Archive for January, 2024

State of the Islands Summit

The Sanibel Captiva Islands Association of Realtors conducted the “State of the Islands” summit this morning. Of course, our VIP Realty Group Sanibel was well represented. These dedicated professionals are always on top of the latest information about Sanibel and Captiva real estate. Joining VIP Realtors and association Board members Connie Walters, Becky Mulka and Tina DiCharia this morning was... Read More »


“LIZARD BLIZZARD” Cold Snap This Week??

If you have spent any time on Sanibel and Captiva, you have probably encountered one of the many common green iguanas that live on our islands. Just like me, they don’t like the cold weather either! They become sluggish when the temperatures dip into the 50’s. 40 degree weather will put them into a state of torpor and cause them... Read More »


Betsy Kimrey, VIP Realty Group TOP Sales!

Congratulations, Betsy Kimrey, the VIP Realty Group Sanibel TOP Sales Realtor last month! It is no surprise that Betsy achieved this recognition as she is known for associating with the best in all her endeavors. When she and her family moved to Sanibel 3 years ago, she chose to work at VIP Realty Group, the TOP Producing Realty on the... Read More »


Karen Bell and the Bell Team, VIP Realty Group Top Producers!

Karen Bell and the Bell Team, which includes John Bates, Holly Peeples and Sherrill Sims, were recently recognized as TOP Producers for December, 2023. Since 1986, Bell has been a prominent broker in the region and repeatedly recognized as “Best of the Islands” Best Realtor. The Bell Team has been recognized as “Best of the Islands” a whopping 9 times!... Read More »


Teresa Baker, VIP TOP Listing Realtor

Congratulations, Teresa Baker, who was recognized for having the TOP Listings at VIP Realty Group last month. No matter that it was super-busy over the holidays, she continues to take great pride in her commitment to always being available to her clients and other agents. Teresa and her husband moved to Sanibel over 30 years ago. She has a Merchandising... Read More »


2024! Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary Year

At last week’s Council meeting, the city of Sanibel approved this special commemorative “50th Anniversary Logo”. Stay tuned for more information about celebrations throughout the year. And don’t forget to stop at the Sanibel Recreation Center to buy a few T-shirts with this special logo! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! VIP Realty Group, 1560 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel 239.472.5187 #VIPRealtygroupSanibel #sanibelvacationrentals #mysanibel... Read More »


Sanibel’s Arbor Day January 19, 2024

Although the national Arbor Day is held in April, Sanibel has been holding its own Arbor Day Celebration in-season for the past 35 years. As part of today’s celebration, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) encourages community members to “adopt-a-mangrove” and nurture the seedlings at home till they are ready to be planted in a restoration site this April. VIP Realty... Read More »


Iris Aloia

Iris Aloia was born in Kassel Germany and moved to the US where she became a US citizen as a young girl.  She spent her childhood years in Western Washington state, but her family’s sense of adventure led them to move to Alaska when Iris was just a teenager.  After graduating high school, Iris attended the University of Alaska, where... Read More »


Bowman’s Beach or Bust!

Nothing like living on an island and having your own boat! Especially when it’s low-maintenance and good for your health! Yes, I am talking about a kayak! After extensive research, I, #pearltheblogger, purchased this green, fiberglass beauty in 2020 that met all my requirements. I wanted a sit-upon kayak that would fit in my SUV and was easy to lift.... Read More »


Meet VIP Realty Top Producers for December, 2023

Congratulations, Betsy Kimrey, who had Top Sales in December! With a background in interior design, sales, lobbying and marketing, Kimrey found her true passion in real estate in Annapolis, Maryland. She grew up coming to the beaches of Southwest Florida and has fond memories of her first trip to Sanibel at the age of six. Drawn to the Gulf waters... Read More »