Points To Consider While Consulting Sanibel Real Estate Agents

Sanibel Island’s comprehensive land-use plan, adopted in 1976 and updated five times since lays out development rules for the island. Sanibel’s rules are more stringent than those in surrounding areas so a Sanibel real estate agent can play an important part in helping guide you to a successful purchase on the island. In particular, a Sanibel real estate agent who is also a designated Sanibel & Captiva Islands specialist will be more knowledgeable than an agent who has not gone through the training to receive the designation.

People who purchase property on Sanibel are sophisticated and may not generally need assistance with a real estate purchase. However, Sanibel has its share of horror stories concerning individuals who purchased investment property for rental income but then found they could not rent the property as they wished or that purchased vacant land on which to build a dream home, only to find that the house could not be built as envisioned. A Sanibel real estate agent will be aware of the unique rules that could interfere with your plans and direct you to a more appropriate property.

While some work may not require development or building permits it will still need to comply with applicable codes. A Sanibel real estate agent will be familiar with permitting requirements governed by City ordinances, zoning regulations and various building codes.

The agent can also refer you to a reputable attorney who understands Florida property taxes and how a Florida Homestead Exemption might benefit you, what property management team might be best for you to work with, where to find a reliable handyman, or provide the name of a professional and reliable insurance agent who is knowledgeable about the types of insurance that may be required for property on a barrier island.

Finally a Sanibel real estate agent will be available to you after your purchase, to answer any of the other multiple questions that can, and will arise.

Points to Consider Before Buying Real Estate on Sanibel Island

If you’ve ever visited Sanibel, you will know just how special time on the island can be. It is the type of place that attracts repeat visitors and families who come for the sanctuary quality of the island. In addition to the amount of conservation area on Sanibel, the island is ranked as one of the best shelling beaches in the world. This is one of the reasons why investors look at real estate on Sanibel for their next investment. Whether you want to expand your investment portfolio or experience island life, these are some things you should consider before buying property on Sanibel Island:

• Single-family home versus condominium. Perhaps one of the most important questions to answer when investing in real estate in Sanibel is whether you want a single-family home or a condo. If cash flow is your main concern, a condo that allows for shorter rentals may be a good choice. However, if you want a property that you can move into sometime in the future, then a single-family home might be a better option.
• Another consideration when buying Sanibel real estate is whether you should invest in a fixer-upper or buy a turnkey property that doesn’t require as much additional work. The advantage to a fixer-upper property is that you might be able to purchase it at a lower price and remodel or make updates to increase its value and rental potential. Turnkey homes, on the other hand, generally mean less work and have the potential for better rentals.