July 2025
Mortgage Lender Woes
Betty Buyer was thrilled to be closing on the sale of her large home and moving into something smaller and more manageable. Despite the advice of her Realtor, she used the large, National bank where she holds her checking account to secure the mortgage loan. She was scheduled to close on both houses on the same day, a Friday, so she rented a truck, packed all of her belongings and closed on the sale of her larger home. She then got a last minute call that the close on her purchase was going to be delayed until the following Monday.
The Tale of the Missing Inspection
Once upon a time in Richmond, Virginia, a young couple, Maya and Chris, found what seemed like the perfect house. It was brand-new—modern fixtures, gleaming floors, and that irresistible new house smell. The builder promised everything was done to code and even handed over a thick folder labeled “Certificate of Occupancy.” Their real estate agent recommended they hire a third-party home inspector before closing, but Maya waved it off. “It’s brand new,” she said. “What could possibly be wrong?” Chris hesitated but agreed. They moved in with confidence and started their life—new kitchen, new baby, new mortgage. But just two months in,
BON AIR
Bon Air – Tranquil Charm with Timeless Appeal Nestled just west of the Richmond city line, Bon Air offers the peacefulness of a wooded retreat with all the convenience of suburban living. Known for its winding roads, mature trees, and a mix of historic homes and newer builds, Bon Air is beloved by families, retirees, and anyone looking for a quiet neighborhood with character. I've always admired Bon Air’s ability to feel tucked away—yet it’s minutes from everything. 🏛️ A Little History Bon Air was originally developed in the late 1800s as a summer resort for Richmonders escaping
MANCHESTER
Manchester – Industrial Roots, Creative Energy Just across the James River from downtown, Manchester is one of Richmond’s fastest-growing and most visually striking neighborhoods. With converted warehouses, sleek new builds, and skyline views from almost every block, it’s become a hub for creatives, professionals, and anyone who wants to be close to the action. I love showing clients around Manchester—it’s where Richmond’s historic grit meets modern edge. 🏛️ A Little History Once a separate city, Manchester merged with Richmond in 1910 but retained its distinctive character. Its historic industrial buildings—many of them now converted into lofts, galleries, and
MOSELEY
Moseley – Peaceful Living with Room to Grow Located in western Chesterfield County, Moseley offers a quiet, countryside feel with all the perks of modern suburban living. Known for its newer homes, top-rated schools, and open green spaces, Moseley is ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to spread out without losing access to Richmond’s urban core. Many of my clients are drawn to Moseley for its newer construction, strong community spirit, and the kind of peaceful pace that’s hard to find closer to the city. 🏛️ A Little History Once a rural stretch of farmland, Moseley
SOUTH CHESTERFIELD
South Chesterfield – Space, Schools, and a Strong Sense of Home South Chesterfield offers a little more room to breathe—whether you're looking for a bigger yard, a quiet cul-de-sac, or a place with top-tier schools and easy access to both nature and interstates. This area strikes a balance between suburban ease and rural charm, all within commuting distance to Richmond, Fort Gregg-Adams, and surrounding job centers. I often recommend South Chesterfield to families and first-time buyers looking for long-term value and comfort. 🏛️ A Little History South Chesterfield includes a mix of long-established communities and newer developments, all
MIDLOTHIAN
Midlothian – Where Heritage Meets Modern Living Midlothian blends rich Virginia history with the conveniences of a thriving suburb. Whether you're looking for top-rated schools, spacious homes, or peaceful parks, Midlothian offers the best of both worlds—just a short drive from downtown Richmond. I’ve watched families grow and roots deepen here, and I can personally attest: it’s one of the most well-rounded places to call home in Central Virginia. 🏛️ A Little History Midlothian’s story begins in the early 1700s, as the site of the first commercially mined coal in the United States. The area’s roots in industry
MECHANICSVILLE
Mechanicsville – Small-Town Feel, Big-Time Convenience Just east of Richmond, Mechanicsville offers a relaxed, suburban lifestyle with quick access to the city, major interstates, and rural escapes. With its mix of classic ranch homes, newer developments, and farmland just beyond the neighborhoods, it’s ideal for buyers seeking value, space, and community pride. Many of my clients appreciate its no-fuss atmosphere, top schools, and the feeling that everything you need is just around the corner. 🏛️ A Little History Mechanicsville traces its roots to the 1700s, and several Civil War battlefields dot the area, including Cold Harbor and Gaines’
FAR WEST END/SHORT PUMP
Far West End & Short Pump – Suburban Comfort, City Convenience The Far West End, including Short Pump, offers a polished suburban lifestyle with easy access to shopping, top-rated schools, and major highways. It’s known for spacious newer homes, manicured neighborhoods, and every convenience right at your fingertips. Many of my clients are drawn here for the peace of mind—great schools, safe streets, and a true “everything’s nearby” lifestyle. 🏛️ A Little History Once a rural crossroads in western Henrico County, Short Pump has rapidly grown over the past few decades into one of the region’s most developed
NEAR WEST END
Near West End – Classic Richmond with a Quiet Elegance The Near West End is one of Richmond’s most sought-after areas, offering a peaceful, residential feel just minutes from the city’s cultural core. With walkable streets, charming homes, and proximity to top schools, it’s a favorite for growing families and those looking for timeless appeal. I often describe it as the “best of both worlds”—mature neighborhoods with deep roots and modern access to shopping, dining, and green space. 🏛️ A Little History The Near West End grew outward from Richmond’s historic core in the early to mid-20th century,
