Articles Tagged "Area information"

August 17 is National Thrift Shop Day, and thrifters in the Richmond area have plenty of options when it comes to finding vintage goods at a bargain! 

Whether you're on the hunt for vintage clothes, antique furniture, or artwork, you never know what treasures await at your local thrift shop. That's why our real estate agents are excited to share some of their favorite thrift stores in Richmond.

• Buffalo Exchange - 3140 W Cary St B, Richmond, VA 23221
  Located in Richmond's vibrant Carytown neighborhood, Buffalo Exchange is a hip vintage establishment that focuses on trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories for men and women. Buffalo Exchange is just minutes from countless Richmond homes for sale, and you're sure to find something that suits your style in their ever-changing collection. It's also a great place to sell and trade your own vintage wares, so bring in your gently used clothes in exchange for cash or store credit. 
  
  
• West End Thrift - 7219 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23294
  West End Thrift is a classic you-never-know-what-you'll find thrift shop. There's always a great selection of used clothes and furniture, but you could just as easily snag a few vinyl records for your collection, a funky lamp for your eclectic living room, or a painting that is truly one-of-a-kind.
  
  
• Nifty Thrifty Store - 2821 Hathaway Rd, Richmond, VA 23225
  You can find all kinds of fun (and sometimes strange) items at Nifty Thrifty Store, a cozy little thrift shop in the Stratford Hills Shopping Center. On a typical day, Nifty Thrifty is well-stocked with kitchen wares like mugs, dinnerware sets, and cookware, along with books, records, and CDs. Best of all, Nifty Thrifty Store donates a portion of its profits to helping fight homelessness in Virginia, so it's great to know that you're supporting a good cause when you shop in the store or donate your own items. 
  
  
• Indigo Avenue Clothes - 448 N Ridge Rd, Richmond, VA 23229
  Arguably the leading vintage store in Richmond for women's fashion, Indigo Avenue Clothes is a great place to get like-new and gently used designer brand clothes at a fraction of the price. From dresses and blouses to shoes and handbags, this place always has a unique selection of great clothes. There's also a steady stream of new arrivals, and you're welcome to bring in your own vintage clothing to sell on consignment. 
  
  
• Class and Trash - 1720 Altamont Ave, Richmond, VA 23230
  You'll find Class and Trash tucked away in the rapidly-revitalizing Scott's Addition neighborhood, where they sell all kinds of antiques, vintage goods, and old-fashioned oddities. With a focus on furniture, fixtures, décor, and collectibles, they offer some truly surprising and one-of-a-kind stuff. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Central Virginia! And if you're looking for the perfect Richmond home for you and your family, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

Nearly eight million people visit Richmond each year, but some of the more fascinating attractions remain known only to locals. Get in on the fun at these hidden gems that are particular favorites of our real estate agents.

• Pipeline Walk - 310 S. 14th St., Richmond, VA 23219
  You'll feel like a true insider when you visit the Pipeline Walk, part of the beautiful James River Park System. Once you reach the parking lot, descend a metal ladder that leads to the catwalk on top of the pipeline. When levels are high on the namesake rapids, the churning waters offer mesmerizing views. Low levels expose massive granite boulders. See how many birds you can spot on nearby Bailey's Island and Devil's Kitchen Island. Hours are sunrise to sunset daily.
  
  
• Whilom Goods - 1 N. 2nd St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Everything old is new again at Whilom Goods, a charming vintage shop. "Whilom" is an old-fashioned term referring to "something that once was," which is fitting for the carefully curated collection of finds from flea markets, estate sales, and thrift shops. Items range from art and accessories to clothing and home decor. Whitney, owner, and curator of Whilom Goods, also creates handmade clay jewelry and soy candles that are sold in the store. Whilom Goods is open weekends from noon - 4 p.m.
  
  
• Capitol Waffle Shop - 1110 E. Main St., Suite B, Richmond, VA 23219
  When it comes to sweet and savory mash-ups, chicken and waffles just scratches the surface. Capitol Waffle Shop features an incredible 18 savory waffle options, including classic chicken and waffles and chicken Philly, topped with melted queso, arugula, sundried tomatoes, and sauteed peppers and onions. Their decadent sriracha baked mac & cheese queso waffle was featured on Food Network's Cheat Day USA. Can't wait for the weekend? Waffle and mimosa brunch is served daily. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. daily except Monday and Tuesday when doors close at 2 p.m.
  
  
• Institute for Contemporary Art - Virginia Commonwealth University, 601 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
  World-class art is available just minutes from Richmond homes for sale at the Institute for Contemporary Art. This incredible facility is part of VCU's School of the Arts, but it's open to the public. The ICA showcases a fascinating selection of exhibits, performances, films, and cultural programs to encourage open discussion and innovation. Current exhibits include Doing Language: Word Work, which explores the role of language in expressing life experiences. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and admission is free for all visitors.
  
  
• Sandman Comedy Club - 401 E. Grace St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Aristotle declared that laughter is "a bodily exercise, precious to health." If that's the case, a visit to Sandman Comedy Club is better than an apple a day. Enjoy dinner and signature cocktails as you watch some of today's top comedians perform. If you have a joke or two of your own, stop by on Sunday for Sandman's popular open mic night. Shows are scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with ticket prices starting at $15. Visit the website for a full calendar of events.

Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for all your real estate needs. 

If you enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, handmade crafts, and mingling with neighbors, Richmond has quite a few local markets that take place all summer long. Shopping at small businesses helps to support the community, local economy, and independent artists and farmers. Since food doesn't travel far to get to the local market, you're sure to find some of the freshest fruits and vegetables around. 

You just might run into one of our real estate agents shopping at one of these local markets this summer:

• Richmond Night Market - 100 N 17th St, Richmond, VA 23219
  Food, live music, and tons of local artists can all be found at the Richmond Night Market, which has become a fun, popular weekend activity over the years. You never know what you'll find, and it's a great chance to become acquainted with some of Richmond's best local businesses. The event takes place at the 17th Street market every second Saturday of the month between 5 pm and 9 pm from April through December. The market is just a short drive away from these Richmond homes for sale.
   
• Pop Up RVA - 3001 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220
  Explore dozens of local artists, food trucks, wineries, distilleries, and more at this fun community market that takes place every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm at the Diamond (home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels) Red Lot. You can check Pop Up RVA's website for a list of vendors and a live music schedule. 
  
  
• Carytown Farmer's Market - At City Stadium, 3201 Maplewood Ave, Richmond, VA 23221
  Food travels an average distance of 31 short miles from the farm to Richmond's premier farmer's market, which sources food from 156 acres of local farmland and supports 28 local businesses in total. Shop local specialty foods and crafts from a wide selection of vendors every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. The Carytown Farmer's Market runs weekly from May through October.  
  
  
• On The Square VA Farmer's Market - 109 Governor Street, Richmond, VA 23219
  Break up the workday and stop by this lunchtime downtown market for some of the freshest local fruit, vegetables, baked goods, condiments, gifts, and more. You'll find high-quality products and reasonable prices at On the Square VA Farmer's Market, which takes place every Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm from May through September. The market is located in the plaza adjacent to the Madison Building. 
  
  
• Lakeside Farmer's Market - 6106 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228
  Enjoy some of the great local produce at the Lakeside Farmer's Market, which operates Wednesdays and Saturdays all year long. One trip to this wonderful local market is all you need to make some of the tastiest farm-to-table dishes at home. You'll also find tons of handmade goods, so it's a great place to grab a gift. If you're interested in living nearby, there are some beautiful Henrico homes for sale just a short drive away.

Richmond has a strong local food economy, and visiting our great local markets is a great way to support it. Considering a move to our area? Contact us today to check out some listings.

So summer is almost here and you're already dreading the cries of, "There's nothing to do!" Our real estate agents have been there, and they recommend these wonderful summer programs near Richmond homes for sale to keep your kids engaged in productive and entertaining activities. 

• Steward School Summer Experience - The Steward School, 11600 Gayton Rd., Richmond, VA 23238
  With more than 80 programs for K-12 students, the Steward School Summer Experience offers something for everyone. Camp categories include Academics, Arts, Innovation, Sports, and Traditional. Choose from full-day, half-day, or single-session options, along with early drop-off and extended daycare for maximum flexibility. Share quality time with parents and kids workshops in activities such as painting, cooking, and yoga. Visit the website for full catalog, including schedule and pricing. 
  
  
• Twist Gymnastics - 2130 John Rolfe Pkwy., Richmond, VA 23233
  Whether your child dreams of the Olympics or just enjoys challenging themselves, Twist Gymnastics will help them accomplish their goals. Summer camps are available in half-day and full-day options, by the week or day. Full-day camps include afternoon sessions in Young Chef's Academy, with hands-on lessons in preparing healthy and delicious meals. Camps begin the week of June 20 - June 24, and discounted pricing is given for additional siblings. Learn more at the Twist Gymnastics website.
  
  
• SPARC - 2106 N. Hamilton St., Richmond, VA 23230
  Kids can develop their creative and performing chops at summer camps offered by SPARC. K-Grade 4 students have fun with themed sessions like, "Super Pets and Super Friends," while Grades 5-12 take part in film and performing arts classes, including the chance to stage a production of Spamalot, SPARC's summer musical for 2022. Camps run for one to two weeks. Visit the website for more information.
  
  
• RoboKai - Village Marketplace Shopping Center, 13114 Midlothian Tpke., Midlothian, VA 23113
  Robots have gone from a fixture of sci-fi films to real-life applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and industry. Half-day summer camps at RoboKai, not far from Midlothian homes for sale, let kids explore this fascinating field through games and teamwork. Many activities are live-streamed for parents to follow, and each camp concludes with a lively tournament. Classes are open to kids from ages 7-12 with any level of experience. Monday through Friday sessions from 8 a.m. - noon or 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. begin the week of July 11 - July 15. Price is $289 per week. 
  
  
• Hanover County Summer Youth Programs - Various Locations
  Offering a variety of summer camps for kids of all ages and interests, Hanover County Summer Youth Programs are put on by the Parks and Recreation Department. The huge selection of camps allows you to pick the right one for your family's summer schedule. With EPIC Summer Camps and Theme-based camps, your kid will learn and have fun while doing so. Plus, these camps aren't far from Hanover homes for sale. 

Richmond offers family fun all year long. Are you buying or selling a home in the area? Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for experienced real estate help. 

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.

What could be better than spending some time outdoors, enjoying a healthy, fun activity, and supporting great causes in the process? Spring and summer are the busiest times of year for 5K events around Richmond, with plenty of races to train for in the upcoming months. Our real estate agents have the details on six 5Ks that you can start training for in the Richmond area.

• ASK 5K – April 30, 2022 – 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond, VA 23230
  Kick off the 5K season with the ASK 5K, which is held every year at the Diamond near Richmond homes for sale. The 17th annual ASK 5K Run & Fun Walk is held to benefit children with childhood cancer and their families, with flexible fundraising goals to help you raise money for a good cause while you run.
  
  
• Holton Hustle 5K – May 14, 2022 – 1600 W. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23227
  A community event held to promote health, wellness, and physical activity, the Holton Hustle 5K will take you on a scenic trip through Richmond's historic Bellevue neighborhood. The event regularly attracts more than 500 participants and benefits the students at Holton Elementary School.
  
  
• Belle Isle Blitz – May 20, 2022 – 4021 Forest Hill Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
  Looking for something a little different from your next 5K? The Belle Isle Blitz is a 5K trail run which some challenging climbs and fun downhill sections to keep you on your toes. Enjoy a run through Forest Hill Park, and consider bringing your four-legged friend for the Dog Wave of the race. Participants will receive a specially designed t-shirt and a chip-timed bib so that you can easily track your time.
  
  
• Summer Solstice 5K – June 21, 2022 – 4021 Forest Hills Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
  Celebrate the start of summer with a 5K run or walk on the longest day of the year. Held every year as spring turns to summer, the Summer Solstice 5K also takes place at Forest Hill Park. However, there's no trail running element, and this is a more traditional 5K run on flat, paved trails. A week after the main 5K, there will be another 5K race at the same location for youth participants under 18 years of age.
  
  
• Speak Up 5K – September 10, 2022 – 1001 Blanton Ave., Richmond, VA 23221
  If you're training for a 5K a bit further in the future, consider circling the Speak Up 5K on your calendar. This event was started by the CKG Foundation to raise awareness of teen mental illness in a positive, empowering way. In addition to the usual 5K festivities, this race features unique "fun zones" where you might run past a dance party or get squirted with a water gun along the way.
  
  
• Give a Dog a Job 5K – October 1, 2022 – 1603 Ownby Ln., Richmond, VA 23220
  The 4th annual Give a Dog a Job 5K is the continuation of a popular event held every year by the Canine Companions organization. It raises money that goes toward raising highly trained service dogs for adults, children, and veterans who need them. Of course, you're encouraged to bring your own pup along to add some extra fun to your run!

Ready to buy or sell your next home in Richmond? Let our local real estate team help you accomplish your goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Richmond, VA, area.

Chances are, you've seen a Little Free Library while you were out running errands, going for a jog, or taking your dog for a walk. Since the first Little Free Library was put up in 2009, thousands of them have sprung up across the country and around the world. 

That includes dozens of Little Free Libraries right here in Richmond. With their goal of making books accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds, Little Free Libraries have become a staple of the local community, and our real estate agents are proud to highlight Richmond's Little Free Libraries. 

What Are Little Free Libraries

Little Free Libraries are public book-sharing boxes where anyone, at any time, may take a book or leave a book. They work on the honor system and are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Originally founded in Wisconsin, Little Free Library operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and has grown to include more than 90,000 libraries in over 90 countries. The mission of the organization is to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access for all. 

Most Little Free Libraries have a primary caretaker—typically the person who puts up the library—known as a steward, who is responsible for maintaining it. Best of all, anyone can decide to put up their own Little Free Library and become its steward.

Find Little Free Libraries in Richmond

Dozens of Little Free Libraries are located in neighborhoods all over the city of Richmond. Many are associated with local businesses, while others are on residential properties. Each one is within walking distance of Richmond homes for sale. Some of our favorite Little Free Libraries in Richmond include: 

• Brandylane Publishers - 5 S 1st St, Richmond, VA 23219
  This Little Free Library is just a block off Main Street, is a great resource in the Monroe Ward Neighborhood, a historic district in downtown Richmond. Look for the turquoise-painted two-story cabinet packed with books just outside Brandylane Publishers, a Richmond-based independent book publisher since 1985.
  
  
• Friends of Forest Hill Park - 4021 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225
  Keep an eye out for this Little Free Library as you hike, bike, or jog your way through 105-acre Forest Hill Park, south of the James River. 
  
  
• Blue Bee Cider - 1320 Summit Ave, Richmond, VA 23230
  The Little Free Library outside Blue Bee Cider is within walking distance of all the vibrant shops, bars, and eateries in Scott's Addition, a revitalized district that was once an industrial area but has become Richmond's fastest-growing neighborhood. Be sure to stop in for a local craft cider while you read your new book!
  
  
• Remember Fulton - 1812 National St, Richmond, VA 23231
  The colorfully-painted "Remember Fulton" Little Free Library is nestled on National Street in the historic Fulton Hill neighborhood, just a few blocks away from Richmond National Cemetery.  
  
  
• Kiwanis Club of Richmond - 119 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23220
  This Little Free Library (one of two neighboring libraries sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Richmond) is located outside Richmond Alternative School.

Keep in mind that these are just a few of the Little Free Libraries you can find in the Richmond area. The best way to discover more Little Free Libraries near you is to use the search function on the official Little Free Library World Map. 

Richmond has always been a community-minded city, and Little Free Libraries are just one of many things that make it special. Contact us today to learn more about life in Richmond and talk to our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Central Virginia. 

If you're an old soul, you easily make your home a reflection of your personality by adding some vintage decor. Antique furniture pieces can create a classic atmosphere in any room, so it's easy to see why vintage decor is in style. 

Our real estate agents are always looking for new vintage furniture and antique finds. To help you with your search in the Richmond area, we compiled a list of top places to find vintage decor for your home.

• West End Antiques Mall - 2004 Staples Mill Rd, Richmond, VA 23230
  One of the best places to find vintage decor is actually just down the street from these Richmond homes for sale. Located just northwest of downtown, West End Antiques Mall is the best antique mall in the area. The building holds 250 antique booths across 53,000 square feet. You'll find large and small antique furniture, vintage glassware, and jewelry as well as porcelain, art, and more. To be honest, you never know what you're going to find, which is what makes this destination such a treat.
  
  
• Caravati's - 201 England St, Ashland, VA 23005​​​​​​​
  Caravati's is a wonderful architectural salvage store, where you can find used and donated vintage architecture, furniture, and decor. Located just north of Richmond and near Ashland homes for sale, this place is great if you're looking for a specific piece -- whether it's a vintage barn door or an antique coffee table. Don't see what you're looking for? Just ask the staff and they'll keep an eye out for particular items.
  
  
• Local Garage & Estate Sales
  Visiting local garage and estate sales is a great way to find vintage decor. It's also one of the best ways to find vintage furniture at a decent price. Check the local listings or take a cruise through some nearby neighborhoods around Richmond. It's easy to find estate sales on the weekends, and with spring right around the corner, you can bet garage sales will be popping up left and right.
  
  
• Can't Find it Local? Try Online
  We love supporting our local businesses, but searching for vintage decor online is always an option too -- and it's never been easier. Craigslist makes it easy to search across multiple communities for specific pieces. As long as you're willing to make the drive to pick it up, it's easy to find anything that you're looking for. Another great online option for vintage decor is eBay. You can uncover some truly classic finds. Simply search for "antique" or "vintage" along with the type of piece you're looking for. Keep in mind, it's more difficult to find local items on eBay, so you'll likely want to stick to smaller items that are easier to ship. Etsy has become the top online destination for all things handmade and vintage. You can easily search for vintage items, and you'll find tons of custom-made items by sellers and artists. The great thing about Etsy is they have strict rules about what qualifies as "vintage" -- sellers must certify that items are at least 20 years old. 
  
  

Vintage decor is not only a great way to reflect your personality, but it can really make your home stand out when it comes time to sell. For more tips on where to find decor, contact us today.

When you're in the mood for a day of fantastic shopping, you certainly won't have to travel far from Richmond homes for sale. Downtown Richmond is filled with unique, local boutique shops offering fashion, art, antiques, home goods, culinary delights, and so much more. Whether you're shopping for the perfect gift or treating yourself, Richmond has you covered. Our real estate agents have the details on some of the many great shops that you'll find throughout downtown Richmond.

• Addison Handmade & Vintage – 103 S. Addison St., Richmond, VA 23220
  A boutique shop with a curated collection of handmade items, including home goods, gifts, and fashion, Addison Handmade & Vintage offers a little bit of everything on a street that features a variety of other great shops. Along with the handmade items, you'll find an extensive collection of vintage clothing for men and women that features tons of unique, hard-to-find fashion items.
  
  
• Fountain Bookstore – 1312 E. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23219
  A small, independent bookstore that has been going strong ever since it first opened its doors in 1978, Fountain Bookstore is a little slice of paradise for all of the bookworms in the Richmond area. Along with the extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction books that are always available, Fountain Bookstore features a busy schedule of events that includes book clubs and author meetups.
  
  
• Chadwick & Son Orchids – 203 N. Belmont Ave., Richmond, VA 23221
  Orchids are some of the most beautiful flowers on the planet, and Chadwick & Son Orchids is Richmond's premier source for these amazing plants. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift or want a starter kit for growing your own orchids at home, the knowledgeable team at this local shop offers everything that you need.
  
  
• Ladles & Linens Kitchen Shoppe – 3016 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
  For all of your kitchen needs, along with great gift ideas for anyone who loves cooking, it's hard to top the experience at the Ladles & Linens Kitchen Shoppe. Pick up plenty of great items for cooking and entertaining, or shop from an extensive selection of prepared foods to find the perfect complement for your next culinary creation.
  
  
• Reynolds Gallery – 1514 W. Main St., Richmond, VA
  For more than 40 years, Reynolds Gallery has been committed to showcasing contemporary art from regional artists, with rotating exhibitions of paintings, glass art, sculptures, and more. Whether you're there to experience the art or to shop for something unique to decorate your own home, you're sure to love this local art gallery. Keep an eye out for special events like receptions for new exhibitions and chances to meet the artists.
  
  
• Second Bottle – 324 N. 27th St., Richmond, VA 23223
  Downtown Richmond has plenty to offer for wine connoisseurs, thanks to local wine shops like Second Bottle. With an extensive selection of wines to suit every budget and tons of great snacks that will pair perfectly with your bottle, this shop has everything you need for your next dinner party.

Is your next home at the top of your shopping list this year? Our local real estate team is here to help you find the perfect match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond, VA, area.

Richmond is a place where a rich history and vibrant present come together, and if you're thinking about making this area your new home, then we're here to help.

Just like any city, the best way to get to know Richmond is to put boots on the ground and explore it in person. If you want to get to know the city a little better, our real estate agents recommend these fascinating Richmond tours!

• RVA Trolley Tour - 1301 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219
  Offered by the RVA on Wheels tour company, RVA Trolley Tours provides a chance to experience Richmond's landmarks and historic architecture aboard a classic vintage trolley. The narration from the tour guide on this 2-hour tour is often hilarious, and always fascinating. You might spot some beautiful Richmond homes for sale along the way, and you'll certainly experience a few sides of Richmond you've never seen before. RVA on Wheels also offers electric bike and Segway tours. 
  
  
• Discover Richmond Food Tours - Various Locations, Richmond, VA 23219
  If you want to get to know a city, the best way to do so is to get to know its food. Richmond is home ro a rich and diverse culinary scene, and there's something here to delight every palate. You'll get a broad taste of what Richmond has to offer on a Discover Richmond Food Tour. Discover Richmond leads guided food tours in several different neighborhoods—The Arts District, Carytown, Church Hill, and Scott's Addition—so you can really savor what makes each part of the city special. 
  
  
• Basket & Bike - 1301 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219
  Richmond is known as an eminently bike-able city, and you can really get a feel for its streets on a Basket & Bike tour. The Basket & Bike company offers several different tour options that offer a chance to explore the Virginia Capital Trail, Downtown Richmond, and the city's unique urban art and murals. Every Basket & Bike tour comes with a free drink voucher at Urban Farmhouse and Cafe, a beloved local cafe and market with locations in Richmond and Midlothian, VA.  
  
  
• Riverfront Canal Cruises - 139 Virginia St, Richmond, VA 23219
  You get a different view of Richmond from the water. With their fleet of authentic canal boats, Riverfront Canal Cruises offers unique tours of Richmond's waterfront along the James River and Kanawha Canal. Your boat will follow a route that parallels the historic Canal Walk, the Virginia Capital Trail, and the Low Line gardens, while your knowledgeable guide provides insights into the development of the city over the course of four centuries. Keep an eye out for wildlife including deer and great blue heron along the wilder portions of the route. 
  
  
• Eerie Nights Ghost Tour - 100 N 17th St, Richmond, VA 23219
  No visit to Richmond is complete without an exploration to the city's spookier side. On an Eerie Nights Ghost Tour, you'll have a chance to see and learn about some of the city's most notorious haunted and historic sites. This walking and/or trolley tour departs after nightfall, and you will be accompanied by guides in period costume and ghoulish makeup. It's a fun, frightful way to spend an evening in Richmond, and you'll leave having learned some fun facts about the city's ghostly past.

Contact us today to learn more about life in Richmond, and talk to our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Central Virginia. 

Sports leagues offer a fun, social way to stay fit, enjoy all of your favorite games, and meet some new people in the process. Richmond homes for sale make it easy to join up with leagues for all of your favorite sports, at locations all around the city. Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on some of the local groups you can join when you move to the Richmond area.

Adult Soccer at the Sports Center of Richmond – 1385 Overbrook Rd., Richmond, VA 23220

If soccer is your favorite game, then you're sure to love one of the many adult soccer leagues held at the Sports Center of Richmond. Leagues here are all held in one convenient location and run all year long. There are men's, women's, and coed leagues available, with varying team sizes to accommodate your group.

Pick Your Game at River City Sports & Social Club

No matter how popular or how niche your favorite sport is, there's likely a league for it with the River City Sports & Social Club. These leagues are held at parks and athletic facilities all around the Richmond area.

• Basketball Leagues
  Whether you're looking for an intense season or a laid-back league, basketball leagues at River City Sports & Social Club are sure to have something for you. Join up for a men's, women's, or coed league, then stick around after the game for happy hour at the club.
  
  
• Men's and Women's Football
  Join up with a touch football league for a fun, accessible football experience that everyone can enjoy – no experience necessary. Football games are typically held at some of your favorite parks around Richmond.
  
  
• Bowling Leagues
  Bowling is the type of sport that looks easy, right up until you attempt to master it. Bowling leagues are a great way to embrace that challenge and have plenty of good times in the process. Many of these leagues are as big on the social aspect as they are on the results of the games.
  
  
• Everything from Axe Throwing to Wiffle Ball
  Interested in axe throwing? Or perhaps you're an expert at floorball, Wiffle ball, dodgeball, or even skeeball. There's a league for just about everything at the River City Sports & Social Club.

Sports Leagues with Hanover County Parks & Rec

The Hanover County Parks & Recreation Department also offers a wide variety of sports leagues for adults of all ages. Depending on the sport, you may be playing at a park, YMCA, school facility, or another destination near Hanover homes for sale.

• Men's, Women's, and Coed Softball
  What could be better than spending a pleasant spring day on the diamond, playing some softball with friends? Hanover County Parks & Rec offers great softball leagues held at Pole Green Park and Poor Farm Park.
  
  
• Pickleball and Tennis
  Pickleball is one sport that has surged in popularity in recent years, and you can play close to home in Richmond. Of course, there are also tennis leagues if you're in the mood for a different racket sport.
  
  
• Rugby, Soccer, Basketball, and More
  Hanover County Parks & Rec offers many of the sports that we have mentioned at the two other locations on our list, along with some extras like rugby and roller hockey.

Are you searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of Richmond's fun sports leagues? Our local team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Richmond, VA area.

Once a month, Richmond's thriving arts community takes center stage in one of the city's most popular traditions. Our real estate agents love visiting Downtown Richmond for First Fridays from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. During these monthly events, make sure to stop by these wonderful galleries, shops, and restaurants that are right down the street from Richmond homes for sale.

• Big Secret - 120 W. Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Lasers may sound like the stuff of science fiction, but Big Secret uses them as a tool to create "future artifacts." The artists use the energy and precision of laser beams to turn wood, metal, glass, and fabric into toys, jewelry, home accessories, and other works of art. Even non-traditional materials such as shoes, leaves, and film stock can be a canvas for this creative form. Big Secret's studio is open by appointment and for special events such as First Fridays.
  
  
• Quirk Gallery - 207 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Art is meant to be shared. In addition to exhibits of innovative work from top and emerging artists, Quirk Gallery has a boutique of curated items that make wonderful gifts. The Quirk also hosts pop-up shops, one-day-only shows, and workshops that let you unlock your own creative spirit. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Lift Coffee Shop & Cafe - 218 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
  The creatively designed and decorated drinks at Lift Coffee Shop & Cafe are works of art in their own right. All coffee drinks, such as Mayan Mocha and Banana Bread Latte, are made with fair-trade organic beans that are roasted locally. If you're looking for a light breakfast or lunch, Lift offers a nice selection of sandwiches, paninis, and salads. Relax with friends over a beer, wine, or cocktail. Lift is open 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
  
  
• Blue Bones - 310 N. Laurel St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Lauren Healy-Flora worked for iconic designer Anna Sui, while Jeremy Flora has had a lifelong passion for vintage. Together, their fashion instincts and knowledge have turned Blue Bones into Richmond's hippest vintage and consignment shop. When you visit, chances are that Lauren herself will be helping you pick out the perfect outfit, accessories, or home decor items. Blue Bones is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 6 p.m.
  
  
• Vagabond - 700 E. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Vagabond serves a menu of upscale Southern favorites in a stylishly casual ambiance. Customers give high marks to the shrimp po'boy, fried catfish, collard greens, and mac 'n' cheese. On weekends, head downstairs to the Rabbit Hole, a speakeasy-style bar with live entertainment. Vagabond is open for dinner and drinks Thursday through Sunday, as well as Sunday through Wednesday on show nights at the National.

Be a part of the creative energy in Richmond. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for cheerful and dedicated help from our experienced agents. 

Our real estate agents know there are plenty of reasons to love Richmond, Virginia!

If you've been exploring Richmond homes for sale, you're already aware of many of them. Natural beauty, a thriving arts scene, and a vibrant economy all contribute to attracting new residents each and every year. But there's something else that shouldn't be underestimated: The food!

The culinary scene in the RVA is second to none, blending ingredients and influences from around the world. Combined with the local small business scene and the area's passion for microbreweries and wineries, you've got a city with a truly unique palate. There's always something new to try!

When you move to Richmond, you are coming to a city that has something to match every taste – and it is sure to introduce you to flavors you never imagined before. The best examples come from local small restaurants that you won't find anywhere else. But where are these acclaimed "best-kept secrets?"

Looking to try a new restaurant, or new to you restaurant, among the many options in the RVA? Here are some unique restaurants to consider when you dine out in 2022:

• Little Nickel – 4702 Forest Hill Avenue, Richmond, VA 23225
  Little Nickel is a local staple in the RVA, a neighborhood restaurant with a tropical flair. Truly unique to the area, it combines influences that could best be called "tropical diner." American classics are served with a splash of Mediterranean flair and colorful, carefully crafted cocktails that add plenty of fun to the dining experience. Popular mains include lamb shank tacos, crab spaghetti, and salmon l'orange.
  
  
• Fighting Fish – 912 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23230
  Fighting Fish stands out as one of the area's leading sushi restaurants. Available for dine in and online takeout, it boasts happy hour from 5 p.m. daily. Delicious at lunch or dinner, it is perhaps best known for its "Sushi Burritos." These giant nori-wrapped confections come with tuna, salmon, shrimp tempura, or barbecued eel along with your choice of a variety of fillers inspired by Mexico and Japan.
  
  
• The Wooden Spoon – 5714 Patterson Avenue, Richmond, VA 23226
  For authentic Spanish tapas and paellas paired with a refreshing assortment of fine wines, The Wooden Spoon is the place to be. Billing itself as a "Restaurant and Craft Cocktail Bar," it prides itself on the farm-to-kitchen freshness of its ingredients. Dinner is available by reservation only, with patio or indoor seating to choose from. Fans love the organic flair of dishes like chicken parmigiana, ribeye steak, and filet mignon.
  
  
• Sonora Cantina – 11 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
  Sonora Cantina has a reputation for fresh, tasty food bolstered by its unique "Bottomless Brunch," which takes place every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3:30. At 14 buffet stations and four beverage stations, there is something for everyone! The rest of the week holds plenty of surprises, too, with indoor seating at the sports bar or a thrilling experience in the rooftop dining area available throughout the season.
  
  
• The Broken Tulip Social Eatery – 3129 West Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23221
  The Broken Tulip Social Eatery offers lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Advertising "Real Food, Interesting Wines," it uses its strong relationships with a variety of local farms to provide diverse seasonal cuisine. It is also known for its Wine Club and for a wide range of festive events, including the annual New Year's Eve dinner. You can even buy its produce, provisions, and tea online.

Delicious food is just the beginning of what the Richmond area has to offer! Contact us to discover more about living in the RVA.

There's nothing like a nice cup of loose leaf tea. You're in the process of moving to a new area, and after spending your time looking at Richmond homes for sale, some tea would be a great way to relax and unwind.

And with January being National Hot Tea Month, it's the perfect excuse to get some from a local shop or cafe. After all, Richmond has an impressive culinary scene, and that includes fantastic tea options!

Here are a few of our favorite places to order tea in the Richmond area.

• Alchemy Coffee - 814 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Though their specialty is java, Alchemy Coffee also makes a great cup of loose leaf tea, imported from Portland, OR. They also offer chai, dirty chai, and a host of other hot beverage options. Open at 7 am on weekdays, it's a great way to start your day.
  
  
• Carytown Teas - 2517 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23220 
  Carytown Teas prides itself on high-quality teas from around the world. Their store sells everything from black tea to green tea to oolong to Darjeeling, and much more. Their tea of the month club sends three carefully selected, seasonal, artisan teas to your door every month. And once a month, they hold a complimentary tea tasting in-store. If you're looking for a wide variety of great loose leaf teas, there are few better places in the Richmond area.
  
  
• Sugar & Twine Bakeshop and Coffee - 2928 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA  23221
  Just a few blocks away from the Carytown store and right near the Byrd Theatre, Sugar & Twine Bakeshop and Coffee serves a variety of organic loose leaf teas from Rishi Tea & Botanicals. They also serve chai lattes, hot cocoa, a variety of coffee drinks, and more - plus muffins, brownies, croissants, and other delicious, homemade baked goods, baked fresh daily.
  
  
• Rostov's Coffee & Tea - 1618 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Rostovs Coffee & Tea serves a host of different loose leaf teas in various flavors and varieties. There are standards like Earl Grey and English Breakfast, as well as some that are more off the beaten path, like blackberry sage or hibiscus ginger. There are black teas, green teas, white teas, herbal teas, and many others - all high quality and delicious. You can go to their store and browse for the tea you want or order online. They also sell several different tea infusers so that you can brew your loose leaf tea at home.
  
  
• Queen Bee & Co. - 19 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Tea is more than a beverage at Queen Bee & Co., it's an experience! Located inside the Jefferson Hotel, guests can have high tea served for $36 per person. Choose between their fantastic teas shipped from a London tea room. Or utilize the tea room for your next private event for a memorable experience. 

These are just a few of the places where you can get hot, delicious, loose leaf tea in the Richmond area. Our real estate agents know the area and can help you find whatever you're looking for. Contact us if you're ready to make Richmond your new home. We'll help you find the house and the neighborhood that's right for you.

During the holidays, our real estate agents want you to spend less time cooking and more time socializing. Get out of the kitchen and into the family room with holiday meals from these wonderful restaurants and markets near Richmond homes for sale. 

• Lemaire Restaurant - Jefferson Hotel, 101 W. Franklin St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Enjoy a dinner of Southern-influenced holiday classics with dinner from Lemaire Restaurant. Herb-crusted prime rib comes with soup, salad, and an assortment of side dishes that includes their signature spoonbread. Top it all off with some luscious chocolate pecan pie. Dinners are offered for two, four, or six people at $100 per pair. Order by December 15 for pickup on December 23.
  
  
• Big Herm's Kitchen - 315 N. 2nd St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Remember those holidays of your childhood, when the whole family gathered at Grandma's house for dinner? Big Herm's Kitchen does, and their holiday dinner features that same great home-cooked taste. All dinners include oven-roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, stuffing, rolls, and cranberry sauce. Choose from additional sides, including green beans, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and mac & cheese. The price is $25 per person, with a minimum order of 10. Order by December 17 for pickup or delivery on December 23 or 24.
  
  
• Mosaic Catering + Events - 3001 Cutshaw Ave., Richmond, VA 23230
  Want to add a touch of the unexpected to your holiday meal? Mosaic Catering + Events has you covered. Their seasonal menu includes classic dishes with a modern twist. You'll have a hard time deciding between tasty choices such as everything spiced salmon, sage and goat cheese whipped potatoes, and cinnamon celebration meatballs. Vegetarians will love cheesy winter squash casserole, roasted cauliflower and root vegetable gratin, and other hearty but meat-free dishes. Vegan options are available on request. 
  
  
• Libbie Market - 400 Libbie Ave., Richmond, VA 23226
  In 2010, when Ukrop's grocery stores were sold, employees Buster Wright and David Taylor stepped up to preserve the specialty store location. Today, Libbie Market has the variety and convenience of a full-scale grocery store with the warm, personalized service of an independent shop. Their holiday menu features an extensive mix-and-match list of entrées, sides, and breads such as beef tenderloin, herb stuffing, corn pudding, and buttermilk biscuits. Place a $50 minimum order by December 17 for pickup on December 23 or 24. 
  
  
• Nomad Deli & Catering Co. - 207 W. Brookland Park Blvd., Richmond, VA 23222
  Why wait for the main event? Start your holiday off right with a grazing brunch from Nomad Deli & Catering Co. Open gifts while nibbling on a spread of mini bagels, spinach and feta quiche, baked Brie bites, cinnamon roll pull-apart, and fresh fruit. Their dinner is equally spectacular, with spiral ham, roast beef, crostinis, and an assortment of spreads and cheeses. Top it all off with a dessert tray of brownie bites, apple blondies, pecan pie tarts, pumpkin dip, and cookies. 
  
  
• Homemades by Suzanne - 101 N. 5th St., Richmond, VA 23210
  If it's not on the holiday menu at Homemades by Suzanne, you don't need it. Categories include Chicken & Turkey, Beef, Seafood, Cheese, Dips & Sauces, Quiche, and Dessert. Place your order, and they'll have everything ready for pickup, or delivery and set-up is available for an additional charge.

Use some of that extra time to find or sell a house in Richmond. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to get started.

After a while, holiday cards can get tedious, sending the same basic sentiment, year after year. This year, though, in addition to looking at holiday cards, you're also looking at Richmond homes for sale, as you prepare to move. That means your season's greetings will also serve as a new home announcement, to let people know about your amazing new place, and when they can visit. You need to make them extra special. Here are seven unique holiday card ideas you can try this year.

1. Gingerbread House
   Get a thin piece of brown cardboard and decorate it to look like a gingerbread house - or better yet, a gingerbread version of your new home. You can even stick a piece of (wrapped) candy on it for the doorknob. Write your holiday message on the back. It's a great way to convey the holiday spirit and the news about your new home at the same time.
   
   
2. Add a Family Photo
   If you like to send family photos with your cards, try switching it up this year. Take a full-body shot of each family member, individually, in some sort of fun action pose. Then, cut each of their figures out of the printed photos. Take the cutouts, string them all together with a piece of twine, and include it in your holiday card. As a bonus, combine this one with the gingerbread card above: now your cards have your family, living in your new house!
   
   
3. Button Snowmen
   Get a bunch of white buttons of all different sizes. Stack them up three at a time, to look like snowmen, and glue them to the front of your cards. Add accessories, like a tie made from colorful yarn, or a top hat made from construction paper. You can just make one, or you can make several, each representing a different member of your family, with all different distinguishing characteristics.
   
   
4. New Home Announcement
   Instead of the traditional holiday greeting, why not send out a card that tells people you've moved, and shows off your new home? Include a picture of the house (complete with lights and decorations), and your new address, encouraging friends to come to visit - for the holidays or otherwise. 
   
   
5. Washi Tape
   Get a roll of washi tape with a colorful and festive design on it. Put pieces of tape on your card to make fun, holiday designs. Stack several pieces of tape on top of one another in decreasing sizes, to form a tree. Tie pieces of yarn into bows, and put them on top of tape pieces to make them into gifts. Use your imagination.
   
   
6. Snow Globe
   On the inside of your card, draw or otherwise create a snowy, holiday scene. Cut a circle out of the front of the card, so part of the scene can be viewed through it. Get a small ziplock bag, and put sequins in it. Attach the bag to the inside of the card (left side) directly over the hole. When you shake it, the sequins will fall over the snowy scene, just like a snow globe.
   
   
7. Book Card
   Take a book you don't mind sacrificing. Draw outlines of holiday figures and shapes on the pages, and cut them out. Paste the shapes to the front of your cards.

These are just a few creative ideas for sending holiday cheer and announcing your new home during the holidays. Our real estate agents can get you into a house you'll be proud to spread the news about this holiday season. Contact us to find your dream home!

Richmond has a long, interesting story that spans centuries, and residents have always had a love of local history. Many of the city's historic buildings have been preserved to the present day, and are just waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff yourself or you're searching for fun, educational family activities in Richmond, a historic tour is a great way to spend a day in the city. Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on 6 historic buildings in downtown Richmond to explore.

• The Valentine – 1015 E. Clay St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Located near Richmond homes for sale and dedicated to exploring local history, The Valentine is the perfect place to start your historical journey in downtown Richmond. The museum is home to tons of fascinating artifacts from the 400-year history of the Richmond area, with rotating exhibits that complement the permanent collections. They also host history tours, which will take you to a variety of historic locations around Richmond.|
  
  
• Byrd Theatre – 2908 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
  Ever since it first opened its doors in 1928, the Byrd Theatre has been one of Richmond's most popular cultural destinations. The Baroque architecture and spectacular murals are more than worth a visit, while the theater also still operates as one of the most unique places to watch movies that you'll ever find. The theater shows both new and historic films, with a busy schedule that ensures you'll always have something to look forward to on the schedule.
  
  
• Main Street Station – 1500 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Historic Main Street Station has had an interesting story since it first opened in 1901. It was one of Richmond's biggest transportation hubs for nearly 75 years before closing its doors in 1975. But it has since been reopened and revitalized, serving as a transportation hub once again while also being a destination for lovers of historic architecture.
  
  
• Maymont Mansion & Estate – 1000 Westover Rd., Richmond, VA 23220
  Once belonging to a wealthy local couple, Maymont Mansion & Estate has been transformed into a 100-acre public landmark that is enjoyed by visitors of all ages. The mansion is an elegant stone structure that would fit in nicely in historic Europe. The grounds are also home to some amazing gardens, inspired by flora from different parts of the world like Japan and Italy. It's easy to spend a full day exploring all that this historic site has to offer.
  
  
• Old City Hall – 1001 E. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219
  An imposing, gorgeous Victorian Gothic structure built in 1904, Old City Hall is one of Richmond's most distinctive historic buildings. While most of the structure now serves as a private office space, visitors can still tour the first floor of Old City Hall and explore the building's amazing exterior.
  
  
• Virginia Capitol & Executive Mansion – 10th and Banks Streets, Richmond, VA 23219
  The oldest legislative assembly in America, the Virginia Capitol & Executive Mansion was designed by none other than Thomas Jefferson. There are daily guided tours that will take you through the historic halls, filled with historical statues, paintings, and exhibits. You can even tour the legislative chambers, which have been recently restored. The Executive Mansion is still in use today and has been continuously inhabited since 1813.

Ready to find your own outstanding home close to all of the history and attractions of Richmond? Let our local real estate team help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Richmond, VA area.

National Comic Book Day is on September 25th and is a terrific time to explore local comic book stores or treat the comic book lover in your life. Richmond homes for sale benefit from the city's creative culture, and comic books have long been a part of the area's publishing scene. If you take a little time to plan ahead, you could end up starting your own comic book collection just by visiting all of the comic book stores near Richmond!

Here are a few that stand out:

• Velocity Comics – 819a West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
  Velocity Comics has one of the biggest selections of comic books in Richmond. Its customer service is second to none, as the team will automatically pull your favorite comics for you based on the list you submit rather than wandering the shelves – not that doing so can't be fun all on its own! Open seven days a week, Velocity has a reputation for always being up to date on the latest big events from Marvel, DC, and many more.
  
  
• Alpha Comics & Games – 1601 Willow Lawn Drive 300B, Richmond, Virginia 23230
  Alpha Comics & Games has new releases every week and is known for its collection of vintage comics – it touts "The Best Vintage Section in Central Virginia." If you've fallen behind on all the latest developments in comics, the staff will be glad to catch you up with its weekly events on Wednesdays. A family-owned and operated business with a long local history, you might remember it under the name Nostalgia Plus.
  
  
• Richmond Book Shop – 808 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
  Richmond Book Shop has it all, giving you the unbeatable feeling of venturing through the eclectic collection of a beloved community bookseller. Its stunning selection of comics runs the gamut from vintage to modern, with graphic novels and manga added in for good measure. It's easy to spend a whole day browsing the shelves!
  
  
• Richmond Comix – 14255 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA 23113
  Richmond Comix earns its reputation as one of the top comics stores in Midlothian by topping off an excellent selection with plenty of live events, a book club, and much more. The store has been around since 1987, and its dedication to quality shows in its curated selection, slick website, and emphasis on uplifting local creators. It's yet another stellar reason to choose Midlothian homes for sale.
  
  
• Stories, Comics – 9040 West Broad Street, Henrico, VA 23294
  Stories, Comics may have an unassuming name, but it has an incredible collection of contemporary and classic comics with a "neighborhood comic shop" feel. It has a robust selection of action figures, comic book storage supplies, graphic novels, and even magazines, in addition to its treasure trove of comics. Top brands include Action Lab, Boom Studios, Dark Horse Comics, Image, and Vault – all minutes from Henrico homes for sale.

Our real estate agents know local shops are one of the many things you'll enjoy when living in the Richmond area. Contact us to discover more about Richmond real estate.

The rich soil between the Blue Ridge and the Atlantic Coast is perfect for growing grapes and has given rise to some truly outstanding local wineries. 

Our real estate agents are excited to highlight some of our favorite wineries in the region. These five local wineries are collectively known as the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail, and each one has something unique to offer!

• Grayhaven Winery - 4675 E Gray Fox Cir, Gum Spring, VA 23065
  Although Virginia is now home to over 400 wineries, Grayhaven Winery was one of the first. Established in 1978, Grayhaven is known for its outstanding handcrafted estate wines, including signature wines like Pinotage, Marechal Foch, and Petit Verdot. The winery provides tastings and some excellent cheese and Charcuterie boards in their cozy tasting room and offers a beautiful outdoor space with nature trails and outdoor seating. Grayhaven Winery is nestled in the community of Gum Spring, less than an hour from these Richmond homes for sale. 
  
  
• James River Cellars Winery - 11008 Washington Hwy, Glen Allen, VA 23059
  Offering a superb selection of red and white wines, James River Cellars opened its doors in 2001 and quickly established itself as one of the best wineries in the Richmond area. Wine flights are available in the tasting room, and you can also order wine by the glass, bottle, or even cans. Be sure to check out these Glen Allen homes for sale just minutes from James River Cellars Winery. 
  
  
• Lake Anna Winery - 5621 Courthouse Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
  The folks at Lake Anna Winery have been growing grapes on their picturesque 75-acre vineyard since 1989. They offer several varieties of rich red wines, aged in the traditional French style in oak barrels, as well as some truly exceptional dry white wines. Lake Anna Winery also hosts several events and festivals throughout the warmer months with food, live music, and ample opportunities to sample from their excellent wine selection. Lake Anna Winery will also ship wine just about anywhere in the United States. They offer free shipping on six or more bottles and are still offering curbside pickup as well.
  
  
• Mattaponi Winery -7530 Morris Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
  A family-owned winery with a diverse selection of offerings, Mattaponi Winery, brings together years of expert wine-making experience with a keen appreciation for Virginia's Native American traditions. Their beautiful, rustic tasting room can accommodate groups of any size, and their outstanding white Wabamin (Niagara grape) and red Miskwamin (blue Concord grape) wines are local favorites. Mattaponi Winery also offers several excellent sweet dessert wines, including award-winning blackberry, blueberry, and strawberry wines. 
  
  
• Fifty-Third Winery & Vineyards - 13372 Shannon Hill Rd, Louisa, VA 23093
  Formerly known as Cooper Vineyards, Fifty-Third Winery & Vineyards offers handcrafted wines to suit any taste. It's a great place to sit and sip a glass of wine in their warm, welcoming tasting room or on their spacious deck overlooking acres of rolling farmland. In addition to several outstanding red and white wines, Fifty-Third Winery also makes some of Virginia's best rosé. The winery is located a short drive from Richmond, Charlottesville, and Fredericksburg and offers daily wine tastings year-round. 

From award-winning wineries and spectacular scenery to unique culture and outdoor adventure, the Richmond area has it all. Contact us today to learn more about all the opportunities that await in Central Virginia! 

Ready to hit the water? Central Virginia offers some truly amazing paddling opportunities, and our real estate agents are excited to share their favorite summer kayak spots. 

Nestled along the mighty James River, Richmond, in particular, is a great place to explore by kayak (there's a reason they call it the River City). Here's where to launch your kayak, join a guided trip, or gear up for your next kayak adventure in Richmond, VA!

• RVA Paddlesports - 1320 School St, Richmond, VA 23220
  One of the top destinations for rafting and paddling on the James River in Richmond, RVA Paddlesports provides outdoor adventure for all ages and experience levels. That includes guided whitewater kayaking and flatwater kayaking trips on the James River, as well as an intro to kayaking classes with expert teachers and guides. You can learn the ropes if you've never set foot in a kayak or challenge yourself if you're more experienced. Located just minutes from these Richmond homes for sale, RVA Paddlesports also offers boat and gear rentals and repairs. 
  
  
• Richmond Waterfront - 415 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219
  The revitalized Richmond Waterfront offers a lovely stretch of green space along the James River shoreline, with a spectacular view of the city skyline. It's a popular place to launch kayaks, do a little fishing, or simply relax along the riverside. The waterfront overlooks a section of river that is typically calm and easy to navigate by kayak, especially during the summer months, though there are some more challenging waters not too far downstream. Hourly kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available onsite. 
  
  
• Riverside Outfitters -6836 Old Westham Rd, Richmond, VA 23225
  No matter what type of adventure you have in mind—kayaking, rafting, tubing, cycling, rock climbing—the folks at Riverside Outfitters have you covered. They provide several different guided kayaking trips for large and small groups, including a whitewater trip from Pony Pasture to Reedy Creek (ages 12 and up) and a flatwater kayak trip in the Huguenot Flatwater (ages 10 and up). Of course, you can always go off on your own adventure, too, with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, flatwater canoes, and tandem kayaks available for rent. 
  
  
• James River Park - 1200 Brander St, Richmond, VA 23224
  James River Park consists of numerous launch areas throughout the Richmond metro area, all of which provide some of the city's best opportunities for paddling, fishing, hiking, and biking. For kayakers, the Ancarrow's Landing site is one of the best places to launch, with a newly-renovated stretch of riverbank and a brand new, well-lit parking area. Other James River Park units, including Pony Pasture Rapids and Huguenot Flatwater, are also great places to start a paddling trip. With several sites up and down the river, James River Parks provide numerous options for put-in and take-out. 
  
  
• Tandem Adventures - Pump House Dr, Richmond, VA 23221
  Specializing in calm, flatwater kayak trips on the James River's tranquil canals and backwaters, Tandem Adventures is the perfect option if you're new to kayaking. And since tandem kayaks are their thing, it's also an excellent choice for couples looking for a relaxing, romantic paddling excursion. Whether you choose to paddle through the historic Kanawha Canal or meander along the James River shoreline beneath the Richmond skyline, a memorable experience is all but guaranteed.

Contact us today to learn more about all the adventures that await in Richmond and the surrounding areas! Our team can't wait to help you find your dream home in Central Virginia. 

As the weather grows warmer, you may find yourself looking for a way to cool off. Stopping by a local pool or splash pad is a great option. Most of these places are kid-friendly and welcoming to families, so people of all ages can splash around and enjoy a break from the heat. 

• Bellemeade Indoor Pool: 1800 Lynhaven Ave., Richmond, VA 23224
  This indoor pool is located inside the Bellemeade Community Center near Richmond homes for sale. It's open daily in the afternoon for independent swimming. There are also swimming lessons and lifeguard certification courses offered through the American Red Cross.
  
  There's no fee to swim at the Bellemeade Indoor Pool. There is plenty of seating around the pool, so you can easily sit and watch your kids swim if you don't want to get in the water yourself.
  
  
• SwimRVA: 5050 Ridgedale Parkway, Richmond, VA 23234
  SwimRVA is a 54,000 square foot aquatics center with several pools open to the public. They have a 25-yard instructional pool where you can take swimming lessons, participate in aquatic Zumba classes, or even take a beginner scuba course. There's also a therapy pool, which features sideboards, water treadmills, and other features ideal for rehabilitation.
  
  SwimRVA does charge for the use of their facilities, but day passes are just $10 for adults and $8 for kids. You can buy 10-visit passes or monthly passes at a discounted rate.
  
  
• Anirav Swim Club: 1500 Midview Rd., Henrico, VA 23231
  Visit Anirav Swim Club for some fun in the water. This park has a huge pool with diving boards, along with a separate kiddie pool for the little ones.
  
  Alongside the pool, you'll find a snack bar, ping pong tables, and shade umbrellas — everything you need for a fun afternoon. If you buy an individual or family membership, you can visit repeatedly throughout the summer, all for one price.
  
  
• Battery Park Pool: 2719 Dupont Circle, Richmond, VA 23222
  Battery Park Pool is a large outdoor pool with a shallow end and a deep end. There is also a sprinkler and splash pad area that's ideal for little ones. A water umbrella sends tumbling sheets of water down onto your heads — this makes for quite a wet experience!
  
  Battery Park Pool is well overseen by lifeguards. It's very clean and well-maintained. After you swim, you can spend some time in the surrounding park, enjoying a picnic with your family or playing horseshoes at the horseshoe pit.
  
  
• Short Pump Park: 3329 Pump Rd., Henrico, VA 23233
  Short Pump Park boasts one of the most-visited splash parks near Henrico homes for sale. The spray pads are kept clean, and they're very kid-friendly. After you splash around in the spray park, you can spend time kicking a ball around in the soccer fields or letting the kids play on the playground. Short Pump Park also has its own dog park, although dogs are not allowed in the splash pad area. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. 
  
  

Summers in the Richmond area can be hot, and our real estate agents highly recommend staying cool by visiting one of these top-notch pools or splash pads. When you're done splashing around, make sure you spend some time looking at homes for sale. Contact us if you're looking for an agent to represent you.

Do you love to live in a walkable neighborhood with plenty of attractions and key services located within walking distance of your home? Walking is such a healthy activity for both body and mind, so it's no surprise that so many shoppers are increasingly looking for a walkable neighborhood to call home. Richmond is one of the most walkable cities in Virginia, with various scenic, amenity-packed neighborhoods to choose from when shopping for your next home. Our real estate agents are here to help you learn more about all of the vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that are waiting for you in Richmond.

About the Walkable Neighborhoods in Richmond

• Shopping, Food, and Fun in Carytown
  If shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions are must-haves for you, then you're sure to love all of the fun that's located within walking distance in Carytown. This neighborhood covers about 10 blocks and is packed with some of the most diverse dining options in the city with loads of international flair. Near all of the great dining options, you will enjoy tons of shopping, including the outstanding Ellwood Thompson's market, where you will find fresh, organic produce and so much more.
  
  
• Entertainment and Education Meet in the Downtown Arts District
  If you've been searching for Richmond homes for sale in a neighborhood that's filled with entertainment options, the Arts District is the perfect place to start. This is where you'll find some of the city's most exciting entertainment venues, as well as the historic campus of Virginia Commonwealth University. The National is an amazing music venue that attracts some of the best talents in the industry for shows, while the Virginia Repertory Theatre is a great place to catch a play or musical. In this neighborhood, you will also be able to enjoy frequent outdoor festivals all year long.
  
  
• Art and History Meet in the Museum District
  The Museum District ranks as one of Richmond's most walkable neighborhoods, and as you might expect, it's an excellent place to live if you love to explore fascinating museums. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is the main attraction, and it regularly ranks as one of the 10 best art museums in the country. The Virginia Museum of History and Culture is an amazing place to learn about local history, and there are also a variety of fun, smaller museums located throughout the neighborhood.
  
  
• Walking Is a Great Workout in Church Hill
  While the Church Hill neighborhood offers plenty to see and do, the big attraction for avid walkers will be the especially good workout that walking in this neighborhood provides. The hill part of Church Hill is an accurate description because this neighborhood has a fairly steep uphill climb that's perfect for a walking workout. Near the bottom of the hill, you can enjoy a flatter, more leisurely walk along the river, with great waterfront scenery.
  
  
• Monroe Ward Rated as Richmond's Most Walkable Neighborhood
  Walk Score is a website that ranks neighborhoods for walkability in cities all around the country, and they ranked Monroe Ward as the most walkable neighborhood in all of Richmond. There are more than 100 restaurants, bars, and coffee shops located within walking distance in Monroe Ward, so it's easy to find a great place to recharge after an enjoyable walk. 

Are you ready to find your next home in one of Richmond's walkable neighborhoods? Our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond, VA area.

As one of the oldest major cities in the United States, Richmond features stunning examples of the various architectural styles that have been popular through the years. Get a new appreciation of the city's rich historical heritage when you view these classic buildings, only minutes from Richmond homes for sale. 

1. Virginia State Capitol - 1000 Bank St., Richmond, VA 23218
   Any discussion of architecture in Richmond begins with the magnificent Virginia State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark. Founding father Thomas Jefferson designed the building in 1785 with assistance from French architect Charles-Louis Clerisseau. In addition to being the second-oldest working statehouse in America, the Capitol is the first structure in the country to be designed in the style of first-century Roman temples. 
   
   
2. Egyptian Building - 1223 E. Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298
   Ancient pharaohs would have been justifiably proud of Richmond's Egyptian Building, located on the campus of VCU's Medical College of Virginia. Signature features of this style include the massive pillars at the entrance and the so-called battered walls, which are thicker at the bottom than at the top to give the illusion of height. Imhotep is considered the first physician of the Western world, so it's appropriate that the Egyptian Building is used for the medical school's classrooms and offices.
   
   
3. Wills House - 407 N. 27th St., Richmond, VA 23223
   Once home to a wealthy local merchant who owned the entire block, Wills House is the oldest residence in the historic Church Hill North neighborhood. Many of the original beaded boards still remain in this Federal-style building, which dates back to 1812 and is still in use as a private home. Just two doors down is Wills Store, believed to be the oldest commercial building in Richmond. 
   
   
4. Putney Houses - 1010-1012 E. Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298
   In stark contrast to the nearby Egyptian Building sit the Putney Houses, once owned by father-and-son shoe manufacturers of the same name. The Italianate style marked a loosening of the restrictions found in more rigid architectural forms, such as Greek. Distinctive features of these Italianate homes include low-pitched roofs, round-head windows, and arcaded porches. Today, the restored houses serve as offices for VCU.
   
   
5. Markel Building - 5310 Markel Rd., Richmond, VA 23230
   Looking like something from the world of The Jetsons, the Markel Building evokes polarized reactions from most viewers. The circular structure, wrapped with unbroken pieces of textured aluminum measuring 555 feet in length, is thought to have been inspired by the sight of a foil-wrapped baked potato. However, the material is significant due to the heavy presence of Reynold's Metal in Richmond. 
   
   
6. Altria Theater - 6 N. Laurel St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Back in the early 20th century, when entertainment venues were designed as "palaces,"  the Altria Theater still stood head and shoulders above the rest. Seven years of planning, two years of construction, and $1.65 million went into the completion of the building. Since its successful restoration in the mid-1990s, the Altria Theater has hosted a wide range of events, including Broadway productions, comedy shows, musical concerts, graduations, and lectures.

Our real estate agents are experienced in matching people with their perfect home. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn more.

If you love gracious Victorian architecture in all of its styles, from Queen Anne to Colonial Revival, you need look no further than the Fan District. But you didn't need our real estate agents to tell you that, did you? If you're considering one of the lovely Richmond homes for sale, let's look at some of the things that you may not have realized the Fan has to share. 

1. Community Events
   Close proximity to the Virginia Commonwealth University campus attracts athletes to the annual Monument Avenue 10K. Halloween on Hanover is another exciting event that takes place each fall. The houses experience a Halloween makeover as stunning as Richmond itself.
    
2. Biking Around the Park
   With no fewer than eight parks in the district, there is plenty of green space to enjoy with or without a pet. RVA Bike Share is a community program that allows you to pick up a bike anywhere in the city and drop it off when you are finished. After enrolling online, you can select an annual membership, a monthly membership, or use the day rate if you don't wish to ride frequently. 
   
   
3. Dining Options
   Whether you're hungry for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or even a beer and a game, there are plenty of options in the Fan. You can find Cuban cuisine at Kuba Kuba, Asian Fusion at Foo Dog, pizza and beer at 3 Monkeys, or traditional American at The Savory Grain. If you would rather cook at home, visit local market Ellwood Thompsons in Carytown, or Whole Foods and Kroger are east of Broad street.
   
   
4. Cultural Events
   At the southwest corner of Monroe Park, you will find the striking Altria Theater. Originally built by the Shriners in 1918, the City of Richmond purchased and renovated the exquisite building, which now offers theatrical and musical performances and many magnificent affairs in the ballroom. VCU is also home to both visual and performing arts. You won't want to miss the First Friday art walks or the Richmond Shakespeare Festival in the summer. The entertainment options are boundless. 
   
   
5. Historic Sites
   A short distance from the Fan, historians will find a treasure trove of sites, including Old Town Manassas, Tazewell, Mathews County, and the Halifax County Historical Society, to name just a few. Virginia is known as the Mother of Presidents, and you can see the homes of eight of them, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor, and Woodrow Wilson.
    
6. Museums 
   Immediately next door to the Fan, you'll find the Museum District, with six blocks of museums, including the Science Museum of Virginia, the Children's Museum of Richmond, and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. More than twenty properties that grace the neighborhood are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 
   
   
7. Shopping
   When you are tired of chain stores, the Fan can offer you plenty of unique shopping experiences, such as Halcyon Vintage Clothing, Rumors Boutique, and Addison Handmade and Vintage. For the musician, Fan Guitar and Ukulele sells all the replacement strings you need. Plaza Artist Materials is well-stocked with paints, canvases, and other materials to fulfill an artist's needs. 

Now that you have a taste of what life in the Fan District of Richmond has to offer, why not take a look for yourself? Contact us to arrange a tour of some of the most elegant homes in Richmond. 

Over the last decade, food trucks have become a crucial part of Richmond's food scene. It's a trend that our real estate agents are definitely on board with. 

But where to find them? One of the advantages of food trucks is that they're mobile. They can go where the people are, but that can make tracking them down tricky.

The Richmond Food Truck Association website offers the ability to pinpoint many popular food trucks in the city. You can also keep tabs on these awesome food trucks by following them on social media, where current and upcoming locations are frequently posted. Be sure to look out for these food trucks throughout Richmond.

1. Intergalactic Tacos
   Tacos are arguably the dish that jump-started the food truck craze, and you'll find some of RVA's finest at Intergalactic Tacos. Their tacos are truly out of this world, and you'll often find them set up around the Malvern Manor, Highwoods, and Stony Point areas, not far from these Richmond homes for sale.
   
   
2. The Return of the Mac
   Gourmet mac and cheese? Yes, please. The Return of the Mac has earned a reputation as one of Richmond's most popular food trucks by crafting next-level cheesy creations. Some of the most reliable places to find them are at Dancing Kilt Brewery on Thursdays and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery on Fridays. The latter is a food truck staple that often hosts different tucks on different nights. 
   
   
3. Arroz RVA
   The idea behind Arroz RVA is to bring healthy and delicious bowls, burritos, and salads to the people of Richmond. Although Southwest-inspired, their ingredients are sourced locally. The food is fresh, flavorful, and healthy. You'll find Arroz RVA parked outside Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop most Saturdays, and be sure to check their Facebook page for their updated weekly schedule. 
   
   
4. Redemption BBQ
   Offering authentic slow-smoked Virginia-style barbecue, Redemption BBQ is a carnivore's paradise. They also offer vegan pulled jackfruit barbecue for all you plant-based eaters out there! Hardywood Park Craft Brewery is where they set up most Saturdays, and on many other days, you can find them parked at the "Hatch Food Truck Corral," an unofficial food truck gathering place in the parking lot of Hatch Kitchen, on Maury Street. 
   
   
5. La Bête
   Offering savory, spicy, Trinidadian-inspired Caribbean Creole fare, La Bête is one of Richmond's most fun and exciting food trucks. Look for them most weekends (usually Sundays) at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery. Their offerings are seasonal and ever-changing but always fresh and bursting with flavor. 
   
   
6. Zorch Pizza
   Offering New York-style pizza by the slice, Zorch Pizza is a food truck offering a taste of NYC around the RVA. Typically, that means the Veil Brewing Co., where they park most weekends. They've recently been setting up shop at the Hatch Food Truck Corral on Fridays as well. 

Contact us today to learn more about Richmond's incredible culinary culture and more reasons why we think Richmond is a unique place to call home. Our team can't wait to help you find your dream home in Richmond!

For centuries, butterflies have captured human imagination, serving as inspiration for art, poetry, and song. Explore the fascinating story of these stunning insects during National Learn about Butterflies Day on Sunday, March 14. Join our real estate agents by planning a visit to one of these wonderful gardens around Richmond.

1. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden - 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228
   With more than a dozen themed gardens across 82 acres, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers plentiful opportunities to spot butterflies in their natural habitat. In 1926, Grace Arents bequeathed her beautiful farm, along with the sum of $100,000, to Richmond. She asked that her gift be used to establish a garden honoring the memory of her uncle, local businessman and philanthropist Lewis Ginter. Today, Grace's dream has landed on several lists naming the top ten botanical gardens in North America. Tickets, which must be purchased in advance, are $14 for adults and $8 for kids up to age 12. The garden is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
   
   
2. Maymont - 1000 Westover Rd., Richmond, VA 23220
   Butterflies are just one of many reasons to visit Maymont, a picturesque estate on the banks of the James River. The one-time home of James and Sallie Dooley is now the site of an arboretum and several specialty gardens, including a wetland, grotto, and ornamental lawn. Marie's Butterfly Trail opened in 2009, features signage with helpful information about the life cycle of butterflies and why they're attracted to specific plants. While the grounds are open to the public with free admission, a $5 donation is suggested. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily between April and September. Closing time is 5 p.m. during the offseason.
   
   
3. Bellemeade Park - 1800 Krouse St., Richmond, VA 23224
   Bellemeade Park is a labor of love for a dedicated group of volunteers working to develop and maintain the beautiful six-acre public facility. Their goal is to promote the park as a valuable environmental asset benefiting the community around Richmond homes for sale. Butterflies, turtles, hawks, and owls are just a few of the park "residents" that may be spotted during a walk along trails that pass through forests and gardens. The park is open to the public free of charge.
   
   
4. Bryan Park - 4308 Hermitage Rd., Richmond, VA 23227
   Butterflies add a colorful touch of the present to Richmond's past at Bryan Park, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. Named for the founder of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the property on which the park resides was donated to the city in 1910 by Joseph Bryan's widow. See a wide variety of butterflies at the popular 17-acre Azalea Gardens and the pollinator garden in the Nature Preserve. Park hours are sunrise to dusk, seven days a week.
   
   
5. James River Park - 4001 Riverside Dr., Richmond, VA 23225
   Enjoy a refreshing getaway without leaving the city with a visit to James River Park. This spectacular location in the heart of Richmond draws nearly two million visitors each year. Don't miss Williams Island, a densely vegetated area that is home to butterflies along with other insects, birds, and wildlife. James River Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. 

Whether you're a social butterfly or cocooning is more your thing, we can help you find a home in Richmond that suits your lifestyle. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn more.

Looking for a chance to enjoy art and culture in Richmond? Our real estate agents have an idea!

When you're visiting Richmond homes for sale, you want to take the chance to learn all about the community. One way to really enjoy the spirit of Richmond is to visit its Museum District, truly one of a kind in the state.

No less than four world-class museums are situated right in this neighborhood, also known as the Upper Fan. You'll also find row homes and detached townhouses. Many of the buildings are striking examples of historic architectural styles, set off with majestic old-growth trees.

Throughout the Museum District, you'll also see many memorable examples of public art. Breathtaking murals await to be discovered around every corner. Exploring the District is a terrific way to spend a day that will give any history buff plenty of think about. Plus, there are family-friendly attractions, too!

Let's take a closer look at everything Richmond's Museum District has to offer:

1. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – 200 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220
   The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is the premier cultural institution for preserving, celebrating, and promoting fine arts. Permanent collections span the globe and highlight a wide range of styles. One of the most popular exhibits is "Fabergé and the Russian Decorative Arts," a showcase of nearly 300 Fabergé objects like nothing else on display in the United States.
2. Virginia Museum of History & Culture – 428 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220
   A beloved fixture of the Museum District, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture is dedicated to telling "The Story of Virginia for All Virginians." It has quickly become well-known for its outstanding virtual and digital art programs. Among its most prized long-term exhibits is Landscapes of Virginia, a curated experience of 21 landscape paintings that exult in the diverse terrain and climate of the state's five distinctive regions. While the museum is currently closed, you can stay up to date on their virtual programs here. 
3. Children's Museum of Richmond – 2626 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
   Known for its award-winning interactive exhibits and educational programs, Children's Museum of Richmond is one of the leading museums of its kind in the United States. With two locations, including one in Richmond and another in nearby Midlothian, it will captivate and stimulate young minds with its dedication to learning through play. Every week, families can visit the Family Creation Station to make something to take home!
4. Science Museum of Virginia – 2500 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
   Science Museum of Virginia is the place to go for exciting exhibitions about the most important topics in science today. Kids love journeying through the galaxy in The Dome, an immersive planetarium and 76-foot screen – Virginia's largest. Newly popular is The Forge, a dedicated "makerspace" where kids can do hands-on, STEM-based building projects with the whole family. There's always something new to see and do!
5. Scott's Addition Historic District – North of Museum District, See Website for Details
   Scott's Addition Historic District is a great place to sample the local nightlife after a full day of learning. Adjoining the Museum District to the north, it is home to acclaimed restaurants, a boutique bowling alley, cinema, and much more. Once the industrial heart of Richmond, it underwent a renaissance starting in 2005 when the Scott's Addition Boulevard Association succeeded in winning its Historic District designation.

The Museum District is just one more way Richmond stands out from the rest. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn about real estate opportunities around Richmond.

Putting your home on the market is a big decision, and the process can be intimidating. Did you know the best way to prepare your home for an upcoming listing is by taking the time to properly stage it for potential buyers? The home staging process is actually one of the most exciting parts of the sales process. While it does require a lot of work and planning, it can also be fun. Proper staging can not only help you sell your home faster, but it can also help you get more in return. 

Below are some tips from our real estate agents on how to get your home ready for the real estate market:

1. Empty Your Closets
   A lack of storage space can be a deal-breaker for many buyers, so it's a good idea to show off the size of your closets. Cramped or overflowing storage space can really make your home smaller than it actually is, but the reverse is true as well. Half-empty closets can make your storage space seem more than adequate. By keeping a minimal number of items in your closets, you can create the visual perception that they're actually a lot larger.
   
   
2. Hide Your Pets
   We know you love your pets, and even if they're incredibly cute, potential homebuyers might not think so. Not only should you keep your dogs, cats, fish, and hamsters out of sight, you should also conceal their toys and bowls as well. You also want to be sure to get rid of any lingering pet odors before showing your home.
   
   
3. Depersonalize The Space
   Creating an environment that enables buyers to envision themselves in the home is crucial to the staging process. The more personalized a home, the more difficult it will be for visitors to imagine themselves living in the space. We recommend keeping things as neutral as possible. Limit the exposure of family photos or bold art pieces and put away any clothes or personal items. 
   
   
4. Do A Thorough Deep Cleaning
   We don't mean a quick tidy-up. Before listing your home for sale, you'll need to make every inch of your house shine. Baseboards, floors, ceilings, and windows -- every nook and cranny. Not only will this give buyers a good first impression, but it will also indicate that you've taken good care of the property.
   
   
5. Maximize Light Exposure
   Maximizing the light exposure across every room of the house is critical before putting your home on the market. If you have rooms that don't receive a lot of sunlight, consider investing in inexpensive lighting to help brighten things up. Not only are bright rooms more welcoming, but they can also appear larger from a visual perspective. For inspiration on how to really maximize light exposure throughout your home, check out these Richmond homes for sale.
   
   
6. Rearrange Your Furniture 
   The location or layout of your furniture can have a tremendous impact on the appearance of a room. Consider eliminating large pieces of furniture that don't fit the size of the room. As a rule of thumb, there should be adequate space on both sides of every furniture piece, and you should be able to easily walk around the room without issue. 

Home staging is both an art and a science. Working with a professional real estate agent is the best way to ensure your home is ready to list on the market. Contact us today for more tips!

If you have plans for a garden this year and prefer to save money and start your own plants from seed, now is the time to start those seeds indoors. Even if you're planning on selling your home this year, our real estate agents advise moving ahead with your normal gardening plans, as adding pretty flowers to your landscaping or to pots around the front door and porch can dramatically improve your home's curb appeal. Here are a few tips to help you successfully start seeds inside.

1. Know what plants need to be started indoors.
   Plants that are native to warmer climates closer to the equator tend to require long growing seasons. These include fruits and vegetables like melons, squash (including pumpkins), peppers, tomatoes, and many others. The same goes for many flowers. Some vegetables, on the other hand, don't need to be started indoors or don't do well if transplanted, such as carrots. Do your research now and make sure you know what needs to get started indoors this month.
   
   
2. Choose an appropriate soil.
   Seedlings are picky about soil, and the wrong soil can doom your starting attempts. The soil needs to be light and fluffy and should be fertilized so you don't have to worry about fertilizing for a little while. It should also be clean and disease-free. Seed starting kits should have everything you need to start your garden indoors, or you can buy bags of appropriate soil.
   
   
3. Provide enough light.
   Many people think that simply putting seedlings in a kitchen window will provide enough sunlight, but remember, you're trying to mimic a climate that has more hours of sunlight throughout the growing season. Insufficient light will leave your seedlings leggy and weak if they make it at all. Instead, position lights 3 to 4 inches from your seedlings, set on a timer so the plants get around 16 hours of light per day. Even just goose-necked desk lamps will do. This will help ensure that your seedlings leaf out and are strong enough to transplant.
   
   
4. Start your seeds far enough in advance.
   Seeds need to be started far enough in advance that they are stable by the time you transplant them into your garden. This means 4 to 6 weeks for most plants, with as much as 8 weeks for warmer weather plants, such as tomatoes and peppers. Starting vegetables far enough in advance ensures that you'll be able to harvest your garden before the first frost. Likewise, if you start your flowers now, you'll have plenty of flowering plants to boost your home's curb appeal and help it to stand out among other Richmond homes for sale.

A successful garden takes some preparation, so start your research and get your seeds started now! In a few months, you'll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor (pun intended). For help deciding what touches like flowers and landscaping your home might need, or determining when the best time is to list your home on the market, contact us today.

Who doesn't love a fresh pizza from a pipping hot oven? No matter what you top your pie with, pizza is one of the most popular foods in the country. That popularity led to Tuesday, February 9 being designated as National Pizza Day. Join our real estate agents in the celebration by ordering your favorite pie from one of these top pizza joints around Richmond. 

1. Napoli Flame Baked Pizza and Italian Grill - 3324 Pump Rd., Henrico, VA 23233
   Enjoy classic thin-crust pizza just minutes from Henrico homes for sale. Pies from Napoli Flame Baked Pizza and Italian Grill are made with hand-tossed dough and hand-seasoned sauce, then baked in a brick oven. Order by the slice or whole pie. Carryout is available, as well as delivery within a six-mile radius. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
   
   
2. Brooklyn Pizza Authority - 10613 Hull St. Rd., Midlothian, VA 23112
   Brooklyn Pizza Authority brings iconic New York-style pizza to the community around Midlothian homes for sale. Even the names of the pies have a distinct flavor of the Big Apple. Try the Red Hook, made with pepperoni, spinach, and meatballs, or the Q-Line, topped with pesto, seasoned ground beef, red onion, tomato, and banana peppers. Order online for convenient no-contact delivery. BPA is open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
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3. Piccola Italy Pizza & Subs - 1100 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
   For more than 30 years, Piccola Italy Pizza & Subs has been serving their first-rate pies, pasta, and sub sandwiches with a goal to provide consistency in both food quality and service. Order the eggplant Parmigiana pizza or cheese calzone with confidence, knowing you'll get the same freshness and flavor every time. Piccola is currently open for carryout and delivery only. Hours are 11 a.m. - midnight daily except for Sunday when the starting time is noon.
   
   
4. Pupatella - 1 N. Morris St., Richmond, VA 23220
   How authentic is the thin, crispy Neapolitan-style pizza served at Pupatella? The restaurant has earned officially designation from the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana. This international organization represents generations of Neapolitan pizza-making families and sets the standards for restaurants around the world. Go old school with Pupatella's Margherita, the signature Neapolitan pizza, made with San Marzano tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. When you want some variety, try one of the white pizzas with an Italian cream sauce base. Pick up a pizza after a day of viewing Richmond homes for sale. Pupatella is open noon - 9 p.m. Sunday and Monday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
   
   
5. Papa Lou Pizza - 5310 Hull Street Rd., Richmond, VA 23224
   Papa Lou Pizza takes pride in offering food made with fresh, quality ingredients for a low, affordable price. Expand your culinary horizons with the Mexicana pizza, a pie topped with chicken, jalapeño, and avocado. Customers give high marks for Papa Lou's calzones, a turnover-style pizza stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and optional fillings such as pepperoni and mushrooms. Hours are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. 

When you need a moving crew, pizza is the perfect bribe for family and friends. Whether you're buying or selling, contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for friendly and professional assistance.

Need a break from the fast pace and digital overload of daily living? Our real estate agents recommend bird watching as a perfect way to connect with nature and restore a peaceful state of mind.

Whether you go alone or with family and friends, check out these great bird watching trails in Pocahontas State Park, just minutes from Chesterfield homes for sale.

• Beaver Lake Trail
  Bodies of water always attract great numbers of birds. As a bonus, they provide a beautiful background for bird-watching scenes. Stunning scenery is one of the reasons that make Beaver Lake Trail one of the more popular destinations in Pocahontas State Park. The dog-friendly 2.3-mile trail offers a moderate challenge suitable for families. Please note that, unlike several other trails in the park, biking is not permitted. 
  
  
• Forest Exploration Trail
  When you really want to get away from it all, head to Forest Exploration Trail. The densely wooded grounds create a peaceful serenity that lets you focus on spotting birds. Leashed dogs are welcome on the 2.2-mile trail, which is also a good spot for mountain biking year-round.
  
  
• Bright Hope Trail and Otter Lick Loop
  Want to combine bird-watching with an invigorating workout? Bright Hope Trail and Otter Lick Loop may have a tongue-twister of a name, and at 6.8 miles, it's one of the longer trails in Pocahontas State Park. On any given day, you may share the trail with hikers, mountain bikers, runners, and horseback riders. Bring your leashed dog along when you visit the trail, which is accessible all year long. 
  
  
• Parallel Trail
  Enjoy an outing with the kids and get them hooked on bird watching with a hike along Parallel Trail. Measuring just over one mile in length with minimal elevation, the trail accommodates both newbies and experienced hikers. The forest setting allows for easy conversation along with opportunities to view different trees and plants. The kids will be happy that they can bring Fido along as well. 
  
  
• Pocahontas State Park Red Trail MTB
  Mountain bikers, rejoice! Pocahontas State Park Red Trail MTB is reserved exclusively for bikers. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of birds and wildlife as you cycle around the 3.2-mile looped route. February through November are the best months to visit this trail.

Bird Watching Tips

• Avoid dressing in bright colors. Birds have poor color vision, but the greater the contrast, the more you'll stand out from the natural background. Stick with dark colors and earth tones in order to blend in with the surroundings.
  
  
• Be patient. Birds are not on a schedule. They will eventually reveal themselves on their own timetable. Also, avoid sudden movements and loud noises that are likely to frighten birds away.
  
  
• Keep the sun behind you. When you're facing the sun, resulting shadows make it harder to distinguish actual bird sightings.
  
  
• Bring a bird identification guide along. National Geographic and Peterson are considered the gold standards by most bird watchers. Today, many guides are even available for download on a smartphone. Take a picture with your cell phone camera to make identification easier.
  
  
• Binoculars are a must-have for even casual bird watchers. Without a decent pair of binoculars, you'll miss out on many details of a bird's appearance and behavior. 

Where will you be feathering your nest this year? Find out why Chesterfield is a wonderful place to call home. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn more.

If you're trying to eat healthier this year, there's no need to eat less-than-tasty food. Richmond has plenty of healthy dining options at many of its restaurants so you can follow a nutritious eating plan while still loving what you eat.

Our real estate agents suggest stopping in to enjoy a healthy meal, snack, or beverage at any of the following Richmond restaurants:

1. Goatocado – 1823 West Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Known for its delicious dishes, Goatocado is located near Richmond homes for sale. Its ingredients vary from season to season to serve the freshest food possible. Wraps and bowls, as well as ramen, dominate the menu, and you'll be able to choose from several different varieties of each and customize it by selecting your base and toppings. Japanese and Mediterranean wraps and bowls are popular, and each is topped with fresh avocado. Thai and Mexican ramen are also available, and you can choose add-ons such as a fried egg. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
2. Palani Drive – 401 Libbie Ave. #1, Richmond, VA 23226  
   Palani Drive serves up fresh food that's familiar yet also has unique flavors. Its name is inspired by the place where the Ironman triathlon finishes in Hawaii, so the restaurant is committed to providing "well-built food that keeps you going." Stop by on the weekend to enjoy breakfast burritos or other options for brunch, or try lunch or dinner dishes that include salads, wraps (vegetarian options as well as those with meat), quesadillas, and burritos. If you're in the mood for a sweet but healthy treat, Palani Drive serves many smoothie options, such as the Ironman, which has strawberry, banana, blackberry, orange juice, and multivitamins. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
3. Ipanema Café – 917 W. Grace St., Richmond, VA 23220  
   A full-service restaurant and bar, Ipanema Cafe is well known for its vegan and vegetarian menu, delicious desserts, and an extensive selection of beer and wine. Popular entrees include butternut squash risotto and beer-braised "beyond sausage." When the weather's nice, head out to the patio to eat as you people-watch on Grace Street, and or you can also choose to eat inside the restaurant, grab a take-out order, or have your food delivered if you're in the area. Hours are 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.
   
   
4. Organic Krush – 3406 Pump Rd., Unit 4, Henrico, VA 23233
   Organic Krush, located just around the corner from Henrico homes for sale, creates delicious, organic dishes in a menu that offers something for every member of the family. Their food is free of pesticides, GMOs, hormones, and "fake" ingredients, and favorites include eggplant lasagna and cauliflower pizza, as well as bone-broth bowls and cold-pressed juices. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
   
   
5. Bell Greek Authentic Grill – 11307 Polo Place, Midlothian, VA 23113
   Visit Bell Greek Authentic Grill, located near Midlothian homes for sale, for reasonably priced authentic Greek food and pastry dishes prepared with the best and freshest produce and meats. Try one of the restaurant's gyros, its Greek baked spaghetti, or stuffed cabbage for delicious options that are true to their Greek roots. If you have dietary restrictions, you'll also find gluten-free as well as vegetarian options on the menu. Hours are 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday at both locations.

Contact us to learn more about Richmond's vibrant restaurant scene. Our community is thriving, and it's a wonderful place to call home!   

The holidays are right around the corner — have you put in your cookie order yet? Though our real estate agents love baking cookies, this is one of those years where we could all use one less to-do on our plates. Instead of baking yourself into a frenzy, order holiday cookies from these Richmond area bakeries.

1. Red Eye Cookie Co. — 935 W. Grace St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Get a true taste of Virginia with the cookies at Red Eye Cookie Co. This locally owned bakery locally sources all of its ingredients so that their cookies are a true representation of the Richmond culinary scene. With cream-line milk from Burnt Chimney and whole-wheat grain flour from Ashland, you'll taste a little bit of Virginia in every bite.
   
   
2. Buttermilk Bake Shop — 257 E. Bank St., Petersburg, VA 23803
   Should you choose to purchase one of our cozy Petersburg homes for sale, you'll be pleased to know that a classic American bakeshop is right around the corner. Located in Old Town, Buttermilk Bake Shop makes all of their pastries from scratch. Call in an order of holiday cookies so you can check it off of your to-do list. When you swing by to pick them up, help yourself to a fresh sticky bun or cupcake…and don't forget to grab your dog a treat, too!
   
   
3. Westhampton Pastry Shop — 5728 Patterson Ave., Richmond, VA 23226
   If you've lived in Richmond long enough, chances are high that you have fond memories of holiday cookies from Westhampton Pastry Shop. Since 1952, they've provided dazzling desserts to thousands of families over the holiday season. Ordering holiday cookies from Westhampton Pastry Shop is one Richmond tradition that you dare not break.
   
   
4. Morsels — 4040 MacArthur Ave., Richmond, VA 23227
   Don't leave even the tiniest crumb up to chance this holiday season; order your cookies from Morsels to ensure that every bite is the best. This Bellevue bakery cooks up everything from snickerdoodles and macaroons to Italian pignoli cookies and cookie sandwiches. Prefer bars over traditional cookies? Morsels will gladly bake a tray full of one of two-dozen different bar styles like a Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bar, Kitchen Sink Cookie Bar, and Bourbon Apple Pie Bar.
   
   
5. That Much Sweeter — 1640 Featherstone Dr., Midlothian, VA 23113
   How do you make sure your holiday cookies are as sweet as can be? You let That Much Sweeter take care of the baking. They believe that cookies possess superpowers, and while you may not gain superstrength after munching on some morsels, you will be flying high after one bite. Order up a few boxes of chocolate chip cookies and make your whole family proud. Thankfully, you don't need to hope that these cookies give you x-ray vision to peer into our Midlothian homes for sale — you just need to schedule an appointment.

Are you searching for a sweet home in the RVA? Let us help you find it. Contact us today to browse our best Richmond homes for sale.

The weather around Richmond is cooling down, and our real estate agents are ready to cozy up for the winter. One of the best ways to embrace and enjoy the seasonal shift from falling leaves to snow flurries is to grab a hot cup of cocoa when you're out and about. Next time you're spending the afternoon running errands, order up a warm cup of hot chocolate at these RVA cafes.

1. Stir Crazy Café — 4015 MacArthur Ave., Richmond, VA 23227
   Let's face it, we're all a little stir crazy these days. Thankfully, Stir Crazy Café provides the perfect excuse to get out of the house to trip to the North Side. While we'd normally order up one of their Snowing In Space Nitro coffees or their custom espresso bled featuring three different Latin American beans, the last days of fall calls for a creamy cup of chocolate blended with steamed milk.
   
   
2. Gearharts Fine Chocolates — 306 B Libble Ave., Richmond, VA 23226
   When you think artisan chocolate, Belgian or Swiss varieties usually come to mind. Gearharts Fine Chocolates has spent the last two decades working to make his chocolate shop in Virginia one of the world's finest. Their dessert café has freshly baked brownies, cookies, cakes, and other confections, as well as specialty coffees and hot chocolates. We recommend bringing home a bag of their Maya Drinking Chocolate to create the perfect hot chocolate in the comfort of your own home.
   
   
3. Crossroads Coffee & Ice Cream — 3600 Forest Hill Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
   Crossroads really does put you at a difficult intersection with fantastic flavorful food options. On the one hand, the chilly Richmond weather begs for a cup of their fresh hot chocolate. On the other hand, Crossroads has such decadent ice cream flavors that enjoying a few scoops of their best batches is almost worth the shivering that will follow. Our advice is to grab a scoop and a cup of hot chocolate, alternating between bites to keep your taste buds at the perfect temperature.
   
   
4. Bright Spot Coffee — 6114 Lakeside Ave., Henrico, VA 23228
   Our Henrico homes for sale aren't the only bright spots in town. Bright Spot Coffee in the Lakeside neighborhood invites you to relax and sip on a hot chocolate. If you're on your lunch break and would really like to warm up, you should try their newest menu item: Bright Spot Coffee's award-winning chili.
   
   
5. Les Crepes — 9200 Stony Point Pkwy #152, Richmond, VA 23235
   Les Crepes brings French-inspired cuisine to the RVA using local, fresh ingredients. Whether you prefer a breakfast crepe loaded with eggs, a savory crepe stacked with meat and veggies, or a sweet crepe filled with Nutella, whipped cream, and fruit, Les Crepes has the crepe for you. Add a hot chocolate to your order and take your taste buds on a trip to France without ever leaving the RVA.

Would you love to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate on your own porch or patio? Contact us today to tour our Richmond homes for sale.

Raise your hand if you've spent the last few months making homemade bread. If you're in the same boat as our real estate agents, then you can agree that it's time to leave it to the professionals. Thankfully, National Homemade Bread Day is right around the corner and we encourage you to visit one of these local RVA bakeries for a loaf of homemade bread on Tuesday, November 17th.

1. Idle Hands Bread Company – 407 Strawberry St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Baking delicious bread is no easy task; baking the best sourdough in the RVA is even harder! Idle Hands Bread Company specializes in only baking sourdough bread and pastries. Located in the Fan, Idle Hands Bread Company is a perfect place for bread lovers who are also vegan and gluten-free to enjoy a tasty loaf that meets a variety of dietary restrictions.
   
   
2. Antbear Bakery – 1 S. Allen, Richmond, VA 23220
   Chances are high that if you've dined at a few local eateries around the RVA, you've already sampled the fine baking skills from Antbear Bakery. Although their bakery is a single location, you'll find them all around the RVA. From providing their wholesale breads to local restaurants to use across their menu to offering free loaves for those who donate to organizations that better the community, Antbear Bakery breaks bread with the RVA in more ways than one.
   
   
3. Sub Rosa – 620 N. 25th St., Richmond, VA 23223
   Sub Rosa Wood Fired Bakery may have had to suspend their eat-in service, but you can still order your favorite bread for pickup through their website. Check out their updated bread baking schedule to know when their Sub Rosa Classic, Miller's Wheat, Ryes, Polenta, and Pide Flatbreads are ready to grab hot and fresh from the oven.
   
   
4. Montana Gold Bread Co. – 3543 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
   For more than 25 years, Montana Gold Bread Company has started each day by milling their own wheat, kneading their own bread, and making all of their products from scratch. Their selection of over a dozen daily breads includes pumpkin bread, banana bread, Blue Ridge Mountain herb bread, Montana 9-grain bread, and honey whole wheat bread. Stop by and pick up a loaf or celebrate National Homemade Bread Day by baking up one of the recipes listed on their website.
   
   
5. Great Harvest Bread Co. – 13541 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA 23113
   If you're moving into one of our Midlothian homes for sale, you'll surely be stopping at the Great Harvest Bread Company. Their phenomenal bread-making process uses pure, simple ingredients to produce every item from scratch. Great Harvest doesn't rush the process, instead of making bread the way it ought to be baked using traditional methods that have stood the test of time. Trust us, you'll immediately taste the difference that Great Harvest Bread Co. brings to the table!

Are you searching for a house with a kitchen that you can fill with the smells of freshly baked bread? We can help. Contact us today to schedule private tours of our coziest Richmond homes for sale.

With temperatures cooling, it's the perfect time to check out the soup of the day! Richmond is no stranger to delicious dining, and that of course includes fall soups. Our REALTORS® recommend these wonderful local restaurants for homemade soups that'll warm your belly and your soul during the chilly weather.

1. Home Sweet Home - 3433 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23220
   What else would you call a restaurant specializing in grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup than ... Home Sweet Home? This classic comfort food combo is updated for 21st-century palates with a number of gourmet add-ons, including kimchi, hummus, and green apples. Customers come back for the specialty Mac and Me, which features house-made macaroni and cheese and bbq smoked pork. Sandwiches are served with HSH's own chicken stock-based tomato soup. This is the perfect spot for a lunch break when you're looking for your own home, a sweet home among Richmond homes for sale. Hours are noon - 2 a.m. daily except weekends when doors open at 11 a.m.
   
   
2. HogsHead Cafe - 8902 W. Broad St., Henrico, VA 23294
   HogsHead Cafe specializes in two iconic cuisines that are near and dear to the hearts and taste buds of Virginians: BBQ and seafood. The latter is highlighted in the cafe's rotating selection of scratch-made soups posted in the chalkboard specials. A typical day's choices may include lobster bisque, shrimp and corn chowder, and she-crab. Enjoy the soup solo or accompanied by a plate of pork wings or the signature clamwich. Stop in after a day of viewing Henrico homes for sale. HogsHead opens at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
   
   
3. Tarrant's Cafe - 1 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
   The corner of Broad and Foushee Streets has been a significant part of Richmond's history. As the current occupant, Tarrant's Cafe carries on the tradition of serving the local community. The decor includes signs and other memorabilia from the building's turn-of-the-century incarnation as Tarrant Drug Co. Rich and flavorful she-crab soup is the star of the menu, but you can add variety by ordering the second flavor, which changes daily. Tarrant's Cafe is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
   
   
4. Fresca on Addison - 22 S. Addison St., Richmond, VA 23220
   As vegetarian lifestyles become increasingly popular, restaurants are turning toward more meatless dishes. Not only is the menu at Fresca on Addison 100 percent vegetarian, but every item is available in a vegan option. The velvety-smooth curried butternut squash soup is made with coconut milk and toasted almonds and comes gluten-free and nut-free on request. Try a bowl of creamy tomato soup with a freshly-made whole wheat pita for dunking. Order online for pickup or delivery from 11:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
   
   
5. Bella Sicilia Italian Restaurant - 2913 River Rd. W., Goochland, VA 23063
   It's late Saturday afternoon, you've had a great day touring Goochland homes for sale, but now the kids are starving. What's the solution? Pick up a freshly-baked pizza and some homemade soup from Bella Sicilia Italian Restaurant. Choose from regular or Sicilian pan pizza along with minestrone or New England clam chowder. 

Noted French chef Louis Diat called soup "important, basic and essential," much like finding the right home. Whether you're buying or selling a house in Richmond, contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to get started.

When you're in the mood for seafood, the Richmond area is the place to be. Whether you're searching for a prepared meal from expert chefs or fresh ingredients for your own home-cooked seafood feast, it's not hard to find when you call Richmond home. National Seafood Month takes place every October, providing the perfect excuse to explore Richmond's seafood scene. Our REALTORS® have all the delicious details on where you can find fresh seafood in the Richmond area for National Seafood Month this year.

1. Yellow Umbrella Provisions – 5607 Patterson Ave., Richmond, VA 23226

   With both fresh-caught seafood and deliciously prepared seafood meals that you can enjoy at home, Yellow Umbrella Provisions is your source for all things seafood close to Richmond homes for sale. If you'd like to bring home a fresh seafood meal that's ready to enjoy, take a look at the daily prepared food specials or call ahead to create a custom, prepared order. For fresh ingredients, you'll find a little bit of everything at Yellow Umbrella. There's tons of seafood available, along with meat from local farms and fresh produce that's perfect for putting the finishing touch on any meal.

2. Bay Seafood – 6305 Midlothian Tpke., Richmond, VA 23225

   If you're searching for fresh-caught crab, then you're sure to find what you seek when you visit the Bay Seafood carryout market. Bay Seafood specializes in locally sourced crab, which you can purchase by the bushel or half-bushel. You can pick up live crabs ideal for cooking at home, or have your order steamed to perfection by the team at Bay Seafood. The spicy snow crab legs at Bay Seafood are always a hit, and you can also find fresh shrimp here on most days.

3. Tuckahoe Seafood – 1007 Starling Dr., Henrico, VA 23229

   Grab everything you need to celebrate National Seafood Month at Tuckahoe Seafood, where you can also pick up gourmet grocery items and even the perfect bottle of wine to pair with your meal. Tuckahoe Seafood has a convenient location near Henrico homes for sale and has been serving up fresh, local seafood for more than 45 years. In addition to stocking all of the ingredients you need for your own meal, Tuckahoe Seafood offers custom made seafood platters that are great for parties or family seafood celebrations.

4. Ocean World Seafood Company – 4814 Government Rd., Richmond, VA 23231

   With crabs, clams, oysters, and plenty of other fresh seafood, Ocean World Seafood Company has all of the ingredients you need for your culinary creations. Ocean World Seafood Company stocks fresh, local blue crabs all year round, so you can expect the best no matter when you visit. If you like a little kick with your seafood, this shop also has a variety of spicy options for shrimp and crab legs.

5. Bon Air Seafood – 2722 Tinsley Dr., Richmond, VA 23235

   With a huge variety of fish that's stocked fresh every day, you can count on Bon Air Seafood for all of your seafood needs. When you shop at Bon Air Seafood, you get more than just fresh seafood. Everything here comes with recipes for bringing the most out of your ingredients.

Living in the Richmond area means that you're never far from fresh seafood, and now is a great time to shop for a home. Contact us today.

Take a Look at RVA in a new light!

It's easy to forget about Richmond's many museums, historic sites and attractions when you're scrambling to keep up with the day-to-day. But why not take a break and explore the city as a tourist would?

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many of us indoors for extended periods of time, but the good news is we live in a beautiful city with lots to see all from the comfort of our own vehicles! If you can do so in a safe way, many of these destinations offer a great opportunity to get out and stretch your legs while taking in the views.

 

We've outlined a few traditional sites to enjoy, plus a few you may not have experienced yet!

 

Top 10 things to do on your day trip:

Let's be honest: for java lovers like our REALTORS®, every day is coffee day. But Tuesday, September 29 has been officially declared National Coffee Day, so why not celebrate? Luckily, there are plenty of local coffee shops serving up delicious roasts in our area! Get your favorite drink or try a new one at one of these popular Carytown coffee shops around Richmond homes for sale. 

1. Sugar & Twine - 2928 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
   Sugar & Twine isn't satisfied with simply offering the finest locally roasted coffee. They want to satisfy your sweet tooth with a mouthwatering selection of muffins, croissants, cookies, and other freshly baked goodies. If you prefer something more hearty, go with the breakfast sandwich on focaccia bread or cheddar biscuits. Stop in on the weekend and unwind with a cold beer or glass of wine. 
   
   
2. Roastology Coffee - 2701 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23220
   With a name like Roastology Coffee, you know they're serious about their craft. Top-quality coffee beans are roasted in-house to create every day and seasonal blends. and you can even purchase ready-to-use half-gallon jugs of iced lattes and cold brew. Turn your beverage into a light breakfast or lunch by pairing it with one of Roastology's sandwiches, salads, or pastries. Order ahead on the website or just stop by the shop's convenient roll-up window. 
   
   
3. Lamplighter Coffee Roasters - 116 S. Addison St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Few things are as satisfying as a cup of joe, but maybe you're in the mood to try something adventurous. Lamplighter Coffee Roasters features specialty drinks such as Thai coffee, lavender latte, and a black eye, which is drip coffee turbo-charged with a double shot of espresso. Feeling hungry? Breakfast burritos come in regular and vegan varieties, or you can opt for a sandwich on a locally-made Cupertino bagel. 
   
   
4. Alchemy Coffee - 814 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
   The country's great coffee revolution originated in the Pacific Northwest. When Eric Spivack relocated from Portland to Richmond, he brought some of that coffee culture along to found Alchemy Coffee. In true pioneering spirit, the shop's mission is blending a scientific approach with people's emotional relationship to coffee. Fittingly, Alchemy's website features a flowchart of different coffee preparations, both hot and iced. Coffee is sourced from a rotating list of top local and regional roasters.
   
   
5. Rostov's Coffee & Tea - 1618 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Variety is the name of the game at Rostov's Coffee & Tea. With more than 50 years in business, family-owned Rostov's is the oldest coffee roaster in Richmond. Choose from an incredible 40+ blends, sourced from the world's top coffee-growing regions, in a wide range of flavors and intensities. Rostov's also carries 60 types of teas, including herbal, decaf, black, green, and flavored. Call in your order at least one hour ahead and it will be ready for pickup. Orders can also be shipped for a flat fee of $4, with a 25 percent discount on shipping for orders over two pounds. 

After all those cups of coffee, we can't wait to put our energy to work fulfilling your real estate needs. If you're buying or selling a home in Richmond, contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to get started. 

Exploring the natural beauty around Richmond is an especially pleasant pastime in autumn when the air is crisp, the sun is shining, and the changing leaves are fluttering with the breeze in a dazzling display of colors. Whether you visit a local park, take a long, scenic drive, or head out for a hike deeper into nature, there are so many different ways to enjoy the fall foliage this year. Our REALTORS® are ready for the show, and we've got all the details on where to see the leaves change color around Richmond this year.

1. Maymont Estate – 1000 Westover Rd., Richmond, VA 23220
   Every entry on our list can be easily reached from Richmond homes for sale, and the historic Maymont Estate is the perfect place to start. This beautifully maintained estate is a treat to visit during any season, but if you love fall foliage then there's no doubt that this is the best time of year to visit. Take your time as you tour the 100-acre estate, which features gardens, lakes, an arboretum, and mature trees with leaves in a kaleidoscope of colors. 

2. Byrd Park – 600 South Blvd. Richmond, VA 23220
   Conveniently located in the Near West End of Richmond, Byrd Park has long been a favorite outdoor destination for Richmond residents. This 287-acre park offers a little bit of everything – and a lot of changing leaves during the fall season. There are three beautiful lakes to explore scattered throughout the park, along with walking trails that will allow you to enjoy the foliage from every angle. Be sure to visit the historic monuments at the southern end of the park, to see reminders of the city's past framed by the fall foliage of the present.

3. Bryan Park – 4308 Hermitage Rd., Richmond, VA 23227
   One of Richmond's largest and most popular parks, Bryan Park is sure to be a hit for fall foliage viewing. The park is home to thousands of mature trees of many types, which ensures a diverse palette of colors during foliage season. There are ample walking and hiking trails that weave through the park, along with an expansive azalea garden that is home to some great colors in the fall.

4. Three Lakes Park and Nature Center – 400 Sausiluta Dr., Henrico, VA 23227
   Searching for the colors of fall close to Henrico homes for sale? Then just head for Three Lakes Park and Nature Center, where you can see the colorful leaves reflecting off of the surface of beautiful lakes. This park also features ample family activities, from playgrounds to an educational Nature Center, so you can turn your visit into a full-day event.

5. Forest Hill Park – 4201 Forest Hill Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
   Having once served as a quarry, an estate, and an amusement park at separate times, Forest Hill Park is a unique slice of local history. It's also a great place to check out the changing leaves in the fall, with more than 100 acres to explore. Take a stroll around the lake, stop for a picnic in one of the shelters positioned throughout the park, and visit the historic buildings located around the park while they are surrounded by the spectacular colors of autumn.

When you live in Richmond, your next outdoor adventure is always waiting close to your front door. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond, VA area.

For International Geocaching Day this August 15th, our REALTORS® want to introduce the fun and excitement of geocaching!

Geocaching is a hobby that's being adopted in ever greater numbers by urban adventurers near the best Richmond homes for sale. Anyone who is interested in spending more time outdoors and has a mobile device, like a smartphone, can participate.

What is Geocaching, Exactly?

In geocaching, you use your smartphone to navigate to a "hidden treasure" stored somewhere in a publicly accessible outdoor space. These unique geocaches are left by other players.

The usual geocache is a small container, sealed from the elements, that includes a logbook and pen. When the cache is found and logged, the player should return it to its original location so it can be found again and again.

Players might be from the local area or just passing through. Likewise, many geocaches contain small items like toys or other trinkets, so each new discoverer can find an item and leave an item.

Get Started With Geocaching in the Richmond Area

Of course, we can't tell you precisely where to find active geocaches in Richmond!

That would take away the fun of discovering them all for yourself. But there are many areas around the city where caches can commonly be found. Geocaching has become so popular that the Virginia State Park System is in on the act, too.

When exploring a Virginia state park, you can expect to find at least one cache. These may be quick grabs you can find near an established trail or multicaches that require you to find a final location by consulting other cache sites throughout the area.

Let's check in with some of the parks known to harbor geocaches:

1. Pocahontas State Park – 10301 State Park Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832
   Just half an hour from downtown Richmond, most geocaching journeys start in Pocahontas State Park. Boating, picnicking, and camping can be enjoyed in season. The park is well known for its camping cabins and three lakes providing abundant fishing.
2. Powhatan State Park – 4616 Powhatan State Park Road, Powhatan, VA 23139
   A few more minutes away – 45 minutes from Richmond center – you can discover Powhatan State Park. Seated on the historic James River, it features diverse wildlife habitats from fields to hardwood forests. Full-service campsites and primitive campgrounds are available.
3. Twin Lakes State Park – 788 Twin Lakes Road, Green Bay, VA 23942
   Approximately an hour west of Richmond, Twin Lakes State Park sprawls 548 breathtaking acres. You can choose the 33-site campground or 11 climate-controlled overnight cabins as you venture through the land in search of your latest geocache find.
4. Belle Isle State Park – 1632 Belle Isle Road, Lancaster, VA 22503
   Ready to go further afield? Gear up and head out an hour and a half northeast of Richmond to Belle Isle State Park. With seven miles of lovely shoreline along the Rappahannock River, it is one of the best places to explore Virginia's tidal wetlands.

Geocaching is fun, but you don't have to range far and wide to find the right Richmond home for you. Contact us today for expert advice on local real estate opportunities.

Wouldn't it be nice to live in a city where every day felt like International Beer Day? The actual holiday falls on August 7th this year, and our REALTORS® are happy to report that Richmond's vibrant craft brewing culture means that you can celebrate in style close to home. Get ready to raise a glass, with our guide to 5 Richmond area breweries that you definitely won't want to miss.

1. Strangeways Brewing – 2277A Dabney Rd., Richmond, VA 23230

   Sure, you could visit an ordinary brewery, but this is no ordinary holiday! Why not try something unusual, new, and unique from Strangeways Brewing? Conveniently located close to Richmond homes for sale, Strangeways Brewing strives to serve the most unusual, flavorful brews, created in styles scoured from every corner of the world. Founder Neil Burton has traveled far and wide in search of strange brews, and you can taste the results of that journey at the award-winning Strangeways Taproom.

2. Garden Grove Brewing – 3445 West Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221

   Garden Grove Brewing is known for its innovative takes on craft beer, wine, and hard cider. The team at Garden Grove believes that the best beer deserves to be served fresh so that you won't find its brews in bottles at the corner store. Visit the taproom, however, and you'll be treated to an amazing selection of beers, all barrel-aged for up to one year.

3. Fine Creek Brewing Company – 2425 Robert E Lee Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139

   Family owned and operated from a rustic farmhouse among rolling, rural fields, Fine Creek Brewing Company is your source for the best craft brews close to Powhatan homes for sale. If you love variety, this is the place to be. Fine Creek doesn't believe in flagship beers, instead choosing to rotate flavors and brewing styles regularly. You never know what you'll find at Fine Creek!

4. Stone Brewing – 4300 Williamsburg Ave., Richmond, VA 23231

   In addition to welcoming leashed pets, the Stone Brewing taproom in Richmond serves one of the most diverse selections of craft beer in the city. Along with a regular selection of year-round brews, Stone Brewing offers special, limited-release beers to bring home by the growler or keg. You never know what you'll find, from rare beers that have never been bottled to vintage batches of your favorite seasonal Stone brews from years past.

5. Veil Brewing Company – 2256 Dabney Rd., Suite F, Richmond, VA 23230

   The Funkhaust Cafe, operated by Veil Brewing Company, is a one of a kind taproom with a menu of funky, wild brews that always includes something new to try. There are always four "normal," easy-drinking beers on tap, along with a selection of more unusual options for when you're feeling adventurous. If you're searching for creations that push the limits of what beer can be, you'll fit right in with the folks at Veil Brewing Company.

If you love to immerse yourself in the craft brewing culture of your home city, then there's never been a better time to call Richmond home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout Richmond.

After months spent indoors cooking or ordering delivery every day, it's safe to say that we could all use a nice night out. Thankfully, many eateries throughout the RVA are now offering outdoor dining options. Our REALTORS® encourage you to support our local RVA businesses and enjoy patio dining at one of these Richmond area restaurants.

1. Union Market – 2306 Jefferson Ave., Richmond, VA 23223
   Your favorite neighborhood café and market in Union Hill is ready to serve you in person once again. Union Market has limited patio seating available for customers between 11 AM and 9 PM. Swing by for lunch or dinner and savor favorites like the Chicken Tarragon sandwich, Fattoush Salad, and handmade soup of the day. They're also serving wine and beer by the bottle as well as kombucha for any adults who surely deserve a night to unwind away from home.
   
   
2. Ipanema Café – 917 West Grace St., Richmond, VA 23220
   If you've been craving amazing vegan and vegetarian food, you'll be happy to know that Ipanema Café is once again ready to serve dine-in customers. Their popular BBQ jackfruit, tofu sandwiches, and fresh salads are waiting for you on their cool patio. Stop by if you're in the area browsing Richmond homes for sale and enjoy a healthy meal outdoors.
   
   
3. Home Sweet Home – 3433 West Cary St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Even though you're dining out, Home Sweet Home will make you feel like part of their family with their friendly service and homecooked meals. As one of Carytown's favorite neighborhood hangouts, they're ready to welcome you back for patio dining during brunch, lunch, and dinner. We can't wait to bite into the Upstate, the Jerk, or another Specialty Grilled Cheese. If you can't make it out during the week, dive into their Breakfast Sausage Sandy or Greek Frittata for brunch and savor that sweet flavor you've longed for.
   
   
4. Latitude Seafood Co. – 15532 WC Commons Way, Midlothian, VA 23113
   Even though our Midlothian homes for sale are a little far from the ocean, we're thankful that restaurants like Latitude Seafood Company are in town to provide us with the freshest fish each day. Start your meal with over a dozen seafood appetizers, soups, and salads before diving into the fresh catch of the day like the Mahi Mahi and Snapper or another salty entrée like Lobster Grilled Cheese or Fish Tacos. Be sure to treat yourself to dessert with a Mill Street Cake or Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwich.
   
   
5. Red Salt Chophouse & Sushi – 12221 West Broad, Henrico, VA 23233
   If the words 'steak' and 'sushi' make your mouth water, then Red Salt Chophouse & Sushi is ready to satiate your taste buds. Delivering a new culinary experience to the area, this unique steakhouse and sushi bar is unlike any other restaurant near Henrico homes for sale. From the lunchtime Bento Boxes and savory starters to the exceptional hand-cut steaks and specialty sushi rolls for dinner, every dish is handcrafted to your preference. Their patio offers limited seating for guests who are ready to finally enjoy the upscale restaurant experience that they've desired for months.

Are you looking to get out of your current house and move into a home with a large enough patio to enjoy outdoor dining? We can help! Contact us today to browse our homes for sale in the RVA and surrounding area. 

With spring in the air, homeowners throughout the Richmond area are getting ready for all the promise of a new growing season. If winter has left your landscape looking a little worse for wear, you're not alone. Our real estate agents are here to help. These are some of our favorite local greenhouses and nurseries to get great lawn and garden plants in the Richmond area:

1. The Great Big Greenhouse and Nursery - 2051 Huguenot Rd, Richmond, VA 23235
   A locally-run nursery that also hosts a weekly farmers market, The Great Big Greenhouse and Nursery is an incredible resource for Richmond area gardeners. They've been serving the Greater Richmond area since 1976, offering an incredible array of plants and accessories. Visit their farmers market on any given Thursday, and be sure to check out these Richmond homes for sale nearby. 
   
   
2. Strange's Florist and Garden Center - 3313 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23223
   Voted the best florist and garden center in Central Virginia, Strange's Florist and Garden Center is known as a great source for floral arrangements for any occasion. But they also offer much more, including a full range of locally grown spring annuals, perennials, vegetables, and herbs for your landscape and garden. 
   
   
3. Sneed's Nursery - 8756 W Huguenot Rd, Richmond, VA 23235
   Bringing a passion for local, sustainable gardening to the Richmond area since 1976, Sneed's Nursery is a great place to learn how to make your garden better. Despite being a small, independently-operated nursery, Sneed's provides a huge variety of organic garden and landscape plants, as well as gardening classes and programs. 
   
   
4. The Greenhouse - 2500 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060
   The name is simple, and it says it all. The Greenhouse offers all things plant-related, from garden annuals, perennials, and vegetables to trees, shrubs, mulch, topsoil, and compost. Family owned and operated since 1958, they also have some of the most knowledgeable and friendly staff around. The Greenhouse has one location in Richmond, and another in the nearby community of Glen Allen, just down the road from these Glen Allen homes for sale. 
   
   
5. Watkins Nurseries - 101 Dry Bridge Rd #7300, Midlothian, VA 23114
   Not many nurseries can claim to have been in business for over 140 years, but Watkins Nurseries isn't just any nursery. Since 1876, they've been producing field-grown trees and shrubs on their 500-acre farm in Midlothian. Just a few miles outside Richmond and minutes from these Midlothian homes for sale, Watkins Nurseries is a wholesale and retail tree nursery, plant grower, and landscape design and installation center that has everything you need to boost your curb appeal. 
   
   
6. Ashwood Gardens and Nursery - 11374 Ashcake Rd, Ashland, VA 23005
   Nestled in the rolling countryside just outside Ashland and Hanover, Ashwood Gardens and Nursery offers one of the area's best selections of trees and shrubs, many of them grown right here in the Richmond area. The selection of plants at Ashwood Gardens changes with the seasons. And with a location right around the corner from these Ashland homes for sale, a fresh garden is never far away. 

Spring will be here before you know it. Contact us today to learn more about life in Richmond, and talk to our team about how we can help you and your family find your dream home!

It's no secret that selling your home quickly requires a bit of effort.  

Our REALTORS® know from experience that tiny details can often make a world of difference with Richmond homes for sale. While everyone knows that curb appeal and cleanliness are important, the way a home smells can also make or break a deal. Luckily, it's easy to make your house smell amazing before your showings. Start with these five tips.

1. Remove Bad Odors
   First and foremost, you'll want to hunt down anything in the home that's causing bad odors and neutralize them. This may require steam cleaning carpets and upholstery, packing away old shoes, bathing the dog, and removing pet beds and litter boxes from the main living area. You'll also want to wash bedding frequently, keep up with dirty laundry, wash dishes immediately, clean out your fridge every week, and take the trash out daily. Baking powder and vinegar are both excellent for neutralizing odors in the home, and it's important not to underestimate the power of opening windows to let in some fresh air.  

2. Skip the Air Fresheners
   Once your home is clean and fresh smelling, you may be tempted to add some air fresheners to the mix. This is almost always a bad idea! Most commercial air fresheners create a heavy, "fake" smell that will turn off many home buyers. Instead of relying on chemicals, try natural options. 

3. Use Your Stove or Oven
   There's a reason why agents recommend baking fresh cookies right before a showing. Not only is it a nice touch, but the smell it creates will make your home feel cozy and welcoming. When potential buyers enter the home, they'll be able to picture themselves and their family spending time gathered together in the kitchen. If baking cookies isn't your thing, try making a simmer pot instead. This is as easy as boiling a pot of water and adding cinnamon and cloves for a warm, "homey" feel or citrus peels for a fresh, clean scent. 

4. Add Plants
   Not only do plants help to clean the air, but certain ones can also give your home a natural, light scent that's almost everyone finds appealing. Some of your best options include roses, lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus. If you decide to add some plants, make sure they look healthy and well-groomed, or else they could end up detracting from the overall look and feel of your home. 

5. Diffuse Essential Oils
   Essential oils are another way to create a light, pleasant scent throughout your home. Try adding a few drops to your simmer pot or using a diffuser. Just be sure to choose your scents carefully. Avoid strong scents like patchouli or sandalwood and instead opt for scents like lavender, rose, bergamot, or grapefruit. You'll want to turn on your diffuser a few hours before the showing for maximum effect. You can also dilute essential oils in a spray bottle and lightly spritz bedding right before your potential buyers arrive. 

Whether you're thinking about buying or selling a home, we're here to help. Contact us today. 

Give something extra sweet this Valentine's Day with some help from local chocolatiers. Treat your special someone to luscious creations from these fine chocolate shops around Richmond recommended by our REALTORS®.

1. Gearharts Fine Chocolates - 306 B Libbie Ave., Richmond 23226
   After serving as a cook in the Marine Corps, Tim Gearhart blazed a global trail as a pastry chef before opening Gearharts Fine Chocolates near Richmond homes for sale. The shop's signature line of chocolates includes mouthwatering flavors such as Michigan cherry, tequila lime, and brown butter caramels. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday.
   
   
2. Chocolate Cravings - 6929 Lakeside Ave., Richmond 23228
   Encouraged by friends and family who raved about her holiday chocolates, Cathy Churcher became certified as a professional chocolatier on the way to opening Chocolate Cravings. Barks, truffles, brownies, and all other products are made by hand using premium Colombian chocolate along with the finest quality local and seasonal ingredients. Chocolate Cravings is open 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. weekdays.
   
   
3. Taylor Made Chocolate - 241 E. Hundred Rd., Chester 23836
   Taylor Made Chocolates was born when a love of sweet treats met a commitment to social responsibility. Steve and Kim Taylor invested Steve's retirement savings in starting their chocolate shop, and proceeds are used to fight human trafficking both locally and abroad. The Taylors also leverage their purchasing power to support fair wages for farmers and laborers involved in growing cocoa beans. Stop by and treat yourself to some delicious artisan chocolate after a day of touring Chester homes for sale. Store hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
   
   
4. Chocolates by Kelly - 11800 W. Broad St., Suite 2136, Henrico 23233
   Henrico homes for sale have convenient access to the delectable sweets of Chocolates by Kelly. As the fifth generation in a long line of chocolatiers, Kelly learned from the expertise of her ancestors. If you want to change things up this Valentine's Day, why not sign up you and your sweetheart for one of Kelly's chocolate classes? For only $35, you can each make two dozen truffles customized to your particular tastes. CBK is open 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
5. GODIVA Chocolatier - 11800 W. Broad St., Henrico 23233
   When it comes to world-class chocolates, GODIVA is the gold standard. Founded nearly 100 years ago in Belgium, where excellence in chocolate-making dates back centuries, the company took its name from Lady Godiva in honor of her boldness, generosity, and pioneering spirit. GODIVA's Gold Collection is the best of the best, featuring their top chocolates specially packaged in the shop's iconic gold boxes and ribbon. Experience the magic of GODIVA from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
6. Kilwins - 3115 W. Cary St., Richmond 23221
   Kilwins has been a respected name in chocolate-making since 1947. The store kitchen has a huge window where visitors can see first-hand the care that goes into their home-made confections such as fudge, caramel apples, and chocolate-dipped pretzels. Visit family-owned Kilwins from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Are you and your family looking for a long-term relationship with a Richmond home? Contact us today! 

There are so many things to love about calling Richmond home. While it's hard to narrow such a rich and varied city down to just a few attractions, our REALTORS® wanted to share some of our favorite things about life in Richmond. If you're in town looking at Richmond homes for sale, you'll be sure to love these things about the area!

1. An Amazing Food Scene
   Richmond's food scene has something for everyone. From corner diners to high-end eateries, classic Southern food to global cuisine, craft brewers to small-batch coffee roasters, Richmond has a flavor for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a great barbecue or tasty vegan treats, you'll find anything you hunger for here. 
2. Richmond's Wild Side
   Few cities can offer a greater wealth of outdoor recreation than Richmond. More than 100 parks and trails in the metro area offer places to hike, bike and explore, while the James River cuts a path right through the heart of the city, offering everything from bass fishing to whitewater rafting. Our favorite spot of all is Oregon Hill, which offers sweeping views of the entire city. 
3. Art for Everyone
   Richmond is home to an incredibly lively and diverse art scene, with tons of galleries, studios, art classes, and markets all over town. We're home to one of the best art museums in the country, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which is open to the public free of charge 365 days a year. The monthly First Friday Art Walk transforms Broad Street into an art lover's paradise. Plus, Richmond's expansive mural project is bringing spectacular street art to areas throughout the city. 
4. Affordable Cost of Living
   The overall cost of living in Richmond is lower than the national average, making it highly accessible for a city its size. Housing costs, in particular, are well below most similarly-sized American cities, making Richmond a great value as well as a fun and exciting place to call home. 
5. The Four Seasons
   Richmond is located right in that sweet spot where you get the best climate for all four seasons. You can enjoy the hot summers of the South, the snowy winters of the North, along with abundant spring wildflowers and brilliant fall foliage. No matter what kind of weather you like, chances are Richmond has it.
6. Small Town in a Big City
   Richmond offers all the amenities and advantages of a major metropolitan area, plus the charm and hospitality of a small town. It's the kind of place where you're likely to run into someone you know while you're out running errands any given day, and where just about anyone you meet is probably already a friend-of-a-friend. 
7. Past, Present and Future
   You'll find remnants from every chapter in American history in Richmond. But Richmond is also a city that looks to the future, with modern condos and townhouses side-by-side with colonial mansions, and new industries right across the street from businesses that have been in the same family for generations. 

Ready to learn more about Richmond? Contact us to talk to our team about all the reasons Richmond might be the place to find your dream home!

Do you dream of a small, intimate gathering of family and close friends or a spectacular event with hundreds of guests? Whatever your vision, see it fulfilled at one of these incredible wedding venues recommended by our real estate agents.

1. The Westin Richmond - 6631 W. Broad St., Richmond 23230
   The Westin Richmond has the amenities and know-how to stage a wedding to remember. Choose from three ballrooms with various configurations to accommodate up to 300 guests. An experienced wedding planner on staff will make sure your wishes are satisfied down to the smallest detail. While the hotel is close to Richmond homes for sale, guest rooms of all sizes offer convenience for out-of-town or local guests. 
   
   
2. Fairview Farm Events - 1626 Ballsville Rd., Powhatan 23219
   Fairview Farm Events is just minutes from Powhatan homes for sale, but you'll feel as though you're in another magical world. Family-owned for more than 100 years, Fairview Farm's 115 acres feature 20,000-square-feet of facilities, including a climate-controlled two-story barn and 2,400-square-foot pavilion. Sites such as a pond with fountain, wooded areas, gazebos, porches, and decks provide multiple options for photo-friendly ceremony locations. Weekday, weekend, and customized packages are available.
   
   
3. The Estate at Independence Golf Club - 600 Founders Bridge Blvd., Midlothian 23113
   Golf courses are noted for their displays of natural beauty. Grounds at the Estate at Independence Golf Club, not far from Midlothian homes for sale, provide a stunning backdrop for both indoor and outdoor weddings. Hold your ceremony right out on the lawn, under the open-air pavilion, or in one of two buildings with floor-to-ceiling windows for plenty of natural light and lovely views. Also, three on-site facilities serve as overnight accommodations or site for a rehearsal dinner. Enjoy a private oasis before and during the wedding in the fully-appointed bridal suite and groom's rooms.
   
   
4. The Dominion Club - 6000 Dominion Club Dr., Glen Allen 23059
   Based on six consecutive years being voted best wedding venue in Richmond, the Dominion Club was named to the Hall of Fame of popular wedding planning website The Knot. Foremost among 25,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor event space near Glen Allen homes for sale is the breathtaking Rotunda. This two-level room overlooking the golf course and Dominion Lake features chandelier lighting, grand fireplace, double spiral staircase, and hardwood dance floor. Lower and upper Rotundas may be reserved separately, or the entire room is available to host weddings of up to 300 people.
   
   
5. The Virginia Cliffe Inn - 2900 Mountain Rd., Glen Allen 23060
   Look up "Southern charm" in the dictionary, and you'll find a picture of the Virginia Cliffe Inn. The Georgian-style family home of James and Margaret Clifton now serves as a bed-and-breakfast and delightful wedding venue. Virginia Cliffe's style was inspired by a colonial designer once hired by George Washington. An in-house event coordinator is available for consultation at no additional charge.
   
   
6. Wisteria Farms - 11825 Ivey Mill Rd., Chesterfield 23838
   Expansive fields and meadows around Chesterfield homes for sale make Wisteria Farms a top local wedding venue. The centerpiece of the 190-acre estate and horse farm is a formal Italianate garden behind the mansion with a reflecting pool and serene views of the woods. For indoor weddings, there is a beautiful brick barn.

After the wedding, continue living the dream in your perfect Richmond home. Contact us for experienced guidance with all your real estate needs.

Neighbors can make a big difference in determining how happy you are in your community. Good neighbors can make your neighborhood feel supportive but bad neighbors can be a constant pain point.

One of the first steps toward having a good neighbor is to set the right tone by being a good neighbor yourself. The following tips from our REALTORS® will help you be an ideal neighbor in your neighborhood.

Be friendly.

Make it easy for your neighbors to approach you by smiling and waving at them and saying hello when you get a chance. It's also a nice gesture to make cookies and take them over if you see a new family has moved in. 

As you get to know them a little better, offer to help by babysitting or providing other small favors.

Keep noise at a minimum.

Different neighborhoods have different tolerances for noise. If you're living in a community filled with retirees, they may appreciate more peace and quiet than a neighborhood with lots of young children.

A good rule of thumb in any neighborhood is to limit loud noises to between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Also, if you're planning a large party, talk to your neighbors and invite them to the party. Even if they don't intend to come, make sure they know they can come to you with any concerns.

Spread the news – not the gossip.

Come up with a way to share useful news, such as a neighborhood newsletter, Facebook group, or posts on nextdoor.com. This will help build a sense of community as neighbors get to know each other.

While the friendly exchange of information is a positive thing, gossip isn't. If someone approaches you with gossip, change the subject by asking them an unrelated question, such as how the garden is doing, or how their kids like their new school.

Keep your surroundings tidy.

Your neighbors have to see the outside of your home and your yard, which can affect their home values. Keep your yard regularly mown and make sure your shrubs, trees, and other landscaping don't grow over into your neighbor's yard.

Keep your yard free of excess clutter. For example, put away your children's toys at the end of the day rather than leaving them scattered all over the yard. While you're at it, keep your outdoor décor to a tasteful minimum.

Handle problems maturely.

If you have a problem with your neighbor, try addressing it directly with him or her before involving anyone else. For example, if their dogs get out or bark too much, talk about a solution instead of calling Animal Control. It's also important to refrain from gossiping with other residents about the issue.

And if your neighbors have an issue with you, listen to their concerns calmly and respectfully and try to reach a mutually agreeable solution.

Respect rules and common areas.

If you live in a condo or neighborhood with a homeowners' association (HOA), abide by its rules regarding streets, the pool, clubhouse, or other common areas. Don't be the neighbor who parks on the street if it's against the rules, leaves a mess, or lets their kids disturb other residents by being too rambunctious.

Contact us if you're interested in seeing Richmond homes for sale and finding a neighborhood to call your own. 

Grab your favorite walking stick and lace up your most comfortable pair of walking shoes — National Take A Hike Day is November 17th! Join our REALTORS® on this beautiful Sunday afternoon for a hike along some of the best trails in the Richmond area. There's nothing like a day spent outdoors, especially when you're exploring the gorgeous greenspaces around Virginia. Here are six of our favorite trails to check out on National Take A Hike Day.

• Pocahontas State Park — 10301 State Park Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23823
  Pocahontas State Park has no shortage of trails for you to explore. More than 64 miles are yours to travel across in this sprawling state park. Although it may be a little too cold to swim in their pools, you can relax after your walk by fishing one of three lakes. If the skies get a little cloudy, feel free to visit the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum on site.
  
  
• Forest Hill Park — 4021 Forest Hill Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
  Forest Hill Park is an excellent place for National Take A Hike Day or anytime you want some fresh air. Listed in the state's Historic Register, this space was once an estate and amusement park before becoming one of Richmond's best places for outdoor relaxation. Bring a pair of binoculars while you walk through the wetlands so you can get a closer look at the diverse wildlife that call that park home.
  
  
• Maymont Nature & Visitor Center — 2201 Shields Lake Dr., Richmond, VA 23220
  The Maymont Nature & Visitor Center offers up its 100-acre estate for families to enjoy. Although the grounds and gardens close in mid-October, you can still visit the Maymont farm and wildlife habitats on National Take A Hike Day. Keep an eye out for animals of every variety including eagles, bobcats, black bears, goats, bison, and whitetail deer. 
  
  
• Powhatan State Park — 4616 Powhatan State Park Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
  Follow the historic James River, and it'll lead you to Powhatan State Park. While this natural area offers the opportunity for a fantastic day on the water, there are also plenty of multi-use trails for you to trek through. Bring the family along to enjoy a picnic at the playground. National Take a Hike Day is a great time to visit a few Powhatan homes for sale and acquaint yourself with one of the most popular area parks.
  
  
• Historic Site Loop — 5001 Siege Rd., Prince George, VA 23875
  The Historic Site Loop in Petersburg National Battlefield was named for the events that took place in the forest. The Siege of Petersburg was the longest military event in the Civil War. Today, this half-mile trail is ideal for walkers of all ages and abilities who want to surround themselves with history and nature.
  
  
• Buttermilk Trail — 4101 Hillcrest Rd., Richmond, VA 23225
  If you are looking to explore more of Forest Hill Park, then we recommend Buttermilk Trail. This quiet trail will make you feel like you've walked far away from the city and have stepped into the pages of a fairytale. Great for a walk with family or at a leisurely pace on your own, the Buttermilk Trail is one of the best in the Richmond area.

Ready to stroll through Richmond homes for sale? Contact us today to start your search!

At Joyner Fine, we're excited about the wonderful opportunities offered by the Richmond, VA area. Our real estate agents are always hard at work showing home buyers like you the very best Richmond homes for sale.

With a thriving economy and world-class amenities, there's never been a better time to move to Richmond. The cornerstone of the Greater Richmond Region (home to 1.2 million people), this state capital combines historic charm with a vision for the future.

Sometimes, cities offer the right combination of factors to become the new "it" location overnight. Fueled by its vibrant economy and diverse population, Richmond has been growing. There are plenty of reasons you should consider it as your next home.

Our favorite things about Richmond include:

1. Diverse and Affordable Housing
   There is something for everyone here in Richmond. No matter if you're trading up, deciding to downsize, or buying your first home, you'll find lots of options. 
2. A Booming Job Market
   Six Fortune 500 companies propel Richmond's job market. Plus, you'll find a wide range of government agencies and healthcare institutions frequently hiring. Popular industries include law, finance, bioscience, and technology.
3. Brilliant Live Entertainment
   Richmond's nightlife is its best-kept secret – and some of the best in the region. You can catch live music any time you're in the mood, whether you prefer the surroundings of a club, an auditorium, or a night out under the stars.
4. An Enthralling Sense of History
   With a history stretching back to 1737, there's always something to discover. It has some of the nation's best museums focused on colonial times and the American Revolution. Edgar Allan Poe was once a resident here, too.
5. Truly Excellent Weather
   Mild weather is a hallmark of the Richmond experience. You can look forward to enjoying all four seasons, including beautiful fall foliage. What about winter? It's rarely far below freezing. You'll be free to go out and about any time of year.
6. Delicious Food of All Varieties
   Chain restaurants fled Richmond thanks to its 10% meals tax – but the "void" has been filled with creative, passionate chefs who deliver an authentic "farm to table" experience. From classic diners to five-star restaurants, Richmond will tempt your taste buds.
7. A Genuine Old-Fashioned Movie Palace
   In Richmond, you can step back in time by visiting the Byrd Theatre. You'll see the latest flicks in lavish surroundings for as little as $2. It even has a Wurlitzer organ.
8. The Incomparable James River Park System
   If you like to explore the great outdoors, you'll be delighted with Richmond. The James River Park System covers 550 acres of breath-taking shorelines and pristine islands. When hiking, fishing, bicycling, or camping, you'll see remarkable natural beauty.
9. A Busy and Exciting Social Calendar
   Richmond is known for its love of unique local festivals. From the Henrico Kite Festival to the Dragon Boat Festival to the world-famous Richmond Jazz Festival, you never have to be bored here.

Richmond is waiting for you, and now's the time to make your big move. The team at Joyner Fine will make it easy for you to find the perfect home in the RVA. To find out more or get started, contact us today.

There is a good chance you are looking at Richmond homes for sale from across the country. As the regional economy grows, families are moving in from as far south as Florida, and as far west as California. As you ponder the logistics of buying a home in a different state, the following tips are guaranteed to help make it easier. 

• Research the City's Neighborhoods
  Richmond is filled with diverse neighborhoods, and you will want to find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle the best. Naturally, you will want to look at the school systems, services, shopping, parks, and crime rate. You will also want to look into property taxes, zoning laws, and any planned or in-progress developments that will improve or detract from the value of homes.

• Calculate the Cost of Living
  The cost of living can vary considerably from one state to the next. In addition to property and income taxes, you will want to know the average cost of utilities, food, gas, HOA fees, and other common expenses. If you are planning to renovate your home, you will want to research the labor and material costs. 

• Choose a Real Estate Agent
  Whether you are buying Petersburg homes for sale, or Hopewell homes for sale, you want to choose a real estate agent who has a thorough understanding of the market. Your agent will also help you understand the rights, responsibilities, requirements, and terminology associated with purchasing property in Virginia.  

• Get Preapproved from a National Bank
  It's always advisable to get preapproved for a loan before researching a real estate purchase in Virginia. This helps you zero in on your budget and narrow your search. It also gives you an advantage when you are ready to make an offer. Using a national bank that does business in your state and the state where you want to move can make the process go smoother. 

• Visit the Area
  You can narrow your search down via internet searches and the assistance of your real estate agent. However, you should never buy before walking through the property yourself. During your visit, check out open houses, walk through the neighborhoods, and get a feel for your daily. Plan your visit with the assistance of your real estate agent so you can maximize the value of your trip.   

• Hire a Local Attorney
  Ask your real estate agent for a reference to a local attorney who can help prepare the paperwork. When you are ready to close, they will send the documents to you so that you can sign them, notarize them, and return them.  

• Hire a Relocation Specialist
  Relocation specialists work on commission from vendors. This means they don't cost you a dime. If you are moving for a job transfer, ask your employer if they have a relocation specialist they recommend. This person will help organize the logistics of the move so you can focus on settling into the community. 

Our real estate agents encourage you to contact us to learn more about the services we offer out-of-state buyers.

Are you ready to celebrate the return of harvest season in the Richmond area? Whether you're shopping for Richmond homes for sale or already live in the area, there's plenty of local family fun to look forward to this fall. Our real estate agents know fall fun, and we've got the inside scoop on autumn activities for families in the Richmond area.

• Outdoor Fun at Ashland Berry Farm – 12607 Old Ridge Rd., Beaverdam, VA 23015
  Start your fall family fun with a trip to Ashland Berry Farm in Beaverdam, where participating in the harvest is just the start. You can pick your pumpkins to create the perfect Halloween decorations, or take a harvest tour to see what a local working farm looks like during harvest season. Ashland Berry Farm is also home to Terror on the Farm, one of the area's most famous haunted walks. Later in the fall, you can come here to shop for Christmas trees and other decorations for your home.

• Autumn Art at All Fired Up – 4668 Commonwealth Center Pkwy., Midlothian, VA 23112
  Looking for a fun, local place to explore the arts and create some art of your own this fall? Head to All Fired Up, where people of all ages can develop artistic skills in a fun, supportive, encouraging setting. There's a class for every interest during the fall at All Fired Up, from children's pottery classes to workshops on creating the perfect hand-print turkey. Stop by for Kids Fun Night on a Friday evening, or slip out for a date night at one of All Fired Up's fun classes for couples. The husband and wife team who operate All Fired Up strive to create an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere during every class.

• Explore a Corn Maze at Liberty Mills Farm– 9166 Liberty Mills Rd., Somerset, VA 22972
  Outdoor fun is always on the menu during the fall season, and Liberty Mills Farm is the perfect place to stretch your legs in the great outdoors. Located in Somerset, Liberty Mills Farm is home Virginia's largest corn maze, which is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Your maze ticket allows you to explore all four unique maze trails, enjoy a haywagon ride, and visit the autumn activities area. The full maze experience takes about two hours to complete, so plan for a full day of family fun on the farm.

• Culinary Adventures with River City Food Tours – 3199 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
  Fall is an especially good season for tasting all that the city has to offer. But where do you start when there are so many options? Plan a trip with River City Food Tours, and sample some of the best dining spots in Richmond's many unique neighborhoods. There's a tour available to suit every taste.

When you live in the Richmond area, there's always another fresh, fun, and unique activity to look forward to on the calendar. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond, VA, area.

Moving to a new city is an exciting experience, but that doesn't mean you'll instantly feel at home. It's only natural to have an adjustment period after moving to a new town. Getting to know your new city can be a fun, exciting process, and there are plenty of little things you can do to make your new town feel like home along the way. Our real estate agents understand what it's like to move to a new community, and we've got tips for how to make a new town feel like home.

• Start By Getting Comfortable in Your New Home
  If you were shopping for Richmond homes for sale and decided to move to the city, your first step toward making your town feel like home is getting settled in your new home. Unpacking, arranging furniture, and decorating the house will make it feel more like your space. Start with the essentials, and add the personal touches to make your house feel like a home.

• Treat It Like an Adventure
  Not every move happens by choice, so it can be daunting arriving at a new location when you're moving specifically for work or other necessities. No matter the reason behind your move, it helps to treat the move as an adventure. Every community has something to love. The adventure is in discovering what your new home has to offer and finding new things.

• Use Online Resources to Research the Community
  You can learn so much about a town before you even move there when you research online. Search for local attractions and events, with a focus on events that help you get to know the community. Check social media for local groups with similar interests to yours, and community organizations that help new residents get to know the area. Research can provide something to look forward to before you move, and make it easier to feel comfortable after you arrive.

• Don't Be Afraid to Get Social
  What's the easiest way to get to know a community? Socialize with the people who already know and love it! During your online searches and travels around town, look for opportunities to be social, and meet new people. Join local organizations, or head out to social spaces and meet people. Forging new connections will help you feel at home and provides an easy way to learn more about the community.

• Try New Things
  Connecting with like-minded people who share your interests can tell you a lot about your community, but it's also important to go outside of your comfort zone to try new things. Your new town may not have all the same attractions as your old one, but that only means you'll have lots of new things to explore. Trying new things will help your transition feel like an adventure and can help you find a new hobby! 

When you're ready to start shopping for homes in a new city that you'll love calling home, our team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond, VA, area.

Fall is the perfect time of year to shop til you drop. Whether you're starting your back to school shopping or looking for something for yourself, Richmond has shopping centers and boutiques to help you find what you need. You can find Richmond homes for sale to keep you close to everything Richmond has to offer.

1. Chesterfield Center, 1150 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23235
   Located in the southwest suburbs of Richmond, Chesterfield is an indoor shopping mall with more than 125 stores to serve your shopping needs. The mall is home to four anchor stores including At Home, Macy's, Sears, and JCPenney's. You can visit stores like Children's Place and Justice if you're looking for things for the kids. Or TJMaxx/Homegoods if you need something for the whole family or your home. Chesterfield Center also has a food court where you can take a break from your shopping adventure.
   
   
2. Willow Lawn, 1601 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond, VA 23230
   Established in 1956, Willow Lawn can boast that it was the first shopping center in the Richmond area. Though previously enclosed, the entire complex has been rebuilt and is now comprised solely of strip malls. Complete your back to school shopping at one of over 60 stores, and stop to do your banking, grocery shopping, or visit the children's theater!
   
   
3. West Broad Village, 2400 Old Brick Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060
   West Broad Village is located in the affluent Richmond suburb of Glen Allen, VA. It has over 35 shops and specialty restaurants so you can make a day of it with a meal after your shopping is done. The center also hosts more than 20 family-centered events each year, ranging from concerts to holiday events. There's even a kids' club which hosts complimentary monthly activities for the little ones. It's a place the entire family can enjoy.
   
   
4. Short Pump Town Center, 11800 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23233
   Short Pump Center is located in the West End area of Henrico County. It has over 140 upscale stores in the two-story open-air facility and is home to anchor stores: Nordstrom, Macy's, Dillard's, and Dick's Sporting Goods. The center features a trackless train known as the Short Pump Express, which takes shoppers to various locations throughout the property. They also host family-friendly events throughout the year, enhancing the experience.
   
   
5. Stony Point Fashion Park, 9200 Stony Point Parkway, Richmond, VA 23235
   Stony Point Fashion Park is an outdoor shopping center located in Richmond, VA, with over 50 upscale stores and restaurants. The shopping center even hosts CineBistro, where you can find a luxury dinner and a movie experience all in one place. The anchor stores for Stony Point include Saks Fifth Avenue and Dillard's. If your family includes man's best friend, the mall is the only one in the area that is dog-friendly with comfort stations available throughout.

The Richmond area is fantastic for both shopping and fun family events.

Our real estate agents are available to assist you with the home buying or selling process, plus showing you what Richmond has to offer.

Schedule an appointment to learn more about the Richmond area and contact us today.

America has traditionally been known as the land of plenty, but sadly, a number of men, women, and children go to bed hungry each night. Join our REALTORS® in observing National Food Bank Day on Friday, September 6 with a donation to one of these Richmond area food pantries. 

• GoochlandCares - 2999 River Rd. W., Goochland 23063
  GoochlandCares has a goal to make basic human services available to all area residents in need. As part of this mission, the organization operates a food pantry where registered clients shop once a week. In addition to non-perishable items and household goods, GoochlandCares accepts donations of fresh garden produce and backyard eggs. The food pantry opens each weekday at 9 a.m. and you can drop off canned goods in the on-site bins during weekends as you tour Goochland homes for sale.
  
  
• Chesterfield Food Bank - 12211 Iron Bridge Rd., Chester 23831
  Early in their marriage, Travis and Karie Whittle struggled to support themselves and their young child but didn't qualify for Social Services. The couple eventually got on their feet, launched a successful business and used some of their profits to found the Chesterfield Food Bank. Today the food bank serves upwards of half a million meals weekly to more than 2,000 people in the community around Chesterfield homes for sale. Chesterfield Food Bank is open 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. each weekday with extended hours until 7 p.m. Friday. 
  
  
• More Hope Pantry - 13400 Hanover Courthouse Rd., Hanover 23069
  Volunteers at More Hope Pantry were recently recognized with Hanover County's 2019 Spirit of Team Awards. Mo Hope, as it's affectionately known, accepts donations of canned and dry goods along with fresh produce and new and unused toiletries. Hours are 9 a.m. - noon Monday, Thursday and Saturday and 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. Donations may also be dropped off at Jackson Hewitt Tax Service and several other businesses near Hanover homes for sale.
  
  
• Coalition of Powhatan Churches - 2500 Batterson Rd., Powhatan 23139
  In 1996, the Coalition of Powhatan Churches was formed so members could combine their resources to assist area residents with transportation, medical care, and other necessary services. The organization's food pantry is located close to Powhatan homes for sale, making it convenient to drop off food or monetary donations. Hours are Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. - noon with extended hours on Thursday from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  
  
• LAMB's Basket - 8419 Oakview Ave., Henrico
  At one time, many churches around Henrico homes for sale operated their own small food pantries. As it became difficult for the pantries to keep up with demand, the churches merged facilities into a coalition called LAMB's (Lakeside Area Ministries Board) Basket. Food items are donated by local grocery stores and purchased at a discount from food banks, but LAMB's Basket needs monetary donations for operational and supply costs.
  
  
• Feed More - 1415 Rhoadmiller St., Richmond 23220
  Feed More is not just a food pantry nearby Richmond homes for sale. For more than 50 years, the organization has been serving Central Virginia with food-related programs including Meals on Wheels, Kids Cafe and Hunger Hotline. Donations are accepted weekdays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., and bins are available for after-hours drop-offs of non-perishable items.

The Richmond area is a perfect blend of urban amenities and the warm, welcoming attitude of a small town. Whether you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for professional assistance with your real estate needs.

Your best friends are always there to celebrate the highs and cheer you up during the lows. August 1 is National Girlfriends Day, so show your gal pals how much you love and appreciate them with an outing to one of these great places around Richmond suggested by our REALTORS®.

1. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa - 7204 Hancock Village Dr., Chesterfield, VA 23832
   Take time out from your many responsibilities to enjoy some pampering with your BFFs at Hand & Stone. Their comprehensive menu of services includes a full range of massage styles as well as facials, aromatherapy, exfoliation, hair removal, and hot towel treatments. New customers receive special pricing on a one-hour massage or facial. Reservations are recommended, but they also accept walk-ins. Hand & Stone is open seven days a week, so it's a perfect treat after a day of viewing Chesterfield homes for sale.
   
   
2. Beacon Theatre - 401 N. Main St., Hopewell, VA 23860
   Beacon Theatre, centrally located to Hopewell homes for sale. began its life nearly 100 years ago hosting silent movies and vaudeville shows. Today the fully restored Beacon is an intimate venue for both contemporary and classic performers such as the Oak Ridge Boys and Blue Oyster Cult, along with tribute acts honoring Motown, Elton John, and other favorites. 
   
   
3. Virginia Rep at Hanover Tavern - 13181 Hanover Courthouse Rd., Hanover, VA 23069
   Instead of dinner and a movie at a generic multiplex, why not have dinner and live theater at a charming tavern? It's only minutes from Hanover homes for sale to historic Hanover Tavern, a unique setting for performances staged by Virginia Repertory Theatre. The showtime menu includes Southern favorites such as fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and pork cassoulet. Can't make the show? Lunch and dinner are served Wednesday through Sunday.
   
   
4. Stony Point Fashion Park - 9200 Stony Point Pkwy., Richmond, VA 23235
   Is "shop 'til you drop" your personal mission statement? You and your BFFs will be in seventh heaven at Stony Point Fashion Park, conveniently located near Richmond homes for sale. Browse the latest in fashion at upscale stores such as Anthropologie, Lucky Brand and Talbots, then relax over a late lunch at Fleming's, La Hacienda or P.F. Chang's. Check out the classes, demonstrations, and workshops at Live 360°. Hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
5. Old Towne Studio 7 - 230 E. Bank St., Petersburg, VA 23803
   Everyone's an artist at Old Towne Studio 7, not far from Petersburg homes for sale. Owner Denise Tipton expands the popular "paint and sip" concept to "create and sip," in which you and your friends may find yourself pouring candles or making a macrame plant hanger as well as painting. It's ladies only from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. on Wine Down Wednesdays. Fees are just $20 and bring your own beverages and snacks. 
   
   
6. County Seat Restaurant - 3883 Old Buckingham Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
   Weekend brunch is a traditional way to share time with good friends. County Seat Restaurant refers to itself as a "Gathering Place" close to Powhatan homes for sale, so they specialize in creating an ambiance encouraging warm and leisurely get-togethers. Weekend brunch buffets include biscuits and gravy, breakfast meats and an assortment of fresh baked goods with the addition of a waffle and omelet station on Sunday. Hours are 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Sunday. There's also a Sunday lunch buffet from noon - 3 p.m. for late risers. 

Richmond is a great area to put down roots and nurture close relationships. If you're buying or selling a home around Richmond, contact us for personalized service.

When potential buyers are searching for homes for sale in our area, they often ask our REALTORS® where are the best places for outdoor adventures. Camping ranks high on many a person's lists of favorite outside fun. We're here with five favorite camping spots around Richmond for weekend fun or plan an extended stay.

1. Pocahontas State Park - 10301 State Park Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23832
   At Pocahontas State Park, just minutes away from Chesterfield homes for sale, the fun isn't confined to dry land. With four pools, two water slides, a fountain wet deck and a 225-acre lake for boating and fishing, the park is an aquatic lover's paradise. Pocahontas Premieres is a family-friendly concert series hosted at the park's 2,000-seat amphitheater. 
   
   
2. Powhatan State Park - 4616 Powhatan State Park Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
   If you're looking for a true back-to-nature experience, Powhatan State Park is the place for you. In addition to conventional campgrounds, the park has eight primitive sites with no water or electricity, accessible only by canoe or foot. Boating and fishing are available along the 2.5-mile stretch of the James River, which flows near Powhatan homes for sale.
   
   
3. Cozy Acres Campground - 2177 Ridge Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
   The children and grandchildren of founders Larry and Jean Daniel literally grew up on Cozy Acres Campground, and these days they're hosting the third generation of guests as well. Days are filled with family fun such as the large swimming pool and fenced kiddie pool, catfish pond and two catch-and-release ponds, game room, horseshoes, beach volleyball and even fire engine rides. The Daniels continue to foster a community atmosphere with planned activities for all guests to enjoy. 
   
   
4. Picture Lake Campground - 7818 Boyden Plank Rd., Petersburg, VA 23803
   Picture Lake Campground is family owned and operated, and they want visitors to feel like part of their family as well. Amenities include a large swimming pool, kids' playground and volleyball net, kayak rental, fishing, and free WiFi. Enjoy side trips to Petersburg National Battlefield and Pamplin Historical Park, all conveniently located close to Petersburg homes for sale.
   
   
5. Richmond North / Kings Dominion KOA - 10061 Kings Dominion Rd., Doswell, VA 23407
   Whether you're a hard-core camper or glamping is more your style, you'll find the perfect accommodations at Richmond North/Kings Dominion KOA, less than 30 minutes from Richmond homes for sale. Tent sites are available with or without hookups, and there are RV pull-ins for pop-ups to big rigs. Cabins are equipped with full bathrooms, central heat and air, WiFi and flat-screen TVs with satellite programming. The park provides free shuttle service to Kings Dominion amusement park, or you can lounge around the on-site swimming pool.

Whether you prefer outdoor life or nightlife, the Richmond area offers the best of both worlds. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for expert assistance buying or selling a home.

This week in RVA there are a few special sporting events for your calendars!

The 2019 Eastern League All-Star Week is in town and has many events scheduled over the next couple of days. Check out the schedule to get involved, GO SQUIRRELS!

Second in town, we have the 2019 World Overall Flying Disc Championships! Today the disc-related events are out in West Creek but will be moving closer to town starting tomorrow.  Check out their schedule for a list of all the events!

On Saturday, July 13th at 7PM the Richmond Kickers will have a home game at the City Stadium. They will be battling North Texas SC and the game will be shown on WTVR CBS 6.3, ESPN+. Click here for tickets.  

Last but not least, we have the IQA Pan-American Games for 2019! The IQA Pan-American Games 2019 is co-hosted by the International Quidditch Association, Richmond Region Tourism, and US Quidditch (USQ). It is being held July 13-14, 2019 in Glover Park in Richmond, Virginia. The event is co-hosted by the International Quidditch Association and US Quidditch, in conjunction with Richmond Region Tourism. 

Admission is free and spectators can RSVP on Eventbrite to receive event updates and information. All games will be livestreamed.

Where to Donate Your Stuff Before Moving

Donating unused and unwanted items pays benefits beyond a clean, orderly home. Contributions help support deserving organizations and keep trash out of landfills. In honor of National Give Something Away Day on July 15, our REALTORS® take a look at six donation centers in the Richmond area to declutter your home.

1. Regenesis Thrift Store - 24 Pickwick Ave., Colonial Heights 23835
   The namesake charity of Regenesis Thrift Store runs programs assisting people who are low-income or homeless as well as individuals battling substance abuse or recently released from prison. Their shop accepts donations of just about any item that's in reasonably good condition, including vehicles. Free pick-up is available for larger items. Regenesis is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. every day but Sunday, so you can drop off donations while touring Colonial Heights homes for sale.
2. Clothes Closet - 2999 River Rd. W., Goochland 23063
   Are closets and dressers getting too full? Clothes Closet, located close to Goochland homes for sale, accepts donations of new and gently used men's, women's and children's clothing along with books, toys, and household items. GoochlandCares, a local free clinic and family services organization, provides clients and each member of their families with a $25 voucher each month to use at the Clothes Closet, but the shop is also open to the public. Donations are accepted Monday through Saturday starting at 9 a.m. and there are drop-off bins for after hours.
3. Hope Thrift - 11260 Patterson Ave., Henrico 23238
   If you're moving into or out of one of the great Henrico homes for sale, lighten the load and donate unwanted but still good furniture, clothing, and housewares to Hope Thrift. Proceeds from the store help support local and global charities through Hope Church's outreach programs. Store hours are 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday
4. Crater Community Hospice Thrift Store - 3916 S. Crater Rd., Petersburg, 23805
   In 2017 and 2018, Crater Community Hospice Thrift Store was recognized as "Best of the Best" near Petersburg homes for sale. The shop accepts donations of clothing, books, sporting goods, and household items from smoke-free and chemical-free homes. Daily specials offer 50 percent off specific categories and proceeds of all sales go toward hospice patient care. CCHTS is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. every day but Sunday.
5. Goodwill Stavemill Crossing Retail Store - 1885 Stavemill Crossing Lane, Powhatan 23139
   For nearly a century, Goodwill has been serving the Richmond community by helping those in need to become self-sufficient through employment. Their Stavemill Crossing Retail Store is one of several outlets funding Goodwill's mission through sales of donated household items, from linens and dinnerware to computers and electronics. The Stavemill Crossing store is open seven days a week, so stop in on a break from viewing Powhatan homes for sale
6. ChildSavers - 200 N. 22nd St., Richmond 23223
   Is your home full of toys, games, and books your kids have outgrown or lost interest in? Give them a second home at ChildSavers, an organization offering mental health and developmental services to children, particularly those who have suffered from trauma. ChildSavers is in need of art supplies, costumes, toys and games, pillows and small chairs for use in their programs. Contact the ChildSavers office, conveniently located not far from Richmond homes for sale, for information about dropping off your donation. 

Our experienced REALTORS® can offer a wealth of information and tips about living in the Richmond area. Contact us for professional assistance in buying or selling your home.

Celebrate National Anti-Boredom Month

Now that summer is here, are you dreading the first time you hear those inevitable words, "I'm bored?" In honor of National Anti-Boredom Month in July, our REALTORS® share this list of fun kids' activities in the Richmond area.

1. Three Lakes Park & Nature Center - 400 Sausiluta Dr., Henrico 23227
   With a wide variety of interactive exhibits featuring air, land, and water, Three Lakes Park & Nature Center is an ideal place for outdoor summer fun near Henrico homes for sale. The impressive 6,500-square-foot Nature Center has displays of plant and animal life native to the area along with a 50,000-gallon aquarium that lets you get an up-close look at the marine world. Pack a picnic lunch and fishing poles and make a day of it. Hours through August are 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. weekdays except Monday and noon - 4:30 p.m. weekends. General admission is free for all visitors.
2. Summer Movie Express - Regal Southpark Mall Theaters, 300 Southpark Circle, Colonial Heights 23834
   Spend a morning with Shrek, Batman, Kung Fu Panda and other animated favorites at Regal Cinema's Summer Movie Express. A pair of family-friendly movies screen each Tuesday and Wednesday through September 4 and tickets are only $1 per person for all ages. Head to the mall afterward for lunch at Chick-fil-A or Firehouse Subs before an afternoon of viewing Colonial Heights homes for sale.
3. Pamplin Historical Park - 6125 Boydton Plank Rd., Petersburg 23803
   Pamplin Historical Park is only minutes from Petersburg homes for sale, but a visit transports you back in time more than 150 years to the Civil War era. The 424-acre campus on the site of a Civil War battleground includes so many engaging activities that your kids won't even realize they're learning some history. Tour a restored plantation, watch accurate portrayals of military life and walk the same trails used by Confederate troops. Don't miss the award-winning National Museum of the Civil War Soldier and its interactive exhibits. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through November. Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for kids from 6-12. 
4. The Monster at Fighting Creek - 2270 Mann Rd., Powhatan 23139
   Add some challenge to the popular activity of Frisbee-tossing with a game or two at the Monster at Fighting Creek, Virginia's longest disc golf course. The 18-hole course runs two miles across varied terrain, with half of the holes measuring more than 400 feet. Fighting Creek Park, just down the road from Powhatan homes for sale, is also home to several athletic fields, walking trails, picnic sites and a large playground along with Powhatan Public Library. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
5. Maymont - 2201 Shields Lake Dr., Richmond 23220
   Magnificent Maymont, one of the most beloved attractions close to Richmond homes for sale, is so rich in activities it can easily provide several summer days' worth of entertainment. Animal lovers will go straight for the Nature Center or Maymont Farm, while others will enjoy a stroll through one of the many specialty gardens. The stunning 100-acre Victorian country estate that was once the home of local financier James Dooley offers a glimpse into life during the Gilded Age of the late 1880s. Maymont is open seven days a week except for the Nature Center and Mansion, which are closed Monday. Entrance to the grounds and gardens is free, while other exhibits charge a nominal fee of no more than $5.

Are you and your family ready to put down roots in the Richmond area? Contact us for help finding the home that's right for all of you.

Get your favorite filter ready — National Selfie Day is June 21st! Stroll nearly anywhere around Richmond, and you won't be able to resist snapping a photo of the diverse beauty found within our city. Our REALTORS® take a look at some of Richmond's favorite backdrops perfect spots for your next selfie session!

1. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228
   Any green space is sure to spruce up your photo, but the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers perhaps one of the most diverse natural backdrops in the RVA. Over 50 acres of gardens transform into your own runway as you fill up your camera roll with gorgeous pics. There are plenty of places for you to find the perfect light, but we suggest visiting either the Central Garden or Asian Valley first. The Central Garden features a terrace with a fountain that creates nice depth while Asian Valley offers the opportunity to get a snapshot that whispers sweet serenity.   
   
   
2. Monument Avenue – 2501 Monument Ave., Richmond, VA 23220
   Monument Avenue is full of photo-worthy spots, and with proximity to Richmond homes for sale, it's an easily walkable route that will take you by some iconic city sites. We suggest starting at The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design. This fantastic façade is a great backdrop for your selfie and is within a few blocks from our city's historical monuments. Walk the Avenue and take selfies with historical figures like Stonewall Jackson or Arthur Ashe.
   
   
3. Powhatan State Park – 4616 Powhatan State Park Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
   Over 1500-acres are ready for your lens. Powhatan State Park has too many photo-ops to count. From the multi-use trails through the hardwood forest and wildlife observation area to the unspoiled views of the James River, you're going to have a tough time picking your favorite selfie. Looking for an awesome photo? Instead of letting the James fade into the background, snap a picture of its good side by rowing out into the water on a canoe. Riverside pics are great, but nothing beats a selfie on the water. Access this park at the entrance just across the street from Powhatan homes for sale.
   
   
4. Petersburg National Battlefield – City Point Unit – Cedar Lane, Hopewell, VA 23860
   If you want a unique riverfront photo, head to where the James and Appomattox meet at Petersburg National Battlefield. Around the corner from Hopewell homes for sale, this historic area offers superb views of the water, big blue skies, and vast green fields. Snap a photo in front of the cabin where Ulysses Grant lived or let a flock of geese photo-bomb your selfie as you snap a few pics of the grounds.
   
   
5. Great Shiplock Park – 2803 Dock St., Richmond, VA 23223
   Looking for a mix of city and nature for your selfie? Head down to Great Shiplock Park. It's along the James River and at the head of the Virginia Capital Trail so you'll be able to snap a few industrial and nature pics as you meander around this small park. It's also a great spot for fishing — a smiling selfie with your fresh catch is sure to get a lot of likes!
   
   
6. Triple Crossing – East Byrd St., Richmond, VA 23219
   You'll probably want to hit up Canal Walk for National Selfie Day — we can't resist the street art either — but we encourage you to also make your way to the opposite side of the canal and snap some photos at Triple Crossing. You'll get great views of the city and cool shots as the trains pass you by. Best of all, the brewery is right beside the canal so you can take one final selfie with a delicious brew in hand.

Where is your favorite place to take a selfie in Richmond? Contact us and let us know or tag us in your best photo on National Selfie Day!

Get ready for the sweetest Friday ever — National Doughnut Day is June 7! Our REALTORS® are sprinkled with joy at the thought of chomping down on a box of our area's best doughnuts. These six shops throughout the RVA are the perfect places to stop on National Doughnut Day.

1. Duck Donuts – 1601 Willow Lawn Dr., Richmond, VA 23230
   See what everyone is quacking about with a trip to the famous Duck Donuts. Offering a duckzillion flavors in their unique bakery, Duck Donuts is the fastest-growing donut shop in the country for a good reason! These made to order treats include creative concoctions like the Key Lime Icing with Graham Cracker Crumbles, Strawberry Icing with Rainbow Sprinkles & Hot Fudge Drizzle and Maple Icing with Chopped Bacon. With so many fun combinations to try, you'll wish every day was National Doughnut Day!  
   
   
2. Sugar Shack – 1501 N. Parham Rd., Richmond, VA 23229
   Sugar Shack is a Virginia favorite with over a dozen stores throughout the state, including one conveniently located near Henrico homes for sale. Grab a cup of their fresh brewed coffee and peruse their offering of round wonders which includes classics like glazed and cinnamon sugar. Sweeten up your morning with a red velvet cake donut or get your Girl Scout fix with a Tastes Like A Samoa. Feeling adventurous? Try the pineapple serrano, blackberry lavender or fresh peach ginger!
   
   
3. Cakes and Moore Bakery – 2112 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
   Life is what you bake it, so make it great with a stop at Cakes and Moore Bakery. Just around the corner from Colonial Heights homes for sale, they have several fresh baked donuts to choose from. Pick up a dozen of their ready-made flavors or call ahead and make National Doughnut Day personalized by requesting a specialty order!
   
   
4. Sweet Shop Donuts Café – 1800 A S. Creek One, Powhatan, VA 23139
   Do National Doughnut Day your way with a stop at the Sweet Shop over by Powhatan homes for sale. Sweet Shop serves donuts all day along with their breakfast, lunch and dinner plates so you can treat yourself to a fresh donut any time of the day! From classic donuts to their unique creations, you can choose a few to take with you or dine in with a fresh Yama drip coffee. They even have donut holes available for pre-order that are certain to encourage your coworkers to celebrate National Doughnut Day with you!
   
   
5. Country Style Donuts – 4300 Williamsburg Rd., Richmond, VA 23231
   The RVA has many great doughnut shops, but there's only one place you'll find the deliciously addictive donuts that Richmond's mouths have been craving since 1968. County Style Donuts, not far from Henrico homes for sale, is worthy of a stop even if it's not National Doughnut Day. See why even your grandparents rave that these are the best doughnuts in the RVA.
   
   
6. Hot Diggity Donuts – 1213 Hull St., Richmond, VA 23224
   What could be better than a day full of donuts? Donuts and drinks! Hot Diggity Donuts is your go-to destination for indulgence. Right around the corner from walkable Richmond homes for sale, this modern bakery specializes in craft donuts and classic cocktails. Treat yourself to a signature donut or donut sandwich and wash it down with a cocktail. Remember, National Doughnut Day is an all-day event so a nightcap at Hot Diggity Donuts might be the ideal way to celebrate.

Some spell it 'donuts', others say 'doughnuts' — we call them delicious! Does your sweet tooth crave more sugary goodness? Contact us today and we'll be happy to show you some of the best homes for sale in our area.

Memorial Day is May 27.  Our REALTORS® know that Memorial Day Weekend is a busy time for our residents. With parades, festivals, ceremonies and other events happening around town, you've got quite the options to fill your weekend with fun. Here is our pick of five great activities you and your family can attend this Memorial Day weekend.

1. America's First College & Memorial Day Celebration – 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836
   Henricus Historical Park is celebrating Memorial Day in a very cool way on May 25th. Just around the corner from Chesterfield homes for sale, come out for a celebration where the first American formal school was formed. Interpreters will host lectures and living history presentations for visitors. They'll even fire muskets and cannons to salute the men and women of the armed forces that have sacrificed their lives throughout American history.
    
2. The Memorial Military Murals by Charles Hoffbauer – 428 N. Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220
   The Virginia Historical Society, in the Museum District surrounded by Richmond homes for sale, invites residents and visitors view The Memorial Military Murals by artist Charles Hoffbauer. Admission is free to see these paintings depicting Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. Memorial Day originated shortly after the Civil War as a way to honor those who fought, making this exhibit an appropriate way for your family to honor the fallen on this annual holiday.
   
   
3. Gallmeyer Farms Memorial Day Celebration – 3622 Darbytown Ct., Richmond, VA 23231
   Take a quick drive just north of Hopewell homes for sale and spend the day on the farm! On May 25th, come out to Gallmeyer Farms for hayrides and activities for the whole family. Kids will love picking strawberries and playing on the farm as live music fills the air.
    
4. 25th Pamplin Historical Park Anniversary/Memorial Day Commemoration – 6125 Boydton Plank Rd., Petersburg, VA 23803
   Pamplin Historical Park is one of the many gems located around Petersburg homes for sale. Join them during Memorial Day Weekend as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. They'll debut a new exhibit and host plenty of activities throughout the weekend. Visit on Memorial Day for special events including a Breakthrough Battlefield Tour, a showing of War So Terrible, an artillery salute, the presentation of colors and a ceremony honoring our fallen troops.
   
   
5. Sandston Memorial Day Parade 2019 – 11 JB Finley St., Henrico, VA 23250
   Extend your Memorial Day weekend an extra day and join one last celebration. The Sandston Memorial Day Parade takes place on May 27th. Watch as a lively parade travels through town passed Henrico homes for sale. A ceremony recognizing veterans will be held before the parade at Seven Pines National Cemetery. After the parade, the celebration continues with music, activities for kids and plenty of vendor booths full of food and more fun!

We wish a Happy Memorial Day to all of our Richmond residents whose family members have served in the armed forces. Contact us when you're ready to make Richmond your home. Our REALTORS® are ready to help start your search for local homes for sale.

May is the perfect time to be a bicyclist and Richmond is the ideal place to ride! The League of American Bicyclists sponsors National Bike Month each year during May. The month also features National Bike to Work Week (and National Bike to Work Day for those who don't want to risk getting caught in a spring shower). Our REALTORS® love telling clients about all of the wonderful things to do and see in our community.  Why not start by exploring Richmond on two wheels with this list of six top bike trails.

1. Virginia Capital Trail
   Route: From the Corner of E Cary St./Dock St. in downtown Richmond to Jamestown Beach Events Park in Williamsburg
   Distance: 52 Miles
   
   We're kicking off this list with the ultimate Richmond ride! The Virginia Capital Trail takes you through some of the most beautiful places along the river while weaving you in and out of towns with plenty of food and attractions. The entire trail is paved and features restrooms, shuttle stops, picnic areas and repair stations. It even takes you through campground areas and near hotels if you want to take a full weekend to enjoy the ride! You could also pick out one of the great Richmond homes for sale on the way and travel this trail any time you wish.
   
   
2. North Bank Trail
   Route: Boulevard Bridge to Tredegar
   Distance: 3 Miles
   
   Let's slow down our speed and tackle a much shorter trail. The North Bank Trail is only three miles long, but it offers riders a bit of a challenge with its rocky climbs and rugged descents. It's a quick drive from Hanover homes for sale and is perfect for a fun ride that'll give you a workout.
   
   
3. Monument Avenue Historic District
   Route: Down Monument Avenue
   Distance: 5 Miles
   
   Whether you're moving down into the city or you're looking at Petersburg homes for sale, all avid bikers in the RVA area need to travel this route at least once. Take a relaxing ride through Monument Avenue Historic District and marvel at the dazzling architecture and statues. This is also a perfect ride for the family to enjoy as it has plenty of areas to stop off for snacks and to rest little legs.
   
   
4. Valentine Bicycle Tours
   Route: Varies by the tour, areas include Forest Hill and along the James River.
   Distance: Varies by the tour, lengths usually around 2 hours.
   
   Looking for a great way to see the Richmond Riverside without going too far from Chesterfield homes for sale? Join the Valentine for historical bike tours around some of the most scenic parts of Richmond. Tours are offered weekly between April and October which is the perfect time to enjoy the RVA's beautiful biking weather.
   
   
5. Bryan Park/Ginter Gardens
   Route: From Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens to Joseph Bryan Park.
   Distance: 3.5 Miles+
   
   Head over towards Henrico homes for sale to see a different side of Richmond. We suggest starting at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, heading south through Belmont Park then cutting into Joseph Bryan Park before stopping in Bellevue for a bite to eat. This route is a nice mix of street and scenic riding that will introduce you to a fantastic area of the city.
   
   
6. Bucolic Battlefields
   Route: Through Richmond National Battlefield Park from Rocketts Landing to Fort Harrison Visitor Center.
   Distance: 7-10 Miles 
   
   Colonial Heights homes for sale are within a quick trip to a route filled with history. The Bucolic Battlefields Route will take you away from the downtown Richmond to Fort Harrison National Cemetery. You can take a direct 7-mile route by following the Osborne Turnpike or extend it to 10 miles each way by weaving through Fulton Hill towards the airport then booking it south to the cemetery.

Do you want many more miles of bike routes through Richmond? Contact us today and let our REALTORS® guide you through the best bike trails that pass by gorgeous Richmond homes for sale.

Spring is back in Virginia, and that means one thing for thrill-seeking families: Kings Dominion is back too. Our state's biggest amusement park opened for the season on March 30, and its rides and interactive attractions just might be the most exciting things between Richmond and Washington, D.C. If your family is looking at Richmond homes for sale, head north to Doswell for a preview of the adventures you could have all summer long.

What makes Kings Dominion Amusement Park so much fun for Virginia families? Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting this 400-acre playground:

• Ride a World-Class Roller Coaster
  Ready to get your blood pumping? More than 60 rides are spread out across the park, but the main attraction is a collection of awe-inspiring roller coasters. Try all 12 coasters while you're there, including the aptly named Intimidator 305 (which takes you 305 feet into the air) and the Coney Island-inspired wooden beast The Grizzly. And don't miss the latest addition, Twisted Timbers! This mid-Atlantic first puts a steel track on traditional wooden supports, and it simulates the path of a mysterious 1950 disaster in Hanover Hill Orchard.
• Join the PEANUTS™ Gang at Planet Snoopy
  Are some of your family members too small for the park's most extreme attractions? Planet Snoopy was made just for them. This 14-acre kids' area is based on Charlie Brown's world, with 20 family-friendly rides like the Great Pumpkin Coaster and the Kite-Eating Tree. Young drivers can even get behind the wheel themselves at several attractions, including the bumper car course Lucy's Crabbie Cabbies, the self-driving truck track Road Rally, and an enclosed expressway with its own traffic lights and signs.
• Take a Refreshing Plunge at Soak City
  What would summer at a theme park be without water slides? Soak City is a sprawling water park right next door to the main amusement park, and it has 20 acres of refreshing, relaxing, and extreme aquatic attractions. Climb the 65-foot tower to slide down Hurricane Heights, take the young ones to kid-friendly Splash Island, or rent a poolside cabana for a day of pampering. Soak City has all the slides, rafting rides, wave pools, and lazy river bends you need to cool off as a family.
• Camp Out with the Kids at Camp Wilderness
  Turn your theme park adventure into a whole weekend of fun at King Dominion's official campground. Whether you park your RV, pitch a tent, or rent a deluxe cabin for ten, you'll have access to a pool, playground discounted park tickets, and free shuttle service to and from the park. Camp Wilderness is a Kampgrounds of America site, which guarantees certain amenities and service standards, and it's a great way to immerse yourself fully in the Kings Dominion experience.
• Sample Local Cuisine at Taste of Virginia
  One of the state's newest food festivals is giving Chicago a run for its money. Taste of Virginia takes over Kings Dominion for several weekends each May, bringing homegrown food, drinks, and music to the park. Grab a Tasting Card and choose six different dishes inspired by regions in Virginia (for example, Chesapeake Bay crab mac and cheese, or Blue Ridge Mountains apple bread pudding). Or opt for the Wine Tasting Card, and sample six different Virginia vineyards and wineries.

Are you ready to start your next adventure in Virginia? Our REALTORS® know how important it is to accommodate the whole family while you're looking for a home. Contact us today to sell or start your search for a home in Richmond, Virginia.

At Joyner Fine Properties, our REALTORS® won't rest until you have the chance to move into one of the most appealing Richmond homes for sale. We'll help you find your Richmond dream home so you can enjoy all that this amazing, historic city has to offer.

And one of the main attractions: Delectable gourmet food.

If you're in town to look at homes, you should make time to try out some of the best local specialties. Chesapeake Bay blue crab is the headliner when it comes to Virginia's seafood, but you won't want to miss out on our oysters – or the snacks of freshly roasted peanuts.

But the menu doesn't start and end with seafood. Not by a long shot!

You'll find many different cuisines ready to enjoy when you take a closer look at the dining scene in Richmond. Our team has picked out five of our favorite places for dinner, lunch, or just about any time.

1. Sub Rosa Bakery - 620 North 25th Street, Richmond
   Sub Rosa Bakery is a wood-fired bakery that provides delicious pastries in the midst of historic Church Hill. Organic, regional, and heirloom grains are the secrets to bread with remarkably rich, complex flavors. No matter if you're looking for something delicate like the croissant or seasonal fruit tart or a delicious indulgence like the lamb borek, everything comes from the masonry oven.
   
   
2. L'Opossum - 626 China Street, Richmond
   Seeing is believing: L'Opossum is one of the classiest stops for your culinary tour of Richmond. In sumptuous surroundings, you'll sample the French fare of James Beard Foundation Award winner Chef David Shannon. He takes you on a journey with upscale dishes of venison, foie gras, and more. Fine cocktails and imported French vintage wines round out remarkable meals.
   
   
3. Peter Chang - 2816A West Broad Street, Richmond
   Visit Peter Chang for a refreshingly modern take on Chinese and pan-Asian cuisine that elevates familiar tastes to a spectacular new level. Chef Chang is known for mouth-watering signature dishes including lamb chop, Szechuan-style stir-fried hotpot, and duck served in a stone pot. The chef also holds tastings and demonstrations in his restaurants throughout Virginia.
   
   
4. Saison - 23 West Marshall Street, Richmond
   For a truly unique meal, Saison is one of your best bets in Richmond. Here, you'll find lovingly handcrafted meals that blend influences from the American South, Central America, and the Caribbean. A reservation is recommended for sampling this menu centered around delicious small plates. It also has one of the most expansive wine menus in the city.??????
   
   
5. Maple & Pine - 201 West Broad Street, Richmond
   One of the newest arrivals in Richmond is Maple & Pine, found on the grounds of the Quirk Hotel. Led by master chef David Dunlap, it brings fresh, seasonal delights to the table blending mid-Atlantic and international flair. New American-style entrees include Great White oysters, steak tartare, Arctic char, duck breast, honey-soy glazed salmon, and many others.

Extraordinary food is only the beginning of what Richmond has to offer. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to discuss your real estate opportunities!

When you're searching for a new home, there are a lot of things you might be willing to compromise on. You can always change the paint color, add another bathroom, or remodel the kitchen. The area surrounding your new home, however, is something you can't control. That's why it's so important to thoroughly check out your potential new neighborhood before making a decision.

Luckily, there are a few easy ways to tell if your neighborhood is safe. While you're checking out Richmond homes for sale, take these extra steps before making an offer. This will give you the peace of mind you deserve and help ensure that you and your family will enjoy your new home for years to come.

1. Do Some Online Research
   There are several great websites where you can research your potential new neighborhood for free. Some of the most popular include Area Vibes, Neighborhood Scout, and SpotCrime. These sites provide neighborhood-specific information including crime statistics, police reports, and a number of other livability factors.
   
   Also visit the U.S. Government's National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW), which allows you to enter an address and see photos of registered sex offenders living nearby.

2. Talk to Your REALTOR®
   One of the advantages of hiring a great real estate professional is the expert knowledge they bring to the table. While facts and statistics are great, sometimes an inside scoop is what you really need.  
   
   Our REALTORS® are deeply familiar with most neighborhoods in the Richmond area and can help you make sure you choose a location where you'll feel safe and comfortable. 

3. Consider the Number of Area Homes for Sale
   If there are a lot of homes for sale in an area, it could be a sign that current residents are fed up with neighborhood crime. Even if the crime rate in your potential neighborhood isn't currently a problem, an area with a lot of empty houses can invite unsavory activity.
   
   While the number of homes for sale isn't always a reason for concern, it's definitely something you'll want to note.

4. Take a Tour of the Neighborhood
   One of the best ways to get a feeling for the vibe of your new neighborhood is to get out and walk or drive around. Take a look at the state of other houses in the area. Keep an eye out for homes with unkempt yards, broken windows, or other signs of neglect. While most neighborhoods have one or two of these, if you notice a pattern, it could be a red flag.
   
   Make sure you visit at different times of the day and night, as a neighborhood that looks perfectly fine at noon might have a very different feeling when the sun goes down.

5. Check Out the Local Community
   As you check out the neighborhood, look for signs of a safe community. Children playing outside and people riding bikes or walking their dogs are indications that the current residents feel comfortable there.
   
   A neighborhood watch program shows that the residents are concerned with keeping their neighborhood safe, and events like block parties and farmer's markets help to create a strong sense of community.

6. Connect with Your Potential New Neighbors
   While you're exploring the area, stop and talk to any neighbors you see. Ask them what they like about living there and if there are any concerns. Not only can this help you evaluate the safety of an area, it can also help you decide if the neighborhood will fit with your lifestyle.

Whether you're looking for a big-city vibe or a family-friendly suburb, there are plenty of great neighborhoods in the Richmond area. Our REALTORS® are experts at helping their clients find the ideal location, so why not let us help you out? Contact us today to get started.