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Online Auction Surpasses $1 Million for Charity

Naples Winter Wine Festival 2026

The Naples Winter Wine Festival 2026 has once again demonstrated why it is a global leader in philanthropy. This year’s online auction officially surpassed the $1 million mark, continuing a decade-long tradition of raising vital funds for at-risk and vulnerable children in Collier County.

As a cornerstone of the Naples lifestyle, the festival—themed “Picture This”—brings together world-class vintners, celebrity chefs, and generous donors. The LeAne SUAREZ Group is proud to share how these incredible results will directly impact our local community.

Breaking Records: Online & Live Auction Results

The 12th annual online auction generated over $1 million, with $742,500 coming from direct lot bidding and the remainder attributed to the “Fund a Need” initiative. Since its inception in 2015, the online extension alone has raised nearly $6 million.

When combined with the high-energy live auction, which raised over $30 million, the festival has now generated more than $366 million since 2001.

Top-Grossing Luxury Lots: From the Bahamas to the Blue Ridge

Bidders from across the country competed for over 100 exclusive offerings. Here are the highlights of the top-grossing lots:

  • The Top Seller ($31,000): “An Unforgettable Bahamas Escape at The Abaco Club.” This luxury package included a 5-day stay for three couples, featuring island adventures and a private lesson with Open champion Darren Clarke.

  • Italian Sunday Dinner ($30,000): Hosted by NCF trustees Valerie Boyd and Jeff Gargiulo (owners of Gargiulo Vineyards) at their private Naples estate.

  • North Carolina Getaways: A VIP Highlands Food & Wine Festival experience brought in $27,500, while two Linville Ridge escapes sold for a combined $27,000.

  • Naples Exclusives: A wine-paired dinner at the members-only Butcher Private, complete with a two-night Bentley rental, fetched $22,500.

Impact: Transforming the Lives of Collier County Children

Every dollar raised through the Naples Winter Wine Festival 2026 supports the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF). To date, the festival has provided essential services to an estimated 385,000 children through grants to nearly 90 local nonprofit organizations.

Local Expert Note: The impact of these auctions is tangible. Funds are specifically allocated to bridge gaps in healthcare, mental health, and education. On March 16, 2026, the NCEF will officially award these grants to the local organizations that keep our community thriving.

Facility & Contact Information

The Naples Winter Wine Festival is the primary fundraiser for the Naples Children & Education Foundation.

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A New Era for Luxury Automobiles in East Naples

A 2024 Porsche ST and 2022 Rolls-Royce Cullinan showcased inside the new DuPont Registry exotic car dealership in Naples, Florida.

DuPont Registry Naples has officially arrived, marking a major milestone in the local luxury car market. Following the acquisition and rebranding of West Coast Exotic Cars, the world-renowned DuPont Registry brand celebrated the grand opening of its premier showroom at 2365 Linwood Ave on February 3, 2026.

Located just minutes from downtown Naples, this expansion signifies a deepening investment in the Southwest Florida lifestyle. The move coincides with the 22nd annual Cars on Fifth Concours, as the Naples Automotive Experience officially merged with the DuPont Registry brand last year.

The New State-of-the-Art Showroom

The 7,200-square-foot facility, owned by Naples resident John Reisman, is a testament to resilience. After the previous structure was lost to Hurricane Ian in 2022, the new building was engineered with the future in mind.

Local Expert Note: To protect high-value inventory from future storm surges, the facility was raised by 7 feet and equipped with advanced vehicle lifts that elevate cars two levels above the ground.

Exotic Inventory & Highlights

The DuPont Registry Naples showroom features a curated collection of some of the world’s most sought-after vehicles. At the grand opening, the inventory showcased an impressive range of price points and performance:

  • The Showstopper: A 2024 Porsche ST with only 288 miles, priced at $644,970.

  • The Classics: A fleet of four red Ferraris flanking the indoor entrance.

  • Ultra-Luxury: A 2022 Rolls-Royce Cullinan ($313,950) and a 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato ($309,950).

  • The Masterpiece: An outdoor display featuring a Pagani—an Italian sports car valued at over $2 million.

Management & Vision

The dealership will be managed by Naples local Mike Crofton. During the opening, Eric Curran, President of Sales for DuPont Registry, noted that the brand’s move into Naples is a “huge deal,” bridging the gap between the historic DuPont Registry magazine legacy and a physical, high-tech presence in one of the country’s top exotic car markets.

Whether you are attending Cars on Fifth this weekend or looking to add a new piece to your collection, the arrival of DuPont Registry Naples is a clear indicator that the Naples luxury market continues to reach new heights.

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Island Update

Protecting Our Paradise: The Protect Captiva Art Auction Opening Night

Protect Captiva Legal Update 2026

The LeAne SUAREZ Group is proud to support our friends and neighbors at the Captiva Civic Association (CCA) for a special evening dedicated to the preservation of our island. Tonight, Thursday, February 5, 2026, marks the Opening Night celebration of the Protect Captiva Art Auction.

This event is a unique opportunity to acquire beautiful works from talented local artists while directly contributing to the Protect Captiva Legal Fund. These funds are critical in the ongoing efforts to protect the fragile beauty and low-density charm of our barrier island.

Event Details: Opening Night Celebration

  • When: Tonight, February 5 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

  • Where: Captiva Civic Association

  • What to Expect: An evening of fine art, live music, delicious food, and drinks shared with the local community.

How the Silent Auction Works

If you cannot attend the celebration in person, you can still participate in the mission from anywhere in the world!

  • Bidding Period: The auction is live now and will run until noon on February 12.

  • Remote Access: The auction is fully remote, allowing supporters near and far to bid on unique, donated art pieces.

  • Impact: All proceeds go to the Protect Captiva Legal Fund via the CCA Foundation (a 501(c)(3) organization).

Take Action Now

Whether you are joining us tonight or bidding from your living room, your participation helps ensure Captiva remains the sanctuary we all love.

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Real Estate News Island Update

Buying with Pets: The Sanibel vs Captiva Rule Every Dog Owner Needs to Know

Pet friendly real estate Sanibel Captiva

Navigating the market for pet friendly real estate Sanibel Captiva requires understanding one critical difference: the beach laws. For many of our clients, a beach home isn’t a “home” unless the four-legged family members can come too. As we enter the peak of the 2026 season, here is the “Paws on the Ground” reality of buying with pets on the islands.

The short version? Sanibel is for dog lovers; Captiva is for boat lovers. Below, we break down the zoning, the “Hidden” condo restrictions, and the best spots for your pack.

The Big Rule: Dogs on the Beach

This is the #1 shock for new buyers. The rules for pets on the sand are strictly enforced and completely different between the two islands.

🐶 Sanibel Island: YES

Sanibel is incredibly pet-welcoming. Leashed dogs are allowed on ALL public beaches.

  • The Rules: Leash must be max 8 feet. You must pick up waste.
  • Best Spot: Algiers Beach (Gulfside City Park) is a local favorite for dog walking due to its wide sands and picnic areas.

🚫 Captiva Island: NO

With very few exceptions, dogs are NOT allowed on Captiva’s public beaches.

  • The Reality: If you buy a home on Captiva, you can have pets in your house (subject to HOA rules), but you cannot walk them on the public beach.
  • The Exception: Some private bayfronts or specific resort zones (like South Seas) may have designated dog-walking paths, but the Gulf beach is generally off-limits for pups.

The “Hidden” Condo Obstacle: Weight Limits

If you are looking for pet friendly real estate Sanibel Captiva condos, you must ask about the “Weight Limit” before viewing.

Many complexes advertise as “Pet Friendly,” but the fine print often restricts owners to:

  • One pet only.
  • Maximum weight of 20-25 lbs.

This is a dealbreaker for Golden Retriever or Labrador owners. However, there are specific complexes on Sanibel (like Blind Pass Condos or Loggerhead Cay) that are known for more lenient pet policies. Expert Tip: Never rely on a Zillow listing description. We always pull the official 2026 Condo Association Documents to verify restrictions haven’t changed.

The “Pet-Friendly” ROI Factor in 2026

From an investment standpoint, buying a home that allows pets can significantly boost your rental income.

  • Sanibel Advantage: Since Sanibel allows daily/weekly rentals in fewer zones, maximizing occupancy in monthly rentals is key. Marketing your home as “Pet Friendly” can increase inquiries by up to 30%, as many snowbirds refuse to travel without their companions.
  • The “Fence” Premium: In 2026, we are seeing a premium on homes with pre-existing fenced yards. New fencing regulations on the islands can be strict regarding wildlife corridors, so buying a home with a “Grandfathered” fence is a huge asset.
  • Pet Deposits: Standard practice in 2026 is charging a $250-$500 non-refundable pet fee per booking, which often covers the extra cleaning costs entirely.

Local Resources for Island Dogs

Living here means knowing where to go when your pup needs help. We are fortunate to have excellent care nearby:

  • Coral Veterinary Clinic: Located right on Sanibel, they are the go-to for island residents.
  • General Store Provisions: Many local shops, including Jerry’s Foods, carry premium pet supplies so you don’t have to drive off-island for food.

Community Spotlight: Open Arms Pet Carnival

We love supporting the organizations that care for our furry friends. If you are in town later this month, keep an eye out for the Open Arms Pet Hostel “Pet Carnival” coming at the end of February 2026! It’s a fantastic way to support a local cause while meeting other pet-loving neighbors.

Which Island Fits Your Pack?

Choose Sanibel if: Morning beach walks with your dog are a non-negotiable part of your dream lifestyle. You have a large dog (over 50 lbs) and need a single-family home with a yard.

Choose Captiva if: You prefer a boat-centric lifestyle and are happy walking your dog on the village paths or golf cart trails instead of the sand.

LeAne’s Tip: “If you plan to rent your home, check the insurance policy first. Some carriers in Florida have ‘Breeds of Concern’ lists that can affect your liability coverage. We can connect you with pet-friendly insurance agents.”

Looking for a  pet-friendly property on Sanibel or Captiva? Text LeAne or Alec directly, and we will send you the curated list of “Dog Approved” properties available right now.

Additionally, here is the live feed of every Pet-Friendly property for sale on Sanibel and Captiva Island right now.


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Island Update

Island Resilience: The Historic Anchor Inn & Cottages Welcomes Guests Back to Sanibel

Anchor Inn & Cottages

A significant piece of island history has officially returned. Following a major transformation, the Anchor Inn & Cottages celebrated its official ribbon-cutting with the SanCap Chamber on January 20. The property is set to begin accepting reservations on February 1, marking a triumphant milestone for the Sanibel community.

The restoration of this two-acre landmark at 1245 Periwinkle Way has been a highly anticipated project. “Everyone on the island has been watching the transformation of one of Sanibel’s most unique and historic properties,” noted John Lai, President and CEO of the SanCap Chamber.

Preserving Heritage: The Iconic A-Frame Restoration

Originally built in 1959 as the Villa Capri, the Anchor Inn & Cottages is famous for its retro A-frame structures. Owners Erica and Rick Markham faced significant architectural hurdles during the renovation, including replacing narrow spiral staircases and increasing natural light while maintaining the units’ vintage charm.

The meticulous restoration of all 12 units features:

  • Nautical Aesthetics: A refined “islandy” vibe incorporating local art, including notable works by Sanibel artist Rachel Pierce.

  • Resilient Upgrades: Modern impact windows and elevated equipment to ensure the property’s long-term endurance.

  • Original Details: A return to the durable and classic terrazzo floors that are a hallmark of mid-century Florida design.

A Stronger, More Resilient Sanibel Community

The reopening of the Anchor Inn & Cottages is more than just a business launch; it is a testament to the island’s endurance. To bolster storm resilience, the owners focused on “stormproofing” the site as much as possible, from the landscaping to the pool and block building.

The overwhelming support from the Sanibel community has been a driving force throughout the project. The Markhams highlighted the “tightknit” nature of the island, noting that the community’s encouragement has made the challenging journey of restoring this historic gem incredibly rewarding.

LeAne SUAREZ Group is thrilled to see the continued revitalization of Sanibel’s historic corridor. Properties like the Anchor Inn & Cottages are what give our islands their unmatched soul and lasting appeal.

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SWFL Update

Travel Advisory: Permanent Concession Closures for RSW Terminal Expansion

RSW terminal expansion

As part of Phase 1 for the RSW terminal expansion, the Lee County Port Authority has announced the permanent closure of several popular food, beverage, and retail locations within the main terminal and Concourse C. These changes are essential to clearing space for the new, consolidated 16-lane TSA security checkpoint and expanded passenger amenities.

Key Closure Dates and Locations

Travelers should take note of the following permanent closures taking effect this week:

  • Sunday Night, Feb. 1, 2026:

    • Great American Bagel (Concourse C)

    • Jose Cuervo Tequileria (Main Terminal)

    • Sbarro (Concourse C)

  • Monday Night, Feb. 2, 2026:

    • Brighton Collectibles, Coastal News, Dylan’s Candy Bar, and the PGA Tour Shop (All in the Main Terminal)

Remaining Pre-Security Options at RSW

While these central locations are closing to make way for the RSW terminal expansion, travelers still have options before heading through security. The Dunkin’ locations in the hallways leading to Concourses B and D will remain operational.

For quick needs, the Beaches Travelmart (located within Dunkin’) and the Grab & Go kiosk in the Baggage Claim area near Door 2 will continue to serve passengers. Additionally, all post-security dining and retail options on the concourses remain available to ticketed passengers.

Looking Ahead: The Goal of the RSW Terminal Expansion

This phase of construction is focused on significantly improving airport efficiency and passenger comfort. Once complete, the RSW terminal expansion will provide:

  • A streamlined, single-checkpoint security process.

  • Over 117,000 square feet of new walkways and concession space.

  • The airport’s first-ever business lounge, located above the entrance to Concourse C.

These improvements are critical as Southwest Florida continues to welcome record numbers of visitors to our world-class beaches and communities.

LeAne SUAREZ Group is dedicated to keeping you informed about the infrastructure projects that impact your travel and property values in Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva.

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Island Update

Local Culture: Sanibel-Captiva Art League and SCCF Announce ‘NATURE’ Exhibit

Sanibel-Captiva Art League

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and the Sanibel-Captiva Art League are collaborating this season to present their Winter 2026 exhibition, titled ‘NATURE’. Running from February 10 through March 6, 2026, this showcase highlights the deep connection between artistic expression and environmental stewardship in Southwest Florida.

The exhibition will be hosted at the Historic Bailey Homestead (1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel), offering visitors a chance to view fine art within a landmark setting that perfectly complements the theme.

Celebrating Florida’s Ecosystems with the Sanibel-Captiva Art League

The ‘NATURE’ exhibit features an entirely new collection of artwork created by members of both organizations. Each piece draws inspiration from the local environment—vibrant native flora, lush tropical trees, winding waterways, and the diverse wildlife that defines the region.

This collaboration allows the Sanibel-Captiva Art League to use vivid artistic language to advocate for the ecological beauty that the SCCF works tirelessly to protect. For those looking to support local conservation and the arts, all showcased pieces will be available for purchase.

Event Details & Visiting Information

The exhibit is free and open to the public during the following hours:

  • Dates: February 10 – March 6, 2026

  • Hours: Tuesdays through Fridays, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

  • Location: Historic Bailey Homestead, 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL

  • Admission: Free admission and parking

About the Organizers

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is a pillar of the community, dedicated to preserving coastal habitats and aquatic resources. Partnering with them is the Sanibel-Captiva Art League, which has been fostering the creation and appreciation of fine arts on the islands since 1964.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding grounds, including the SCCF Native Garden Center, to fully experience the beauty that inspired the artwork on display. For more information regarding the exhibit, visit the official SCCF website.

LeAne SUAREZ Group is proud to support the organizations that preserve the unique character of our islands. Staying informed on local art and conservation is key to enjoying the vibrant Sanibel and Captiva lifestyle.

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Real Estate News

Naples Real Estate Market Closed Sales Surge 29% in December

Statistical chart showing the 2025 year-end growth and price trends for the Naples real estate market.

The Naples real estate market concluded 2025 with significant momentum, as closed sales surged nearly 29% in December. This activity marks the seventh consecutive month of improvement, signaling a market that is successfully regaining its balance after several years of high volatility.

According to the latest Naples Area Board of Realtors (NABOR) report, there were 773 closed sales in December, a substantial increase from the 600 recorded during the same period the previous year. Broker analysts attribute this growth to increased seller flexibility and a strategic shift in pricing strategies.

Easing Prices and Growing Opportunities

While sales volume increased, the overall median closed price across Collier County (excluding Marco Island) declined 5% in December to $570,000. For the full year, the median price eased by 2.5%. With 8.3 months of inventory now available, the Naples real estate market is moving toward conditions that are increasingly favorable for buyers.

Luxury and High-Demand Segments

Despite the decline in median prices, the luxury sector continues to show incredible strength:

  • High-End Growth: Closed sales for properties over $5 million increased 16.6% throughout 2025.

  • Coastal Surge: The Naples Beach area (zip codes 34102, 34103, and 34108) saw a remarkable 52.3% jump in December sales.

  • Affordable Options: The condominium market under $300,000 also saw a significant boost, with sales climbing over 56% during the year.

Emerging Trends: Multigenerational Living and Geographic Shifts

Analysts are noting a distinct shift in buyer interest toward the eastern corridors. Areas east of Airport Road, particularly Golden Gate Estates, are becoming top targets for those seeking larger lots or building multigenerational homes. This trend is supported by stabilizing insurance rates and mortgage rates holding near the 6% mark.

As we move into the peak winter season, the “priced to sell” strategy remains the most effective for homeowners. Properties that reflect current market values are rising to the top of search results and attracting the most serious offers.

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Real Estate News

Babcock Ranch Home Sales Surpass 1,000 Transactions in 2025

Residential neighborhood and solar farm at Babcock Ranch showing 2025 growth.

While the broader regional housing market faced various challenges last year, Babcock Ranch home sales demonstrated remarkable strength. In 2025, the master-planned community achieved a 34% increase in transactions, surpassing the 1,000-annual-sale milestone for the first time in its history.

With a total of 1,066 homes sold last year, the town has officially welcomed over 15,000 residents. National research firms RCLCO and John Burns Research and Consulting both ranked the community as the fourth best-selling master-planned community in the United States in their year-end reports.

National Recognition for Babcock Ranch Home Sales

This ranking cements the town’s prominence in a competitive national landscape. Syd Kitson, founder of Babcock Ranch, noted that the achievement validates the community’s core pillars of sustainability and innovation. More buyers are prioritizing resilient infrastructure, leading to a “market embrace” of the town’s unique blueprint.

A Blueprint for Sustainability and Resilience

The sustained demand for Babcock Ranch home sales is largely driven by its environmental and structural design. Built 30 feet above sea level, the town famously maintained full power and structural integrity during Hurricane Ian, a Category 5 storm.

Key features contributing to this resilience include:

  • Solar Power Integration: An 870-acre solar farm anchors the community, ensuring clean energy production for homes and businesses.

  • Underground Infrastructure: Hardened underground power lines and fiber-optic cables significantly reduce the risk of outages.

  • Stormwater Management: Roughly half of the town’s footprint is dedicated to greenways and lakes designed to manage heavy rainfall naturally.

Diverse Living Options and Amenities

Housing within the community spans a wide range of price points, with homes starting in the $200,000s and luxury estates reaching over $4 million. The 18,000-acre development is increasingly self-contained, featuring A-rated public charter schools, a Publix supermarket, and multiple 55-plus neighborhoods.

As development continues, the town is planned to eventually host 19,500 residences and 6 million square feet of commercial space. This growth confirms its status as one of the most closely watched and successful developments in Southwest Florida.

For more detailed information on the community’s design and upcoming phases, you can visit the official Babcock Ranch website.

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SWFL Update

Chuck Lager Legendary Kitchen Debuts in South Fort Myers

Interior of the new Chuck Lager Legendary Kitchen in South Fort Myers featuring globally inspired decor.

Southwest Florida’s culinary scene continues to expand with the official opening of Chuck Lager Legendary Kitchen on January 26. Located at 9980 University Plaza Drive—just off Alico Road near Gulf Coast Town Center—this upscale casual concept brings a unique blend of global flavors and American comfort to the local market.

The restaurant is the result of a $1 million-plus renovation of a former Chili’s building, led by franchise owner Jim Tovey. The transformation has turned the space into a vibrant, globally inspired gathering spot for residents in both Lee and Collier counties.

A Menu Crafted by Celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani

The identity of Chuck Lager Legendary Kitchen is deeply rooted in the culinary vision of “Top Chef” alumnus and Food Network personality Fabio Viviani. The menu is designed to offer “reimagined American favorites,” balancing approachable comfort food with sophisticated international influences.

Diners can expect a wide variety of offerings, including:

  • Diverse Entrees: From artisanal flatbreads and street tacos to pasta dishes and premium Angus ribeye steaks.

  • Craft Beverages: A rotating selection of over 20 beers on tap, featuring local Southwest Florida brews, alongside signature craft cocktails.

  • Accessible Pricing: With most entrees ranging between $20 and $30, the menu provides an elevated dining experience suitable for both casual lunches and milestone dinners.

The Global Theme of Chuck Lager Legendary Kitchen

The restaurant’s atmosphere reinforces its world-traveler identity. The decor features artwork depicting the fictional “Chuck Lager” character in various international locales, from Bavaria and France to Santiago and Brooklyn.

Jim Tovey, a Naples resident and former financial services professional, selected this specific brand for its strong identity and broad appeal. This South Fort Myers location serves as the flagship for the chain in the local market, strategically positioned to serve the growing population near the university and major shopping corridors.

Hours of Operation

The new Chuck Lager Legendary Kitchen offers the following hours for local guests:

  • Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

  • Friday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.