Tag Archives: Real estate broker

Real Estate is Selling on Sanibel Island

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

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

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

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

House to Vote on Flood Insurance

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

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

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

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

Annual Clothesline Sale

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

More info at www.sancapart.com

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

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

HOMES
8 new listings: 1744 Bunting Ln 4/2 $637,555; 1827 Buckthorn Ln 3/2 $849K; 2538 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $850K; 1225 Seagrape Ln 3/3 $879K; 791 Pen Shell Dr 4/3 $1.195M; 5612 Baltusrol Ct 4/3.5 $1.695M; 2969 Wulfert Rd 6/6/2 $1.95M, 1470 Middle Gulf 4/5.5 $2.495M.
10 price changes: 490 Elizabeth Dr 2/2 now $399K; 3001 Singing Wind Dr 3/2 now $580,555; 2550 Wulfert Rd 4/3.5 half-duplex now $698.5K; 1340 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 now $1.148.5M; 1203 Isabel Dr 2/3 now $1.195M; 1307 Seaspray Ln 4/3.5 now $1.595M; 1232 Isabel Dr 3/3 now $1.8M; 428 Bella Vista Way E 4/4 half-duplex now $1.895M; 1266 Isabel Dr 3/3 now $1.999M; 1133 Golden Olive Ct 3/3 now $2.1M.
2 new sales: 617 East Rocks Dr 3/2 listed for $599.9K, 5049 Joewood Dr 6/7.5 listed for $3.995M.
7 closed sales: 1327 Tahiti Dr 2/2 $390K, 1826 Ardsley Way 4/3 $461K, 4546 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 $485K, 1342 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $550K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 $750K, 2507 Blind Pass Ct 3/3 $1.01M, 988 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 $1.035M.
 
LOTS
No new listings.
1 price change: 247 + 255 Robinwood Cir now $298K.
No new or closed sales.
 
Captiva
CONDOS
3 new listings: Tennis Villas #3217 1/1 $225K, Sunset Beach Villas #2335 3/2 $829K, Lands End Village #1637 2/2 $1.275M.
1 price change: Sunset Beach Villas #2332 2/2 now $739K.
No new sales.
2 closed sales: Bayside Villas #5132 1/2 $243.5K, Captiva Hide-A-Way #2B 2/2 $800K.

HOMES
4 new listings: 11504 Wightman Ln 4/4 $1.295M, 15879 Captiva Dr 3/3 $2.995M, 16464 Captiva Dr 8/8.5 $7.995M, 16660 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 $17M.
1 price change: 4 Sunset Captiva Ln 3/2 now $2.375M.
1 new sale: 11541 Laika Ln 4/4 listed for $1.65M.
1 closed sale: 11522 Andy Rosse Ln 5/4.5 $2.35M.
 
LOTS
Nothing to report.

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

IMG_0803copyeHere’s to another fun-filled weekend with roseate spoonbills & more real estate sales!

SanibelSusan

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

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

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

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

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

City of Sanibel Designated 4th Safest City in Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s on REALTORS®’ Minds

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

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

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

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

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

LCEC News – Rate Decrease in 2014

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

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

Citizens Property Insurance Says Clearinghouse Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover ‘Ding’ App Combines Learning, Technology & Fun

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

“A new smart phone app under development for the Refuge promises to raise the interpretive bar on national wildlife refuges by delivering the first-ever GPS and game-based learning experience to visitors. The Discover “Ding” App combines game play, GPS and social media to create a fun experience that encourages users to observe and analyze what they see, and better understand the Refuge’s wildlife conservation mission. “The Discover ‘Ding’ App will offer the public a fun new way to experience the refuge, further enhancing our effort to integrate new technology and social media into our interpretive programming,” said Paul Tritaik, manager of  “Ding” Darling NWR.
 
“A collaboration among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s “Ding” Darling refuge, the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) and app developer, Discover Nature Apps (DNA), the Discover “Ding” App is designed to adapt to the public’s expanding reliance on smart devices by creating a positive interactive experience that encourages smart phone users to immerse themselves into their natural surroundings.
 
“The Discover “Ding” App helps to fulfill a key recommendation of the National Wildlife Refuge System’s Conserving the Future strategic vision, which recommends developing “integrated mechanisms for using web-based and other emerging technologies to store and share data, communicate within the System, and inspire and educate visitors and the public.” “We’re excited to be on the leading edge of what we believe will become a vital tool with which to engage refuge visitors,” said John McCabe, president of DDWS. As the refuge’s volunteer friends group, the society has been instrumental over the years in helping to underwrite innovative visitor outreach strategies and has played a leading role in promoting development of the Discover “Ding” App.
 
““Smart phones have become central to the lives of a vast majority of Americans – it’s how they learn, play games, and interact with others,” said Discover Nature Apps’ co-founder Sam Serebin. “It’s only natural that we leverage that remarkable functionality to offer an unparalleled interpretive experience at our national wildlife refuges and other public lands,” said Evan Hirsche, DNA’s other co-Founder.
 
“The Discover “Ding” App will be launched in the late spring of 2014, and will be the first of such for many to follow for national wildlife refuges and national parks throughout the country.”

Update on Flood Insurance Legislation

FLRealtors_newlogoLate yesterday, Florida REALTORS® leadership team got a quick email update from John Sebree, Senior VP of Public Policy, on the progress of flood insurance legislation.  His email said “The US Senate has just passed the Menendez-Isakson bill that would delay rate increases for four years.  The final tally was 67 to 32.  The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives where is it unknown when a vote will take place. Both of our US Senators (in Florida) voted for passage of this bill.”
 
John’s email also referred to the latest briefing from NAR (National Association of REALTORS® at http://www.realtor.org/topics/national-flood-insurance-program-nfip/nar-issue-brief-homeowner-flood-insurance-affordability-act. This article is definitely worth the read.

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

Sanibel
CONDOS
5 new listings: Donax Village #9 1/1 $289.9K, Sundial #C301 1/1 $350K, Sundial #H103 2/2 $460K, Compass Point #133 2/2 $1.185M, Sandals #D 4/3 $2.25M.
6 price changes: Kimball Lodge #263 1/1.5 now $374K, Mariner Pointe #732 2/2 now $384.9K, Sundial #I304 1/1 now $389K, Mariner Pointe #1052 2/2 now $435K, Shell Island Beach Club #7A 2/2 now $668.5K, West Shore #3 3/3 now $1.795M.
3 new sales: Sundial #C308 1/1 listed for $339K, Blind Pass #E102 2/2 listed for $395K, Sunset South #14A 2/2 listed for $729K.
1 closed sale: Pointe Santo #C4 1/1 $430K. 
 
HOMES
4 new listings: 1960 Roseate Ln 3/2 $449K (our listing), 1555 Bunting Ln 2/2 $449K, 1344 Tahiti Dr 2/1 $479.9K, 6019 Clam Bayou Ln 4/3 $1.595M.
3 price changes: 512 Periwinkle Way 3/3 now $950K, 1001 Kings Crown Dr 3/2.5 now $975K, 4622 Rue Belle Mer 4/2 now $819K.
7 new sales: 972 Fitzhugh St 3/2 listed for $379K, 1809 Bowman’s Beach Rd 3/2 listed for $475K, 1297 Par View Dr 3/2 listed for $769.5M, 1013 Lindgren Blvd 4/3 listed for $799K, 2507 Blind Pass Ct 3/3 listed for $1.049M, 988 Whelk Dr 3/2.5 listed for $1.095M, 1480 Angel Dr 3/3 listed for $1.499M.
8 closed sales: 5111 SanCap Rd 3/2 $249K, 724 Rabbit Rd 2/1 $430K, 4570 Bowen Bayou Rd 2/2 $550K, 2450 Wulfert Rd 3/3 $625K, 562 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 $685K, 5742 Pine Tree Dr 4/2 $703K, 6123 Starling Way 3/2.5 $805K, 340 Cowry Ct 5/3.5 $1.039M.
 
LOTS
1 new listing: 9066 Mockingbird Dr $410K.
3 price changes: 223 Robinwood Cir now $195K, 761 Donax St now $219K, 690 Birdie View Pt now $384K.
3 new sales: 3351 Saint Kilda Rd listed for $349.555K, 990 Beach Rd listed for $549K, 4318 West Gulf Dr listed for $749K.
No closed sales.
 
Captiva
CONDOS
2 new listings: Bayside Villas #5136 1/2 $295K, Ventura Captiva #5B 3/3.5 $1.095M.
No price changes, new or closed sales.
 
HOMES
2 new listings: 15127 Captiva Dr 8/8 multi-family $1.695M, 16861 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 $2.149M.
No price changes.
1 new sale: 15017 Binder Dr 3/3.5 listed for $3.899M.
1 closed sale: 1133 Longifolia Ct 3/3 $3.478.5M.
 
LOTS
Nothing to report.
This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors or its Multiple Listing Service.  Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions.  If your property currently is listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.

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

Beautiful Beach Days Help Real Estate Sales on Sanibel & Captiva Islands

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Another Friday has rolled around and The SanibelSusan Team and I have seen the island start to return to a more normal off-season traffic pattern. A few snowbirds have headed north; but with more schools on spring break in the upcoming days, accommodations managers tell us that more vacationers will arrive tomorrow.

A few sales were announced at our Realtor Caravan Meeting yesterday and we often remind island property owners, move-up buyers, and new island visitors that spring is a great time to buy.

Here are a few news items, before our weekly report showing the activity posted in the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service over the last seven days.

Sanibel Spring Weather

Temperatures this week jumped up into what is typically the summer range. With off-shore breezes, it made for beautiful beach weather. These photos were taken today at Sanibel’s West Gulf Drive at Beach Access #1. Island temperatures are expected to continue to range from the mid to high 80’s for the next seven days.

Sanibel Beach Access #1

Sanibel Beach Access #1 West

Here are a few weather statistics from the Weather Channel (www.weather.com): The highest recorded Sanibel temperature was 103 degrees F in June 1981. The lowest was 24 degrees F in December 1894. June is the warmest month. January is the coolest. August is the wettest month and December is the driest.

It Was More Than a Rally in Tally – Florida Realtors®, Chase Donate Home to Wounded Vet

Rally-Crowd_1On Wednesday, Florida Realtors® surprised attendees at their first-ever “Rally for Homeownership” in Tallahassee by donating a remodeled, mortgage-free home to a wounded Florida veteran and his family.

A large crowd of Realtors® from across the state was on hand at the Florida Capitol for the event. We had two board members there from the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Association.

FLRealtors_newlogoRetired Army Sgt. Michael Burke, his wife, and two children were presented with a newly remodeled, mortgage-free home in Port St. Lucie through a program offered by the Military Warriors Support Foundation. Florida Realtors® partnered with the foundation and Chase Bank to make the American Dream of homeownership possible for Burke and his family. “Florida Realtors is proud to forge this partnership with Chase Bank and the Military Warriors Support Foundation to honor a military hero who has bravely served us,” said 2013 Florida Realtors® President Dean Asher, broker-owner with Don Asher & Associates Inc. in Orlando. “We are happy to help Sgt. Burke and his family fulfill the American Dream of lifelong homeownership.” Led by Asher and State Rep. Matt Hudson (R-Naples), a real estate broker, the Rally took place as part of Great American Realtor Days – a two-day annual event during which Realtors® from around Florida travel to Tallahassee to meet with their elected officials about legislation concerning affordable housing, property insurance, property taxes and business and regulatory issues that affect Floridians and visitors.

A Deserving Military Hero – Burke, a native of Fort Pierce, always dreamed of being a soldier and defending his country. After Sept. 11, 2001, Burke enlisted “as quick and fast as I could,” he says. After basic training, Burke joined the Army Infantry in 2005 and trained in Fort Hood, Texas. A year later, he deployed to Baghdad, Iraq. There only a week, Burke’s Humvee drove over and detonated a roadside bomb during his first mission, ejecting him from the vehicle. Burke was airlifted to a Baghdad hospital with massive injuries: a swollen brain, shrapnel wounds to the left arm, plus burns and injuries to his back muscles. After two months in rehab, Burke was ready to go back to combat, but the Army had a different idea. “They [the Army] wanted to send me back home,” Burke explains. “I refused. I had only been in Iraq a couple of weeks. I needed to get back to my squadron … to my friends and fellow soldiers. Eventually I convinced them I deserved to stay.” After 14 months of service, Burke’s tour ended and he returned to Fort Hood. He was promoted to sergeant and started training for another tour in either Iraq or Afghanistan. Unfortunately, Burke started having seizures due to the traumatic brain injury suffered in Baghdad. His military career over, he returned to Florida in September 2009. Burke received a Purple Heart for his service and is immensely proud to have served on behalf of the country he loves.

Homes For Wounded Warriors – Florida Realtors® donated $20,000 to provide a three-year mentoring program and made arrangements to present the home to Sgt. Burke and his family. The association partnered with Chase Bank and the Military Warriors Support Foundation, a nonprofit that supports combat-wounded veterans during their transition to civilian life, to provide the Port St. Lucie home. Established in 2007, the foundation awards mortgage-free homes to wounded heroes injured during combat in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of its Homes4WoundedHeroes program. Home recipients are veterans who have severe injuries and/or unique circumstances due to injuries received during active duty. The families receive three years of family and financial mentoring before obtaining the deed to the house. For Burke’s home, Chase Bank donated the three-bedroom, 1,500-square-foot property and Home Depot handled the renovations. Since the start of the Homes4WoundedHeroes program in 2010, the Military Warriors Support Foundation has coordinated the donation of 300 homes to wounded military veterans in the continental United States, including 56 in Florida. There are 12 homes currently available for donation to wounded veterans in Florida and 42 nationwide, with more homes coming into the program every day. The program is almost a third of the way to its goal of awarding 1,000 homes by the end of 2015.

Message to Lawmakers: Florida’s Housing Market Revitalizing State’s Economy – In meeting with Florida Representatives and Senators, Realtors® stressed that housing and homeownership remain critical to a strong and prosperous state economy. According to the Florida Legislature’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research, real estate remains the No. 1 economic generator in the state. Real estate, rentals and leasing accounted for $117.4 billion, or 15.6%, of Florida’s Gross Domestic Product in 2011. Add in construction, and it accounts for $147.4 billion, or 19.6%, of the state’s GDP in 2011. As homeownership increases, Florida’s economy strengthens with it.

“Realtors® across Florida continue to advocate for legislation that supports economic development, strengthens our state’s economic recovery and helps the housing market rebound,” Asher says. “Housing creates jobs and jobs create housing opportunities – every additional 1,000 home sales means nearly 500 new jobs, while each home purchase pumps $60,000 into our economy. A stable and growing real estate market is vital to putting our citizens back to work, revitalizing our communities and preserving Florida’s future.”
© 2013 Florida Realtors®

More Sanibel Bike Path Improvements Coming

Sanibelcityseal logoLast week, the City of Sanibel Public Works Department hosted an event to share the details of their upcoming East Periwinkle Shared Use Path and Road Improvement Project. The project calls for widening the shared use path to 10′ along Periwinkle Way, starting at the intersection of King’s Crown Drive and ending at the parking area for Lighthouse Beach. Expected to be done by the end of the year, it is intended to improve both the safety and appearance of the island bike paths on Sanibel’s east-end.

Upcoming Island Events – All on Saturday, April 20th

refugeweblogoEarth Day at The Refuge – celebrating the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day at JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

Day-long free events beginning at 7 a.m. More info at www.dingdarlingsociety.org/earth-day.

Sanibel Island Golf Clublogo copyCROW logoClinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) Classic – at Sanibel Island Gulf Club. Golf tournament with light breakfast, lunch, and silent auction begins at 8:30 a.m. and will support direct patient care in CROW’s wildlife hospital. Contact CROW at 472-3644 or development@crowclinic.org to register.

shell museumtimbers logoBailey-Matthews Shell Museum 4th Annual Oyster-Eating Contest – now renamed Oyster-lympics 2013 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Timbers, has been expanded to include not only an oyster-eating contest but also an oyster shucking contest, an oyster dive, and other activities designed to help raise funds to support the museum’s educational and exhibitions. Our teller pal, Heather, who works the drive-thru at The Bank of the Islands, came in 2nd place last year in the “female” division (downing 32 oysters in one minute). We are rooting for her to come in 1st this year. Last year, the “male” division had a 3-way tie (all eating 48 oysters). A 30-second tiebreaker, with the winner downing another 37 oysters, brought lots of cheers from the spectators. More info at www.shellmuseum.org.

SCCF logoSanibel & Captiva Conservation Foundation’s (SCCF) 2nd Annual Beer in the Bushes – from 7 to 9 p.m. on the grounds of SCCF’s Nature Center. Includes craft beer tasting, barbeque, live music, dancing, and games.

Proceeds support SCCF’s mission of conserving coastal habitats and aquatic resources on and around the islands. More info at www.SCCF.org.

18 Ways to Prep Your Home’s Exterior for the Spring Market

tulipsThough our island weather can be much the same year-’round, I found the below blog suggestions by Charlene Storozuk, Dezigner Digz, posted on-line at Realtor.org to be helpful even on sunny Sanibel and Captiva Islands. It is always a good idea to do spring spruce-ups, wherever you may live. Charlene’s recent blog said: (SanibelSusan comments are posted in parentheses.)

“Spring is in the air in some parts of Canada and the U.S…. This is the time of year when thoughts turn to spring cleaning; whether or not you’re selling your home. Of course, if you are listing anytime soon, you’ll want to be even more meticulous. The busy spring market will be upon us before you know it, so here are some tips for getting the exterior of your home shipshape:

1. Remove glass from light fixtures and take out any little critters that may have found a home over the winter.  Be sure to use glass cleaner on the panes before replacing them in your fixtures.

2. Clean your mailbox.  If it hasn’t weathered well over the winter, it’s probably time to replace it.

3. Clean and polish, if necessary, your front door’s hardware. Replace it as well if necessary.

4. Check your house numbers.  Are they still in good shape and visible from the street?  If not, replace them.

5. Wash down your front door and garage door.  If you find that the previous summer’s sun has faded the paint, consider repainting.  Your garage door should be painted a color that blends in with the brick or vinyl siding on your home. Before painting, check with the paint manufacturer to see what the optimal outdoor temperature should be. You don’t want to paint when it’s still too cold outside. (Probably don’t have to worry about that on Sanibel & Captiva)

6. Wash the windows.  If this isn’t your strong suit, hire a professional.

7. Hose down the porch and driveway to remove any excess salt left over from de-icing.

8. Sweep the porch, driveway and patio to get rid of any rogue leaves etc. left over from the fall.

9. Check your porch, driveway, and patio for any cracking or lifting of patio stones that may have taken place during a deep freeze. (Good to check even if you didn’t have a freeze.)

10. Check your roof to make sure no shingles are missing or were damaged during the winter.

11. Remove debris from your gutters and drain spouts.

12. Rake the lawn.  However, before doing that it’s very important to check with your local garden center first to be sure it’s not too early.  If raked too soon before the ground thoroughly dries, you could potentially damage your lawn.

13. Remove winter displays from your urns.  For a burst of color, plant spring flowers as soon as weather permits.

14. Tidy up your gardens in preparation for (spring/summer) planting season.

15. Organize the garage. Put away shovels, snow blowers, toboggans, and any other items that made their way into your garage over the winter. (You probably don’t have these items on Sanibel/Captiva, but an annual garage re-organization is always good.)

16. If you don’t use your barbeque year round, it’s time to bring it out.  If it’s a built-in unit that will be staying with the house, be sure to clean the grills and wash down the lid.  If you have a cover for it, replace it if it’s worn.

17. Remove the cover from your swimming pool and clean your pool as soon as your pool service company advises that it’s OK to do so. (You’ve probably been using your pool all winter, but give it a once over to be sure all equipment is AOK.)

18. Bring out your patio furniture and set it up.  Although it may be too cold to sit outside just yet, you want potential buyers to see your outdoor living space’s potential. (In our case, this could be your annual, patio furniture scrub-down & overhaul.)

These are some suggestions to get you started.  What else am I missing?  Feel free to add to the list!”

Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service Activity April 5-12
Sanibel
CONDOS
4 new listings: Captains Walk #A2 1/1 $175K, Sundial #G206 1/1 $299K, Loggerhead Cay #202 2/2 $599.9K (our listing), Loggerhead Cay #223 2/2 for $599.9K (our listing).
Loggerhead Cay pool

Loggerhead Cay pool

View from our new Loggerhead Cay listing #223

View from our new Loggerhead Cay listing #223

Beach at Loggerhead Cay

Beach at Loggerhead Cay

Loggerhead Cay office

Loggerhead Cay office

4 price changes: Captains Walk #D5 2/1 now $221.9K, Spanish Cay #A6 1/1 now $379.9K, Coquina Beach #2E 2/2 now $629K, Atrium #101 3/3 now $1,099,555.
5 new sales: with contingencies: Sundial #C201 1/1 listed for $225K, Sundial #F307 1/1 listed for $299K, Pelicans Roost #206 2/2 listed for $799K, Pointe Santo #C3 3/2 listed for $899K, Gulfside Place #209 2/2 listed for $955K.
2 closed sales: Colonnades #C18 1/1 $110K, Seascape #302 3/3.5 $1.25M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 4515 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 $569K, 734 Pyrula Ave 3/2.5 $889K.

8 price changes: 1941 Roseate Ln 3/2 now $449.9K, 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 now $469K, 5742 Pine Tree Dr 4/2 now $749K, 1163 Seagrape Ln 4/4 now $749.9K, 1056 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $789K, 657 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $899K, 2255 Troon Ct 4/5.5 now $1.595M, 1272 Isabel Dr 4/4.5 now $3.75M. 

7 new sales: with contingencies: 1846 Ardsley Way 2/2 listed for $319.9K, 1401 Sandpiper Cir 3/2.5 half-duplex listed for $375K, 945 Main St 3/3 listed for $435K (short sale), 220 Palm Lake Dr 3/3 listed for $524K, 9484 Peaceful Dr 3/3.5 listed for $639K. Without contingencies: 630 Hideaway Ct 2/2 listed for $499K, 1339 Par View Dr 3/2 listed for $674.9K.

8 closed sales: 966 Fitzhugh St 2/1 $277K, 1394 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 half-duplex $397.6K, 1599 Sandcastle Rd 3/2.5 half-duplex $400K, 9106 Mockingbird Dr 2/2 $425K, 1216 Par View Dr 3/2 $625K, 4041 Coquina Dr 3/3 $757.5K, 985 Oyster Ct 4/4 $1.1M, 3635 West Gulf Dr 4/4.5 $3.85M.

LOTS
No new listings.
5 price changes: 4538 Bowen Bayou Rd now $299K; 2323 Starfish Ln now $349K; 5830 SanCap Rd now $380,555; 412 Tiree Cir now $380,555;  0 Island Inn Rd now $1,360,555.
1 new sales: with contingencies: Lots 1-6, 17-20 Tarpon Bay Rd listed for $199K.
No closed sales.

Captiva
CONDOS
No new listings.
4 price changes: Bayside Villas #5308 3/3 now $529K, Sunset Beach Villas #2328 2/2 now $599K, Captiva Bay Villas #2 3/3.5 now $1.875M, Beach Homes #6 3/3 now $2.05M.
No new or closed sales.
 

HOMES
No new listings.

2 price changes: 11525 Chapin Ln 4/4 now $1.495M, 15631 Captiva Dr 5/4.5 now $2.395M.
No new or closed sales.
LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

 
2013-04-03 CausewayHere’s to a weekend filled with delightful weather!

The SanibelSusan Team – Susan, David, Elise & Lisa

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate News on the Last Friday of 2012

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SANSLogoThe SanibelSusan Team hopes that you all had a Merry Christmas and look forward to a Happy New Year.

Over the last week on the islands we have had a little up-and-down weather, a few chilly evenings but mostly beautiful bright sunny days with lots of bikers, beach-goers, and families enjoying nature and the holidays.

bowmans beach access

Here are a couple of news events, followed by the week’s Multiple Listing Service activity on Sanibel and Captiva.

Realtor® Membership Meeting

Sanibelcityseal logoYesterday, at the December Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® breakfast meeting, Sanibel City Manager Judie Zimomra, Planning Director Jim Jordan, and Police Chief Bill Tomlinson updated us on recent happenings at City Hall and around the island. Manager Zimomra spent the day before snow-bound at the Cleveland airport, so we were happy that she made it back home safely.

realtor logoAs part of continued cooperative efforts between our local organization and City leadership, Manager Zimomra and Director Jordan encouraged Realtor® input in the ongoing Planning Department review of the updating and redevelopment process for island commercial properties. Manager Zimomra and Chief Tomlison likewise asked for our help in spreading the word on island safety, mainly to encourage visitors and vacationers to lock their accommodations, particularly sliders, when they are away. Open doors particularly with purses and wallets in sight are invitations for trouble, even on this quiet island.

Top Real Estate Stories of 2012

FLRealtors_newlogoThis week, Florida Realtors® posted on-line a summary slide show of how the real estate industry here changed in 2012. Here is a list of the top industry stories, a recap of the most significant news stories that impacted Florida real estate brokers and agents.

  • “Real Estate Rebound – In a year-over-year comparison, single-family sales grew 25.3% and prices increased 9%, according to Florida Realtors® economists. The big Realtor® complaint now is low inventory and continued banking and lending hassels. Schwab says real estate will be the key driver of a 2013 rebound.
  • “There’s No Place Like Home. Got One? The big Realtor® complaint now? Low inventory. Sensing a rebound, buyers jumped into the market only to face competition from investors. At the same time, many owners put off a sale, waiting for even higher prices. New construction – almost nonexistent since the recession – kicked into gear.
  • “For Lease, Navidad – Real estate investors tried a new tactic. Instead of buying buildings, they bought single-family homes one by one and, on paper, turned a multi-location group of homes into a single investment. They signed up renters, paid a property manager and turned an almost immediate profit.
  • “How Low Will They Go? Mortgage interest rates hit record lows in 2012, bottoming out at 3.31% for a 30-year fixed rate – and still hovering at that range at year’s end. Some buyers with dynamic credit scores found great deals. Others couldn’t score a great home due to tight lending and competition from cash-laded investors.
  • “Let’s Get Fiscal – A threat overshadowed the 2nd half of 2012 – a presidential election followed by possible economic pandemonium if Congress failed to stop a fiscal cliff on Dec 31. Fear of the unknown caused businesses to postpone investments, homeowners to avoid buying, and a nationwide wait-and-see attitude.
  • “I’ll Make This Short – Buyers loved bank-owned properties (REO’s) just a year ago, but in 2012, banks cut back on REO’s and started to favor short sales that net them more money. In Realty Trac’s latest quarterly report, a full 65% of homes in some stage of the foreclosure process sold through a short sale instead.
  • “Don’t Deduct the Deduction – The U.S. supports homeownership through a mortgage interest tax deduction (MID). But some now question the fed’s role and say renting isn’t such a bad option. As part of a deal to cut the deficit, will lawmakers nix the MID altogether? Cap the amount? Either option could trim buyer demand in 2013.
  • “A Billion Here, A Billion There – Five large U.S. banks accused of unfair foreclosure tactics settled a court case to the tune of $26 billion. The money helped some underwater homeowners lower monthly payments, and it reimbursed some ex-owners who went through foreclosure. The banks say they’ve changed those practices.
  • “Three Out of Four Ain’t Bad – Florida voters passed three property tax amendments in November, easing the burden for spouses of veterans and first-responders, out-of-state veterans and, with local approval, low-income adults 65 or older. Unfortunately, the Florida Realtors®-backed Amendment 4 failed to get the 60% approval need for passage.
  • “Help for Howeowners Literally Underwater – Congress finally passed a long-term fund flood insurance law extending the program to 2017, following a lengthy, years-long series of short-term extensions. The national flood program faces financial challenges however, and it now has stricter requirements for coverage.
  • Citizens_logo“Less is More – In an effort to become financially sound, Florida’s Citizens Property Insurance Corp. reduced coverage and increased premiums. Still, these policies are less expensive than the private market. In 2013, Citizens will struggle to again become the state’s insurer of last resort.
  • “Global Shift – International buyers love Florida’s sunshine, lifestyle and want a piece of the action. However, some global economies have been hit harder than others. In 2012, buyers from Brazil, Venezuela and Canada ramped up purchases. But European buyers, hit harder by a downturn, cut back on buying Florida homes.
  • “Sizing Up Appraisals – NAR (National Association of Realtors®) survey: 65% of Realtors had no contract problems due to a home appraisal over the previous three months, but 35% did. NAR and appraisers note many problems result from lender demands and the use of out-of-area valuators (often via AMC’s (Appraisal Management Companies)) without local expertise or full access to local data.” (This again was a big problem on Sanibel/Captiva in 2012. Another reason why island Realtors® recommend working with a local lender.)

New Year Traditions

HappyNY2013Thanks to a few reminders in the “Island Sun” and Googling, here is some info on the upcoming holiday traditions:

  • What to Eat – Southerners eat black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day for good luck. In Germany, marzipan pigs are traditional Christmas and New Year’s gifts that symbolize success.
  • What to Do – Put a silver coin in your pocket before midnight on New Year’s eve to increase your chances of prosperity. An Irish tradition is to bang on doors and walls with a Christmas bread to chase away bad luck and invite good spirits. Bread is used to ensure plentiful food comes to the household. chinese14The Chinese use firecrackers to welcome the New Year and chase away evil spirits. In Iran, they bang pots and pans.
  • Your First Visitor – 1st-footing is an ancient European New Year’s custom that continues into the present in many areas. The first person to enter a home after midnight on the 1st day of the year should be a male, preferably with dark hair. Blondes may have been associated with Vikings – visitors who never brought good luck. The 1st-footer should carry a gift, such as a coin for prosperity, bread for food, salt for flavor, or whiskey to represent good cheer. The 1st-footer can be a resident of the house, but must not be inside during the hour leading up to midnight. No fair stepping outside and coming back in again!
  • fireworksWhat to Sing – Nearly every English-speaking New Year’s Eve celebration includes singing “Auld Lang Syne” which literally means “the good old days”.
  • new-years-eve-free-clip-artTo Kiss or to Toast? – Kiss those dearest to you at midnight not only to share the celebration, but to ensure that those ties continue through the next 12 months. A champagne toast at midnight is the most honored New Year’s tradition. It can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans.
  • New Year’s Resolutions – This tradition dates back to the early Babylonians where their most popular resolution was to return borrowed farm equipment. This year, we hope many resolve to buy an island property in 2013.

New Year’s Happenings on Sanibel & Captiva Islands

  • 2013New Year’s Eve at Sanibel Recreation Center – 8 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. is family-friendly, alcohol & tobacco-free, with food, games, raffles, adult bingo, silent auction, DJ, dancing, magician, juggler, ventriloquist, & midnight balloon drop. www.mysanibel.com
  • Annual New Year’s Eve Gala at Traditions on the Beach beginning at 7 p.m. www.traditionsonthebeach.com
  • The Modulators at The Crow’s Nest at ‘Tween Waters Inn on New Year’s Eve.
  • 13th Annual Polar Bear Plunge – at noon on New Year’s Day at Tarpon Bay Beach. Free and fun. Go to watch or wear your bathing suit and make history.

Big Houses Making a Comeback

An article in “Daily Real Estate News” just before Christmas sourced CNBC as saying:

“Home owners desire bigger spaces again, following five years of downsizing trends.

Average sizes of newly built homes increased 3.7% last year over 2010, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. That marked the first increase since 2007. And builders are reporting higher demand for larger homes this year.

“A recent survey by PulteGroup showed that 84% of home owners between the ages of 18-59 have no intentions of downsizing, even among Baby Boomers. “There appears to be a renewed sense of optimism in housing,” says Deborah Meyer, PulteGroup’s chief marketing officer. “Homebuyers, regardless of their stage of life, still want and need larger homes. Consistent with our consumer research, the survey results show that today’s buyers are equally focused on more efficient use of the spaces within their homes.”

“The need for more space may be coming from the growing number of people living under one roof, as multi-generations move in together. 

“A recent survey by the American Institute of Architects shows a higher demand for multi-generational housing. The survey also showed more home owners upsizing their current homes. Fifty-eight percent of architects reported higher interest in additions and remodels, which is up from 35% one year ago. Kitchen and baths topped the list.

McMansion-Wall Street Journal“While the desire for larger homes bodes well for home builders, “they may also add optimism to the upper end of the market, and all those so-called “McMansions”—generally considered in the 3,000- to 5,000-square-foot range—many of which lost significant value during the housing crash,” reports CNBC’s Diana Olick.”

Sanibel & Captiva Island Multiple Listing Service Activity December 21-28 

Sanibel
CONDOS
2 new listings: Sundial #H110 1/1 $215K, Captains Walk #E5 2/2 $224.5K.
2 price changes: Blind Pass #D205 2/2 now $300K, Pointe Santo #C4 now $479.9K.
5 new sales: Colonnades #9 1/1 listed for $129K, Tennisplace #A34 2/1 listed for $239.9K, Sanibel Moorings #341 2/2 listed for $420K, Lighthouse Point #318 3/2 listed for $449K, Wedgewood #303 3/3.5 listed for $1.198M.
1 closed sale: Duggers Tropical Cottages #6 1/1 $235K.

HOMES
4 new listings: 3316 Saint Kilda Rd 2/1 $449K, 1053 Seahawk Ln 2/2 $689K, 1694 Dixie Beach Blvd 3/2 $1.195M, 1175 Bird Ln 4/3.5 $2.995M.
6 price changes: 4629 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2 now $499K, 9203 Dimmick Dr 4/2 now $649K, 1350 Middle Gulf Dr #1E (Moonshadows) 3/3 half-duplex now $669K, 2540 Coconut Dr 4/3.5 now $740K, 4496 Waters Edge Ln 3/2 now $825K, 2984 Wulfert Rd 4/3 now $2.4M.
2 new sales: 6457 Pine Ave 3/2 listed for $429K, 1693 Bunting Ln 3/2 listed for $745K.
3 closed sales: 199 Daniel Dr 3/2 $337.5K., 1001 Lindgren Blvd 2/2 $600K, 3239 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $745K.

LOTS
No new listings.
1 price change: 1847 Farm Trl now $224K (our listing).
1 new sale: 6006 White Heron Ln listed for $749K.
2 closed sales: 9042 Mockingbird Dr $289,375; 1035 Bayview Dr $3.55M. 

Captiva
CONDOS
1 new listing: Sunset Beach Villas #2222 1/1 $529K.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES
2 new listings: 15160 Captiva Dr 6/6.5 $2.299M, 15017 Binder Dr 3/4.5 $3.75M.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

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

Happy New Year!

Happy-New-Year-Clip-Art-Free

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas – on Sanibel & Captiva Islands

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It is the end of another busy week at SanibelSusan Realty – a good one for us with a new listing, a closing today, and a handful of showings. David and Lisa were out on Realtor Caravan yesterday which included mostly Captiva properties. The photos below were taken from South Seas Resort and overlooking Redfish Pass to North Captiva.

 LandsEndRedfish pass

The island have now reached the period that often is slow real-estate-wise on Sanibel and Captiva, that in-between-the-holidays time from Thanksgiving until Christmas. There are few check-ins expected this weekend, but the island has plenty of seasonal events to keep those who are here busy. Here are a few news items, followed by the real estate activity posted in the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service this week.

Upcoming Events

  • Tonite, Nov 30 – Fire Dancing at the Captiva Holiday Village at 6 p.m. on Andy Rosse Lane, followed by live music outside at Keylime Bistro.
  • Tomorrow, Dec 1 – Jingle Bell Walk (5K beach walk with a Claus) at Bowman’s Beach beginning at 7:30 a.m., with walk between 8 and 9 a.m.
  • Tomorrow, Dec 1 – 5th Anniversary “Free Block Party” at Sanibel Recreation Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Tomorrow, Dec 1 – Inaugural Mullet Festival in the area in and around Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages and Marina on Captiva beginning at 10 a.m. Activities continue through the afternoon with the Junkanoo Parade at 3 p.m. on Andy Rosse Lane. The Captiva Boat Parade begins at 6 p.m. on Roosevelt Channel.
  • Thurs, Dec 6 – Holiday Concert by BIG ARTS Community Chorus at Shein Hall at 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Dec 7 – Sanibel Luminary begins at dusk.
  • Saturday, Dec 8 – Captiva Golf Cart Parade at 3:30 p.m. starts at South Seas, then Captiva Luminary begins at dusk.

Windjammer Restaurant

Islanders this week have been abuzz about the sign that went up at the former Twilight Cafe location at 2430 Periwinkle Way. Called the Windjammer Restaurant, it will open early next week as a New England-style lobster house serving North Atlantic as well as Gulf of Mexico seafood. It will offer clambakes to go, catering, and initially will be open for dinner from 4 to 9:30 p.m. (Eventually opening for a local-friendly lunch too.)

November Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Membership Meeting

The Match Game logo from the late–1990s version.

The Match Game logo from the late–1990s version. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

We had a bit of fun yesterday at our monthly Realtor® association membership breakfast meeting. We have nine such meetings through the course of the year, each usually with a speaker covering a topic related to our business. Next month, we have Sanibel City Manager, Judie Zimomra coming to update us on island items affecting real estate. Yesterday, SanibelSusan hosted the same program I participated in at the Florida Realtors® Annual Business Meetings in Orlando this past August. It is a take-off on The Match Game Show from the 60’s, but called “Got Ethics”. With roles played by co-members of our local Professional Development Committee and the Professional Standards and Grievance Committee Chairs, we challenged the audience with alleged ethics-type offenses. Though none of us are going to give up our day jobs for acting, the program was well received and deemed educational.

Appraisals: Reflecting Market or Hindering It?

An article posted on-line at Daily Real Estate News on Monday discusses a problem that has been common here lately too:

            “Low-ball appraisals are hurting home sales, real estate agents and home sellers complain. In recent months, low housing inventories in many markets have sparked bidding wars on some homes. The bidding wars have helped push up home prices higher than recent comparable sales, agents say. But a low appraisal then threatens to derail the deal, they add.

            “Appraisers have faced criticism over their property valuations in recent years, and have been accused of using foreclosures and short sales as comparable sales—without adjustment. However, appraisal firms say the idea that appraisers are suppressing home sales is misguided and unfounded. Appraisers say they’re misunderstood—they don’t set the value; they reflect it.

            “We often hear from real estate agents, homebuilders and others that appraisals are ‘killing deals,’ and/or holding back the economic recovery,” Sara Stephens, president of the Appraisal Institute, testified to Congress earlier this year. “These accusations are unfounded and misguided. Appraisals are not meant to simply support contracts—they are obtained to help lenders assess their overall risk. Fundamentally, it does neither the borrower nor lender any good to enter into a mortgage for more than the value of the property.”

            “One in three real estate professionals surveyed in September say they’ve had problems relating to home appraisals in the last three months, with some saying contracts have even been canceled because the appraisal came in lower than the negotiated upon sales price….”

Lee Memorial Health System Hospitals Among Top 10% in Nation

lee-memorialAn article posted this week by the “Island Reporter” caught my eye. Good to know that when you are in Southwest Florida, there is good health care.

            “Hospitals in the Lee Memorial Health System rank in the top 10% of hospitals in the nation, according to a new report from Healthgrades, the leading provider of information to help consumers make an informed decision about a physician or hospital. The report, “American Hospital Quality Outcomes 2013: Healthgrades Report to the Nation,” evaluates how approximately 4,500 hospitals nationwide performed on risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates for nearly 30 of the most common conditions treated and procedures performed from 2009 through 2011.

            “Lee Memorial Health System was recognized for many of its specialties, most notably, Lee Memorial Hospital received the Joint Replacement Excellence Award, is among the top 5% in the nation for Joint Replacement in both 2012 and 2013, and ranked second statewide in 2013. Lee Memorial Hospital was named one of Healthgrades America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement for 2012 and 2013.

            “HealthPark Medical Center received the Healthgrades Coronary Intervention Excellence Award for 2013, ranked fourth statewide, and was among the top 10% in the nation for Cardiology Services in 2013.

            “Collectively, these two hospitals were the recipient of Healthgrades Stroke Care Excellence Award, ranked among the top 10% in the nation for treatment of stroke, for 5 consecutive years (2009 2013), and ranked in the top ten in Florida for Neurosciences in 2013.

            “Gulf Coast Medical Center was recognized as one of Healthgrades America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Pulmonary Care for both 2012 and 2013, and ranked best in the state for Overall Pulmonary Services, 2013. Cape Coral Hospital received the Healthgrades Pulmonary Care Excellence Award and ranked among the top 10% in the nation for Overall Pulmonary Services in 2013.

            “Hospital outcomes and complication rates are important in the eyes of consumers making choices today about their healthcare. According to new research conducted by Harris Interactive for Healthgrades, 90% of Americans in 27 top designated market areas agree they would be more likely to choose-or not choose-a hospital if they could learn ahead of time their chances of complications for a certain procedure.

            “”We are honored by this recognition and proud of our reputation as we continue to rank among the best in the nation. These achievements are the result of each and every person involved in our health system and their dedication to the safety and well-being of our patients. Lee Memorial Health System is defined by the compassionate hands that heal our families, friends, and neighbors our community – every day,” said Jim Nathan, President of Lee Memorial Health System.

            “More information on the American Hospital Quality Outcomes 2013: Healthgrades Report to the Nation, including the complete methodology, can be found at www.LeeMemorial.org/awards ”

Five Reasons Home Prices Have Been Rising

wall street journalAnother on-line article this week was called “What’s Really Driving the Rise in Home Prices?”

            “The Wall Street Journal recently cited five significant factors behind the rise in home prices, as numerous markets see significant year-over-year gains. The big price drives are: 

1. The rise in housing affordability – which is drawing more buyers out into the market that are looking to cash in on low mortgage rates and fallen home prices compared to a few years ago.

2. The rise in household formation – which is expected to hit 1 million new households this year. That is up from an average of 570,000 over the last five years, according to data by Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

3. The rise in rents – which has prompted more investors to purchase properties to rent out and more renters to second-guess why they are paying so much in rent when they could buy.

4. The decline in distressed sales and foreclosures – which has fallen significantly this past year. While distressed sales are still high by historical standards, they have fallen from their peaks in most markets, helping to alleviate the downward pressure on home prices in many areas.

5. Inventories of homes for-sale are at their lowest levels in nearly 50 years – and builders have cut back on construction and many home owners are waiting to sell until they can recover some equity on their properties.”

Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service Activity November 23-30

 

View from our new listing at Loggerhead Cay #353

View from our new listing at Loggerhead Cay #353

Sanibel
CONDOS
6 new listings: Sundial #I302 1/1 $489K, Sundial #J107 2/2 $497K, Loggerhead Cay #353 2/2 $499K (our listing), Sunset South #1B 2/2 $549.9K, Sundial #A405 2/2 $749K, Gulfside Place #320 2/2 $949K.
3 price changes: Sanibel Moorings #341 2/2 now $420K, Blind Pass #B103 3/2 now $469K, Sundial #P403 2/2 now $749K.
2 new sales: Sundial #G207 1/1 listed for $239.9K, Coquina Beach #1D 2/2 listed for $379K.
1 closed sale: Tennisplace #A26 2/1.5 $300K.

HOMES
6 new listings: 3239 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 $784K, 549 East Rocks Dr 3/2.5 $795K, 3830 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $1,195M, 1490 Middle Gulf Dr 3/4.5 $1.795M, 1528 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3 $2.1M, 2980 Wulfert Rd 4/5 $3.6M.
5 price changes: 3344 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $549K, 3968 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $734.5K, 2449 Harbour Ln 2/2 now $893K, 6440 Pine Ave 3/2.5 now $1.84M, 1950 Woodring Rd 4/3.5 now $2.75M.
4 new sales: 4057 Coquina Dr 2/2 listed for $286K (foreclosure), 656 Anchor Dr 3/2 listed for $685K, 1824 Woodring Rd 4/4 listed for $1.175M, 1145 Bird Ln 5/5 listed for $4.495M.
1 closed sale:  1521 Wilton Ln 3/2 $475K (our listing).

LOTS
1 new listing: 5891 SanCap Rd $448K.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

Captiva
CONDOS
2 new listings: Lands End Village #1665 2/2 $1.25M, Beach Homes #3 3/2 $1.695M.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES
1 new listing: 16447 Captiva Dr 7/6/2 $3.899M.
No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS
Nothing to report.

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

It’s Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas at SanibelSusan Realty

What a fun surprise just as we were wrapping up for the day. In come our favorite island twins, Faith and Grace, dressed in the holiday spirit and bearing gifts. They especially got a kick out of the alligator that I received today as a pre-birthday surprise. Here are the girls trying it out.

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Resort & 2nd Home Real Estate

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Busy Friday on Sanibel Island

Today, it has been a little overcast with a slight drizzle, so the phones, shopping centers, and roadways have been busy. Always happens on a non-beach day – or maybe it came from the announcement last week that Frommer rated the islands as his favorite 2012 vacation destination for 2012.

Nice to have some rain though, the local weatherman reported last night, that southwest Florida has only had 1/100th of an inch all year. We need more!

Resort and Second Home Real Estate Market

As follow-up to SanibelSusan’s attendance earlier this month at the Florida Realtors® Mid-Year Business Meetings, I read an interesting article posted by a colleague also involved in the resort and second home market. It was written last fall by George R. Harvey, Jr., 2011 Vice Chair of the National Association of Realtors® Resort and Second Home Real Estate Committee and owner of The Harvey Team brokerage in Telluride, CO. It is amazing how many similarities our vacation market businesses have. Titled “I Don’t Have to Sell“, it says:

“Quite often when I go on a listing presentation, the seller tells me at the end of the presentation, “Well, I really don’t have to sell”.  This is after giving them a thorough market analysis, showing them how many properties compete with their property and how many sales have happened in the last 12 to 15 months in their category.  Sometimes I’ll take them out to look at several of the most similar properties to their property in order to give them an idea of what their competition is.  Many times, of course, they say, “My property is better.”  As you might guess, most sellers take that position.  When I give the seller the market analysis, the same exact analysis that every buyer/broker is going to give their buyers and that seller says, “I really don’t have to sell,” the first question that enters my mind is, “So why are you putting your property on the market?”  It takes a terrific amount of effort on the listing broker’s part for showing appointments, marketing materials, and advertising expense to have a successful sale.  And then the seller is going to say, “If I can get my price I might sell my house.”  Let me translate what that means.  If we get a really wealthy person that will pay cash, close quickly, doesn’t do any market research, and is really stupid, and will just pay whatever the asking price is, I’ll sell my house.  What an incredible burden this creates for the listing agent and a setup for disappointment for all parties engaged. 

“One of the biggest problems that we have in the Telluride market as well as other markets in the resort and second home niche is sellers still pricing to the peak of 2006, ’07, and ‘08 markets. 

“Buyers in general are well informed and have done their homework on the internet and always ask for all the market comps.  Sellers often ​say, “Well my property is special or unique or here’s why I bought it”.  All those wonderful things are good points for potential buyers in the future, but every buyer has their own list of dreams and desires and they’re all watching Bloomberg. 

​”Not only does a property in this market have to be priced competitively, but it needs to be one or two best values in its market category to even get on the show list.  It also has to be in great condition, because buyers are now looking for every flaw possible and are making objections for the smallest of items.  The end result for sellers that don’t price to the market is following the market all the way down and always being just behind the selling price range rather than just in front of it where they should be.  If you are a property owner in a resort or second home market and truly want to sell, ask your listing broker to do a very thorough market analysis and what it will take to be the first one or two properties shown in that market niche.  It will greatly improve your odds of making a sale and won’t waste your time and your listing agent’s.”

Selling a Rented Property Can Pose Challenges

SanibelSusan Realty recently listed and successfully quickly sold a home that had a long-time annual tenant. More often than not this scenario comes with some objections from the renter, so I was intrigued to read an article posted this week on Florida Realtors® about the subject:

“Some homeowners turned into reluctant landlords and rented out their homes to earn extra income while the housing market was sluggish. But now some of these homeowners are ready to sell. However, real estate agents often caution clients that are trying to sell a home when a tenant still lives there can be tricky since many renters – who have no financial stake in the matter – aren’t always so eager to help market a home and keep it tidy and neat on their landlord’s behalf.

“Landlords should make a point to clearly communicate their intentions to sell, and not “sneak” the house on the market without telling the tenants first, real estate professionals say. Landlords might want to offer a concession on the rent to tenants in exchange for them keeping the home in clean, good condition while it’s on the market – such as 10% off each month’s rent while it’s on the market. But be sure to communicate expectations for cleanliness, such as keeping the dishes out of the sink and making the bed. Experts also suggest setting established hours for showing the property to make it easier on the tenant.”

Our recent island sale included first having the seller advise the tenant that the property was going to be sold. Then, I met with the renter to go through the property to find out any kinks, non-working items, and to inquire about their favorite points about the property. I also asked about them purchasing it. Then I worked out a cooperative agreement for when the property could be photographed for posting on the internet to ensure that prospective buyers and their Realtors® would “see” the inside before making showing appointments. The seller agreed to a small rent reduction during the period that the property would be on the market, while I offered to only make showing requests only for pre-qualified buyers and with 24 hours notice. It worked out well.

With seasonal rental property, particularly those with tenants here for only their short week-long annual vacation, the process is not always so smooth. Many rental organizations only permit showings during tenant-turnovers which sometimes can get tricky since that also may be the day that the prospective buyer is leaving town. Other organizations do not want showings when a unit is being cleaned. In “season” that can be that short window on a Saturday between a late morning check-out and a mid-afternoon check-in. Makes an island Realtor®’s job interesting.

With our listings, we always try to determine if a buyer is serious before even considering bothering a tenant. We query the requesting Realtor® with such questions as: Could they instead look on the next turn-over day? Have they seen the interior photos and streaming video? Have they been to the complex? Walked the grounds? Do they realize that it has (special or limiting features)? Do they need rental income? Then once we have determined that the request is valid, we do our darndest to get them in.

It may involve coordinating with a rental office if they require that they make all tenant contacts – or sweet-talking a tenant – and sometimes offering an incentive like a free meal so that they are compensated for their inconvenience. It too often is a delicate conversation to convince an otherwise uncooperative renter that they are helping you by allowing a viewing during their Sanibel vacation.

After 20 years of it, The SanibelSusan Team usually gets the AOK. Elise, our Listing Coordinator, is a pro at it. She is honest, gives the tenant the option of being there but suggests that they are not, asks showing agents to always leave their business card so the tenant knows the showing is over, and profusely thanks renters for their consideration. We know that happy tenants can bring us business!

Real Estate Activity This Week

Not much was announced yesterday at our Sanibel & Captiva Islands Realtor Caravan Meeting, mostly more price reductions. Not so surprising with all the activity reported the week before. One of the island rental managers told me today that their bookings for February and March are now up 40% where they were last year at this time. It sounds like we will have a busy couple of months coming up. The SanibelSusan Team is ready.

Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service Activity January 20-27

Sanibel
CONDOS
4 new listings: Blind Pass #A105 2/2 $420K, Kimball Lodge #263 1/1.5 $547K, Pelican’s Roost 2/2 $699.8K, Compass Point #181 2/2 $1.187M.
3 price changes: Captains Walk #F7 2/1.5 now $228K, Sanibel Moorings #142 1/1 now $419K, Nutmeg Village #211 2/2 now $539K.
3 new sales: Ibis at The Sanctuary #301 2/2 listed for $399.9K, Nutmeg Village #310 2/2 listed for $549.9K, Wedgewood #102 3/3.5 listed for $2.295M.
2 closed sales: Spanish Cay #D6 2/2 $315K, Sanibel Arms West #I8 2/2 $427K.
 
HOMES
4 new listings: 9106 Mockingbird Ln 2/2 $499K, 775 Limpet Dr 4/3 $1.849M, 505 Kinzie Island Ct 5/4.5 $2.295M, 5063 Joewood Dr 4/4.5 $3.395M.
3 price changes: 2130 Sunset Cir 3/2 now $539K, 237 Daniel Dr 3/2 now $550K, 1755 Jewel Box Dr 3/2 now $599K.
3 new sales: 555 Rabbit Rd 3/2 listed for $415K, 3940 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed for $475K, 731 Nerita St 3/2 listed for $529K.
4 closed sales: 9248 Belding Dr 3/2 $235K, 1133 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $442.5K, 947 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $665K, 411 Lighthouse Way 4/3 $1.25M.
 
LOTS
No new listings.
1 price change:  4077 Coquina Dr now $209K.
1 new sale: 4407 West Gulf Dr listed for $1.85M.
No closed sales.
 
Captiva
CONDOS
No new listings.
2 price changes: Captiva Shores #6B 2/2 now $739.9K, Beach Homes #32 3/2.5 now $1.795M.
No new sales.
1 closed sale: Sunset Beach Villas #2224 2/2 $550K.
 
HOMES
1 new listing: 11551 Paige 5/6.5 $4.998M.
1 price change: 15009 Binder Dr 4/5.5 now $3.749M.
1 new sale: 11522 Andy Rosse Ln 4/4 listed for $2.275M.
No closed sales.
 
LOTS
1 new listing: 11517 Wightman Ln $719K.
No price changes, new or closed sales.  

 

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

 

Happy weekend wishes from SanibelSusan