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How Do You Decide What Type of Sanibel or Captiva Island Home to Buy?

Captiva and Sanibel Island real estate is becoming more and more popular these days. Whether you’re looking to purchase a home for yourself or buy a house to turn into an investment property, you might be a little lost when it comes to actually decide on your home.

There are tons of different types of homes to choose from, and they each come with their own benefits. So, how do you decide which of the many Sanibel Island listings is right for you? We’re here to help! 

Sanibel and Captiva Homes

Wonderful sanibel island beach houses
Photo From: Unsplash

Before you can start deciding on the Sanibel Island homes for sale that might be best for you, you’ll have to do a little research. Like we mentioned, there are several different types of homes you might be interested in, and they all have a little something unique to offer. 

First, Sanibel bayfront homes provide a breathtaking view of the water and a laid-back atmosphere, especially when compared with homes located in the middle of town. These homes often have great proximity to undisturbed nature, which can be great for nature lovers or those who want a relaxing and tranquil place to spend their days. Activities such as Florida birdwatching, boating, fishing, and swimming are quite popular for residents and tenants in these homes. 

If you want to be near the water but be a bit closer to the excitement of town, a Sanibel beachfront home could be the perfect solution. These properties are some of the most sought-after pieces of real estate in the area, thanks in large part to the picturesque location. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend every day on Sanibel and Captiva beaches? You can find cozy cottages or sprawling mansions to satisfy your needs or offer something special to your tenants. Regardless of the size, these beachfront properties always offer an amazing location on the shores of Sanibel Island, perfect for those who like swimming or shelling.

There are quite a few canals to experience on Sanibel Island, so a Sanibel Island canal home might be a good fit for you or your tenants. On the east and west sides of the island, you can find all kinds of canals, many of which have access to the stunning Gulf beaches. These homes are particularly popular with boaters who want immediate access to San Carlos Bay, Blind Pass, or the Gulf of Mexico. Canal homes are some of the most unique properties available in this area and offer something truly spectacular to buyers and tenants. 

Last but not least, on Sanibel Island, tons of beautiful properties sit near the beach without exactly being on the beachfront. These homes offer great proximity to the shoreline while also providing a close distance to the attractions of town. This stunning balance is attractive to visitors and homebuyers from across the country! Plus, many of these homes have added features like tennis courts, private pools, and a great location near the two nationally acclaimed sanctuaries in the area. Many of these homes are close to Sanibel Island parks that deserve a visit!

aerial view of sanibel island condos for sale

If you’re not looking to move to Sanibel Island, you might consider the neighboring destination of Captiva Island. Captiva bayfront homes offer many of the same benefits of their counterparts on Sanibel Island, including plenty of opportunities to go boating, swimming, or shelling. These homes also offer a great place to kayak or canoe over to Buck Key, where there are countless plant and animal species to discover. You’ll find that these properties offer a unique atmosphere that truly encourages guests and residents to relax and unwind.

 Want to be closer to the beach? It’s easy to find Captiva Gulf front homes. Since Captiva Island is so skinny and has such long shorelines, the majority of the properties here are actually situated on the waterfront. Residents and tenants in these homes are able to access the Gulf of Mexico whenever they please, and they can also collect breathtaking shells or simply take a stroll along the sand. There are also lots of waterfront restaurants that are within walking distance of these beachfront homes.

Mostly located along the northern end of the island are plenty of Captiva canal homes. Of all the Captiva Island homes for sale, these properties are some of the most unique. You’ll find these canal properties on the Roosevelt Channel, which separates Captiva Island from Buck Key. Boating and fishing are some of the most obvious pastimes for people living or staying in these homes. For those who want immediate access to the open water, a canal home is a great choice.

Last but certainly not least on our list is Captiva Island homes near the beach. Like their Sanibel Island counterparts, these homes offer a great location between the shorelines and the excitement of town. Tenants or residents of these homes can walk to just about any attraction on the island, whether they’re looking for shopping, dining, water sports, museums, or anything in between. Plus, these homes often have access to the local marinas, golf courses, and tennis facilities.

aerial view of sanibel island real estate and beach view

Which One is Right for You?

So, now that you know about all the different Captiva and Sanibel Island real estate for sale, how do you know which home is right for you? Perhaps the most obvious way to start is by deciding on an island. Would you rather own property on Sanibel Island, which is a bit more popular and has a bit more to do, or do you want to opt for a quieter home on Captiva Island? If you need more reason to find a home in the area, here are the top ten destinations on Sanibel everyone loves!

Once you’ve chosen an island, pick one of the categories above. Is it important that you be close to the water? Does your home need to have a boat dock? Keep in mind that property that sits right on the water is likely to be more expensive than homes that are more inland. Additionally, waterfront homes tend to come with higher insurance costs. However, if you’re purchasing a home to use as an investment property, you can charge more for a waterfront property than if you were to choose a home closer to the center of town.

Choose David, Our Local Expert

One of the easiest ways to decide on your dream home is by working with a Sanibel and Captiva Island real estate agent. Having a local expert by your side allows you to have an experienced professional by your side, so you get an inside scoop on the local real estate scene. Your agent can also help you negotiate contracts and get the best deal for the property of your dreams. 

Buying or Selling?

David Schuldenfrei has long been one of the most trusted names in real estate in Sanibel and Captiva Islands. David has earned countless awards for his performance in the local real estate industry and holds some of the highest professional credentials in the field. David is passionate about helping every home buyer find the property of their dreams and purchase it for the best price. If you’re ready to make the leap and purchase a home on Sanibel or Captiva Islands, contact David Schuldenfrei today!