It’s Graduation Weekend for Lee County High School Seniors!

Another Friday has arrived, again without much rain this week until a front from the Caribbean quickly passed through last night, waking many in the wee hours of this morning. Good thing I did a quick drive by one evening on the way home to see my favorite Apple Blossom Cassia tree (at Sanibel Moorings). Betcha the raindrops damaged its splendor.

Forecasters say this weekend will bring more evidence that the rainy season has begun. We hate to see the sparkling clear waters surrounding the islands get stirred up, but that typically is what happens during summer storm season.

Today, SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) issued its weekly water quality report, which shows good conditions now, probably contributing to great fishing with 54 catches last Saturday at the “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament.

SCCF photo of Lighthouse beach

There was no Association of Realtors® meeting yesterday, while here in the office, almost all our listings are sold. One more is scheduled to close early next week. After a couple of news items below is all the action posted in the island Multiple Listing Service since last Friday.

First, this weekend is graduation for Lee County high school seniors.

Best wishes to teammate Elise’s son Ryan who gets his diploma on Saturday… and is heading next to Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). Congratulations, Ryan (and family!.

Sanibel City Council Scoop

City Council held its regular meeting on May 3. A couple of their key decisions were:

  • Traditional fourth of July fireworks display was approved. This will be the first since 2019.
  • Road resurfacing project to be completed this summer on Sanibel-Captiva Rd between Tarpon Bay and Rabbit Rd.
  • Share-use path system-wide repairs approved, to be complete by Nov.

Sellers Feel Shame if They Don’t Get Bids

Posted last Friday (May 13, 2022) on FloridaRealtors® and sourced to Realtor.com (May 12): “Some sellers hear about today’s bidding wars and pre-emptively overprice their home, only to feel shame – “What’s wrong with my house?” – if no bids come in.

“CHICAGO – Homes are selling within days or even hours – except for the homes that aren’t. When that happens, those homes’ owners say they often feel embarrassed and angry and wonder what could be wrong with their house.

“In the current seller’s market means, many homes end up in bidding wars. Fierce competition is the talk of the town and the topic of many media stories since 87% of March home sales were listings on the market for less than a month. Half of properties typically stayed on the market for only 17 days, according to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR).

“But home sellers with different experiences say their egos were bruised. Jessica Clark in Lincoln, Neb., says she and her husband were trying to sell their home in late 2020, which initially looked promising for a quick sale. They had constant buyer tours – but they received no offers. “We felt defeated and so worried,” she says. Their house lingered on the market for more than a month, while other homes were selling within days. Finally, they received an offer below the asking price, even though they heard everything else was selling for way above asking price. “It wasn’t the best,” she told realtor.com. “But we felt forced to accept.”

“Sellers whose homes linger on the market may need to have a heart-to-heart talk with their real estate agent about the next steps to renew interest. Could their house be priced too high? More sellers are having to drop their asking prices. Also, discuss what is turning off buyers. Are repairs needed? A real estate agent could suggest home staging, decluttering, or even minor renovation to help boost interest.

““A hot market leads people to believe that, because the house down the street had a bidding war and fast sale, they will follow suit,” says Laurie Leinwand, a licensed professional counselor of Three Steps Forward. “When reality falls short, there’s disappointment. Your objective is to sell. Let go of the timeframe. It will happen when it’s supposed to. If it takes a little longer, that’s OK.””

What Locals Are Saying

Here on Sanibel and Captiva, there have been similar discussions – same subject as above. A couple of Realtors® at our Caravan Meeting last week said, “with so little for sale here, if listings aren’t selling, they either are overpriced or in need of help.” That pretty much agrees with the above article.

Below is a quick summary of how long it has been taking island properties to sell (days-on-market). Note DOM (days-on-market) are the number of days from when a listing appears in the MLS until it either goes under contract or closed. Amounts shown are averages. Also, a “pending” contract has no contingencies, is just awaiting (or pending) closing.

Hard to believe there are just nine Sanibel homes for sale today! That’s a new record low and compares to 112 homes already sold/under contract year-to-date.

Status Sanibel Captiva
Condos Homes Lots Condos Homes Lots
# DOM # DOM # DOM # DOM # DOM # DOM
For sale 17 79 9 56 8 297 7 34 8 60 1 55
Under contingent contract 11 18 13 15 4 116 6 43 2 99 0 N/A
Under pending contract 8 20 25 24 0 N/A 2 12 3 141 0 N/A
Sold 2022 thru 5/20 73 42 94 70 18 245 15 44 13 142 0 N/A
Sold 2021 287 113 355 89 69 442 64 145 44 261 2 731
Sold 2020 193 174 289 161 23 393 47 134 27 315 4 448

Islands Night Tickets

Islands Night at Hammond Stadium has been happening since 1993. This year, 30 years after introducing this local celebration, Bailey’s General Store has turned over management and promotion of the event to the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce. 2022 Islands Night will be Wed, June 1, when the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels meet the Tampa Tarpons for an evening of baseball, including a pre-game parade, and islander camaraderie. Gates open at 6 p.m., the parade starts at 6:15, and game time is 7 p.m. Free tickets are available at the Chamber visitor center, Huxters Market & Deli, and any retailers at Bailey’s Shopping Center. Sponsorships also are available, find more details under the Calendar of Events at www.Sanibel-Captiva.org.

Shoreline Stabilization Project Begins on Woodring

This week, installation of a living shoreline began on Woodring Rd. This project is scheduled to complete in 90 days, weather permitting. For years, the area has been prone to erosion during storms and high winds. The living shoreline will help reduce erosion while providing habitat benefits for fish and wildlife. These shorelines incorporate the use of structural and organic materials such as wetland plants, oysters and sand, with limited use of rock and concrete. The project funding is by a grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Resilience Implementation Program.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 13 – 20, 2022

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Seawind #A106 2/2.5 $899K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #3-5 2/2.5 $1.299M.

1 price change: Sanibel Surfside #116 2/2 now $1.495M.

5 new sales: Pelicans Roost #302 2/2 listed at $1.389M, Sanddollar #B301 2/2 listed at $1.699M, White Pelican #124 2/2 listed at $1.699M, Atrium #301 3/3 listed at $1.949M, Somerset #A301 3/2.5 listed at $3.25M.

2 closed sales: Captains Walk #D5 2/1 $569K, Sanibel Arms West #H7 2/2 $890K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 $1.699M.

No price changes.

6 new sales: 1752 Serenity Ln 3/2 listed at $899K, 2010 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 listed at $1.1M, 1985 Wild Lime Dr 3/2 listed at $1.299M, 4202 Old Banyan Way 3/2.5 listed at $1.511M, 4640 Rue Belle Mer 3/3 listed at $2.495M, 1558 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/3.5 listed at $4.35M

4 closed sales: 1072 Blue Heron Dr 3/2 $939K, 1560 Royal Poinciana Dr 3/2 $1.475M, 1311 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $1.475M, 824 Birdie View Pt 3/3 $1.75M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Tennis Villas #3113 1/1 $569K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

HOMES

1 new listing: 11505 Gore Ln 5/5 $3.89M.

1 price change: 11529 Andy Rosse Ln 4/4 now $4,298,765.

1 new sale: 16221 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 listed at $7.25M.

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.

Until next Friday, enjoy!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Partly Cloudy & Low 80’s Today on Sanibel, Could be High 60’s by Tues, High 70’s & Sunny Forecast for Turkey Day!

Again, this week, SanibelSusan reports cooler temperatures (into the 60’s a couple of nights) and busier roadways. Both, indications that the Thanksgiving holiday is fast approaching. Also, there has been a noticeable increase in both on- and off-island traffic. From the bike paths, it looks like more families arrived early and are enjoying an extended holiday.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® November Membership Meeting

At our monthly Association of Realtors® Membership Meeting yesterday, the guest speaker was Florida Realtors® Chief Economist, Dr. Brad O’Connor. Armed with plenty of charts and graphs, it was interesting to hear him speak about how real estate trends in our local Lee County area have been much the same as the state.

Overall, mostly as aftereffects of the pandemic, the state and Lee County have experienced growth and huge increases in both numbers of sales and real estate prices. The most changed has been in what he considers the luxury (or valued over $600K) properties and second homes. Though inventory is low with properties in many areas selling within minutes of becoming available, he noted that markets are stabilizing somewhat with prices flattening.

Both 2018 and 2019 had similar sale trends. It was in December 2020 that the number of sales really jumped. During that month in FL, more than twice as many homes sold than in those past years. While last December in Lee County, almost three times as many sold as the same month in 2018 and 2019. The high level of sales continued into early 2021, then jumped significantly again from April through June. Since midsummer, the number of sales both here and statewide has flattened, with the cause probably more related to reduced inventory than demand.

Looking at median prices of sold homes, his slides went all the way back to 2011, as that is when the country was easing out of the recession. That slide showed the gradual increase progression year-after- year right up until December 2020 when the big surge began. Today, the median home sale price in Lee County is nearly 3-1/2 times what it was in 2011. That same increase applies statewide.

When quizzed on what his crystal ball predicts for the future, he noted that pre-pandemic Florida already was desirable because of the weather and tax situation here. Now that the pandemic has disrupted the work scenario for many, some proving that working remotely is as effective as in an office, he doesn’t think we will ever go back to how things were from a workplace view.

Following “move” trends into Florida, he said the most recorded influxes into Florida came from cities out west, mostly in California, plus New York City. The majority by far, coming from New York City, most Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Nassau County.

As he was talking, I thought back to where SanibelSusan Team buyers have come from in 2021. Several are from New York, a couple are from Florida’s east coast, but plenty of other states were represented too, including Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. The majority came from the midWest, with several buyers from Sanibel too. Noticeably absent were the out-of-country buyers. Some of those folks are returning now for the first time in a couple of years, some becoming sellers.

In summary, Dr. O’Connor does not think that another recession is on the horizon, nor does he think that inflation and prices will continue to accelerate at the same rate experienced earlier this year. SanibelSusan projects that until island supply and demand normalize, Sanibel and Captiva could be in for continued real estate craziness. Stay tuned.

At SanibelSusan Realty This Week

Our Friday closing in Island Woods that was awaiting a FedEx arrival, was disbursed on Monday. We did both sides of that transaction, which was delayed months. The new City Manager started this week so Realtors®, builders, contractors, property owners, and prospective owners are hopeful that the backlog of City permits will soon be resolved. Meanwhile, this buyer was willing to close without City approval and many businesses are operating with their business licenses in limbo – though permit and license payments were processed. Can you tell some folks are frustrated?

Another listing, Mariner Pointe #1061, closed today, but had a last-minute change when the buyers decided to purchase in an LLC rather than their names personally. Superior Title of Sanibel did a great job in getting it accomplished remotely even with the change and some resigning necessary. The sale price is a record for Mariner Pointe building #10.

On the listing side of things, teammate Dave held Open Houses at Sealoft Village and I had a listing presentation at Donax Village that resulted in a nice new listing there. With drizzly rain yesterday and today’s forecast iffy, professional photography is not scheduled until tomorrow – when we hope the sky is blue. That new listing will be posted in MLS as soon as we get those pix.

Next Friday, the team is off for an extended holiday, but I will be in the office, and blogging right on time. We are grateful for additional business this year. It was one for the record books!

Upcoming Events

Next 40th Taste of the Islands CROW Crawl – is set tomorrow, Nov 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Featured restaurants include Blue Giraffe, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Sanibel, Mudbugs Cajum Kitchen, Sanibel Deli, Spoondrift Island Bowls, Sunset Grill, Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market, and Traders 2. For further info visit www.CROWClinic.org.

The Art of Conservation – will be featured with signed pieces by artists Rachel Pierce (from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Clyde & Niki Butcher from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the “Ding” Darling Nature store at 2250 Periwinkle Way, right next to our office tomorrow, Nov 20.

WoW at The Refuge for Thanksgiving – Bring the family to “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge during Thanksgiving week to tour for free the WoW (Wildlife on Wheels) mobile interactive nature experience in the parking lot of the Visitor & Education Center. The day before Thanksgiving and Black Friday, WoW will be open Wed Nov 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Fri Nov 6 from 9 a.m. until noon.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity November 12-19, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Donax Village #10 1/2 $539K, Donax Village #17 2/2 $719K, Sunset South #11C 2/2 $1.149M, Sandalfoot #5A2 2/2 $1.275M, Sedgemoor #205 3/3.5 $4.295M.

2 price changes: Nutmeg Village #308 2/2 now $1.2499M, Tarpon Beach #110 2/2 now $1.35M.

3 new sales: Sundial #C305 1/1 listed at $549,945; Blind Pass #E103 3/3 listed at $775K; Sundial #L402 3/2 listed at $1.379M.

6 closed sales: Spanish Cay #F4 2/2 $571K, Pointe Santo #C44 1/1 $640K, Ibis at The Sanctuary #B301 2/2 $656K, Mariner Pointe #141 2/2 $672.5K, Mariner Pointe #1061 2/2 $725K (our listing), Villa Sanibel #3A 2/2 $817K.

View from Mariner Pointe #1061

HOMES

2 new listings: 6429 Pine Ave 3/2 $869K, 1410 Sanderling Cir 3/2 $1.2M.

No price changes.

7 new sales: 1667 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/1.5 listed at $650K, 534 Piedmont Rd 3/2.5 listed at $675K, 2138 Egret Cir 3/2 half-duplex listed at $729K, 543 Boulder Dr 3/2 listed at $1.265M, 4077 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed at $1.299M, 2391 Wulfert Rd 4/5 listed at $2.395M, 2444 Harbour Ln 4/3.5 listed at $2.695M.

4 closed sales: 5853 Pine Tree Dr 2/2 $775K, 1434 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $912K, 1114 Harbor Cottage Ct 3/2 $1.895M, 682 Pyrula Ave 5/4.5 $2.015M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: 2348 Wulfert Rd listed at $329K, 6000 White Heron Ln listed at $850K.

2 closed sales: 1894 Farm Trl $182K (our listing & sale), 1219 Par View Dr $410K.

Location of 1894 Farm Trail

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

2 new sales: Bayside Villas #5320 3/3 listed at $950K, Marina Villas #706 2/2 listed at $950K.

1 closed sale: Beach Villas #2638 3/3 $1.4M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 16897 Captiva Dr 5/5.5 $4.989M.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

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

Enjoy your Thanksgiving!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Spring 2021 Has Sprung! Island Real Estate Is Hot!

It’s another sunny Sanibel Friday afternoon. Record high temperatures were expected today, with it already creeping into the 90’s yesterday in some of SW FL. Forecasters say that similar beach-like weather is expected for at least another seven days, with no chance of rain (though it’s needed).

Local waterways, beaches, and shared-use paths continue to be busy, while road traffic seemed a tad lighter this week, likely because local schools are back in session. Just two more weeks of “high season” remain, with some snowbirds already planning their annual trek north.

As inventory continues to dwindle, The SanibelSusan Team and I continue to beat the bushes looking for new listings. Teammate Dave and I previewed a terrific near-beach home yesterday that may be on the market soon. A complete interior remodel by one of our recommended contractors is just finishing up. (Here’s a hint, it’s near the body of water shown below and where there is some of the best shelling in the world.)

Our condo listings had showings last Saturday during guest turn-over and I was out showing on Captiva yesterday, while in the office, we continue to prepare for several upcoming closings.

The action posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service is after a few news items below.

Sanibel Real Estate Inventory

Sometimes it is revealing to look at inventory with a price comparison. Below, by dollar increment, are the number of Sanibel properties available for sale (condos, homes, and lots), compared to the number under contract, and the number closed/sold year-to-date, as of today, March 26.

In snapshot terms, there currently are just 124 residential properties for sale on Sanibel (53 condos, 38 homes, 33 lots), while 167 are under contract, and 172 have already sold/closed this year – and that does not include the many closing occurring next week. The last day of the month is always the busiest day for closings, with March 31st often the busiest of the year!

 

SANIBEL

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
For Sale Under Contract Sold 2021 For Sale Under Contract Sold 2021 For Sale Under Contract Sold 2021
$100-200K 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4
$200K-300K 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 2 8
$300K-400K 2 3 4 0 0 0 10 6 5
$400K-500K 4 6 12 0 1 5 2 4 2
$500K-600K 9 11 12 1 7 9 2 1 1
$600K-700K 4 10 4 2 7 9 1 0 1
$700K-800K 5 4 7 0 15 7 3 0 0
$800K-900K 8 6 7 5 5 14 3 1 0
$900K-1M 9 8 6 3 5 5 2 0 0
$1M-1.5M 11 4 10 3 25 10 2 1 1
$1.5M-2M 1 4 3 11 16 9 0 0 1
$2M-3M 0 3 1 4 3 7 1 0 2
$3M-4M 0 0 0 2 3 2 2 2 0
$4M-5M 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0
$5M-6M 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0
$6M-7M 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0
$7M-8M 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0
$8M+ 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0
TOTAL 53 59 67 38 89 80 33 19 25

Prospective sellers who may be wondering if they need a Realtor® in a market like this, the answer is “yes”. Most of Realtors® have buyers looking for a particular property in a certain location or with special requirements. Now that “season” is almost over, it becomes even more important to have the broadest exposure to the most prospective purchasers.

That means with the property offered in the islands Multiple Listing Service so that it is exposed to Realtors® everywhere, syndicated through worldwide real estate databases, and with local boots on the ground (in our case flip flops) to ensure that every step of the transaction is accomplished successfully so that owners get top dollar.

Pandemic Update

“Pop-Up Site” – Congratulations to FISH of Sanibel-Captiva (Friends in Service Here) for their action. They sent a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis and elected officials addressing the need for COVID-19 vaccines on Sanibel. It stressed the complications that island seniors face, particularly those with technological challenges in vaccination scheduling and logistical hurdles of vaccination sites often long distances away. Many seniors FISH identified as high priority due to age, medical conditions, or transportation limitations. FISH initiatives resulted in the Department of Health providing 250 doses which we used Tuesday during a “pop up” vaccination site at the Sanibel Community House. That day, islander seniors, scheduled by FISH, went by appointment to receive their one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccinations. As FISH says, “it takes a village”. They were assisted by island partners from the Community House, Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva, City of Sanibel Police Department, Sanibel Fire Department, parish nurses, medical offices, pharmacies, City officials, and FISH volunteers.

Those 50 & Over Now Eligible – This week with the state announcing that the vaccine now is available to anyone over 50, two SanibelSusan teammates now have received their first vaccines. In addition to the various pharmacies, big box stores, and medical facilities offering appointments, the vaccination site near the old SW FL regional airport continues to take appointments when doses are available. Contact them on-line at http://www.MyVaccine.FL.gov or by phone at 239-356-2006.

Those 18 & Over Soon Eligible – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is lowering the COVID-19 vaccination age to 40 starting Monday and to EVERYONE 18 AND UP starting April 5.

Sanibel’s State of Emergency – My apologies for not including an update on Sanibel’s state of emergency last week. Below is the Tuesday update from http://www.MySanibel.com:

The City declared State of Emergency, issued in response to COVID-19, has been extended by Mayor Holly D. Smith until March 30, 2021, unless further extended. Per State Statute, the maximum duration for a Mayoral Declaration of Emergency is seven (7) days and thus must be updated weekly as long as the emergency conditions are present.

“Additionally, the City of Sanibel face covering mandate is reaffirmed to be consistent with the Governor’s Order 20-244. The face covering mandate is reaffirmed and shall remain in force and effect throughout the duration of this 7-day state of local emergency.

“To avoid the spread of COVID-19, social distancing is encouraged, and group gatherings should be avoided.”

Florida’s Housing Market: More Sales, Higher Median Prices

In an article posted on-line this week, Florida Realtors®, Marla Martin said:

“Florida Realtors’ data: Single-family home sales rose 15.7% year-over-year, median sales price up 16.6%; condo sales up 28.7%, median price up 16.6%. Chief Economist O’Connor: Fewer new listings and a tight inventory means a strong seller’s market.

“FEBRUARY HOME PRICES SOAR AS INVENTORY SHRINKS – The statewide inventory of active single-family home listings, which Florida Realtors has been tracking since January 2008, is currently at an all-time low. And the scarcity of inventory and high demand for existing homes continues to drive home prices higher.

“ORLANDO, Fla. – Amid increased COVID-19 vaccinations and hopeful signs for the future, Florida’s housing market in February reported more closed sales, higher median prices, more new pending sales and increased pending inventory in February 2021 compared to a year ago, according to Florida Realtors® latest housing data. Single-family existing home sales rose 15.7 % compared to February 2020.

““Florida’s housing market continued its momentum in February, but higher interest rates could be a factor going forward,” says 2021 Florida Realtors President Cheryl Lambert, broker-owner with Only Way Realty Citrus in Inverness. “While rising rates could potentially slow the pace of home sales, rates remain relatively low by historical standards. Record-low inventory is continuing to put pressure on home prices to rise and creates challenges for buyers. However, new pending sales rose 10.9% for single-family existing homes last month compared to February 2020, while new pending sales for condo-townhouse units increased 35.4% year-over-year.”

“Closed sales of single-family homes statewide in February totaled 23,947, up 15.7% year-over-year, while existing condo-townhouse sales totaled 11,379, up 28.7% over February 2020. Closed sales may occur from 30- to 90-plus days after sales contracts are written.

“The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes was $314,900, up 16.6% 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 $233,240, up 16.6% over the year-ago figure. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less.

“Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor notes that Florida’s current housing market is a strong seller’s market, with fewer new listings and a very tight inventory (active listings), particularly for single-family existing homes. He says, “The statewide inventory of active single-family home listings, which Florida Realtors has been tracking since January 2008, is currently at an all-time low. At the end of February, single-family inventory was down 56.3% compared to a year ago. Most of this decline has been a result of our ultra-high rate of sales.

““However, so far in 2021, new listings of single-family homes have not kept up with their pace of 12 months ago. In February, they were down 4.9% year-over-year, which is an improvement over January, but still represents a move in the wrong direction. There’s a likelihood that much of this decline has been due to some sellers, who in normal times might have listed in January or February, instead listing ahead of 2021 in response to the unusually strong market in the second half of 2020. But there’s also the possibility that a small but increasing number of homeowners, who have been thinking of selling their current home and buying another one, are starting to get turned off by the lack of available inventory and the rising prices that have resulted from it.”

The condo-townhouse category shows a slightly different picture, O’Connor says.

““In February, closed sales in this category rose 28.7% year-over-year, which is consistent with the growth rates we’ve been seeing each month going back to September,” he says. “Some of this growth is likely being fueled by frustrated buyers who had their hearts set on a single-family home finally giving up and settling for an attached unit instead, but we’re also seeing high demand from folks with the typical condo- and townhouse-buyer profile, as well. And while inventory in this category is still high relative to what we’re seeing in the single-family home category, it was down 34.4% compared to a year ago.”

“On the supply side of the market, inventory (active listings) remained constrained in February. Single-family existing homes were at a very restricted 1.3-months’ supply while condo-townhouse inventory was at a 3.4-months’ supply.

“According to Freddie Mac, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 2.81% in February 2021, significantly lower than the 3.47% averaged during the same month a year earlier….”

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

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Spanish Cay #F8 2/2 $449K, Sundial #C303 2/2 $739K, Heron at The Sanctuary #3A 2/2.5 $839K, Sanddollar #B101 2/2 $1.125M, Cyprina Beach #2 3/3 $1.6M.

1 price change: Sundial #D408 1/1 now $509.9K.

7 new sales: Sundial #F206 1/1 listed at $479K, Blind Pass #E101 2/2 listed at $485K, Sanibel Arms West #B5 2/2 listed at $550K, Sanibel Arms West #H4 2/2 listed at $559K, Kimball Lodge #302 1/1 listed at $574K, Blind Pass #G104 3/2 listed at $699K, Sanddollar #C201 2/2 listed at $1.199M.

7 closed sales: Captains Walk #B3 1/1 $286.5K, Sundial #F108 1/1 $425K, Mariner Pointe #732 2/2 $545K, Surfside 12 #B1 3/2 $950K, Beachcomber #D101 2/2 $985K, Pointe Santo #C25 3/2 $1M, Sundial #T405 2/2 $1.193M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 1644 Bunting Ln 3/3 $643K, 3010 West Gulf Dr 3/2 $1.445M, 2857 Wulfert Rd 4/5 $1.895M.

2 price changes: 848 Birdie View Pt 4/3.5 now $2.049M, 1306 Seaspray Ln 4/4 now $4.295M.

12 new sales: 1942 Roseate Ln 2/2 listed at $524.5K, 3009 Singing Wind Dr 2/1.5 listed at $657K, 9446 Yucca Ct 3/2 listed at $739K, 613 Lake Murex Cir 3/3 listed at $978K, 1983 My Tern Ct 3/2.5 listed at $1.098M, 557 N. Yachtsman Dr 4/3 listed at $1.124M, 446 Surf Sound Ct 3/2 listed at $1.178M, 249 Violet Dr 4/2 listed at $1.2M, 6412 Pine Ave 3/2.5 listed at $1.589M, 837 Sand Dollar Dr 3/3.5 listed at $1.895M, 3744 West Gulf Dr 4/4 listed at $1.939M, 5633 Baltusrol Ct 4/4.5 listed at $1.949M.

5 closed sales: 9254 Kincaid Ct 2/2 $486K, 799 Casa Ybel Rd 5/3 duplex $550K, 757 Windlass Way 3/2.5 $1.2M, 1355 Eagle Run Dr 4/4.5 $1.84M, 3009 Turtle Gait Ln 4/4.5 $2.595M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2133 Starfish Ln $529K, 1084 S. Yachtsman Dr $699K.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 9042 Mockingbird Ln listed at $395K, 000 West Gulf Dr listed at $3.795M.

3 closed sales: 247/255 Robinwood Cir $265K, 717 Birdie View Pt $370K, 5749 Sanibel-Captiva Rd $607K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

3 new sales: Marina Villas #708 2/2 listed at $765K, Gulf Beach Villas #2024 3/3 listed at $1.075M, Beach Homes #17 4/3 listed at $3.45M.

2 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3118 1/1 $341.5K, Lands End Village #1651 2/2 $1.245M.

HOMES

No new listings.

2 price changes: 11530 Paige Ct 4/4/2 now $4.6M, 11559 Laika Ln 3/3 now $7.8M.

1 new sale: 11514 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5 listed at $2.349M

1 closed sale: 16813 Captiva Dr 3/3 $2.25M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale:: 16685 Captiva Dr listed at $2.45M.

No 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”.

Until next Friday, enjoy spring! Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

.

With 30 Sales & Only 12 New Listings This Week, Sanibel/Captiva Inventory is Disappearing

It is Susan again reporting another beautiful Friday on sunny Sanibel. The weathermen keep saying that cold fronts are passing through but those seem to just bring extra breeze and lower humidity. Daytime temperatures have still been reaching into at least the 70’s, though latest forecasts say a rare dry-season shower is expected tomorrow afternoon. That’s perfectly AOK, we need it.

At SanibelSusan Realty

It was another good week in the office, with a new listing, another in the works, another listing under contract, plus another sight-unseen sale (with this one, I have not seen the property nor have the buyers). Teammate Dave accompanied a home inspection, while Elise followed up on a handful of positive showings at a listing that has been booked for weeks with a long-term tenant. We all had a hand in various action items completed with the six closings in our hopper. These “high season” weeks are flying by, we can hardly believe it is already Friday and March.

I will be out showing property again tomorrow during that short showing window between when one guest checks out and the next checks in.

Though still not having our in-person Thursday morning meetings where we announce new listings, price reductions, and sales, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® had another Zoom Caravan meeting yesterday. After the meeting there were no properties open for Caravan as it was announced (with a smile) that the properties that were scheduled have already gone under contract. The hot market continues.

The activity since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service follows a couple of news items below. The number of new sales continues to be double or triple the number of new listings. Talking with colleagues, we commiserate about having buyers waiting in the wings with no properties that match their requirements. Could be time for those buyers to relax their criteria. Some think things will change post-pandemic and more listings will become available. I bet prices continue to rise.

 Sanibel – COVID-19

The City declared State of Emergency, issued in response to COVID-19, has been extended by Mayor Mick Denham until March 9, 2021, unless further extended. Per State Statute, the maximum duration for a Mayoral Declaration of Emergency is seven (7) days and thus must be updated weekly so long as the emergency conditions are present.

(On a side note, congratulations to Mayor Denham who will soon be enjoying retirement. He has served Sanibel for 16 years, on City Council, including as Vice Mayor & Mayor. Mick did not seek reelection when his term expired this month. There will be three new faces on City Council at their next meeting March 16. That is when newly-elected Councilors Dr Scott Crater, John Henshaw, and Mike Miller will take their oaths and a new mayor and vice mayor will be selected by the council at large. Thanks also go out to former councilors Chauncey Goss & Jerry Muench who stepped up to temporarily fill two vacant council seats from November to March – more proof that Sanibel’s volunteer community is 2nd to none. Thanks to the many volunteers that make Sanibel so special!)

Additionally, the City of Sanibel face covering mandate is reaffirmed to be consistent with the Governor’s Order 20-244 and shall remain in force and effect through the duration of the 7-day state of local emergency. Social distancing encouraged and group gatherings are to be avoided.

From Florida Department of Health, Sanibel’s total accumulative number of COVID-19 cases since March 26 through March 3 is 229 cases. That is only one more than last week. Though case numbers are going down, PLEASE CONTINUE TO STAY VIGILANT.

Sanibel Happenings

84th Annual Shell Festival runs though tomorrow at The Community House (today until 3 p.m. and tomorrow March 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), while the 2021 Virtual Sanibel Shell Show is premiering on YouTube today and tomorrow (March 5 & 6 from noon until 3 p.m.). For more info, visit https://sanibelshellclub.com/virtual-2021-sanibel-shell-show/.

Zonta On-Line Art Auction this year replaces their annual Peek of the Unique. The auction runs through March 10 with full catalog at www.ZontaSanCap.org. Also, as part of this year’s event, antique experts will provide appraisals on March 13 from 1 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Blue Giraffe at Beachview Estates. For a $100 donation, a 15-minute session for up to three items will be provided. To make an appraisal reservation, go to https://zontasancap.org/fundraising. All proceeds are awarded in grants to non-profits in Lee County.

Florida Realtors 2021 Legislative Agenda

FYI, from the March 2021 issue of “FloridaRealtor®”: “When Florida lawmakers convene on March 2 for the 2021 legislative session, they face a multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall created by the pandemic. Although the budget gap will be a top priority for legislators, they will consider several bills that could help the real estate industry and property owners. At press time, Florida Realtors® identified six legislative priorities for the 2021 session:

Liability Protection – Florida Realtors® advocates for protections for businesses against frivolous lawsuits resulting from the pandemic.

Property Insurance – Increased insurance costs and lower levels of coverage are making the cost of homeownership unaffordable in many areas of the state. These rising prices are being driven by a combination of frequent hurricanes, natural catastrophes in other parts of the country or world, higher reinsurance rates and increased litigation costs for insurance companies. Florida Realtors® supports sensible legislation that reduces occurrences of unnecessary litigation while protecting the rights of property owners to challenge insurance claims.

Affordable Housing – The pandemic has escalated the housing crisis. Florida Realtors® will ask for full funding from the trust funds for home buying and rental assistance programs.

The Environment – Though the super-active 2020 hurricane season spared most of Florida, rising sea levels remain a problem for many coastal communities. Realtors® will be working with legislators to address this problem and will see state funding for Everglades restoration and other critical environmental projects.

Protect Property Rights – Realtors® will continue to champion legislation that creates a statewide, uniform system of regulations for vacation rentals.

Business Rent Tax – The 2019 Legislature passed the third consecutive rate cut to the tax on commercial leases, which now stands at 5.5%. Florida Realtors® will advocate for further reduction of the tax to provide businesses with some measure of relief as they work to stay open and eventually recover from the pandemic.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity February 26-March 5, 2021

Sanibel

CONDOS

5 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #842 2/2 $619K, Loggerhead Cay #351 2/2 $659K, Mariner Pointe #112 2/2 $699K (our listing), Heron at The Sanctuary I #1B 3/3.5 $872.7K, Pointe Santo #C43 3/2 $1.199M (our listing).

View from Mariner Pointe #112 (from 2007)

View from Pointe Santo #C43 roof-top deck

No price changes.

9 new sales: Sandalfoot #3B3 1/1 listed at $524K (our listing); Mariner Pointe #731 2/2 listed at $525K; Sanibel Arms West #I4 2/2 listed at $579K; Sand Pointe #216 2/2 listed at $799,997 (our buyer); Heron at The Sanctuary II #2A 3/2.5 listed at $849K; Sanddollar #C101 2/2 listed at $999K, Pelicans Roost #203 2/2 listed at $895K; Sanddollar #A101 2/2 listed at $1.15M; Seascape #106 3/3 listed at $2.55M.

11 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #2E 1/1 $370K, Spanish Cay #B2 2/2 $440K, Sanibel Moorings #441 2/2 $555K, Sanibel Arms West #H6 2/2 562K, Sandalfoot #3C3 2/2 $698K, Loggerhead Cay #192 2/2 $700K, Lighthouse Point #221 3/2 $712K, Sandpiper Beach #401 2/2 $750K, Sandpiper Beach #205 2/2 $780K, Sanddollar #B104 2/2 $955K, Somerset #E201 3/2.5 $1.85M.

HOMES

5 new listings: 1612 Serenity Ln 3/2 $674.5K, 5424 Shearwater Dr 3/2.5 $999K, 557 N. Yachtsman Dr 4/3 $1.199M, 1044 Whisperwood Way 4/4.5 $1.995M, 1077 Bird Ln 4/5/2 $5.95M.

4 price changes: 1657 Sabal Sands Dr 3/2 now $797.5K, 694 Heather Ln 3/3.5 now $1.4M, 940 Whelk Dr 3/2 now $1.495M, 5270 Indian Ct 6/6.5 now $2.495M.

15 new sales: 1940 Periwinkle Way 3/2 half-duplex listed at $569K; 1667 Sabal Sands Rd 3/3 listed at $749.9K; 1259 Par View Dr 3/4 listed at $1.175M; 4500 Waters Edge Ln 2/2 listed at $1.175M; 486 Surf Sound Ct 3/3.5 listed at $1.2M; 994 Whelk Dr 3/2 listed at $1.395M; 2355 Wulfert Rd 3/3.5 listed at $1.649M; 1323 Seaspray Ln 4/4.5 listed at $1.75M; 1283 Isabel Dr 3/2 listed at $1.895M; 1355 Eagle Run Dr 4/4.5 listed at $1.975M; 513 Lighthouse Way 3/3 listed at $1.99M; 528 Kinzie Island Ct 4/4 listed at $1.995M; 1266 Isabel Dr 3/3 listed at $2.895M; 550 Lighthouse Way 4/4.5 listed at $2,999,999; 4955 Joewood Dr 6/4.5 listed at $3.395M.

8 closed sales: 1415 Sandpiper Cir 2/2 half-duplex $448K, 1027 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $475K, 223 Southwinds Dr 3/2 $699K, 1076 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 $750K, 3935 Coquina Dr 4/3 $810K, 1308 Eagle Run Dr 4/4 $1.475M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 $2.1M, 2336 Starfish Ln 3/2.5 $2.1M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 0 Rue Bayou $729,555.

1 price change: 6000 White Heron Ln now $850K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 355 Cowry Ct $225K.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Gulf Beach Villas #2024 3/3 $1.075M.

1 price change: Lands End Village #1629 2/2 now $1.3745M.

3 new sales: Tennis Villas #3118 1/1 listed at $350K, Bayside Villas #4322 3/3 listed at $729K, Captiva Cove #2A 3/2 listed at $1.295M.

3 closed sales: Tennis Villas #3136 1/1 $335K, Bayside Villas #4116 1/2 $372.5K, Marina Villas #808 2/2 $755.5K.

HOMES

No new listings or price changes.

3 new sales: 15000 Binder Dr 3/2 listed at $1.298M, 16447 Captiva Dr 7/6/2 listed at $2.79M, 11541 Paige Ct 3/4/2 listed at $4M.

2 closed sales: 11522 Andy Rosse Ln 4/4.5 $2.4M, 956 South Seas Plantation Rd 6/6 $4.475M.

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

It’s Not Black Friday Here – Bright Blue Sky & Sunshine

Happy day after Thanksgiving! The SanibelSusan Team hopes you had a good holiday. It’s pretty quiet in our office today, though the roadways and bike paths are busy as it is bright and sunny with temperatures in the low 80’s.

As the holiday approached, island traffic picked up significantly. It was back to looking like “season”. The rare overcast foggy morning, like Monday, brought out shoppers and more traffic directors at the 4-way stops. All good, as island businesses need activity.

Though there was no local Association of Realtors Zoom Caravan meeting this week (next meeting is Dec 3), there was plenty of activity posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The week’s MLS postings follow a couple of news items.

First an updated island inventory summary. It is shaping up to be a good year with an unbelievable bounce-back from the early pandemic months. With only 79 Sanibel homes for sale and over 300 sold this year, it will be interesting to see what happens over the winter. Not quite as extreme is the situation with Sanibel condos. There are under 100 for sale and nearly 200 sold to date.

Inventory numbers like that usually indicate a sellers’ market, but the sales this year have been a tad slanted regarding what products are selling. More mid-range homes and more high-end residential-type condos have sold, likely pandemic-driven and related to occupancy and safety. In the winter when the islands are busiest usually is when there are the most sales. This year that could be tempered because of inventory.

Condos Homes Lots
# Avg Price $ # Avg Price $ # Avg Price $
SANIBEL
For sale 96 773,127 79 1,911,043 55 805,241
Under contract 46 794,145 47 1,406,424 9 412,495
Sold year-to-date 150 731,868 254 948,367 20 632,418
Sold 2019 127 694,392 211 949,790 15 372,200
Sold 2018 155 720,617 218 1,112,747 21 602,095
Sold 2017 140 728,793 186 1,004,236 32 327,228
CAPTIVA
For sale 28 1,432,571 29 4,486,999 2 6,472,500
Under contract 6 783,000 8 2,548,375 1 795,000
Sold year-to-date 39 825,706 22 2,905,545 3 3,150,000
Sold 2019 29 1,037,077 17 2,737,503 1 1,375,000
Sold 2018 27 797,532 25 2,127,352 0 N/A
Sold 2017 34 671,551 22 2,457,022 2 2,312,500

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.

Farmers Markets & Christmas Trees

Captiva Farmers Market reopened this week. Those are on Tuesdays through April 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 5400 Plantation Rd at the entrance of South Seas Resort.

Sanibel Farmers Market reopened a few weeks ago. It is Sundays through May 30 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sanibel City Hall, 800 Dunlop Rd. Local Roots also runs six other markets in SW Florida. More info about their start dates, hours of operation, and locations is on their website at www.LocalRoots.com.

Sanibel-Captiva Lions Christmas Tree Sale – begins tomorrow, Nov 28. All proceeds benefit local charities. Located next to Island Cinema in the Bailey’s Shopping Center, they offer fresh Michigan Fraser firs from 5 to 10’ plus wreaths and stands. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sunday, with island delivery and set-up available. On-line ordering also beings Nov 28 at www.SanCapLions.com.

City of Sanibel – COVID-19

On Tuesday, Acting Mayor Denham extended the island declared state of emergency due to COVID-19. Now it goes until December 1, 2020, unless further extended. (Per State Statute, the maximum duration for a Mayoral Declaration of Emergency is seven days and thus must be updated weekly as the emergency exists.)  The City face covering mandate remains in effect through the period.

From Florida Department of Health, Sanibel’s total accumulative number of COVID-19 cases since March 26 is 84. Cases are rapidly increasing here. NINE more cases in the last week.

Weeks-ending 3/29 through 5/31 – 2 months = 11 cases

Weeks-ending 6/7 through 8/30 – 2 months = 30 cases

Weeks-ending 9/6 through 11/1 – 2 months = 22 cases

Weeks-ending 11/8 through 11/22 – 3 WEEKS = 21 cases (that is seven more cases than last week)

Please stay vigilant – continue social distancing, hand washing, mask wearing, and avoid group gatherings.

U.S. Borders with Canada, Mexico Remain Closed Through Dec. 21

Posted Wed on FloridaRealtors®: “Don’t get hopes up for cross-border holiday travel. With the pandemic apparently escalating, the borders aren’t expected to open anytime soon.

“McLEAN, Va. – If you were hoping that the United States’ borders would reopen for holiday travel, don’t get your hopes up. The land borders with Canada and Mexico will remain closed through Dec. 21, Chad Wolf, acting secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on Thursday.

““In order to continue to prevent the spread of COVID, the U.S., Mexico, & Canada will extend the restrictions on non-essential travel through Dec. 21,” he wrote on Twitter. “We are working closely with Mexico & Canada to keep essential trade & travel open while also protecting our citizens from the virus.

“Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair, wrote on Twitter that border-closure decisions “will continue to be based on the best public health advice available to keep Canadians safe.” Though these travel restrictions have been extended in monthly increments throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the borders are not expected to open anytime soon. The U.S. has the most COVID-19 cases of any country with more than 11 million, while Mexico and Canada have more than 1 million and 300,000, respectively.

““The pandemic seems to be escalating in both of our countries. That would seem to suggest that these measures are with us for a while,” Canadian ambassador to the U.S. Kirsten Hillman said Tuesday, according to Oregon Public Broadcasting.

“Both U.S. land borders were closed to all but essential traffic in mid-March after the coronavirus pandemic hit, with government officials announcing multiple extensions as case counts continued to rise, especially in the U.S. The previous extension, announced in mid-October, was due to expire Nov. 21. Despite the closure of land borders, U.S. citizens can still travel by air.

“Canada has begun allowing extended family members who live in the U.S. to seek an exemption allowing them to travel north amid these restrictions, provided they follow that country’s COVID-19 requirements. Lawmakers have called on President Trump to do the same on the U.S. side.”

Copyright © 2020, USATODAY.com, USA TODAY, Jenna Ryu; contributing, Jayme Deerwester and David Oliver. All rights reserved.

County Commissioners Approve Toll Transponder Agreement

From this week’s “Island Reporter”, “On Nov 17, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve an agreement to allow motorists to use E-ZPass transponders – widely used along the East Coast and beyond – to drive on Lee County toll roads.

“The E-ZPass toll network includes 18 states throughout the Northeast and Midwest. The agreement would allow people who already have those transponders to use them on Lee County toll bridges….

“The agreement that allows the use of E-ZPass in Lee County is with the Central Florida Expressway, which joined the E-ZPass group in 2018. The Central Florida Expressway would process transactions with no transaction fee charged to the County.

“The transponders will be accepted locally starting early next year. Local motorists can continue to use LeeWay and SunPass transponders. For more information about Lee County toll programs, visit www.leewayinfo.com.”

The Double-Edged Housing Boom

Another good article by Lawrence Yun, NAR’s Chief Economist, in the November-December 2020 “REALTOR®” magazine:

“Eye-popping home sales and prices pose longer-term problems.

“Remarkably, in the midst of the pandemic, the housing market is in a clear V-shaped recovery. Sales for both existing and new home sales in August hit their highest mark since 2006. The data popped out as round numbers: existing-home sales at an even 6 million and new-home sales at exactly 1 million on an annualized basis, up 10.5% and 43.2% from a year ago. Pending contracts also hit an all-time high.

“Buyer activity this winter is unlikely to chill: Mortgage applications for home purchases are up about 30% compared to a year ago. Due to the extraordinary demand home prices have reached an all-time high. The national median home price was … up 11.4% from a year earlier. The strong price run-up is partly due to a latent boom in the luxury market and to a jump in multiple offers for starter homes. While those situations result in multiple “losers”, buyers are persevering. They aim to take advantage of record-low mortgage rates.

“Such a frenzy of activity, reminiscent of 2006 raises questions about a bubble and the potential for a painful crash. The answer: There’s no comparison. Back in 2006, dubious adjustable-rate mortgages taxed many buyers’ budgets. Today, buyers are taking out 30-year fixed-rate mortgages. Fourteen years ago, there were 3.8 million homes listed for sale, and home builders were putting up about 2 million new units. Now, inventory is only about 1.5 million homes, and home builders are underproducing relative to historical averages.

“But let’s look at current trends through a different lens. Escalating home prices will soon cause damage of a different sort, shutting out first-time buyers. That’s why more supply is critical. Only when home prices rise roughly in line with income growth can we say that the market is in equilibrium. Perhaps as people continue to flee crowded cities, new construction will get a boost. Greater flexibility to work from anywhere and improved broadband access in rural areas could spur home buying in remote areas, a market trend to watch for in the years ahead.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity November 20-27, 2020

Sanibel

CONDOS

6 new listings: Sanibel Moorings #441 2/2 $585K, Cottage Colony West #125 1/1 $609K, Cottage Colony West #119 1/1 $619K, Heron at The Sanctuary II #2A 3/2.5 $869.5K, Sanibel Arms West #E4 2/2 $889K, Sanibel Arms West #D2 2/2 $960K.

4 price changes: Spanish Cay #A4 2/2 now $430K, Loggerhead Cay #373 2/2 now $662.5K, White Sands #23 2/2 now $1.099M (our listing, yellow arrow, followed by view), Sundial #L205 3/2 now $1.395M.

4 new sales: Captains Walk #B4 2/2 listed at $395K, Seawind #A108 2/2.5 listed at $527K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-1 3/3 listed at $899K, Sundial #O405 2/2 listed at $1.25M.

6 closed sales: Sanibel Arms #D7 1/1 $315K, Mariner Pointe #952 1/1 $350K, Sandpebble #2B 2/2 $457K, Seawind #A103 2/2.5 $565K, Island Beach Club #320C 2/2 $829K, Plantation Village #322 3/3 $2.275M.

HOMES

6 new listings: 2985 Island Inn Rd 2/2 $649.5K, 1850 Farm Trl 3/2 $699K, 2464 Blind Pass Ct 3/2 $1.295M, 1366 Tahiti Dr 3/2.5 $1.4M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 $2.2M, 950 Victoria Way 4/4 $2.3M.

2 price changes: 9277 Belding Dr 3/3 now $850K, 1672 Hibiscus Dr 3/2 now $899K.

6 new sales: 6141 Henderson Rd 3/2 listed at $658.5K, 3251 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 listed at $819K, 3020 Turtle Gait Ln 3/2 listed at $849K, 6176 Henderson Rd 3/2 listed at $998K, 509 Lake Murex Cir 3/2.5 listed at $1.225M, 4381 West Gulf Dr 5/5.5 listed at $11.5M.

4 closed sales: 9248 Dimmick Dr 3/3 $675K, 1304 Par View Dr 3/3 $730K, 549 East Rocks Dr 3/2.5 $1.085M, 1520 Angel Dr 5/5.5 $1.4M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 6428 Pine Ave $305K, 1825 Long Point Ln $389K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: 3013 Poinciana Cir listed at $239.9K.

2 closed sales: 1048 Fish Crow Rd $323K, 4995 Joewood Dr $2.38M.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

3 closed sales: Bayside Villas #5218 1/2 $387.5K, Beach Villas #2522 1/1 $529K, Lands End Village #1608 3/3 $2.025M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 11431 Dickey Ln 3/2 $1.258M, 11551 Paige Ct 5/6 $6.495M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 11523 Andy Rosse Ln 5/5.5 listed at $2.189M, 11555 Wightman Ln 3/2 listed at $3.695M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, or new sales.

1 closed sale: 925 South Seas Plantation Rd $5.6M.

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

Island Real Estate Selling During the Pandemic

SanibelSusan reporting that it has been another quiet week on Sanibel. Some of the local private schools reopened (Canterbury School this week, Bishop Verot next week). On-island, late vacationers are here enjoying the beaches while dodging seasonal showers and business has settled into the dog days of summer.

August/September often is when island lovers start thinking about the upcoming winter and planning their upcoming escapes from cold weather. We are working with buyers from afar as they await Florida’s full reopening.

Redfish Pass at the tip of Captiva earlier this week.

The action posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service since last Friday follows a few items, including the status of the local real estate market and latest COVID-19 info.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

Buyers are asking what the repercussions have been from the pandemic on real estate sales. That question is heard almost as often as “what happened following Hurricane Irma in 2017” and the later water woes.

Below is a comparison of island real estate closings during COVID for the six months of 2020, from Valentines’ Day through August 14, and the same time frame before Irma in 2017 and the years with red tide 2018/2019.

Island Sales from February 14 to August 14

 

Year

CONDOS HOMES LOTS ALL RESIDENTIAL
# Price $ DOM # Price $ DOM # Price $ DOM # Price $ DOM

SANIBEL

2020 78 725,852 157 135 964,248 165 6 471,166 364 217 865,647 167
2019 80 668,828 146 143 910,134 168 10 419,900 725 233 806,242 184
2018 104 728,529 183 142 1,161,457 155 13 815,538 288 259 970,255 173
2017 82 742,847 193 120 1,036,917 166 21 334,738 600 223 862,659 217

CAPTIVA

2020 14 944,000 107 9 3,561,555 171 2 1,925,000 462 25 1,964,800 158
2019 13 1,023,230 401 11 3,216,686 258 0 N/A N/A 24 2,028,564 335
2018 12 769,354 115 12 2,225,942 197 0 N/A N/A 24 1,487,648 156
2017 20 681,512 265 15 2,611,466 410 2 2,312,500 1,005 37 1,552,087 364

(Info from Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service, disclosure at bottom applies.)

What I glean from these statistics is that regardless of what happens in the world, with the weather, the water, the economy, or the year. Sanibel and Captiva have been and continue to be desirable. Even during the recession, island real estate continued to sell and sell well. Prices fluctuate with inventory and seller motivation. Island inventory is low, but from the pandemic, demand is increasing.

Florida’s Single-Family For-Sale Inventory Hit Record Low in 2Q

The following article by Kerry Smith was posted yesterday online at FloridaRealtors®: “ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida homeowners: There’s never been higher demand for your home. Economists generally consider a six-month supply of for-sale homes (inventory) to be balanced between buyers and sellers. An inventory greater than six months is a buyer’s market; an inventory less than six months is a seller’s market. In the second quarter of 2020, Florida’s inventory of homes was 2.8 months.

““Apart from the condo-townhouse category, we are at record lows right now,” says Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor.

“Florida Realtors records sales of condominiums and townhouses separately, and at 5.7-months’ supply in the 2Q, the condo-townhouse market remains in seller territory, but it’s closer to a balanced market.

The coronavirus-related shutdown impacted Florida’s single-family inventory, but more homes now appear to be coming into the market.

“Still, demand from buyers, thanks in part to record-low mortgage rates, has not subsided. Selling prices have continued to trend upward as buyers find too-few available homes for sale. In the second quarter, the median price for a Florida single-family home was $277,500 – 4.7% higher year-to-year.

““All indications are that Florida will continue to see home sales surge through the end of the summer, with our biggest near-term issue being a severe lack of single-family inventory,” O’Connor said in the report. “With mid-year inventory levels down over 27% compared to last year, the scarcity of homes on the market will continue to propel prices upward. Price growth has remained so strong throughout the pandemic that at the mid-point of the year, Florida has already seen close to $50 billion worth of closed single-family home sales – less than 2% off last year’s pace.”

“The inventory problem isn’t just in Florida. Fannie Mae’s latest U.S. market report found similar conditions nationwide, with a few buyers pulling back as home prices continue to rise.

““Supply constraints appear to be applying upward pressure to consumers’ home price expectations, which in turn has contributed to both a sharp reversal in optimism about whether it is a good time to buy a home and further improvement in home-selling sentiment,” says Doug Duncan, senior vice president and chief economist at Fannie Mae. © 2020 Florida Realtors®”

To bring this closer to home, the sold info below is extracted from my table above and compares those island sales over the last six months (during the pandemic) to today’s inventory:

 

Status

CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Price $ DOM # Price $ DOM # Price $ DOM

SANIBEL

Sold 2/14-8/14/20 78 725,852 157 135 964,248 165 6 471,166 364
Under contract 22 713,968 151 48 973,223 150 7 349,193 386
Available today 115 826,994 224 111 1,654,230 189 58 824,531 461

CAPTIVA

Sold 2/14-8/14/20 14 944,000 107 9 3,561,555 171 2 1,925,000 462
Under contract 10 759,145 144 4 1,876,000 264 0 N/A N/A
Available today 34 1,162,582 231 41 2,873,024 249 3 3,563,000 555

(Info from Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service, disclosure at bottom applies.)

Applying the economist definition about six months of inventory, it remains a buyer’s market for condos and vacant lots on both islands, as well as Captiva homes. But it now is a seller’s market for Sanibel homes.

This could change as recovery from the pandemic continues and winter approaches. Coming up are the months when the most island listings usually come on the market. I wonder if it will be different this year. Being safe may be as important to some as the islands being eco-friendly, natural, and laid-back. That could mean sellers will hold tight and it also could mean there will be more buyers. An interesting period is ahead. 2020 may continue to be a year for the record books in more ways than one.

Tidbits from NAR Economist Dr. Lawrence Yun

Yesterday was the first monthly membership meeting of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® since the pandemic began.

Granted it was by Zoom, but it featured one of my favorite economists, Dr. Lawrence Yun.

Here are a few of my notes from his presentation.

  • 2nd quarter was softer from the government-imposed economic lockdown.
  • Migration into Florida continues with about two-thirds of those here wanting a comfortable life with no income tax.
  • A surge in spending is coming (pent-up).
  • Today mortgage applications are 20% higher than a year ago.
  • Real estate is always a good hedge against inflation.
  • Today’s massive federal deficit will result in inflation.
  • The long-term real estate outlook in Sanibel/Captiva is bright with more companies offering flexibility on working from home and more retirees looking to come to the sunshine state.
  • The Federal Reserve likely will be accommodating for the next two years. Expect 3% rates to remain for the next 18 months, then slowly rising in 2022.
  • Encourage buyers to lock into the low rates before inflation appears.

Openings/Closings/Rescheduling

On Tuesday, Mayor Ruane extended Sanibel’s declared State of Emergency in response to COVID-19, until August 18, 2020, unless further extended. (Per State Statute the maximum time for a Mayoral Declaration of Emergency is seven days, so it must be updated weekly while there are emergency conditions.)

Since March 26, a total of 40 COVID 19 cases have been reported on Sanibel by Florida Department of Health (DOH), five on Captiva.

2021 Shell Show Cancelled – As a member of the Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club, I received the following email notice on Wednesday: “On August 10, 2020, the Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club Board of Directors held a Zoom meeting to discuss the merits of having the 2021 Sanibel Shell Show vs. the health risks.  As the number of positive Corona Virus cases continue to escalate in Florida and throughout the country, and because of the inability to predict the status of the virus in the early months of 2021, the Board erred on the side of caution and voted to cancel the show. Our major concern with having a Shell Show like we have had in the past is the safety, health, and welfare of everyone involved. However, there will be a Shell Festival and the Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club will support the Sanibel Community Assn. and work with them to make it a success. We are investigating the possibility of having an educationally oriented virtual Shell Show event that would begin on the opening day of the festival. The bottom line is that we hope to have a Shell Show, but it will be different from the competitive show that we have had in the past. The October issue of The Junonia will have updated information about the Board’s plans.”

Sanibel Library – Temporarily closed for sanitization, but open for digital borrowing. Phone and email support available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The library’s eShelf and all online services remain available 24/7. All user fees waived during the closure. For more info, call 239-472-2483 or visit http://www.SanLib.org.

SanCap Cares – Posted this week on SanCap Cares Facebook page: “Given the current state of the pandemic, and after much discussion among the SanCap Cares committee members, we have made the decision to cancel the rescheduled 20th Anniversary Celebration that was slated for November 22, 2020…. The 2021 annual event is still on for March 28, 2021 at the Sanctuary Golf Club. Lee Health and Golisano Children’s Hospital needs us now more than ever! See you in 2021”

Sanibel Recreation Center & Playgrounds – Community Park (across from our office) and Bowman’s Beach playgrounds are open. At the Rec Center, registration for the After-School Youth Program is open. A new on-line reservation system also has been set up for members using the lap pool, tennis courts, and weight room. To comply with social distancing protocols, use of the Rec Center is by appointment only with reservations. Go to www.MySanibel for more info.

Travel Restrictions Removed by Governor – On August 6, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 20-192, which addresses short-term vacation rentals and rescinds the travel restrictions for the tri-state area: New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. People from those areas had been advised to self-quarantine for two weeks. The executive order also rescinds the previous employee screening requirements for restaurant employees. This means employees who have previously tested positive do not need to receive two negative tests before they can come back to work. Employers are required only to implement screening protocols pursuant to CDC guidance. The executive order also removes the requirement that employees who have traveled through an airport in the last 14 days be prohibited from working in a restaurant.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity August 7-14, 2020

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Ibis at The Sanctuary #102 2/2 $479K; Seawind #108 2/2.5 $529K; Lighthouse Point #121 3/2 $609,906; Blind Pass #G105 4/3 $969K.

3 price changes: Gulf Beach #106 2/2 now $849K, Somerset #A101 3/2.5 now $1.7M, Plantation Village #322 3/3 now $2.55M.

2 new sales: Spanish Cay #A3 1/1 listed at $293K, Sandpebble #4E 2/2 listed at $475K.

4 closed sales: Sundial #B406 2/2 $732.5K, Sundial #T301 2/2 $805K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-3 3/3 $900K, Loggerhead Cay #514 2/2 $965K.

HOMES

5 new listings: 1797 Serenity Ln 2/2 $445K, 600 Boulder Dr 3/2 $599K, 9240 Belding Dr 3/2.5 $620K, 1001 East Gulf Dr 2/2 $649K, 545 Lake Murex Cir 3/3 $1.075M.

2 price changes: 718 Durion Ct 3/2 now $599K, 4345 Gulf Pines Dr 4/4 now $855K.

5 new sales: 4606 Brainard Bayou Rd 2/2 listed at $469.9K, 9240 Belding Dr 3/2.5 listed at $620K, 1350 Middle Gulf Dr #1F (Moonshadows) 3/3 half-duplex listed at $729K, 1724 Bunting Ln 3/3.5 listed at $949.5K, 1121 Skiff Ln 3/3 listed at $999K.

3 closed sales: 1010 Kings Crown Dr 3/3 $980K, 3706 West Gulf Dr 4/3 $1.2M, 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 $1.499M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 1048 Fish Crow Rd now $350K.

1 new sale: 978 Main St listed at $169.9K.

No closed sale.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings or price changes.

5 new sales: Tennis Villas #3120 1/1 listed at $308K, Bayside Villas #4112 1/2 listed at $375K, Bayside Villas #5114 1/2 listed at $380K, Bayside Villas #5234 1/2 listed at $399K, Beach Villas #2418 2/2 listed at $759K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings

1 price change: 1124 Longifolia Ct 4/5 now $2.649M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

No new listings, price changes, new or closed sales.

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

Until next Friday, stay safe, enjoy your weekend & this recent sunset photo shared by our photographers, Jim and Jimmy Anderson with JMA Photography. Their photo was taken recently from one of their drones overlooking the same area of South Seas Plantation as my photo above (Lands End Village overlooking Redfish Pass). Summer sunsets are the best!

Susan Andrews aka Sanibel Susan

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

When The Goin’ Gets Tough, The Tough Stay Calm

It has been a pretty quiet week at SanibelSusan Realty. I only kept the office open until mid-afternoon on Saturday. Without the phone ringing even once, at 2:30 p.m. I called the only other island real estate office open and found that they were not getting calls either. So, I made the executive decision to close and go get my nails done.

Then, while manning the office solo on Monday, I cleaned out some old files and came across the below “Guide to Deciphering Showing Feedback”.

What the agent SAYS What the agent MEANS
The buyer thought the property was too small. The buyer found larger properties for the same price.
They liked the property but bought another. The buyer found other properties that were better values.
They liked the property but bought a new one. Buyers generally will pay 10-15% more for a new or updated property making it difficult to compete.
They didn’t like the old carpet. The seller should consider replacing the carpet.
They thought the yard was too small, the street too busy. They found other homes with larger years, quieter streets for the same price.
The property needs some work. The seller may need to make minor repairs or neutralize paint or reduce the price accordingly.
They didn’t like the floor plan. Hard to overcome this objection.

The lesson here is that price objections often come cloaked in different terms. If you are selling, listen carefully to feedback and make your adjustments swiftly. Your ULTIMATE GOAL is to be the very best property in your price range.

At SanibelSusan Realty

The rest of the week, Elise and I have both been in the office, but the inquiries have been few. Her weekly report of the action on the local MLS is after a few news items below.

Though our office has remained open, our phones have rung just a few times. The local Association of Realtors® is closed and their events and in-person meetings are cancelled for the next few weeks.

Most island organizations and non-profits also are closed, while the FISH Food Pantry remains open and their meal deliveries continue. It is a good time to clean out your pantry and bring them some non-expired non-perishable items. Soon, FISH will be preparing Easter baskets for needy children, family dinners, and elderly shut-ins. If you do not have food goods to donate, they happily accept monetary donations, Easter candy, coloring books, crayons, and grocery store gift cards.

Time to Get Moving

A favorite author, Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, had the following article in the March/April 2020 “REALTOR®” magazine: “Resistance to change is keeping some consumers from finding homes.

“There’s no such thing as lifetime employment in America. People change jobs. Businesses are created and destroyed. New technology, more efficient ways of doing things, changes in consumer taste – these are the stuff of life.

“Even with the current unemployment rate at 3.5%, a 50-year low, about 5.6 million workers stopped working for their latest employer last December alone. Some were fired or let go, while others left in the hope of moving on to something better. In fact, during the same month, 5.8 million workers started with a new employer. The 200,000 difference, in this example, is what’s reported as the headline for monthly net job creation. Miraculously, this thin margin between job gains and job losses has been consistently positive over the past decade, which is the reason for the cumulative gain of 20 million net new jobs since the Great Recession.

“Despite the apparent dynamism in the job market, people are not likely to change their current residence. The mobility rate is at a historic low of 9.8% annually. By comparison, 20% of Americans moved to a different home in any given year throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s.

“One reason people are staying put is the upsurge in two-earner households, which complicates relocations. Still, Americans should get moving again. Behavioral studies suggest that leaving one’s comfort zone may help people do better economically and enjoy life more fully. I’d like to see a boost in people’s standard of living not from a 3% pay raise but in a bigger way. If people move from expensive regions of the country to more affordable ones, their opportunity to own a home increases greatly.

“Some consumers have gotten the message. That’s why metro areas like Austin, Denver, and Nashville have been booming as residents from higher-cost areas arrive. But these same cities are seeing slower job gains as they become less affordable. An adequate supply of new homes is needed to accommodate the new population. Clients looking for a bigger bang for their housing dollar should consider Charlotte, NC; Charleston, SC; Columbus, OH; or Las Vegas. It’s time to end the inertia.

MLS Games People Play

Here’s another interesting article from the latest “REALTOR®” magazine. Author is Graham Wood. I am sure that some of you have seen some of the listings mentioned in his write-up. The SanibelSusan Team doesn’t play these MLS games.

“David Weldon empathized with his client’s growing desperation to sell her home, a 3-bedroom house in South California’s Riverside County. But he was uncomfortable about her suggestion for boosting the listing’s appeal. The seller listed the home with Weldon last July at a list price of $600,000. After nearly 70 days on the market, the property hadn’t received an offer she would accept. She also was under contract to purchase another property contingent on the sale of her home, which added to the pressure. The seller asked Weldon, a broker-associate at ReMax One in Moreno Valley, CA, to take steps that sounded to him like “gaming the MLS” to draw more eyes to her listing and get it sold faster.

“She had learned from another agent in a prior transaction that there are ways to manipulate MLS data to the seller’s advantage. Loopholes in many MLS systems make it possible for real estate professionals to reset a property’s recorded days on market – making a listing appear newer than it is – or surface a home on an MLS’s “hot sheets” with, say, a $100 reduction in list price. While these practices can help raise the visibility of listings in the MLS, they’re also deceptive marketing techniques that have the effect of skewing real-time MLS data – a problem the real estate industry is working to solve – and cast a poor light on agent professionalism.

“”The MLS platform is not the tool to refresh a listing,” says Rene Galicia, director of MLS engagement at the National Association of REALTORS®. “You’re not treating the underlying issue – perhaps you need to revisit your pricing strategy, for example – if you’re relying on gaming the system to get action on your listing.”

“Weldon says it’s not uncommon for agents in his market to inappropriately cancel and resubmit a listing to the MLS with an inconsequential edit to the property address – such as changing “Street” to “St” – which resets days on market in the system. That’s the type of action his seller was requesting.

“”There’s no way to do what the seller was asking me to do that I’m comfortable with,” Weldon says. “I said, “You want me to cancel the contract and start over after I’ve put a considerable amount of time marketing your property.” When his client was unrelenting, Weldon decided to end his professional relationship with her. The seller relisted with another agent, and as of mid-January, the property had been on the market for 106 days – more than a month longer than Weldon had the home listed.

“While not necessarily a violation of the REALTORS® Code of Ethics, these types of tactics may “work against the duty of honesty in Article 1, and the “true picture” mandate for all advertising, marketing, and other representations in Article 12,” says Rodney Gansha, NAR’s director of engagement and staff executive to the Multiple Listing Issues and Policies Committee.

“Not all practitioners see it that way, though. “In some markets, people consider these practices to be wrong, while in other markets, it’s tolerated,” Gansho says. “Most agents can look up a property’s history to see exactly what’s changed or when it was first put on the market, so gaming the MLS is a limited strategy anyway.”

“Galicia takes particular exception to the idea of lowering a listing price by a minuscule amount to boost its standing on MLS hot sheets. “Most MLS technology will display the dollar amount of the price reduction, and savvy consumers can see that a $100 price drop is not a legitimate strategy,” he says. “If a listing shows up on a hot sheet all the time, that could be a sign of data manipulation rather than true changes to the terms of the listing itself.”

“Such a pricing strategy also could damage your reputation with other agents who find it offensive and could ultimately hurt your ability to find a buyer. “I’ve seen properties reduced by $1,” says Dan Halperin, GRI, an agent with Gagliardo Realty Associates in River Forest, IL. “It’s such a waste of everybody’s time. It irritates clients, and it doesn’t leave a good impression on the public.” Halperin adds that many of his buyers feel an urgency to be among the first to visit a new listing, so he keeps a watchful eye on turnover in the MLS. “I want to be able to tell my clients whether it’s been listed six times or had several price drops in the past,” he says. “I want them to know when it’s not the hot property they think it is.”

“So what’s a smarter approach? Instead of resorting to MLS gaming tactics, focus on professional listing photos from the start and adding virtual home tours and floor plans to listings in order to refresh them, Galicia recommends. Gansho encourages agents to revamp listing descriptions as a way to capture interest from people who may have previously overlooked your listing. These changes won’t appear on an MLS hot sheet, but sharper marketing may get buyers to pay closer attention.

“Heather Embrey, CRS, GRI, a sales associate with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Premier in Falls Church, VA, says she recently sold a 4-bedroom 2-bath listing, which had lingered on the market for 60 days, after updating the listing photos. Embrey’s seller was initially hesitant about staging the home, but when the sale stalled, the client agreed to change furnishings and add carpeting to neutralize the space.

“The new photos of the staged property enticed a buyer who previously viewed the home to give it a second look. The buyer ended up purchasing the home for the $499,500 list price. “In my office, they jokingly call me the compliance queen because I very much follow the rules,” Embrey says. “I’m not trying to reset days on market, I don’t change the address, and I don’t try and make it look like a new listing. There are too many other tools at my disposal for me to have to do that.”

The Sanibel/Captiva Real Estate World

Adding SanibelSusan’s 2-cents worth to the above article: On the islands, there are some who end a stale listing and relist to make a property look like it is new to the market. That is not fooling anybody. Even Zillow sees through that.

Sanibel/Captiva’s real estate market is quite seasonal and easily affected by changes in the weather, the economy, and world events. Being mostly a resort and 2nd-home market, purchases often are made with discretionary income. That all equates to our market being UNLIKE the norm. It often takes longer to sell a property here unless it is one that is in demand at that time of the year or has special features setting it apart from its competition.

The best way to get a Sanibel/Captiva property sold remains listing with a top local agent in a reputable island brokerage, pricing right (and just under a $100K-price increment), solid continual ever-changing marketing with broad internet exposure and professional photography/streaming videos, honest reliable property details (Florida is a full-disclosure state), easy showing instructions, and good legal signage.

Today, there are 227 Realtor® members at the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®. I always want to be one of the top producers, though my goal is not necessarily to sell the most, but to provide the best service. Looking at Sanibel closed sales year-after-year, my position has lingered at #8 or #9, which makes me happy. I like being in the “top 10”.

It was a surprise to check and see that I am in 6th place based on the last 12 months of closed Sanibel sales. Probably more surprising is that of all these 200-some agents, over the last 12 months, only 60 sold more than one property and 29 sold only one. That means, that way more than half the membership had no sales. Real estate has always been a business where a small percentage of agents make most of the sales, but Sanibel and Captiva take those numbers to the extreme.

We also probably have the only grocery stores on the planet that remain fully equipped. No shortage of toilet paper and paper towels here, plus sunshiny blue skies, clear water, and very little traffic, except on the bike paths.

Be well, stay calm, fingers crossed that we soon are on the other side of the virus and its impacts.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 13-20, 2020

Sanibel

CONDOS

4 new listings: Captains Walk #E8 2/1.5 $395K, Blind Pass #B209 2/2 $494K, Coquina Beach #2B 2/2 $529K, Mariner Pointe #813 2/2 $599K.

8 price changes: Sundial #C301 1/1 now $464.9K, Sanibel Arms West #B2 2/2 now $534.9K, Loggerhead Cay #222 2/2 now $610K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #1-4 3/3 now $799K, Sandalfoot #1C1 2/2 now $799K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #4-1 3/3 now $899K, Tarpon Beach #207 2/2 now $999K (our listing) (photos below – taking a walk the gulf from Tarpon Beach), Sundial #K402 2/2 now $1.1499M.

5 new sales: Captains Walk #C3 1/1 listed at $279K, Sanibel Arms West #M2 2/2 listed at $548.5K, Sanibel Arms West #H5 2/2 listed at $549K, Sundial #L404 2/2 listed at $1.35M, Tigua Cay #485 3/3.5 listed at $2.195M.

4 closed sales: Tennisplace #B24 2/1.5 $339K, Sunset South #2C 2/2 $555K, Sand Pointe #212 2/2 $725K, Gulfside Place #214 2/2 $1.2M.

HOMES

4 new listings: 954 Donax St 3/3 $525K, 2480 Library Way 2/2.5 $649K, 690 Durion Ct 3/2 $725K, 5419 Osprey Ct 3/3.5 $1.095M.

3 price changes: 968 Greenwood Ct S 3/2.5 half-duplex now $399K (our listing), 1339 Tahiti Dr 3/2 duplex now $525K, 730 Cardium St 2/2 now $539K.

968 Greenwood Ct S highlighted – looking toward the lighthouse & the mainland, gulf & bay!

9 new sales: 1856 Ardsley Way 3/2 listed at $499K; 1813 Farm Trl 3/2 listed at $629K; 760 Cardium St 3/2 listed at $649K; 1567 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 listed at $685K; 701 Nerita St 3/2 listed at $712K; 1676 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2 listed at $799,999; 4739 Ruelle 4/3 listed at $995K; 1490 Angel Dr 4/3.5 listed at $1.695M; 500 Sawgrass Pl 8/8/3 listed at $2.65M.

2 closed sales: 2150 Egret Cir 3/2 $698K, 675 Gopher Walk Way 3/2.5 $1.17M.

LOTS

No new listings.

1 price change: 1303 par View Dr now $314K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 4538 Bowen Bayou Rd $190K.

Captiva

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

Storing Up Vitamin SEA at SanibelSusan Realty

It’s Susan reporting that while the rest of the world has been spinning this week with news of viruses and politics, The SanibelSusan Team has kept their hands clean and stayed busy with real estate happenings. That pretty much stopped today – as we still are waiting for the phone to ring.

Sanibel realtors logoYesterday, it was a bit of a surprise to see such a small turnout at our Thursday morning Association of Realtors® Caravan Meeting.

Usually March is one of our busiest months on island, so I prefer to think the absences were due to folks out showing property, and attending inspections and closings, rather than shopping for toilet paper and paper towels. After showing property last night until almost dark, I stopped at the Publix just off-island and witnessed some folks squabbling over some of their last rolls.

big arts logoIt was a full house of singers at our BIG ARTS Chorus rehearsal on Tuesday night, but since then I have received email notices that a couple of their events run by volunteers (Writers’ Read and Island Jazz) have been canceled for the rest of the season. As of now, the other BIG ARTS classes and performances are on schedule with the facility taking sanitary precautions. For up-to-date info, check their website at www.BIGARTS.org.

Here’s hoping world events do not hurt anyone too much and that real estate is back to a normal busy March soon. The week’s action in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing service is after a couple of news items below.

Oops, we were just noticed that the local Association of Realtors® has cancelled events and meetings for the next two weeks. Their office remains open, but classes will be held remotely and meetings done electronically.

Be well.

Bill Aimed at Battling Algae Blooms Headed to Governor

Florida Realtors logoPosted yesterday by FloridaRealtors® on-line and sourced to 2020 Journal Media Group, John Kennedy:

“The Florida Legislature passed a multi-faceted to curb the blue-green algae blooms in state waterways. It now only needs Gov. DeSantis’ signature to become law.

“TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Legislation aimed at easing the state’s wide-ranging water problems by tightening oversight of runoff from farms, urban development and Florida’s 2.7 million septic tanks was approved Wednesday by the House. The House’s 118-0 vote follows similar, 39-0 approval last week in the Senate. The measure now goes to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who pushed for the changes and is expected to sign it into law.

““This is the most important thing we’ve done for water in this state in 10 years,” said Sen. Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, a sponsor of the legislation (SB 712), which supporters call the Clean Waterways Act. The legislation changes how the state regulates everything from septic tanks to city wastewater systems, and city and county storm-water management.

“But many environmental organizations say the regulatory changes lack muscle. The Sierra Club, Florida Springs Council and Florida Waterkeepers are among those pointing to problems with the legislation, saying it will not achieve water quality goals for the many state waterways already damaged. The organizations called it the, “policy equivalent of slapping a Band-Aid on a gunshot wound. It may not hurt, but it won’t really help.”

State officials, though, have defended the measure with superlatives.

“Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Noah Valenstein has called the measure a “massive step forward.” Rep. Toby Oberdorf, R-Stuart, House sponsor of the legislation, called the tighter regulations “game changers.” The legislation grew out of recommendations by the Blue-Green Algae Task Force appointed by DeSantis last year.

“DeSantis has pledged to spend $2.5 billion over four years to tackle Florida’s water problems, and lawmakers are poised to meet his demand for a $625 million, second-year installment in the state budget now being finalized by the Legislature. The waterways bill creates new regulations for agricultural use of fertilizers, requires farmers to keep records of their use, and requires these farms to be inspected every two years by state Agriculture Department officials to assure they’re complying with best management practices.

“The bill also shifts to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) from the state’s Health Department regulation of the 2.7 million septic tanks dotting Florida. Thousands of these tanks are old, breaking down and leaking – earning them part of the blame for nutrients flowing into waterways and springs and adding to the algae woes. Among other changes, it would prove more difficult for companies to get permits for bottling spring water, while a state study of the practice and its effect also is ordered by the legislation. The legislation approved Friday by the Senate gives the governor more authority over appointing the state’s DEP secretary.

“Environmental groups, though, remained wary after Wednesday’s House action. “This bill is just not going to get us where we need to be,” said Aliki Moncrief, executive director of Florida Conservation Voters.”

City Cracks Down on Unlicensed Rentals

Sanibelcityseal logoThere was another update on this subject by “Island Sun” reporter Wendy McMullen in the paper today:

“Sanibel City Council has eliminated annual rental license fees and made the rental fee for monthly rentals $300 and $100 for rentals not limited by city code such as those in the resort housing districts of Sanibel. These are mainly condominiums.

“The license fee for annual rental licenses is now zero. This includes the occupants of the 74 units in the Community Housing and Resources (CHR) below market rate housing program.

“The form to register also has been streamlined. It had been criticized in past meetings as being over intrusive and making property owners responsible for their tenants’ actions. It now only asks for the owner’s name, contact number and a local emergency contact but it still demands that the form be notarized.

“Meanwhile intensity increases on anyone renting a property without a license. Councilwoman Holly Smith said that the city was checking up on complaints regarding property owners renting their property illegally. “We have received a number of anonymous letters and we are following up on every one of them,” she reported at Tuesday’s planning commission meeting.

“Algorithms that sweep the world wide web for rentals on Sanibel are also used by the city to detect property owners renting without a license. Each advertisement will be cross checked for occupational licenses and if there is no license number on the advertisement, it will be red flagged. ”If they don’t have a license number, it will be immediately apparent,” said councilman Jason Maughan.

“The necessity for a license also extends to people sharing or exchanging their homes, according to Community Services Director Keith Williams. Both are currently considered rentals even if no actual funds are involved.

“Planning Commission Chair Chuck Ketterman questioned the definition of homes exchanging as rentals that required a license, observing that he knows of lot of people who exchange their homes for homes elsewhere in the country or in the world.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity March 6-13, 2020

Sanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sand Pointe #223 2/2 $749K.

9 price changes: Colonnades #C3 1/1 now $271K, Sandpebble #4E 2/2 now $465K, Sandalfoot #3C1 2/2 now $649.9K, Loggerhead Cay #192 2/2 now $739K, Loggerhead Cay #514 2/2 now $995K, Sanddollar #B104 2/2 now $1.075M, Gulfside Place #121 2/2 now $1.15M, Tantara #203 3/2 now $1.25M, Sanibel Sunset #301 3/2 now $2M.

8 new sales: Donax Village #10 1/2 listed at $358K, Seashells #36 2/2 listed at $380K, Sundial #D205 1/1 listed at $465K, Sanibel Arms West #B4 2/2 listed at $559K, Sand Pointe #132 2/2 listed at $709K, Loggerhead Cay #191 2/2 listed at $770K, Sand Pointe #137 2/2 listed at $1.149M, Gulfside Place #222 2/2 listed at $1.195M (our listing & sale).

Sign

6 closed sales: Loggerhead Cay #324 2/2 $569K, Lighthouse Point #114 3/2 $659K, Sanibel Siesta #601 2/2 $725K, Signal Inn #18 3/2 $1.1M, Plantation Village #312 3/2.5 $1.375M, La Playa #3B 3/2 $1.579M.

HOMES

3 new listings: 5151 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 2/2 listed at $477K, 901 S.Yachtsman Dr 2/2 $799K (our listing), 1515 Angel Dr 3/2 $849,948.

Canal

From the dock at 901 South Yachtsman Dr

901 South Yachtsman Dr intersecting canals in Sanibel Estates

14 price changes: 1027 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $459K, 730 Cardium St 2/2 now $544K, 1695 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $559K, 1954 Roseate Ln 3/2 now $575K, 4115 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 6/2 now $699K, 1068 White Ibis Dr 3/3 now $739K, 5304 Umbrella Pool Rd 3/3 now $772.5K, 5422 Shearwater Dr 3/2.5 now $825K, 478 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 now $850K, 938 Pecten Ct 3/2.5 now $899K, 1081 Captains Walk St 4/2.5 now $1.097M, 3706 West Gulf Dr 4/3 now $1.35M, 924 Pecten Ct 4/4 now $1.475M, 4577 Waters Edge Ln 4/3 now $3.195M.

7 new sales: 2186 Egret Cir 3/2 listed at $549K, 766 Donax St 4/2 duplex listed at $599K, 1085 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 listed at $719K, 457 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 listed at $889K, 1667 Venus Dr 3/2 listed at $1.02M, 1564 Middle Gulf Dr 3/2.5 listed at $1.295M, 1898 Woodring Rd 2/2 listed at $2.65M.

10 closed sales: 5745 Pine Tree Dr 2/1 $464K, 9448 Begonia Ct 3/2.5 $537K (our listing), 1396 Tahiti Dr 4/3 $655K, 355 Cowry Ct 4/3.5 $675K, 2857 Wulfert Rd 4/5 $1.1M, 4630 Rue Bayou 4/4.5 $1.295M, 9019 Mockingbird Dr 4/4 $1.3M, 872 Limpet Dr 3/3 $1.35M, 558 Lighthouse Way 4/4.5 $3.55M, 3757 West Gulf Dr 4/4 $5.5M.

Rear View d

LOTS

No new listings.

2 price changes: 255 Hurricane Ln now $369K, 3945 West Gulf Dr now $2.999M.

No new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Beach Villas #2414 2/2 $725K.

1 price change: Tennis Villas #3220 1/1 now $325K.

1 new sale: Beach Villas #2417 listed at $505K.

No closed sales.

HOMES

2 new listings: 1251 South Seas Plantation Rd 3/3 $2.25M, 15261 Captiva Dr 4/4.5 $12.5M.

No price changes.

No new sales.

2 closed sales: 15831 Captiva Dr 2/2.5 $2.65M, 15819 Captiva Dr 5/5 $6.35M.

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 clean hands save lives

Sometimes “It Takes A Village”

On normally-sunny Sanibel, this week has been one with several “off & on” showers from the storm developing north of us in the Gulf. Thankfully, most have been short-lived, though some arrived quickly.

We had a doozy yesterday, where suddenly it poured on Periwinkle in front of the office, with barely a drizzle in our back parking lot. Minutes later, it was over. Photo below from the gulf beach right after one of the passing storms.

The good news is the bunnies are happy with plenty of bright green juicy vegetation to munch, the windsurfers and kite-boarders enjoyed the storm-fueled breezes, and the shops and restaurants parking lots have been packed when the usual beach-goers are looking for other things to do.

Now we are thinking of those in the north central Gulf Coast area where Tropical Storm Barry is making landfall. May it dissipate quickly.

SanibelSusan Realty Associates

The SanibelSusan Team is thankful to report a two-closing week and recognize that sometimes “it takes a village”. The crew at Barrier Island Title and their remote notary went above and beyond in providing the services needed for today’s closing. Kudos to them, my teammates, and Realtor Kerri Maw at Pfeifer Realty for their hard work in getting another SanibelSusan listing sold. Thanks also to Evan DuPont with John Naumann & Associates for bringing the buyer for our mid-week closing, also with Barrier Island Title. Some are easy, others challenging! We are grateful for them all.

Congratulations also to teammate, Dave, for a new off-island listing today.

The activity on the islands this week posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service follows a few news items below. Just one Sanibel condo and one Sanibel home went under contract, no new sales on Captiva.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors®

With some Realtors® on vacation, the Association’s Caravan meeting yesterday had a few empty seats. The Caravan that followed had just one property open for viewing.

During the off-season is when the Association makes good use of the downtime and holds some of its community service events.

  • “Love That Dress” Donations – Through the month of July, the Association is serving as a drop-off point for donations for the upcoming “Love That Dress” event which is an annual shopping spree to benefit the PACE Center for Girls of Lee County. If you have any new or gently-loved dresses, shoes, handbags, or accessories, please drop them off this month at the Association Office at 2353 Periwinkle Way, Suite 201 which is the 2nd floor over Finnimore’s Cycle Shop in the Winds Shopping Center. (Or give me a call, and I’ll pick them up.) The actual “Love That Dress” event will be held August 21 at Embassy Suites – Fort Myers/Estero. Tickets go on sale August 1.
  • “Meals of Hope” Food Packing – This year will be the Association’s third Meals-of-Hope food-packing event. This time, on Friday, August 2 from 2 to 5 p.m. Our goal is to raise $5,000 for the supplies and then pack 20,000+meals that are later distributed to local food banks. Let me know if you want to join us or make a donation (checks made out to Meals-of-Hope). The meal packing is assembly-line-style, fast and fun. Again, thanks to The Sanibel Community Church for allowing us to hold the event in their Fellowship Hall. (It’s just impossible to get the supplies and equipment needed into our Association’s 2nd floor spaces.)
  • “Captains for Clean Water” Benefit – Then the next afternoon on Saturday, August 3, the Association is hosting its 2019 Corn-Hole Tournament to benefit Captains for Clean Water. Association members and spouses from our district (Marco Island, Bonita, Fort Myers & the Beach, Cape Coral, and Sanibel-Captiva) will come together for a few hours of comradery and fun at Marlins Brewhouse. Here’s hoping that Sanibel-Captiva players come out ahead of our standings in the district softball and bowling tournaments.

Our local MLS Committee is working hard in preparation for the conversion to our new Multiple Listing Service in mid-August. Though we tend to get comfortable with old familiar systems, this new one has many new exciting features and will be more-user friendly for both MLS members and the public. The SanibelSusan Team is all signed up for their upcoming training, while as a member of the original task force reviewing system, I get access to the beta version next week.

Pricing a Listing?

Interesting tag line on an article in the Florida Realtors® July 2019 issue. It says: “Use the “Just Below” Pricing Strategy… you’ll get on average 2% more for your home than those who price it too high or just right. Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics”.

Be Nice to Grandma

NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, authored the following article in the July-August issue of “REALTOR®” magazine.

“First-time buyers have not fully returned to the market. So far in 2019, they’ve accounted for only 31% of all home sales, well below the historic market share of around 40%. That’s why home sales are still running at an annualized pace of 5 million, essentially unchanged since the year 2000 even though the U.S. population has grown by 45 million and the number of households by 20 million.

“Though affordability has been hurt in recent years by fast-rising home prices, it takes a smaller share of monthly income to own these days then it did two decades ago, when 30-year mortgage rates were in the 8% range.

“There are several reasons first-time buyers are struggling to get in the market. Student debt has tripled over the past decade, starter home listings are in short supply because home-builders have focused on expensive homes; many affordably priced condos are not FHA-certified; and credit score requirements to obtain a mortgage are tighter than historic norms.

“As the National Association of REALTORS® works to ensure access to mortgage credit for all qualified Americans, individuals can position themselves for home-ownership. For example, military veterans continue to benefit from the loan guaranty program that started 75 years ago. For some in college today, a “gap year” of military service or any full-time job can reduce their student debt.

“Then there’s family, NAR research shows that a third of recent first-time buyers received down payment assistance from family members, and that share is likely to grow. Many of those that lived through the Great Depression, or heard their parents’ survival stories, have benefited from decades of careful wealth accumulation. The average net worth of those aged 75 and over stands at $264,800. The lesson for millennials: Be nice to grandma and grandpa. They just might offer the boost the next generation needs to become homeowners.”

LCEC Info About Solar Power Systems

Some good info in the June issue of “LCEC News” (Lee County Electric Cooperative):

“A little more than 730 LCEC cusomers have installed solar power systems at their home or business. The benefit of these systems is that panels convert solar energy into electric energy. Although users rely on the electric grid during evening and less-sunny periods, they may reduce their electric bill. And the good news is that all LCEC customers are using solar power in one way or another since LCEC delivers power from FPL, the largest generator of solar energy in Florida.

“There are safety considerations that should be examined when installing solar power systems. Prior to purchasing the system, contact a licensed qualified electrician to ensure your electrical system can support the technology. Before net metering or putting power back on the grid, LCEC must be notified and an application process must be completed. This keeps electric workers and neighbors safe and ensures property credit for shared power.

“Once installed, solar power system may present unique challenges for first responders and firefighters, so it is important to notify local officials about the type of panels that have been installed. This will help to protect firefighters and minimize damage to the building if a fire occurs.”

Call Before You Dig, 811

“Did you know that homeowners are required by law to call 811 or report online to sunshine811.com two FULL days before digging in any easement, right-of-way, or permitted-use area? The information reported is used to compare the desired digging site to the location of any underground utilities in the area. The area will either be declared clear or will be appropriately marked for any underground lines. Not only does unsafe digging pose a rich to underground lines, it is extremely dangerous causing injuries and deaths around the world annually.” (also from the June “LCEC News”)

“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society News

  • Acquisition of Wulfert Bayous – You may have seen the sign on San-Cap Road near the entrance to The Sanctuary where the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society has been trying to raise $3 million in private donations to complete the $9.5 million acquisition of Wulfert Bayous, the last large parcel of unprotected and undeveloped land on Sanibel. This week, they announced that their donations goal was reached. But as they await the Lee County Commissioners’ August decision to approve $6.5 million to complete the acquisition, they are continuing to accept donations in case the 20/20 funds don’t all come through. If they do receive the full $6.5 million, extra funding will be applied to a restoration project to remove invasive vegetation from the tract and create improved habitat for wading birds. Click HERE to watch their video about the Wulfert Bayous’ preservation campaign.
  • Tues, July 16 – World Snake Day – Join the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge in celebrating World Snake Day with lots of fun events at the refuge:
  • 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. – free guided Indigo Trail Walk (meet at the flagpole at Refuge entrance)
  • 11 to 11:30 a.m. – Snake lesson in the Education Classroom
  • 12 p.m. – Movie “Invasion of the Giant Pythons in Auditorium B (60 minutes)
  • 12 to 2 p.m. – Snake crafts in the Education Classroom
  • 2:30 to 3 p.m. – Snake lesson in the Education Classroom.

The Community House Shellcrafters

On TV this week, ABC News 7 reporter Kristen Clark on Monday covered everything you need to know about Shellcrafters and the different creations they make – flowers, animals, jewelry – all from shells found on the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva. Shellcrafters meet at The Community House every Monday year-‘round (except major holidays). Class starts at 10 a.m. with doors open to view and purchase creations until 1 p.m. All ages are welcome, though children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No reservation required.

Here are links to the TV segments:

Shell Crafters Segment 1

Shell Crafters Segment 2

Shell Crafters Segment 3

Food Fun

I hate to admit that I have eaten out three times this week, but since our restaurants always appreciate additional business from locals in the summer, I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend the three restaurants that created the following meals. Thanks also to my friend, Sheila, vacationing on Captiva.

On Wednesday night, we had dinner at Malia Island Fusion Cuisine. I saw three other tables of locals too. That night, I enjoyed this dish “Diver Scallop & Shrimp Curry”.

Not wanting to miss out on a meal with Christian and Mari at Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro before they close for their summer vacation, last night my dinner there was this yummy dish called “Filet – Frites”, the onion soup gratinee first, and the creme brulee after were equally yummy. Bleu Rendez-Vous will be back open in October. It’s definitely worth the wait.

Then today after our closing, teammate Dave and I stopped for lunch at T2, bringing back lunch for teammate Elise. I’m a huge fan of their spinach salad (which is even better with blackened shrimp), but today I tried their shrimp tacos. It is another winner.

The service at all three restaurants was outstanding. It really is hard to go wrong dining anywhere on Sanibel or Captiva, but this week Malia, Bleu Rendez-Vous, and T2 all get a special thumbs up from SanibelSusan. Now I need to walk a few thousand extra steps over the weekend.

 

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity July 5-12, 2019

Sanibel

CONDOS

2 new listings: Snug Harbor #312 3/2 $658K, Sanddollar #C202 3/2 $1.3M.

1 price change: Sunset South #6B 2/2 now $591.5K.

1 new sale: Plantation Village #312 3/2.5 listed at $1.49M.

1 closed sale: Spanish Cay #B4 2/2 $379K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1717 Sand Pebble Way 3/2 $649K.

9 price changes: 1401 Sandpiper Cir 3/2.5 half-duplex now $519.9K, 1585 Bunting Ln 3.2 now $569K, 9406 Beverly Ln 3/2 now $599K,  9448 Begonia Ct 3/2.5 now $649K (our listing), 1586 Century Ct 3/2.5 now $665K, 1978 Roseate Ln 3/2 now $735K, 1244 Par View Dr 4/3 now $900K, 2441 Shop Rd 4/3.5 now $924K, 1206 Bay Dr 4/4.5 now $3.474M.

9448 Begonia Ct in Gumbo Limbo

1 new sale: 1550 Centre St 3/2 listed at $599K.

7 closed sales: 398 Old Trail Rd 3/3 $485K, 1827 Middle Gulf Dr 2/2 $530K, 1555 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $650K, 686 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $766.4K, 510 Sea Oats Dr 3/2.5 $940K, 1838 Buckthorn Ln 3/2 $1.177M, 1351 Middle Gulf Dr, #2C 3/3 half-duplex $1.35M (our listing).

LOTS

1 new listing: 5627 Baltusrol Ct $375K.

1 price change: 2133 Starfish Ln now $404K.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 9270 Kincaid Ct $138K (our listing).

Captiva

CONDOS

1 new listing: Lands End Village #1633 2/2 $1.439M.

1 price change: Captiva Hide-A-Way #2D 2/2 now $900K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

2 price changes: 15831 Captiva Dr 2/2.5 now $3.7M, 15819 Captiva Dr 5/5 now $9.4M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

Until next Friday, wishing you a rain-free weekend and happy days!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Let’s Continue to Celebrate the U.S.A.

It was another wonderful July 4th on sunny Sanibel. Or at least sunny most of the day. We had a big turnout at the office at 9 a.m., ready for parade viewing.

Then 12 hours later, right at 9 p.m., as scheduled, the City fireworks show over San Carlos Bay was spectacular. How they coordinated it between downpours was amazing. Thanks to all who made it such a special island holiday!

Here’s hoping yours also was a fun festive one.

Sanibel Susan Realty Associates

A holiday week sometimes means it’s a slow one for island real estate and this was no exception. Beyond the holiday festivities, there is not much local news to report, but since it is beyond the ½-year mark, it is a good time to revisit the Sanibel and Captiva real estate market. Off-island, the local news stations and papers have been reporting what the county Tax Assessor expects for annual appreciation in each city. I shake my head every July when this occurs, because what happens in the first half of the year doesn’t always reflect what will happen in the 2nd. Last year was a good example of that.

Another twist with island sales, is that more high-end closings usually occur early in the year, just a factor in their usually being two to three times more qualified buyers here all winter than during the summer.

This year sales lagged a little in getting started, but with gulf and bay waters still glistening and many clean water initiatives underway, my crystal ball says 2019 will turn out better than 2018. With the economy strong and plenty of nice inventory available, I predict good sales all summer. At SanibelSusan Realty, our June and July closings already far exceed the first five months of the year.

Below is a snapshot of the today’s Sanibel and Captiva inventory, compared to sales during the same period last year. The statistics also are shown comparing sales year-over-year. (Info from Sanibel/Captiva MLS, disclosure below applies.)

Average Sanibel sale prices lag 2018 for condos, homes, and lots. The number of Sanibel condo and home sales also are less than last year.

On Captiva, average condo and home prices are up, but the samplings are small, with fewer Captiva condos and homes sold than during the same time last year.

 

Property Type

Sanibel Captiva
Condos Homes Lots Condos Homes Lots
# Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $ # Avg $
For sale 107 815,088 168 1,351,489 68 647,077 44 1,026,318 37 2,890,240 3 1,929,667
Under contract 15 654,837 28 870,916 1 149,000 1 469,000 6 3,360,832 0 N/A
Sold 1/1-7/5/2019 78 683,609 125 983,314 9 451,222 14 1,201,557 8 3,002,188 0 N/A
Sold 1/1-7/5/2018 96 743,571 158 1,214,614 9 478,556 17 912,933 12 2,163,442 0 N/A
Sold 2018 155 720,617 218 1,112,748 21 602,095 27 797,532 25 2,127,352 0 N/A
Sold 2017 140 728,793 186 1,004,237 32 327,229 34 671,551 22 2,457,023 2 2,312,500
Sold 2016 143 717,768 181 979,576 25 487,095 22 873,636 27 3,195,000 2 3,150,000

50th Anniversary of RPAC

As the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) celebrates the 50th anniversary of the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC), their biggest supporters were recognized with a surprise to represent their commitment to promoting and protecting real estate ownership and this milestone in NAR’s history.

In Washington, DC, in May for the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo, their special guest speaker Phil Hansen unveiled an incredible piece of artwork that showcases all of the nation’s 2018 RPAC Major Investors – within the iconic image of the NAR building in DC overlooking the U.S. Capitol.

You too can see the image at https://realtorparty.realtor/rpac50#art. It was an honor in 2017 to be the first island Realtor® inducted to NAR’s Hall of Fame (those plagues are atop the same NAR building in DC). To then find my name on this amazing piece of art is exciting too. Either search for my name or zoom into frame “H3” and you will find it.

Commitment to RPAC equates to caring about real estate, personal property rights, and home ownership. Congratulations RPAC on your 50th anniversary.

Sanibel Bunnies

The July/August 2019 issue of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) member update includes info about island rabbits. Since last summer, their population here has increased dramatically. At Sanibel Square, I see at least two each evening when I close up and often make a game of counting how many I see driving home at night. My record count for that short drive (less than 3 miles) is 54 bunnies. At home in the evening just before sunset, at least one is munching my grass. They sure are cute! Below are some excerpts from SCCF’s article:

“The marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris) is a native species in Florida and can be found throughout the state. Throughout most of their range they are considered a species of least concern for conservation purposes, but the Florida Keys subspecies, the Lower Keys rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris hefneri) is both state and federally endangered. Though they are from the same family as cottontails, marsh rabbits lack the signature white fluffy tail of their relatives.

“Marsh rabbits are strong swimmers and tend to walk using all four legs rather than hop like most rabbits. Their predators include alligators, owls, hawks, bobcats, and coyotes. In addition to threats from predators, flooding and hurricanes can take a toll on rabbit populations by flooding out their nesting habitat.

“Rabbits breed year-‘round in south Florida, but the peak of breeding takes place between December and June. The marsh rabbit’s preferred home is in wetland habitat, especially freshwater marshes. Over time, the landscape of Sanibel has changed significantly, leaving much less acreage of freshwater marshes and cordgrass swales. In the absence of natural fire regimes, many of these marshes have begun to fill in with hardwoods like buttonwood. Our freshwater marshes are not only important for our rabbits, but also for our only endemic animal species: the Sanibel Island rice rat (Oryzomys palustris sanibeli). Both of these small mammals are also important prey species for our native hawks and owls, who also suffer the loss of this important habitat type.

“SCCF and other agencies on the island conduct occasional prescribed burns to maintain healthy marshes and swales for the benefit of all our native wildlife. In addition to prescribed burns, SCCF mows some of these areas during the dry season and engages in mechanical removal of buttonwood.

“As our city’s vision statement says: “Sanibel is and shall remain a barrier island sanctuary, one in which a diverse population lives in harmony with the island’s wildlife and natural habitats.” Our native rabbit population is currently experiencing a natural boom, which will eventually subside. Below is a list of plants for your landscaping consideration. If you have questions about landscaping to attract or to naturally deter rabbits, please stop by our Native Landscapes and Garden Center at the Bailey Homestead Preserve….”

Plants that rabbits like to eat:

  • Firebush (Hamelia patens)
  • Gaillardia/Blanket Flower (Gaillardia pulchella)
  • Dune Sunflowers (Helianthus debilis)
  • Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
  • Grasses-Muhley Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris), Fakahatchee Grass (Tripsacum dactyloides), Sea Oats (Uniola paniculata), Dwarf Fakahatchee (Tripsacum floridanum)
  • Blue Porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis) • Tickseed (Coreopsis leavenworthii)

“Plants that rabbits don’t like to eat:

  • Red Salvia (Salvia coccinea)
  • Southern River Sage (Salvia misella)
  • Bahama Cassia (Senna mexicana var. chapmanii)
  • Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco)
  • Coontie (Zamia pumila)
  • Quailberry (Crossopetalum ilicifolium)
  • Walter’s Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum)
  • Several aqautics: Blue Flag Iris (Iris virginica), Canna Lily (Canna flaccida), Lizard’s Tail (Saururus cernuus)
  • Wild Coffee (Psychotria nervosa)
  • Gopher Apple (Licania michauxii)”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 28-July 5, 2019

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Seashells #12 2/2 $395K, Sundial West #I405 1/1 $435K, Sundial West #J201 1/1 $550K.

2 price changes: Sanibel Arms West #M1 2/2 now $511K, Pine Cove #202 3/2 now $1.4M.

1 new sale: White Caps #5 1/1 listed at $499.9K.

1 closed sale: Captains Walk #F4 1/1 $315K (our listing).

HOMES

2 new listings: 1390 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $499K, 1119 Seagrape Ln 2/1 $800K.

3 price changes: 632 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $725K, 4339 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 now $750K, 1520 Angel Dr 5/5.5 now $1.595M.

3 new sales: 1175 Sand Castle Rd 3/3 listed at $738K, 6406 San-Cap Rd 3/3.5 listed at $899K, 5313 Punta Caloosa 4/3 listed at $899K.

2 closed sales: 1311 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 $875K, 2303 Troon Ct 3/3.5 $1.085M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 2486 Wulfert Rd $139K, 933 Strangler Fig Ln $495K.

2 price changes: 0 Island Inn Rd now $750K, 1800 Woodring Rd now $2.695M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 5618 Baltusrol Ct $305K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Beach Villas #2417 1/1 now $510K.

No new or closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 16813 Captiva Dr 3/3 now $2.25M.

No new or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

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

May your holiday fun continue right through the weekend,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan