The
Fall 2007
  Schuldenfrei
Serving
Sanibel &
Captiva for
over 31 years
REPORT
About real estate on Sanibel and Captiva Going to 7,000 property owners and 12,000 Northern visitors.
David L. Schuldenfrei
CRS, GRI, RealtorŪ

Selling the Islands for
more than 31 years

HOW ARE THINGS DOING?
Forecasts are very upbeat. The National Association of Realtors is predicting that the market will begin recovery during the fourth quarter of this year and reach full recovery next year. The economists seem to agree that the current market is under-performing in relation to the strong fundamentals.
 

HOW ARE WE DOING?
The island real estate market on Sanibel and Captiva is looking pretty positive (YTD 9/15). It seems to be behaving pretty much as we anticipated in our last newsletter --- that is still in negative territory but with segments that are really going great. The National Association of Realtors’ latest data (July 2007) shows Sanibel/Captiva is doing a whole lot better than our adjacent markets (Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Marco Island and Punta Gorda). Sanibel/Captiva showed almost 10% growth in single-family home sales during July while our neighbors showed more than 30% decline. This is consistent with our last report that showed a similar result for February. We are special and it shows.

HOW WILL THE MARKET GO?

Unfortunately, when markets transition from one cycle to another, there is no trumpet blare to announce it. There is just the movement of the market and the underlying values. We feel that the start of a good market is either already here or soon to be. The reasons for this are several:

1. Pricing is very much in favor of the buyer, particularly condo buyers. In addition, the weakness 
    of the dollar means there are real bargains for the Europeans and Canadians.

2. Buying has already developed some momentum with positive sales activity for building lots      
    and several segments of single-family homes.
3. Confidence seems in an upswing, based on a significant increase in property showings 
     and contracts written over thee last 10 weeks.
4. Buyers are coming. Current rental activity and advanced reservations are up.

SO WHY ARE WE WAITING?
It’s not unusual to think that when things look positive it’s time to make a move. You potential buyers who are standing on the sidelines waiting for the right time should keep an eye on things because the transition from a buyers market to a sellers market is very likely, if not already here.
The time you’re waiting for is now.

We’re not suggesting that our dispassionate reading of the market is the only reason to buy property on this paradise island. We hope you would also be influenced by the beauty, tranquility and charm of the islands, along with their resources, sound planning and economic stability. Sanibel and Captiva are, after all, a real paradise and you don’t get to be called a paradise without good reason.

 


WE'VE DONE IT AGAIN

Your favorite island has won another award. The American Planning Association has presented the 2007 National Planning Landmark Award to the City of Sanibel. We are the first city in Florida to win such an award. We are so ahead of the curve. Is it any wonder that you and we love this place so much?

THE "DING" DARLING BUNCH
The "Ding" Darling Wildlife Society has announced a grant for school conservation related projects in Lee County schools.  It is five $1,000 grants and the money may be used for a variety of activities - purchase of teaching aids, books and classroom materials, fund new science projects, take field trips or conduct work projects in the community.  All Lee County schools can submit environmental education or science related projects for consideration.  The five winning projects will be awarded in December of this year.  If you would like further information about this worthwhile activity just send an email to mkloosterman@tnni.net.

PLEASE SUPPORT PURRE NOW
If you love Sanibel & Captiva Islands and want to help keep our environment and local waters clean for generations to come, please go to www.PURRE.org and educate yourself as to what you can do to help.  Join PURRE now and help support the on going effort.

FOR THE SPORTS FOLKS
There are two activities that are looking for people to participate:

  • Youth Soccer information can be found online at www.sanibelsoccer.org

  • Adult softball players can get information by calling 239-472-0345

SMALL TOWN DOINS
There is never a lack of things to do on these paradise islands.  It doesn't make any difference if it's winter or summer there is an army of people and a schedule of activities that can satisfy any person's need.

  • There is theatre activity on three fronts

  • The Southwest Florida Symphony has an unforgettable mix of music in their 2007-2008 season.  Just go to www.swflso.org

  • The Schoolhouse Theatre has a full season of musical shenanigans going through March.  The schedule can be found at www.theschoolhousetheatre.com

  • Big Arts has scheduled 26 films that focus on foreign, independent and US films durig their 2007-2008 season.  Go to www.bigarts.org

  • There are restaurants galore.  Did you know that many of them offer entertainment?

  • Other things to consider are the many wildlife tours by SCCF or the Wildlife refuge; sea life cruises on Tarpon Bay; kayak tours on Estero Bay; the butterfly house at SCCF; dolphin cruises; rookery island tours; touch tank experiences; backwater fishing and private fishing charters; the historic village; library programs; visit CROW and of course there is always shopping; shelling; beaching; golf; boating; and just loafing.  For the kids there is a skateboard park behind the school.

INNOVATIVE SERVICES FROM DAVID
We have, as you know, developed several exclusive services to help make your real estate experience as comfortable and fruitful as possible.  It will be worthwhile for you to use them.  

MLS NOTIFICATION - This lets you know whenever a property that meets your needs becomes available.  We let you know the same day it comes on the market by email.  
                    Click here to sign up for free MLS Notification Service

PRICING SERVICE - If you want to know what price properties - similar to yours - have sold for recently we will prepare a written report for you.  This free market analysis will help you with your pricing considerations, whether you're buying or selling. 
             For your Free Market Analysis call or email David at davids@schuldenfrei.com

GOPHER ENTERPRISES - VACATION RENTALS - will help you find just the right condo or house to rent.  We search all rental inventories throughout the islands to find just the right palce that meets your stated needs.  Winter Season 2007 - 2008 is booking up early this year.  Now is the time to make your Sanibel-Captiva Islands Reservations.
                   Click here to submit a Vacation Rental Information Request Form

FUTURE NEWSLETTERS
Over the next few "Schuldenfrei Report" Newsletters we will be transitioning to an "On-Line" version.  This allows you an expanded version with more detailed information and on-line links to related topics giving a more enjoyable reading experience.  It also allows us to do our part towards producing a "Green Product" and helping the environment.  Please email David and request the "Schuldenfrei Report" Newsletter be emailed to you as each issue comes off the press! davids@schuldenfrei.com 

LET DAVID SCHULDENFREI HELP YOU
"Just call when you need effective real estate experience.  I am prepared to help you sell your property or buy a property or rent.  I've been successfully helping clients and customers for over 30 years so I know this island very well.  Let me help you.  Just call, write, fax or e-mail me and I will serve you with confidentiality and knowledge - and my promise of results."

YOUR BEST INTEREST IS MY ONLY BUSINESS
List your property with me and 
let my pledge work for you!

OFFICE: 239 472 5187 x227 • 1 800 553 7338 x227
HOME: 239 466 0514
FAX: 239 437-7543
E-MAIL: DAVIDS@SCHULDENFREI.COM
WEBSITE: WWW.SCHULDENFREI.COM
ADDRESS:       VIP Realty Group, Inc. 
                           1560 Periwinkle Way
                            Sanibel, FL 33957

VIP Realty Group, Inc.

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www.schuldenfrei.com • 800 553-7338 x 227 • davids@schuldenfrei.com