Date Archives: May 2022

You may be someone who looks forward to summer each year because it gives you an opportunity to rest, unwind, and enjoy more quality time with your loved ones. Now that summer is just around the corner, it's worthwhile to start thinking about your plans and where you want to spend your vacations this year. Here are a few reasons a vacation home could be right for you.

Why You May Want To Consider a Vacation Home Today

Over the past two years, a lot has changed. You may be one of many people who now work from home and have added flexibility in where you live. You may also be someone who delayed trips for personal or health reasons. If either is true for you, there could be a unique opportunity to use the flexibility that comes with remote work or the money saved while not traveling to invest in your future by buying a vacation home.

Bankrate explains why a second home, or a vacation home, may be something worth considering:

"For those who are able, buying a second home is suddenly more appealing, as remote working became the norm for many professionals during the pandemic. Why not work from the place where you like to vacation — the place where you want to live?

If you don't work remotely, a vacation home could still be at the top of your wish list if you have a favorite getaway spot that you visit often. It beats staying in a tiny hotel room or worrying about rental rates each time you want to take a trip."

How a Professional Can Help You Find the Right One

So, if you're looking for an oasis, you may be able to make it a second home rather than just the destination for a trip. If you could see yourself soaking up the sun in a vacation home, you may want to start your search. Summer is a popular time to buy vacation homes. By beginning the process now, you could get ahead of the competition.

The first step is working with a local real estate advisor who can help you find a home in your desired location. A professional has the knowledge and resources to help you understand the market, what homes are available and at what price points, and more. They can also walk you through all the perks of owning a second home and how it can benefit you.

A recent article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), mentions some of the top reasons buyers today are looking into purchasing a second, or a vacation, home:

"According to Google's data, the top reasons that homeowners cited for purchasing a second home were to diversify their investments, earn money renting, and use as a vacation home."

If any of the reasons covered here resonate with you, connect with a real estate professional to learn more. They can give you expert advice based on what you need, your goals, and what you're hoping to get out of your second home.

Bottom Line

Owning a vacation home is an investment in your future and your lifestyle. If this is one of your goals this year, you still have time to buy and enjoy spending the summer in your vacation home. When you're ready to get started, reach out to me for trusted advise and guidence.

Summer will be here in no time. Our real estate agents know that means summer IPAs.

The RVA is one of America's most vibrant craft brewing scenes. It encompasses some of the smallest micro-breweries and has also given rise to big brands. Whenever you're checking out Richmond homes for sale, you can rest assured local "beer wizards" are at work!

With more than a dozen breweries within Richmond alone, it can be a challenge to know where to start. In fact, the RVA is rich with brewery tours that will take you all around the area. But if you are ready and raring to jump in, we can recommend a few places that hit the spot with many of our clients.

Let's check in on a few of the Richmond area's top spots for a refreshing summer IPA:

• Legend Brewing – 321 West 7th Street, Richmond, VA 23224
  Legend Brewing is known for creative and innovative flavors such as the "Berliner Passion Fruit" ale, an "easy sip" that balances sweet and tart notes. Legend is a full-service restaurant and brewpub that goes above and beyond with a full menu. It bills itself as having the finest burgers in Richmond and boasts a scrumptious selection of sandwiches, salads, dinner entrees, and a dedicated kids' menu.
  
  
• Basic City Beer – 212 W 6th Street, Richmond, VA 23224
  With curbside ordering, Basic City Beer wants to make it easy to enjoy some of the most daring beers in Virginia. Drawing inspiration from the "lost town" of Basic City, Virginia in 1899, Basic City is an homage to the American spirit with an expansive beer menu. One notable small-batch craft beer is "Snoopel Bock," with distinctive smoky flavors. 
  
  
• Strange Ways Brewing – 2277A Dabney Road, Richmond, VA 23230
  Calling on visitors to "Think Strange, Drink Strange," Strange Ways Brewing is known for its hip and happening RVA tasting room. The selection starts with a "nucleus" of four beers available all year: "Helles Frozen Over," "Albino Monkey," "Woodbooger," and "Uberlin." From there, the rest is an eclectic mix in frequent rotation, showcasing three dozen seasonal and experimental offerings.
  
  
• The Veil Brewing Co. – 1301 Roseneath Road, Richmond, VA 23230
  The Veil Brewing Co. has three locations throughout Richmond, but the Scott's Addition taproom on Roseneath Road has a strong claim to be the most popular. With dozens of bottles and cans of bold, compelling flavors, plus plenty on draft, you will want to come back again and again. There's an ever-changing assortment of food trucks out front, too – pizza, barbecue, and tacos are usually available.
  
  
• Hardywood Park Craft Brewery – 2410 Ownby Lane, Richmond, VA 23220
  With its impressively vast 12,000 square foot warehouse space, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery is a place – and a team – that clearly means business. Beloved by locals and visitors alike for its packed calendar of music and other live events, its nearly 100 craft brews run the gamut from "Gingerbread Stout" (an Imperial Milk Stout) to "Bourbon Baltic Sunrise" (a Baltic Porter) and beyond.
  
  
• Ardent Craft Ales – 3200 West Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23230
  Lauded for its warm and welcoming atmosphere (and the occasional availability of locally produced ice cream), Ardent Craft Ales is a place where ale lovers are sure to feel at home. The beer garden and the taproom are both family-friendly, with kids meals and juice on the menu and outside food allowed.

Contact us to find out more about what Richmond, VA has to offer.

When you compare Richmond homes for sale, you're not just picking a building – you're choosing a community. Our real estate agents know the right neighborhood makes the winning difference. That's especially true when you have kids!

Moving to the RVA, you'll have your pick of family-friendly restaurants. Richmond cuisine runs the gamut from good old-fashioned burgers, pasta, and pizza to fusion cuisine that will expand young palates. There's always something new to try.

Let's take a look at some of the best kid-friendly options:

• Apollo's Flame-Baked Pizza and Grill – 9410 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23294
  Apollo's Flame-Baked Pizza and Grill is a superb selection for family pizza night. Some of the best pizza in town is served up in a quick and friendly atmosphere that won't keep you waiting. Chicken, seafood, stromboli, and more round out the menu anchored by the flame-baked or stuffed pizzas.
  
  
• Arianna's Italian Grill & Pizzeria Sheppard – 700 North Sheppard Street, Richmond, VA 23221
  Arianna's Italian Grill & Pizzeria Sheppard is the RVA location of the popular local Italian chain sprinkled throughout the area. Its pizza, pasta, and sandwiches tempt eaters of all ages. You'll find subs on and off the grill as well as beloved finger food options like the mozzarella sticks.
  
  
• Bev's Homemade Ice Cream – 2911 West Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23221
  Bev's Homemade Ice Cream is a terrific way to top off any meal in Richmond. Serving ice cream, coffee, and baked sweets since 1998, it has flavors that will delight any kid. All of the staples are available year-round, including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and nearly a dozen more. Scene-stealing special flavors rotate weekly and have a seasonal flair, so you'll always have a reason to come back.
  
  
• Bombolini Pasta – 1606 West Main Street, Richmond, VA 23220
  Bombolini Pasta prides itself on having "Pasta for Everybody," and if you have a picky eater in the family, it just might be one of your best bets in the RVA. Every meal comes with your choice of pasta and sauces, so you can stick with classic marinara or mac n' cheese for the little ones or go big with your own smoked salmon, carbonara, or classic Alfredo pasta. There are also plenty of pressed sandwiches.
  
  
• Buddy's Place – 600 North Sheppard Street, Richmond, VA 23221
  Buddy's Place is a neighborhood grill featuring a family-friendly weekend brunch that takes place on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 in the afternoon. Kids love Wednesday Burger Night, while adults won't mind the half-off prices. With a history dating back to 1976, it's a true piece of Richmond history that has grown with the neighborhood. 
  
  
• Carytown Burger & Fries – 3500 West Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23221
  Carytown Burger & Fries has been voted Best Burger in Richmond consistently for more than a decade. The menu is the result of six years of careful work by the team, but kids will love the legendary burgers, including more than a dozen flavorful options. There's also the kid-approved chicken tenders basket, hot dog basket, corndogs, BLT, and barbecue sandwich.

Your whole family will love calling the Richmond area home! Contact us to find out more about the RVA.

Spring is the perfect time to get out and partake in all the entertaining events and activities around Richmond homes for sale. Check out these incredible options that our real estate agents have on their must-list. 

1. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden - 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228
   April showers bring May flowers, and there's probably no better place to view nature's handiwork than Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Walk the 50-acre grounds that include upwards of a dozen themed gardens, including Cherry Tree Walk, Asian Valley, and the spectacular 11,000 square-foot Conservatory, dubbed the "Jewel of the Garden." Kids get a hands-on experience exploring a treehouse, planting seeds, and viewing wildlife in the Children's Garden. The whole family will enjoy special visiting exhibits such as Butterflies LIVE!, which runs through October 22. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, with extended Thursday hours through September. Admission is $17 for adults and $8 for ages 3-12.
   
   
2. Metro Richmond Zoo - 8300 Beaver Bridge Rd., Moseley, VA 23120
   No matter what your age, everyone's a kid when they visit the Metro Richmond Zoo. Located just minutes from Moseley homes for sale, the Zoo features more than 2,000 exotic animals as well as a large number of barnyard animals, such as chickens, sheep, and goats. Add to your adventure at Treetop Zoofari, the area's first zipline course. Try your hand at 40 challenges across 15 ziplines that span more than 3,000 feet. The smaller Junior Explorer Course lets the little ones join in on the fun. Zoo hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Tickets are $21.95 for adults and $15.95 for ages 2-11. Separate admission for Treetop Zoofari is $55 and $22.50 for the Junior Explorer Course.
   
   
3. Richmond Flying Squirrels - The Diamond, 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond, VA 23230
   Watch the next Mike Trout or Bryce Harper take the field for a game with the Richmond Flying Squirrels. As the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, the Squirrels have included MLB players such as Brandon Crawford, Hunter Strickland, and Brandon Belt on their roster. Nearly every game features a promotion such as fireworks, kids running the bases, and t-shirt giveaways. The regular season runs through Sunday, September 18. Visit the website for the full schedule and ticket prices. 
   
   
4. Richmond Scavenger Hunts
   Whether you're a lifelong resident or newly transplanted, you'll learn something fascinating during Richmond Scavenger Hunts. These self-guided interactive tours take you through culturally and historically important neighborhoods, including Downtown Richmond, Capitol Square, Museum District, and Church Hill. There is no time limit, so you can proceed at your own pace and make side trips as you like. Fee is $28 for teams of up to four people. Visit the website to purchase tours and download the app.
   
   
5. Dominion Energy Riverrock
   With activities ranging from biking to stand-up paddleboarding, Dominion Energy Riverrock is a great kickoff to summer outdoor fun. Founded in 2009, Riverrock is a pet-friendly outdoor sports and lifestyle festival taking place at various venues throughout Richmond. In addition to the competitive events, Adventure Zone offers a great opportunity for all ages to try slacklining, bouldering, and other activities at no charge. There will be food, beverages, and live music on hand when you need some downtime. Riverrock is set for Friday, May 20 through Sunday, May 22. Visit the website for schedule and competition registration fees.

Life in Richmond is always exciting, no matter what the season. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for experienced help.

National Barbecue Day is coming – and our real estate agents know just how to celebrate!

National Barbecue Day on May 16 celebrates one of the nation's time-honored culinary traditions. Although it's during the spring, May marks the start of the summer barbecue season. Why not kick things off with a bang?

There are over three dozen barbecue restaurants within a short drive of Richmond homes for sale.

No matter whether you love steak, pork, or grilled veggies, you'll have no end of selections for a National Barbecue Day to remember.

Let's take a look at some of your options throughout the RVA:

• Alamo BBQ – 2202 Jefferson Avenue, Richmond, VA 23223
  In the heart of the historic Church Hill neighborhood, Alamo BBQ dishes out authentic Texas-style meals and has won plenty of awards for its beef brisket. The menu is crafted with Tex-Mex flair – you'll also be able to enjoy fish tacos, grilled burritos, ribs, and a whole slew of fresh-made side dishes.
  
  
• Big Daddy's Barbecue & Ribs – 6359 Jahnke Road, Richmond, VA 23225
  Big Daddy's Barbecue & Ribs is so small you might miss it – a "mom and pop" drive-through barbecue joint. Locals laud the quick service and hot, fresh food (it's been called "bangin'") you can get in just a matter of minutes from Big Daddy's. Don't miss out on the Texas brisket and baby back ribs!
  
  
• Hawk's BBQ – 8191 Brook Road, Richmond, VA 23227
  With 50 years of history behind it, Hawk's BBQ is a storied local barbecue place known for its burgers and "legendary" fried fish. The headliner on the barbecue side is the Hawk's BBQ Sandwich, with its slow-roasted pork marinated in house sweet and tangy sauce, then piled high.
  
  
• HogsHead Cafe – 8902 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23294
  HogsHead Cafe will treat you to barbecue made fresh from scratch using the finest ingredients. Visitors come from miles around to try The HogsHead Special, which consists of signature pulled pork topped with baked beans and coleslaw. You'll also find tacos, hot dogs, burgers, soups, and salads!
  
  
• Inner City Blues – 3015 Nine Mile Road, Richmond, VA 23223
  Inner City Blues bills itself as "the home of Carolina barbecue" here in Richmond. You'll find a full range of barbecue and soul food recipes with dinners, including smoked pork ribs, pig feet, and pork chops. You can also walk away with brisket, barbecue chicken, pork, or ribs by the pound to savor later on.
  
  
• Oak & Apple – 1814 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23223
  Oak & Apple was known for its spacious patio before outdoor dining was cool. A popular spot in the spring, it is beloved for its seasonal events and involvement in the community. There's always a new deal at Oak & Apple, whether that means whole smoked turkeys for Thanksgiving, New Year's party pre-order packs, or cider specials during CiderCon. It truly is a taste of Richmond, VA culture.

See for yourself what life in Richmond has to offer! Contact us to discover more about the RVA today.