F8 2/2listed at $479K, Mariner Pointe #141 2/2 listed at $695K, Heron at The Sanctuary III #2B 3/2.5 listed at $849K, Sand Pointe #111 2/2 listed at $1.099M.

1 closed sale: Sundial #C308 1/1 $575K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 773 Cardium St 2/2 $685K, 5307 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/3 $865K, 1666 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.2M, 1347 Jamaica Dr 2/2 $1.498M

No price changes.

7 new sales: 647 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed at $699K, 1437 Causey Ct 3/2.5 listed at $1.395M, 3840 West Gulf Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.595M, 924 Pecten Ct 4/4 $1.795M, 1511 Angel Dr 3/3 listed at $1.995M, 1114 Harbour Cottage Ct 3/2 listed at $1.999M, 1665 Sabal Palm Dr 3/2 listed at $2.25M.

4 closed sales: 9214 Kincaid Ct 2/2 $695K, 1886 Farm Trl 3/3 $880K, 939 Beach Rd 3/2.5 $1.45M, 544 Lighthouse Way 4/5.5 $3.8M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 0 Bowmans Beach Rd listed at $145K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

3 closed sales: Lands End Village #1633 2/2 $1.534M, Captiva Shores #8A 3/2.5 $1.795M, Captiva Bay Villas #E 3/3.5 $3.55M.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 14991 Binder Dr 4/4 now $5.795M.

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.

Below is our ad from the “Island Sun” today.

Until next Friday, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Sunny Sanibel September Scoop

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Even with the Monday holiday, it has been a quiet September week on sunny Sanibel. The causeway was packed over the long weekend, but Sanibel beaches were not overly busy.

Though the great summer-like weather continues with little traffic, there are a few visitor rumblings about the many temporary restaurant closings. That list has been updated and provided below.

Meanwhile, like me, some of my local pals are not out socializing much, but instead limiting their travels to home, work, necessary shopping, and doctoring. We are anxious for COVID-19 numbers to get under control. It is sad that this week, Lee Health had their highest number of pandemic deaths, as many as 18 a day. The number of unvaccinated cases reported is staggering and hospitalizations now include many children. With the politics about mask wearing and CDC precautions all over the news, it is scary to realize that this pandemic is getting worse – not better. We hope that you and yours remain safe and healthy.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate

In the world of island real estate, there was no Association of Realtors® Caravan meeting this week, At the late-August membership meeting, where two local rental managers spoke (Fran Peters with Island Vacations and Sharon Michie with Cottages to Castles), it was interesting to hear how 2021 has set records for both rental income and bookings. Even with cancellations and without foreign visitors, the islands have persevered as a much-desired vacation destination. Both companies were booked until late August. Rental prices continue to rise as the pent-up demand for island vacations goes up.

They also reported that accommodations are fully reserved for the upcoming winter season. Like we have seen in sales, many property owners now are using their condos and homes more themselves, further limiting rental availability. Those companies with accommodations have wait lists of vacationers wanting extended winter stays.

It will be interesting to see what happens with reservations over the next few weeks. There likely will be more COVID-related cancellations, but I bet those timeslots quickly will be scooped up by others anxious to come.

Regarding real estate sales, according to the Sanibel/Captiva Multiple Listing Service (MLS) today, there are just 15 Sanibel condos for sale, 5 on Captiva. Looking at homes, there are 26 on Sanibel and 12 on Captiva.

After a few news items below is the action posted in the MLS since last Friday.

Sanibel Causeway Toll Collection

Posted this week on the Lee Government website: Lee County has moved to an all-electronic process for toll collection. To avoid administrative fees that will be reinstated beginning October 1, 2021, they suggest residents sign up for a LeeWay transponder or use a compatible transponder such as SunPass or E-ZPass. Residents can sign-up to receive a transponder to avoid these extra fees being reinstated Motorists with compatible transponders will continue to pay the same prices. Motorists using pay-by-plate will be charged a $3 administrative fee per toll. This fee covers the manual costs of identifying motorists and billing them by mail. Visit leegov.com/tolls for more information.

Sanibel Farmers Market Beginning Soon

Get ready, the Sanibel Farmers Market opens for its 14th season on Sunday October 3 at City Hall. Open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on every Sunday (including Easter) through May 29, please check their website at http://www.BuyLocalLee.com for info on all their markets in SW FL and their required COVID-19 precautions.

Revised List of Temporary Restaurant Closings

As in past Septembers, several restaurants are taking time off, some for vacations, some for deep-cleans and annual maintenance. Here is an updated list as of this week:

  • Bleu Rendez-Vous Bistro – closed thru Sep 30, reopens Oct 1.
  • Blue Giraffe at Periwinkle Place – closed thru Sep 20, reopens Sep 21.
  • Blue Giraffe 2 at Beachview Estates – closed thru Sep 20, reopens Sep 21.
  • Island Pizza – closed thru Sep 29, reopens Sep 30.
  • Mad Hatter – closed thru Sep 30, reopens Oct 1.
  • Paper Fig Kitchen – closed thru Sep 13, reopens Sep 14.
  • Rosie’s Café & Grill – closed thru Sep 13, reopens Sep 14.
  • The Sandbar Steak & Seafood – closed thru Sep 29, reopens Sep 30.
  • Sweet Melissa’s Café – closed thru Sep 20, reopens Sep 21.
  • Traders – closed Sep 11 thru Oct 5, reopens Oct 6.
  • Traders 2 (T2) – closed thru Oct 4, reopens Oct 5.
  • Traditions on the Beach – closed thru Sep 23, reopens Sep 24.

Scoop from SCCF

Nature lovers, be sure and check the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s Wednesday reports for weekly updates. Here are a couple of tidbits from their report this week:

Nesting Turtles Update – SCCF sea turtle monitors last observed a new sea turtle nest on August 22, which turned out to be a rare green sea turtle nest. While this nest comes later than usual, green nests were documented at later dates in August in three previous years. Overall, while Hurricane Ida impacted 106 nests, 171 still are incubating on our beaches.

World Shorebirds Day – On September 7, SCCF staff and 10 volunteers divided into small groups to cover the East End of Sanibel for shorebird counts as part of World Shorebirds Day. A total of 1,532 individuals of 25 species of birds were counted. To see the detailed list of sightings, visit https://ebird.org/checklist/S94363237

SCCF Launches Weekly Water Conditions Update on Fridays – Have you checked out SCCF’s Weekly Water Conditions Update which can be emailed to you each Friday? (sign up at http://sccf.org/our-work/join-our-mailing-list). It provides a comprehensive understanding of the water quality surrounding the islands. A visual, virtual tour of the waters surrounding Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park is included with a link to SCCF’s site https://aerialwq.sccf.org/lighthouse/virtualtour/ where beachgoers can see the water’s color and clarity. Also included in the e-newsletter are the status of flows from Lake Okeechobee, red tide and harmful algal blooms in the region, and a real-time look at water quality data throughout the Caloosahatchee estuary through SCCF”s River, Estuary, and Coastal Observing Network (RECON) monitoring system at eight sites (http://recon.sccf.org/).

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity September 3-10, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sandalfoot #5B1 1/1 $769.5K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Beach Road Villas #101 2/2 listed at $495K, Blind Pass #A102 2/2 listed at $630K.

4 closed sales: Sundial #I202 1/1 $532K, Sundial #J301 1/1 $610.5K, Sanibel Arms West #K3 2/2 $680K, Sanibel Moorings #512 2/2 $1.15M (our listing).

HOMES

3 new listings: 1245 Par View Dr 3.2.5 $1.575M, 2030 Sunrise Cir 3/3 $1.625M, 1278 Sand Castle Rd 4/3 $1.65M.

2 price changes: 535 Birdsong Pl 3/2 now $695,555; 727 Periwinkle Way 3/3 now $2.1M.

1 new sale: 720 Elinor Way 3/2 listed at $939.9K.

2 closed sales: 1360 Jamaica Dr 3/3 $1.349M, 812 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 $1.55M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 5642/5648 Baltusrol Ct $738K

1 price change: 3308 Saint Kilda Rd now $595K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 255 Hurricane Ln $370K.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Villas #2638 3/2 $1.349M.

No price changes, new sales, 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.

Stay well & be safe,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Counting Down to Labor Day at SanibelSusan Realty

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Thanks to friends Doris & Hans for this photo of Roseate Spoonbills. Love that pink!

It has been seven quiet days on the islands with little affects noticed here when Hurricane Ida passed out in the Gulf last weekend. Now our thoughts are with those from Louisiana into New England that have been ravaged by that far-reaching storm.

Here the haze-causing Saharan dust still is noticeable when crossing the causeway. The news says it has caused some discomfort to those with allergies, but it has worked in keeping tropical storms away from SW FL. So far, 2021 has been a lucky one for us at least as far as hurricanes are concerned.

Our first “cold front” arrived yesterday. With heavy rain much of that day and again this morning, the daytime temperatures got down into the mid-70’s. High temperatures only the mid-80’s are expected for the next seven to ten days. Maybe fall is arriving early!

SanibelSusan Realty

Teammate Dave and I have been covering the office this week. We had closings both Monday and Tuesday; then on Wednesday, Dave put his Estero listing under contract. Another of our Sanibel listings is scheduled to close after the holiday too. We like weeks like these, particularly in the off-season! The team and I continue to look for new listings as there still Is little inventory.

After a couple of news items below is the week’s report of the action posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. First, a summary of Sanibel and Captiva residential inventory today (Sep 3, 2021) with data from islands MLS. Though, September is usually the slowest month, it sure would be great for more properties to become available. We have buyers and colleagues do too!

 

 

Status

 SANIBEL CAPTIVA
Condos Homes Lots Condos Homes Lots
# Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $
For sale 15 905,793 23 2,926,654 16 587,875 3 1,496,666 12 5,827,249 0 N/A
Under contract 25 795,556 40 1,553,047 8 478,929 6 2,211,500 3 2,479,666 0 N/A
Sold 2021 to-date 215 870,579 274 1,310,921 59 747,110 43 1,046,916 35 2,807,868 2 2,950,000
Sold 2020 192 733,876 290 954,718 23 606,233 47 821,713 27 2,923,148 4 2,537,500

Temporary Closings

As in past Septembers, several island restaurants are taking time off, some for vacations, some for deep-cleans and annual maintenance. Here are the ones we have heard about:

  • Bleu Rendez-Vous Bistro – closed thru Sep 30, reopens Oct 1.
  • Blue Giraffe at Periwinkle Place – closed Sep 7-20, reopens Sep 21.
  • Blue Giraffe 2 at Beachview Estates – closed Sep 5-20, reopens Sep 21.
  • Mad Hatter – closed Sep 6-30, reopens Oct 1.
  • Paper Fig Kitchen – closed Sep 6-13, reopens Sep 14.
  • Rosie’s Café & Grill – closed Sep 6-13, reopens Sep 14.
  • The Sandbar Steak & Seafood – closed thru Sep 29, reopens Sep 30.
  • Spoondrift Island Bowls – closed thru Sep 6, reopens Sep 7.
  • Sweet Melissa’s Café – closed Sep 5-20, reopens Sep 21.
  • Traders – closed Sep 11 thru Oct 5, reopens Oct 6.
  • Traders 2 (T2) – closed Sep 4 thru Oct 4, reopens Oct 5.
  • Traditions on the Beach – closed Sep 5-23, reopens Sep 24.

CROW Visitor Education Center will be closed Sep 6 thru 10 for fall cleaning. They will reopen Sep 13 and are offering some new presentations. Tours are available Monday thru Friday at 11 a.m. with masks required. Each tour is limited to eight people (over the age of 13) and advance registration is required. More info at http://www.CROWClinic.org.

J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge – Wildlife Drive, Bailey Tract, and Tarpon Bay Explorers will be open on Labor Day, while the Visitor & Education Center, the Nature Store, and all administrative offices will be closed Monday. Reminder: The Visitor & Education Center and Refuge Nature Store currently are closed every Friday and Sunday because of staff shortages due to the pandemic. Wildlife Drive closes every Friday throughout the year. Restrooms remain open.

COVID-19 Update

Florida continues to report a record-number of COVID-19 cases. Locally, the Lee Health System is maxed out with a temporary suspension of elective hospital procedures that require an overnight stay. They also have temporary restrictions on hospital visitations. On a more positive note, Lee Health is making its Lee Telehealth service free until further notice. It connects patients with a physician or advanced provider and is available 24/7. The COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment offered locally also is beginning to show good results and is expected to keep the number of hospitalizations down.

According to Lee Health’s website, quarantine is recommended for those who have a known or suspected exposure to COVID-19. During quarantine, you should stay home, away from other people, except for medical care or basic necessities. If you must take care of a family member, they also must quarantine. Quarantine lasts for 14 days – this allows enough time to develop an infection from exposure. Sometimes you may be requested to test during this time, BUT a negative test at any point does not end quarantine sooner,

Isolation is recommended for those who have a suspected COVID infection or receive a 1st positive test for COVID. You should stay away from people except for medical care or basic necessities. If a family member must take care of you, they will need to quarantine after you are well (or after their last exposure to you while you are on isolation.)  Isolation lasts for at least 10 days. These 10 days begin with your first symptom or positive test (if asymptomatic). This means if you become sick while on quarantine, your 10 days starts at that time – not at the beginning of the quarantine. If you improve and have no fever at the end of the 10 days, isolation may stop. Repeat testing is not recommended.

Here is their COVID-19 update from yesterday, Sept 2, 2021:

“As of today, Lee Health has:

– 596 COVID-19 patients isolated in our hospitals (inpatient).

– Of these patients, 12 of them are children being treated at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.

– Yesterday, we had 60 new COVID-19 hospital admissions and 64 COVID-19 discharges.

– 50% of our ventilators and 3% of our ICU rooms are available for use. We have 86 COVID-19 patients on ventilators and 113 in the intensive care unit.

– This morning, census was at 101% of staffed operational bed capacity.

“OTHER UPDATES:

“For just the second time in the last month, Lee Health has discharged more COVID-19 patients than we’ve admitted over the last 24 hours, and this is the fewest number of COVID-19 patients we are treating since August 20. We hope that this slight downturn will accelerate and continue over the next few weeks.

“While this is promising, we are still not out of the woods. Lee Health hospitals are still at capacity, and we are seeing more patients than ever. This is why it remains as important as ever to get vaccinated if you haven’t already. Widespread vaccination in our community can help prevent another surge like the one we are currently experiencing, especially as we move closer to our seasonal months.

“Lee Health offers COVID-19 vaccines for anyone 12 and older at its walk-in Community Vaccination Clinic, located inside Gulf Coast Medical Center. It’s open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and there is no cost for the vaccine.”

Nearly 1000 People Moving to Florida Every Day

A Fox 4 post by Cindy Preszler this week says: “We never have to deal with ice or snow. Extreme cold is foreign to us. This is SWFL. The weather is one of the reasons so many people are moving to our state, there are other reasons too but you just can’t beat this stuff.

“The latest stats from snntv.com indicate that nearly 1000 people move here every day and many are coming from northern states like New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. According to move.org, Florida was the most moved to state in 2020.

“And why not? Chick out the weather/climate stats for Fort Myers. The average annual high is 85, and the low is 65… not too hot, not too cool.

“July and August are the hottest months with an average high of 92… it’s rare to see temps in the upper 90’s. Ad when most folks are shivering in January, highs are typically in the 70’s down here.

“Our wettest month is August with almost ten and a half inches on average. But in February and November… oh it’s so beautiful… not even two inches typically falls.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 27-September 3, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Breakers West #C2 2/2 $749K, Breakers West #C4 2/2 $749K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: Blind Pass #C110 2/2 listed at $539K, Sundial #C308 1/1 listed at $575K.

View from Gulf Beach #106

6 closed sales: Sundial #I103 1/1 $500K, Mariner Pointe #712 2/2.5 $620K, Mariner Pointe #631 2/2 $685K,  Gulf Beach #106 2/2 $893K (our listing), Sanddollar #C101 2/2 $1.15M, Somerset #D202 3/2 $1.7M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 719 Durion Ct 3/2 $1.025M, 5880 San-Cap Rd 3/2 listed at $1.35M, 2480 Harbour Ln 3/3.5 listed at $1.9645M.

2 price changes: 4771 Tradewinds Dr 3/3 now $2.99M, 1146 Golden Olive 5/4 now $2,999,999.

2 new sales: 5747 Pine Tree Dr 3/3 listed at $1.799M, 4949 Joewood Dr 5/5 listed at $4.295M

3 closed sales: 1702 Bunting Ln 4/3 $749.5K, 565 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $899K, 2367 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 $1.85M (our sale).

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Market Outlook – Here, There, Everywhere

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Another Friday and SanibelSusan here with another island real estate report. First a photo of what it looks like here on a sunny Sanibel afternoon.

This week, the Saharan dust covering much of Florida has kept rain away from the islands. There have been a few showers, but nothing like usual peak storm season. Driving across the causeway, the hazy view over the water reminded me of growing up on the Maine seashore and how it looked before morning fog burned off. Now, that dust is moving away from Florida, so weather likely will return to a more typical September weather-pattern with daytime temps expected to be in the low- to mid-80’s with chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Now through the weekend, we also may see some wind from Hurricane Ida passing out in the Gulf, no real concern for SW Florida though.

Florida Realtors® Annual Convention

I sure hated to miss this event in-person again this year, but thankfully with new Covid-protocols still was able to participate electronically. Florida Realtors 2021 Convention and Trade Expo is being held August 24-28 at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando.

Yesterday, in between classes, was the Annual Awards luncheon. It was great to hear that some friends were acknowledged and rewarded: Congratulations to 2021 Realtor® of the Year – Florida Realtors® 2020 President Barry Grooms from Bradenton, 2021 Humanitarian of the Year – Steven David from Broward, Palm Beaches, and St Lucie Realtors®, and to our 2021 District 5 VP – Ursula Weinkauff from Bonita Springs. They all excelled in a challenging year as they have for many years.

Today, our local Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Director of Education, Megan Rose, is sitting on the Florida Realtors® Audition Panel for the Professional Development Committee, evaluating candidates looking to teach state-approved classes. I sure enjoyed doing that for many years and know Megan will do a great job representing us. She will have a long tiring but fulfilling day. It is great process to ensure that Florida’s teachers are top-notch.

Tonight is the annual in-person Florida Realtors® 2021 PAC live auction. You-know-who has been bidding electronically all week on silent auction items. Tomorrow, the event wraps up with a Candidate Forum, Member Update, and the individual District meetings, followed by the Board of Directors Meeting.

At the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

There was no caravan meeting this week for the islands Association of Realtors®, but some real estate activity still was posted in the local Multiple Listing Service. The action follows a coupe of news items below.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Happily, The SanibelSusan Team has two closings before the end of the month, so Dave and I will be busy with those over the weekend and early next week. We both remarked this morning about how little traffic is on the island now. At quitting time last night, I went home the back way (west on Periwinkle to Tarpon Bay Rd north to Gulf Dr to the east end to Periwinkle) and didn’t pass a single car going in either direction until I got to just before the turn-off to my street. Even then, only saw one work truck heading off-island. Dave said it was little later when he left Lighthouse Beach, to head off island. He also didn’t see other vehicles. Where is everyone? September usually is the quietest month on the islands, appears that late-August is getting ready.

The Market Outlook – Nationally & More

Tuesday, I attended a Zoom presentation given at the National Association Leadership Summit in Chicago by NAR’s Chief Economist and Senior VP of Research, Lawrence Yun. As a long-time fan, it was interesting to hear his take on the pandemic, today’s housing shortage, and what he thinks the real estate future will bring.

He prefaced his speech saying that 99% of the country is experiencing a double-digit price change in their median priced home.

Then, he began with “when does this pandemic end?” He reiterated that though it has been over 100 years since the Spanish flu pandemic, through history pandemics have been a common phenomenon, a human experience. One that will not be done and over when this pandemic subsides. The Delta variant being a good example of that.

Looking at today’s statistics compared to recent history, one of his first slides showed that for the first time in decades, in the U.S., birth and death rates are equal. He referred to past forecasters who said that when the baby boomer generation starts dying out, U.S. population will decrease. That is looking to be true, though this data does not include those immigrating here and coming across borders illegally.

He then described how today’s housing shortage is a different kind from recent history when there were not enough actual homes for the housing demand. Today, rental prices are skyrocketing and expected to soar even higher. He gave examples where rental properties are getting multiple offers. Today, there is a historic shortage of rental vacancies, while the number of rental households is at an all-time high (mostly because those renters can’t compete with the offers from today’s buyers).

Existing homes sales (which traditionally are 90% of that market) are still above pre-pandemic levels, but not as frenzied as they were a few months ago. Newly-constructed-home sales (usually 10% of the market), now are just matching pre-pandemic levels.

Though interest rates still are historically low (less than 3%), mortgage applications from those looking to buy are below pre-pandemic levels. Why is this? It is because all-cash sales are elevated. Cash is king with cash sales ruling the market, essentially everywhere.

With most median home prices up over 20% in the last year, rental demand has gone up as most 1st-time buyers now are priced out of the market. Monthly mortgage payments are rising even at time when interest rates are at their lowest.

Though mortgage debt is at a record high, the record high property valuations should overwhelm any risk, so he says there is no worry of the market being over leveraged.

Comparing geographic areas, it was interesting to see where local market homeowner wealth gained over the last year. The highest equity gain was in the San Francisco Bay area where the average property increase was $160K. Unfortunately, this appreciation is not enjoyed across the population, as only 45% of San Francisco residents own. Like anywhere, homeownership rates vary across geographic areas, age groups, ethnicity, etc.

In comparing home occupant wealth, his slides showed how the average renter has a nest egg of only about $8K while the average property owner has $297K.

He made a point of mentioning of how the news media using old data does not help us understand the market – and how you cannot always believe what you hear. Particularly, considering the 2020 census numbers, that data does not reflect where people live and work today with so many fleeing cities to work in the suburbs or more preferred areas.

He had a slide showing the metro areas with the most net migration gains since the first of the year, and interestingly most of those are in vacation areas. For example, the places with the highest population increase year-to-date include Barnstable, MA (Cape Cod), Portland (ME), Myrtle Beach (SC), Asheville and Wilmington (NC), Huntsville (AL), Jacksonville (FL), and others. Another tidbit he mentioned was that Huntsville has the highest number of PhD’s in the nation. (Who knew?)

What will these vacation areas show for 2021? He said they all are experiencing a sizeable jump in sales, which is exactly what has happened here on Sanibel and Captiva.

What will the future bring? He said that housing demand should be compared to where people with jobs are doing their jobs.

As inflation increases the Fed will be forced sooner to make changes. When that happens, he expects that negative effects will occur from the Federal Reserve, who provides monetary policy, gradually increasing mortgage rates. He sees a tapering of purchases of mortgage-backed securities later this year, short-term rates rising next year, and an inevitable increase in G-fees to cover Congress’s infrastructure package. (A G-fee is the gurantee-fee to cover projected credit losses from borrower defaults over the life of loans, admin costs, and a return on capital.)

A positive effect will come from more first-time buyers qualifying for a mortgage as they have demonstrated financial capability from renting longer. (Big data also will help show their payment capability, with so many creating a financial trail through their use of Amazon Prime, Netflix, etc.)

Inflation already is popping out and is not going to go away. He predicts high inflation will continue. Already many of us are seeing price increases in used cars, gas, airfares, appliances, and the like.

The Government says rents are rising at 1.9% annually, but he provided info from national rental organizations showing that increases are more like 6, 7, and 8%, probably an indication that the Government also is under estimating inflation.

As the pandemic wanes, sales to foreign buyers and immigrants will pick up.

In the commercial arena, office space usage is shaky, particularly in downtown areas where many cities, like New York and Chicago, have high vacancies.

Industrial spaces, on the other hand, are booming. Retail spaces are coming back as buying improves, while apartment spaces also are coming back strong.

In his wrap-up, he likened the economy internationally to the winners of the Olympic gold medals, showing how through history those with the most medals were the most economically strong. We might have received the most medals in the Olympics this year, but China is a close second. Followed by Japan, before Great Britain. There is a message in that. Stay tuned.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 20-27, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Blind Pass #A102 2/2 $630K, Sanibel Arms West #E3 2/2 $965K, Gulfside Place #210 2/2 $1.495M.

No price changes.

3 new sales: Sanibel Moorings #211 1/1 listed at $525K, Breakers West #C3 2/2 listed at $749K, Gulf Beach #207 2/2 listed at $1.1M.

3 closed sales: Sanibel Moorings #921 1/1 $435K, Sanibel Inn #3511 2/2 $695.1K, Kings Crown #102 2/2 $1.55M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 4771 Tradewinds Dr 3/3 $3.35M.

2 price changes: 1025 S. Yachtsman Dr 3/2 listed at $820K, 5747 Pine Tree Dr 3/3 $1.799M.

8 new sales: 837 Casa Ybel Rd 2/2 duplex listed at $599.9K, 5802 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 3/3.5 listed at $899K, 4760 Rue Helene 3/2 listed at $1.325M, 4954 Joewood Dr 3/2 listed at $1.599M, 5379 Shearwater Dr 4/3 listed at $2.149M, 2475 Tropical Way Ct 3/3.5 listed at $2.295M, 856 Limpet Dr 4/2.5 listed at $2.358M, 4014 West Gulf Dr 4/4 listed at $3.849M.

1 closed sale: 734 Anchor Dr 3/2 $1.55M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 5642 Baltusrol Ct now $369K.

1 new sale: 1272 Par View Dr listed at $459K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

2 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3127 1/1 $385K, Captiva Hide-a-Way #1D 2/2 $1.032M.

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.

Until next Friday,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy Friday the 13th Brings Real Estate Action & More Rain

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Though it is Friday the 13th and the 17th anniversary of Hurricane Charley, all is well at SanibelSusan Realty as we keep our eyes on the tropics and the local COVID reports. Florida sure is getting a bum rap in the national news.

Here on the island, we were happy that Sanibel City Council held an emergency meeting last Saturday to address COVID concerns. As you come on the island, the signage next to the Chamber of Commerce now reads in rotation: “Welcome to Sanibel”, “Please Wear Mask”, “Please Get Vaxxed”. Face coverings now are required indoors for anyone age 2 and older, in all City buildings with public access, including the Recreation Center. Outdoors, masks are optional.

In the office, our sales are chugging along as they should in preparation for upcoming closings later this month and in early September. We also received a new condo listing last night which Jim Anderson, our photographer, filmed this morning before the storm bands started arriving.

We also have letters in the mail and in the works looking for new listings as our list of prospective buyers continues to grow as inventory continues to dwindle. Some of these buyers are getting antsy, since inventory isn’t improving and the few listings that do become available, sell fast.

As of today, on Sanibel, for sale, there are 14 condos (228 sold/under contract year-to-date), 27 homes (298 sold/under contract year-to-day), and 17 lots (67 sold/under contract year-to-date).

On Captiva, for sale, there are five condos, 12 homes, no lots. (Compared to year-to-date sales: 47 condos, 38 homes, two lots.

Below are a couple of news items, followed by the action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

More Florida Insurers Dropping Homeowners with Older Roofs

Owners who reroofed after Hurricane Charley in 2004 who have not already put on another new roof, take note of the following posting from FloridaRealtors® on-line news on August 2, 2021.

“NEW YORK – An increasing number of Florida insurers are refusing to cover homes with roofs over 10 years old as the state continues to deal with increasing weather damage claims and rampant fraud.

“Florida’s top 44 insurers face an increasing number of lawsuits, according to data from the state Department of Financial Services – a total of 44,325 during the first six months of 2021 compared to about 30,000 during the same period in the three previous years.

“An anonymous insurer recently cited at least four companies unwilling to insure shingle roofs more than 10 years old, two that had a cut-off at 12 years, and three that would not insure homes with 15-year-old roofs. The data was based on a review of information submitted to the state’s insurance regulators.

““You can’t force insurance companies to write business they can’t write, says Paul Handerhan, president of the Federal Association for Insurance Reform. “If the law suddenly required companies to cover homes with older roofs, you’d be risking the company’s solvency, and that wouldn’t do anyone any good, because, after a catastrophe, they’d be going bankrupt and no-one would get paid.”

“Handerhan says that insurers don’t care if a 10- or 12-year-old roof is still functional; the issue is that they see homes with older roofs as most likely to be targeted by roofing contractors looking for big payouts.” Source: Insurance Business America (07/26/21) Adriano, Lyle

Can You Afford a New Roof?

As further info, for those who know my little 2-bedroom ground-level home on Anchor Dr. I had my shingle roof (which was put on in 2005) replaced this spring with a metal roof. Cost was ~$52K. Though I was happy with the installation and received a small refund on my insurance carrier after submitting a new Wind Mitigation Report, these new roofs are pricey!

Continuing on the same subject, the below article was also posted on FloridaRealtors® and is sourced to “South Florida Sun-Sentinel”, Ron Hurtibise. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

“Many Fla. homeowners could soon find it difficult to get private market insurance coverage on their homes, as a result of big losses insurers say are partially due to skyrocketing claims and lawsuits over roof replacements. To stay insured, owners may have to replace their roofs, regardless of whether or not those roofs are failing.

“FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Tony Lilly can’t find a private market insurance company willing to insure the house he bought last August because, he was told, at 16 years, the structure’s cement tile roof is too old.

“It’s a problem millions of Florida homeowners could soon face, thanks to insurance companies’ efforts to avoid paying for skyrocketing numbers of roof replacements. Homeowners will have to shell out tens of thousands of dollars to replace their roofs – regardless of whether or not those roofs are failing – if they want to remain insured.

“For many, that will be a financial hardship. Asphalt shingle roofs typically cost about $12,000 to $15,000 to replace. Tile roofs cost about $30,000 to $35,000.

“And there’s no quick fix on the horizon to the issues that have brought us to this point.

“Lilly was stunned to learn that he couldn’t get coverage because of his roof. His house was built in the 1990s. Its roof was installed in 2005. An inspector who looked at the roof and a roofer who replaced a handful of broken tiles last fall both told Lilly that the roof should be good for another 20 years. It’s cement tile, after all.

“That apparently doesn’t matter to Florida-based home insurers, reeling after five years of collective operating losses they blame on a combination of factors:

“Florida’s building code requires replacement of an entire roof if more than 25% is damaged. When insurers refuse to pay claims to replace entire roofs, the contractors sue them.

“While contractors and attorneys maintain they sue only when insurers refuse to pay legitimate claims in a timely manner, insurers contend that they are treated like ATMs by contractors, attorneys and, yes, homeowners willing to look the other way when promised free roofs, bathrooms or kitchens.

“But that leaves honest homeowners – who would never file an insurance claim except in an emergency – stuck with higher premiums and forced to replace good roofs.

“The number of lawsuits filed against the top 44 insurers in Florida has continued to spike – totaling 44,325 during the first six months of 2021 compared to about 30,000 during the same periods of each of the three previous years, according to data maintained by the state Department of Financial Services.

“Get ready to buy a new roof

“For Florida consumers, “the outlook is bleak,” said Paul Handerhan, president of the consumer-focused Federal Association for Insurance Reform. “But you can’t force insurance companies to write business they can’t write. If the law suddenly required companies to cover homes with older roofs, you’d be risking the company’s solvency and that wouldn’t do anyone any good, because after a catastrophe, they’d be going bankrupt and no one would get paid.”

“Consumers with asphalt shingle roofs, among the most common roof types, will be facing expensive replacement requirements if they just bought a home, want to switch insurers or were recently dropped by their previous insurer.

Companies are increasingly unwilling to write new policies with asphalt shingle roofs over 10 or 12 years old, according to a comparison compiled in January by one of the insurers, which asked not to be named as the source of the data. The list, which the insurer said was based on a review of information submitted to state insurance regulators, identified four companies unwilling to insure shingle roofs more than 10 years old, two companies that set the cut-off age at 12 and three others that drew the line at 15 years.

“Metal and tile roofs are generally allowed up to 20 or 25 years, and some companies are listed as willing to insure homes with metal or tile roofs as old as 40. Those insurers could be among many that are currently not writing policies in South Florida and therefore weren’t available to Lilly. Which companies opted not to offer Lilly coverage is not known.

Since the list was compiled in January, some of the companies on the list have sought to lower their roof cut-off ages, but the state Office of Insurance Regulation has been “pushing back” against those proposals, the insurer said.

“Barry Gillway, Citizens’ president and CEO, told the company’s board of governors this month, “It’s getting hard for an independent agent in Southeast Florida to find a company willing to write a roof that’s more than five years old.”

“While many insurers are ordering more inspections when existing customers’ policies come up for renewal, some aren’t yet subjecting renewing customers to the same stringent age-of-roof criteria if they haven’t filed expensive claims, said Locke Burt, president and CEO of Security First Insurance Co.

“That’s why most agents tell people: ‘If you get a renewal notice, take it and don’t worry about the premium [increase],” he said.

“Owners of older roofs have few choices

“Insurers don’t care whether a 10- or 12-year-old roof is still functional, Handerhan said. The issue is that they see homes with older roofs as most likely to be targeted by roofing companies that canvass neighborhoods promising owners they can get them a free roof from their insurer.

“Eliminating older roofs from their books of business is the easiest way they can avoid the costliest claims, he said.

Homeowners with targeted roofs older than companies’ cutoff ages will have little choice but to replace them before their usable lives are over, settle for state-owned Citizens Property Insurance Corp., or try to find a private market insurer that will sell them a customized policy that limits their roof coverage to one that pays only the depreciated value.

“Lilly’s insurance agent said he had no choice but to settle for Citizens, the “insurer of last resort” that no one wants but that tens of thousands of South Florida homeowners are turning to because they have no other choice. Upon renewal this year, Lilly’s Citizens policy went up $500. Again, he asked agents to help him find a private-market policy, and again they told him his roof is too old, he said.

“Will it ever end?

“Insurance experts interviewed for this story don’t expect companies to ease up on roof-age restrictions until recently passed reforms succeed in reducing costs of roof replacement claims and other expenses driven by contractors and attorneys.

“A new law that took effect on July 1 bars roofing companies from offering homeowners incentives to allow the companies to inspect their roofs for damage.

“Another part of the new law prohibits advertisements such as door hangars, business cards, pamphlets and emails encouraging homeowners to file insurance claims. But a judge this month found that section violated contractors’ First Amendment rights and struck it down, telling the state to instead find more targeted ways to address fraud.

“Other parts of the law remain in force, however, including restrictions on collection of legal fees that insurers contend encouraged attorneys to file massive numbers of lawsuits without financial consequences.

“The new law also reduces the amount of time plaintiffs have to file claims after losses occur, from three years to two years. The latter change is meant to reduce roofers’ opportunities to identify damage they can pin on past weather events, like hailstorms or hurricanes.

“Still, those changes might not reduce claims and lawsuits for several years, insurers say, if attorneys are allowed to pursue claims for old losses under the old rules.

“Insurers also hope to see more criminal prosecutions of crooked contractors.

“The Legislature provided the Department of Financial Services $1.8 million specifically to investigate property and casualty homeowner insurance fraud.

“Department spokesman John O’Brien said the money will fund two squads of detectives at the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services.

“Meanwhile, several insurers, including Citizens, Security First and Tower Hill, are pursuing claims under Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act laws, developed to fight organized crime, against roofing companies they contend are engaging in fraud.

“The problem of roof-based coverage denials and ever-rising claims costs might not be solved until the concept of homeowner insurance in Florida is revolutionized, said Paresh Patel, CEO of HCI Group, which includes Homeowners Choice and Typ Tap insurance companies.

“Patel envisions a day when homeowners most likely to file claims for repairs, like roof replacements, are allowed to buy more expensive policies that are designed more as home maintenance coverage. Homeowners willing to accept the responsibility to pay their own costs to replace aging, deteriorating roofs and other components would pay less for traditional coverage, he said.

““Essentially, we’re going to be separating the people who think of their insurance policy as a home maintenance policy vs. an insurance policy. Both products can be priced differently,” he said.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 6-13, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Sundial #F407 1/1 $569K, Sanibel Arms #F3 1/1 $699K (our listing), Sandalfoot #2D3 2/2 $789.5K.

Sanibel Arms Building F

No price changes.

4 new sales: Sundial #I202 1/1 listed at $595K, Sanibel Inn #3513 2/2 listed at $699K, Sanibel Inn #3532 2/2 listed at $778.5K, Pointe Santo #D1 2/2 listed at $815K.

4 closed sales: Spanish Cay #F7 1/1 $395K, Loggerhead Cay #433 2/2 $735K, Island Beach Club #310A 2/2 $789.5K, Gulfside Place #225 2/2 $1.61M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 3324 Saint Kilda Rd 4/4 $2.8M, 1320 Seaspray Ln 3/4.5 $4.55M.

No price changes.

6 new sales: 1846 Ardsley Way 2/2 listed at $800K, 565 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $899K, 556 Sea Oats Dr 3/2 listed at $1.075M, 1319 Par View Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.15M, 743 Durion Ct 3/2 listed at $1.299M, 509 Lagoon Dr 3/2 listed at $1.795M.

8 closed sales: 565 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $760K, 460 Sawgrass Pl 2/1 $800K, 1371 Tahiti Dr 2/2 $800K, 1450 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.18M, 5300 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 $1.19M, 5431 Shearwater Dr 3/3 $1.148M, 1206 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.26M, 1314 Seaspray Ln 5/5.5 $6,695,875.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #5343 3/3 $874K.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 1072 South Seas Plantation Rd 3/3.5 listed at $3.349M.

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.

So, until next Friday, here’s hoping the tropical disturbances pass quickly and Southwest Florida doesn’t get too soaked.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Summertime & The Market Still is HOT!

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Welcome to another Friday real estate update. The Sanibel & Captiva Islands market remains “hot” with the below summary showing the status of inventory today, sales year-to-date, sales last year, and for comparison, sales in the peak price year, 2006. (Note info based on The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service. Prices “for sale” and “under contract” are asking prices.)

The SanibelSusan Team is thankful that of the 69 Sanibel properties under contract, four are our transactions, but we need listings. Plenty of buyers are ready, in the wings. We get inquiries every week from colleagues looking for properties coming on the market, while we personally have condo buyers waiting for availability at Blind Pass, Gulfside Place, Sand Point, and Sandalfoot, as well as several others wanting a variety of properties, including east-end home, canal-front property, near-beach home, large Captiva home with rental income. We have a few lot buyers too, so if you are thinking of selling, please give us a call. The seller’s market will continue until inventory improves.

It also appears that our summer visitor traffic remains high. Yesterday, the City issued their first summer high-traffic notice, after 5,500 vehicles had crossed the causeway before noon. That much oncoming traffic typically results in late afternoon slowdowns. When in doubt, check Sanibel’s traffic cams at https://www.mysanibel.com/Live-Street-Cams.

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
SANIBEL # Avg $ DOM # Avg $ DOM # Avg $ DOM
For sale 18 819,044 152 29 2,449,893 124 14 558,414 334
Under contract 19 825,973 44 40 1,388,435 70 10 754,279 290
Closed 2021 to 7/16 190 864,843 143 238 1,309,063 100 55 723,627 479
Closed 2020 192 733,876 174 290 954,718 161 23 606,233 393
Closed 2006 143 866,972 147 156 1,143,682 186 18 523,917 158

 

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
CAPTIVA # Avg $ DOM # Avg $ DOM # Avg $ DOM
For sale 6 1,339,000 127 12 5,910,583 258 0 N/A N/A
Under contract 5 2,569,400 123 1 2,695,000 302 1 4,250.000 1,287
Closed 2021 to 7/16 39 1,006,830 184 35 2,807,868 270 1 2,000,000 129
Closed 2020 47 821,713 134 27 2,923,148 315 4 2.537,500 448
Closed 2006 21 1,362,476 180 10 2,307,375 334 4 2,218,750 432

After a couple of news items below, see the details about the action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service.

Summer of the Speed Buyer

From NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, as posted in the July-August 2021 “Realtor” magazine:

“The housing shortfall is driving up prices, but a crash is unlikely.

“Remember when it could take years to sell a home? MLS’s were flooded with distressed properties. In Miami, it was up to six years, according to news accounts in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis.

“Today, of course, it’s the opposite story. It’s generally taking just a couple of weeks, and sometimes days, to find a buyer. From listing to contract, homes typically sold in 17 days in April, the fastest rate ever. In most markets, home buyers can’t risk leisurely weighing several listings before committing to likely the most expensive purchase of their life. Rushed decisions can easily lead to buyer misgivings – about overspending for the home, its size, or having insufficient reserves for upkeep. Still, most buyers come to see they made the right decision in these competitive times. Seeing price, and hence their wealth, rising helps.

“Could it all crash as happened from 2008 to 2010? Not likely. The current housing cycle is fundamentally different. We thankfully don’t have risky subprime mortgages that overstretched buyers’ budgets. The gatekeepers at banks, mortgage brokers, and government regulators demand that loan-to-value ratios, debt-to-income rations, and income documentation meet guidelines before a mortgage is approved. To be sure, even with soundly written mortgages, we know some defaults can occur.

“A second major difference is supply. Leaking up to the housing bubble heyday, builders overbuilt. By my calculations, America had 2.1 million surplus housing units by 2006. Following the crash, underproduction steadily chipped away at the surplus, such that inventory normalized by 2011. Continuing underproduction led to the housing shortage. By 2015, the shortfall was 2 million homes. By the end of 2020, it totaled 4.8 million homes. The lack of inventory is why home prices are in no danger of falling sharply.

“Homebuilding activity in 2021 will be slightly above historical norms. But it will take at least a few years to correct the massive shortage. In the meantime, we expect the national median home price to rise 9% this year and another 3% in 2022. Hyper-speed homebuying should taper off by year’s end as supply improves and affordability challenges persist.”

Elsa Washes Away 45 Sea Turtle Nests on Sanibel

SCCF photo

From SCCF’s Wednesday update:

“Tropical Storm Elsa’s strong southern winds caused 125 sea turtle nests on Sanibel and Captiva to lose their marking stakes and protective screens. Sea turtle staff members have been working diligently over the last week to confirm whether the eggs washed away, too, or if they are still buried in the sand.

“Using highly accurate coordinates collected with a Trimble device, SCCF staff and volunteers were able to confirm that 40 of the 85 nests that lost their stakes on Sanibel survived the extreme tidal action. However, 45 nests were completely washed-out on Sanibel, reports SCCF Coastal Wildlife Director Kelly Sloan. The assessment on Captiva is still underway.

“Please remember that sea turtles have a nesting strategy that accommodates natural storm events. Female sea turtles deposit several nests throughout the nesting season, essentially hedging their bets to make sure that even if a hurricane or tropical storm hits during nesting season, there is a high probability at least a few of the nests will incubate successfully. For instance, in early June 2020, TS Cristobal washed away 29 nests and, in September, TS Sally washed away 17 nests on Sanibel and Captiva. Yet, there were still a record-breaking 924 nests last year.”

CEPD Provides Updated Start Date for Project

From the July 14, 2021 “Island Reporter”:

“On July 8, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District reported that the beach re-nourishment project’s start was being coordinated with its contractor, Great Lakes Dredge and Dock, and the resource agencies. Following recent and ongoing planning discussions, construction is now projected to start no earlier than August 26, pending all notice-to-proceed approvals from the agencies….

“Barring any unforeseen delays, the project is estimated to take approximately 35 days to place the contracted 600,000 cubic yards once construction is underway….

“Construction for the beach re-nourishment will first move south near 16141 Captiva Dr to Turner Beach, and then north to fill in the remainder of the island in a similar manner. The beach fill will be placed along 4.85 miles of shoreline and the rehabilitation of existing dunes between Redfish Pass and Blind Pass.

“Designed to last beyond eight to 10 years, the project will provide the necessary maintenance to counteract long-term critical erosion of Captiva’s beaches, properties and shorelines. The project plans, design specifications, cost estimates and tentative cost apportionments are on file and available for public review at the CEPD’s office, at 11513 Andy Rosse Lane, Unit 4, Captiva (phone 239-472-2472).”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity July 9-16, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Sundial #I103 1/1 $499K, Mariner Pointe #631 2/2 $695K, Sanibel Surfside #213 2/2 $920K, Tarpon Beach #305 2/2 $1.25M.

No price changes.

4 new sales: Spanish Cay #F7 1/1 listed at $395K, Mariner Pointe #323 2/2.5 listed at $549K, Loggerhead Cay #282 2/2 listed at $695K, Sanibel Arms West #C6 2/2 listed at $955K, Gulfside Place #225 2/2 listed at $1.595M.

3 closed sales: Pointe Santo #D24 2/2 $755K, Sanibel Surfside #115 2/2 $1.04M, Sundial #A205 2/2 $1.285M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1702 Bunting Ln 4/3 $749K, 545 Lighthouse Way 3/3.5 $3.395M.

2 price changes: 5268 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/2 now $999K, 1077 Bird Ln 3/3.5 now $5.699M.

No new sales.

4 closed sales: 974 Greenwood Ct S 3/2.5 half-duplex $522K, 5161 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 3/2 $585K, 2011 Mitzi Ln 2/1 $642.5K, 1306 Seaspray Ln 4/4 $3.8M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: 0 Dixie Beach Blvd listed at $399,555.

2 closed sales: 2095 Wild Lime Dr $260K, 1028 Bayview Dr $2.08M.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: Beach Homes #25 3/2 listed at $2.095M, Beach Homes #6 3/3 listed at $2.879M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11540 Laika Ln 2/2.5 $1.49M.

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 Friday! Will post again next week at this time.

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Beautiful Weather for Memorial Day Weekend 2021

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SanibelSusan here reporting that all is well on the islands for the holiday weekend. Traffic on Periwinkle and the causeway was already picking up yesterday afternoon and has been steady most of today. More summerlike weather is expected for the immediate future, so plenty of weekend warriors may be arriving.

If you follow local news, this week there has been a lot of hype about red tide and blue-green algae. With the rainy season approaching those often are summertime concerns in SW Florida. But, if the water surrounding Sanibel today is any indication, there is none. I took the below photos this earlier this afternoon showing bayside surrounding waters – they are clear and a beautiful bright blue reminiscent of the Caribbean. Should be perfect for boaters and beachgoers here for the holiday holiday! We hope you enjoy your weekend too and remember those who served.

At SanibelSusan Realty

Here in the office teammate Elise has kept things running smoothly while teammate Dave is on vacay and I have struggled with a bad knee. Who knew that just getting up from a chair causes injury?  Anyway, I now have mastered using a walker, luckily can still drive, and should get an orthopedic plan of action next week. Teammate Lisa is in the office tomorrow.

Thank goodness we work like a well-oiled machine and much of it is over the internet. I put our last lot listing under contract Sunday, we had two nice closings this week, and both Elise and I have spoken with and visited owners thinking of selling.

Meanwhile, island inventory continues to diminish. Today on Sanibel, there are just 13 condos, 25 homes, and 15 lots for sale. Even fewer listings on Captiva, where seven condos, 11 homes, and just one lot are available.

You will see the week’s report of the action in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service after a couple of news items below. There was not a lot of new listing activity this week.

Most remaining snowbirds are heading north this weekend, while the post-season crowd will be here for the holiday. Fingers crossed they are “nice” and appreciate the islands’ low-key laid-back eco-friendly ambience.

Use of ‘Escalation Clause’ Skyrockets in Hot Seller’s Market

With Florida real estate market hot, the below article posted this week by Joel Maxson, Florida Realtors® Associate General Counsel is especially appropriate. One of the offers that one of our listings recently received had an escalation clause and it was not the successful offer. Sometimes other terms are more important to a seller than the price.

“As escalation clauses become more popular during this hot seller’s market, buyers should consider the pros and cons of using them – as well as the broader legal context of their offer.

“ORLANDO, Fla. – During this white-hot seller’s market, many conversations on Florida Realtors® Legal Hotline involve multiple offer scenarios. Buyers are desperately seeking ways to try and make their offer stand out. One method that has rocketed in popularity is using an escalation clause.

“There are many variations of these clauses, but the one thing they have in common is that a buyer is willing to increase the purchase price above the amount in the initial offer. A simple version of an escalation clause may read something like this: “Buyer agrees to pay $____________ more than the next highest offer, not to exceed a final purchase price of $___________.”

“This is the core concept, at least. Most clauses will also include some combination of the following components, although this is by no means an exhaustive list. The clause can get increasingly more complex the more a buyer adds to the clause.

  • “The amount of money to add to the next highest offer (the escalation amount)
  • The maximum purchase price
  • Seller’s obligation to show the buyer a copy of the next highest offer used to calculate the final purchase price
  • Whether the financing amount will increase, or whether the buyer will pay cash to cover the escalation amount
  • How to handle a situation involving two or more competing escalation clauses
  • Whether the buyer or seller will be obligated to sign or initial further documents if the escalation clause is triggered
  • Whether the escalation is based on the purchase price or net proceeds to the seller (to account for costs and credits in a competing offer)

“The positive side of escalation clauses is that they may make a buyer’s offer stand out. It also invites a seller to take an easy path to finalize negotiation.

“Most of the confusion we hear about these clauses on Florida Realtors Legal Hotline centers around the fact that the buyer’s offer is just that – an offer. A seller who receives an offer can accept, reject, counter, or even ignore an offer.

“For example, can the seller send a brief message that instructs the buyer to submit a new, “highest and best” offer, with a fixed purchase price by a deadline? Yes – the seller is welcome to reject the buyer’s offer.

“What if the seller removes the escalation clause and counters the buyer’s offer right at buyer’s maximum price cap with no information about any other offers? Can the seller do that? Yes – the seller is welcome to counter buyer’s offer.

“Can the seller go with a different buyer’s offer (even a lower-priced one) and never inform the buyer with the escalation clause? Yes – the seller is welcome to ignore the buyer’s offer.

“As you can see, the crux of most buyer frustrations centers on the concept that the seller isn’t bound to follow the rules in the escalation clause unless the seller accepts the offer.

“Please note that there are additional angles to this issue – this brief article is simply designed to give an overview of the escalation clause itself. For example, although this article mentions a seller’s right to ignore an offer, a listing Realtor must comply with this Standard of Practice from NAR’s Code of Ethics: REALTORS®, in response to inquiries from buyers or cooperating brokers shall, with the sellers’ approval, disclose the existence of offers on the property. Where disclosure is authorized, REALTORS® shall also disclose, if asked, whether offers were obtained by the listing licensee, another licensee in the listing firm, or by a cooperating broker.”

Memorial Day Weekend Happenings

“Ding” Darling’s Summer Fun Virtual Auction is now through Monday, May 31, at https://DingFunAuction.givesmart.com . All proceeds benefit conservation efforts at the National Wildlife Refuge.

Sanibel’s last Farmer Market until fall wraps up Sunday, May 30, on the grounds of City Hall, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market begins again on the first Sunday in October.

Also Sunday, May 30, American Legion is hosting a Backyard BBQ from noon until 8 p.m., 4249 San-Cap Rd at Mile Marker 3. Featuring burgers, brats & sides, with live music & fun.

Beachgoers, please be on the lookout for turtle and snowy plover nests. As of May 19, four active snowy plover nests have been recorded. If you see a nest that has not yet been roped off, contact shorebirds@sccf.org. Also as of May 19, SCCF already has counted and marked off 60 turtle nests on Sanibel, 25 on Captiva. That’s a lot for this early in the season. Please do not disturb any nests and if you are on the beach at night, only red/amber lights are allowed.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 21-28, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

6 new sales: Captains Walk #B2 1/1 listed at $299,999, Mariner Pointe #943 2/2.5 listed at $749K, Sunset South #11D 2/2 listed at $749K, Pointe Santo #D24 2/2 listed at $795K, Pelicans Roost #102 2/2 listed at $930K, Sanddollar #A102 3/2 listed at $1.395M.

13 closed sales: Sundial #I105 1/1 $405K, Mariner Pointe #731 2/2 $515K, Sandalfoot #3B3 1/1 $520K (our listing), Lighthouse Point #121 3/2 $591K, Sandalfoot #3C1 2/2 $630K, Loggerhead Cay #572 2/2 $670K, Sanibel Arms West #C4 2/2 $910K, Sunset South #4D 2/2 $997.5K, Tarpon Beach #109 2/2 $1.055M, Pointe Santo #C43 3/2 $1.075M (our listing), Compass Point #151 3/3 $1.495M, Atrium #102 3/2 $1.498M, Cyprina Beach #3 3/3 $1.749M.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 939 Beach Rd 3/2.5 now $1.55M.

6 new sales: 2011 Mitzi 2/1 listed at $650K, 1605 Sand Castle Rd 3/2.5 half-duplex listed at $699K, 429 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $749.5K, 770 Donax St 2/2 listed at $850K, 4516 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2.5 listed at $979.9K, 5765 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 listed at $1.648M.

8 closed sales: 1657 Sabal Sands Rd 3/2 $767K, 3570 Bunny Ln 3/3 $869K, 1983 My Tern Ct 3/2.5 $1.02M, 557 N. Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $1.124M, 5403 Shearwater Dr 4/3 $1.599M, 2355 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 $1.649M, 1680 Hibiscus Dr 3/3.5 $1.8M, 1044 Whisperwood Way 4/4.5 $1.94M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: with contingencies: 1894 Farm Trl listed at $199K (our listing & our sale), 461 Sawgrass Pl listed at $699K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Captiva Hide-a-Way #D 2/2 $1.075M.

1 price change: Lands End Village #1649 2/2 now $1.395M.

1 new sale: Beach Villas #2514 2/2 listed at $820K.

2 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3217 1/1 $355K, Ventura Captiva #4A 3/3 $1.1M.

HOMES

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

2 closed sales: 1105 Tallow Tree Ct 3/3 $2.4M, 14980 Binder Dr 4/4 $2.475M.

LOTS

No new listings.

price change:

No 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.

Below is our ad from today’s “Island Sun”.

Best wishes for a safe Memorial Day Weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan