Richmond, VA

So you're new to Richmond and anxious to get your footing, but you don't know where to begin. Our real estate agents are here to help with their top five tips on learning the essentials about Richmond and why it's such a wonderful place to call home.

1. Richmond's Job Market Is Healthy
   If you're searching for a job or looking for ways to advance, you're in the right place. In a 2021 study, financial website WalletHub ranked Richmond #20 on their list of best cities for professional opportunities. Richmond also comes in at #3 for availability of entry-level jobs, making it a great place for college graduates and others who are starting their career.
   
   In another sign of Richmond's solid economic climate, the city is home to seven companies that routinely appear in the Fortune 500, including CarMax, Dominion Energy, and Markel Insurance. Richmond has also proven to be a fertile area for tech startups, thanks in part to Startup Virginia, a nonprofit organization that fosters fledgling companies.
   
   
2. Richmond Is Budget-Friendly
   Your hard-earned dollar goes further in Richmond. According to Best Places, which has been compiling and publishing data about U.S. cities for more than 30 years, Richmond's cost of living index is 95.1, placing it below the national index of 100. Cost of living is also lower than the rest of Virginia, which sits at 103.7, well above national.
   
   One of the biggest savings is in housing. Thanks to affordable home prices and rental properties, Richmond's index is 92.7. Transportation, which evaluates the cost of owning and operating a car along with mass transit fares, comes in at a low 83.5.
   
   
3. Richmond Is Both Historic and Hip
   As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Richmond's historical significance predates the country's founding. Richmond features more than 300 historical landmarks, including the Old Senate Chambers at the Virginia State Capitol, which is the country's oldest legislative body.
   
   But the city also has a delightful hipster vibe that's right in step with the times. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Carytown, a nine-block district with fun and funky shops, restaurants, and theaters.
   
   
4. Richmond Brings the Great Outdoors to the City
   Did you know that Richmond is the only place in the country where you can raft Class III and IV rapids right in the heart of the city? The James River Park System, which spans upwards of 550 acres along the downtown waterfront, offers boating, hiking, climbing, and numerous other outdoor activities just minutes from Richmond homes for sale. 
   
   
5. Richmond Is a Food Lover's Paradise
   Bon Appetit named the area "America's next great restaurant-obsessed town." Of course, Southern cooking is an art form here, but the increasingly eclectic restaurant scene includes tasty treats such as Proper Pie Co., serving up New Zealand-style sweet and savory pies, and Brenner Pass, headed up by Top Chef contestant Brittanny Anderson, which features a modern twist on Alpine-inspired dishes. 

Whether you're new to Richmond or you've been a lifelong resident, contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for all your real estate needs. 

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. 

There's no doubt that farm-to-table dining is a trendy option, and for good reason. The benefits to local farmers are significant, and the difference that comes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients can be tasted in every bite of your meal. Richmond is in the perfect position to offer farm-to-table dining, with so many fantastic local farms located throughout Central Virginia. Our real estate agents have all of the delicious details on 5 of the best farm-to-table dining experiences located in Richmond.

• ShoreDog Cafe – 435-B N. Ridge Rd., Richmond, VA 23229
  Located near Richmond homes for sale and named in honor of a beloved family pet, ShoreDog Cafe is a relaxed, casual dining destination offering farm-to-table favorites and an espresso bar serving up premium coffee. ShoreDog Cafe recently added a cocktail hour menu, which includes charcuterie boards made with fresh, local ingredients and a variety of other special appetizers. They also offer a diverse selection of locally sourced craft beers, along with wine from around the world available by the bottle.
  
  
• Shagbark – 4901 Libbie Mill East Blvd., Ste. 175, Richmond, VA 23230
  Open every evening for dinner from Tuesday through Saturday, Shagbark is a foodie's dream that bases its entire menu on the seasonal ingredients offered by local farms, fishermen, and artisans. The restaurant has been recognized by USA Today, Wine Spectator, and more well-known publications for its mix of elegant atmosphere, friendly service, and fresh, farm-to-table entrees that rotate with the seasons. The menu is updated with new options every week, and there are special menus available during big holidays throughout the year.
  
  
• The Broken Tulip – 3129 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
  Owned and operated by a husband and wife team who have traveled the world in search of the best international cuisine, The Broken Tulip infuses that unique, global feel into every aspect of its menu. The owners delight in uncovering lost recipes, discovering unique culinary creations, and sharing it all with you using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Broken Tulip also offers a fun selection of group trips and tours that will take you on culinary adventures to different corners of the world.
  
  
• Heritage – 1627 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Chef Joe Sparatta and wine director Emilia Sparatta began their culinary journey at one of New Jersey's top-rated restaurants, which included a 4-acre organic farm where many of the ingredients were sourced. They relied on that experience when opening Heritage, with a focus on warm, friendly service, farm-to-table meals, and a wine selection that consistently ranks among Virginia's best. Every dinner here includes 3 courses, and the menu is updated with new options every week so that there will be something new to try every time that you visit.
  
  
• The Daily Kitchen & Bar – 2934 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221
  With patio dining, a sleek, modern dining room, and an in-house bar, The Daily Kitchen & Bar offers a setting to suit every mood with a menu to match. The ingredients for everything on the menu are sourced fresh from local farms, and this is also the only farm-to-table restaurant on our list that offers brunch every weekend. The menu includes a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and paleo options as well.

Your next amazing meal is never far from your front door when you live in Richmond, and our team is here to help with all of your real estate needs in the city. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond area.

There's nothing like warm weather and live music to bring people together. That's the ethos behind Richmond's annual Music in the Park concert series. Our real estate agents have attended several of these concerts, and we couldn't be more excited about this year's series! Keep reading to learn more about this exciting event and when you can stop by Forest Hill Park for a free live show. 

About the Concert Series

Music in the Park is an annual concert series hosted at Forest Hill Park. Its goal is to foster community togetherness and bring more attention to the area's local talent. 

On a Sunday evening each month from May to October, local musicians perform in a free two-hour concert in the park. Summer shows take place from 6 PM to 8 PM. Fall shows are held slightly earlier (4 PM to 6 PM) to ensure that they finish before the sun goes down. You can access the park from either of its two major entrances at New Kent Avenue at 42nd Street and Forest Hill Avenue at West 41st Street. Be sure to catch a show if you're in the area!

The 2022 Lineup

Each month of the Music in the Park series features a different local group. Here is the current schedule for 2022.

• The Boulevardiers – July 17th, 6 PM to 8 PM
  Love old Elvis tunes? You'll love The Boulevardiers. This group's fusion of rock n' roll and blues is very similar to the deep, sincere sounds that made The King so famous. At this event, they are scheduled to play a set of covers of some of the most soulful songs from the 60s and 70s. 
  
  
• Unity Sound Reggae Band – August 7, 6 PM to 8 PM
  Enjoy an evening of carefree Caribbean vibes with Unity Sound Reggae Band, Richmond's leading reggae group. With more than 15 years of shows under their belt, this batch of talented musicians has brought joy and peace to countless Virginia residents. Their August performance is sure to leave you and your neighbors in high spirits.
  
  
• Lighthouse Rodeo – September 11, 4 PM to 6 PM 
  Enjoy nearly all-original music from this RVA band. Known for music that incorporates country and singer/songwriter sounds, expect a fun evening when they take the stage in September.
  
  
• Afro-Zen – October 2, 4 PM to 6 PM
  Eclectic, soothing, and always unforgettable, Afro-Zen is unique among Richmond's musical acts. The group blends genres like world beat, jazz, and African sounds to create something entirely new. Stop by their October show to experience a distinctive style of music you won't hear anywhere else.

If any of these groups sound interesting to you, mark your calendar. Visitors are welcome to bring some blankets and folding chairs and set up next to your fellow Richmond residents. Take a cooler of cold drinks with you and spend an evening getting to know the people around you. You may just discover your new favorite band!

This concert series is just one of the many ways the city's residents make time to come together. Contact us today for more information on our available Richmond homes and put down roots in this close-knit community. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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. 

With spring just around the corner, trees and plants are showing signs of new growth, green leaves, and early blooms. Our real estate agents think it's the perfect time to get outside and plant your Richmond garden so that you can enjoy all the benefits of National Garden Month in April.

On a beautiful spring day, there's nothing quite like planting new seeds and watching them grow. If you're ready to give it a try, it's time to roll up your sleeves and turn your Richmond garden into something spectacular.

Planting Annuals and Perennials

April is a great month to plant annuals and perennials in your garden, but first, you should know the difference. Annuals have a lifespan of one year, so they must be replanted the following season. Perennials grow back every spring, so you only need to plant them once.

Annuals

Planting annuals in garden beds or pots marks the beginning of a season-long show of eye-catching flowers. Annuals are usually planted during the spring and summer months, unfurling flowers and colorful foliage until frost arrives. Some annuals thrive in the sun, and others prefer shade and cooler temperatures, Before planting annuals, it's best to check planting, growth, and care requirements with a local garden center.

Perennials

Perennials can be planted any time during the growing season until the ground freezes, but for best results, they should be planted during spring or fall. Since perennials come back each year, many are bulbs rather than small plants. Whether you plant spring or fall perennials, they need plenty of room to grow and spread in your garden. Even without visible foliage, perennials will still send out roots underground until they go dormant when the ground freezes.

Planting Vegetable Gardens

If you enjoy cooking, you may want to plant a vegetable garden that fills your yard with color and provide herbs and veggies for the kitchen. Just like flower gardens, vegetable gardens can be planted in the spring and the fall.

Spring Planting

Eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes can be started indoors then transplanted into the garden in late April.

If you like the idea of growing yummy summer vegetables, you should start planting your garden in mid-April. Imagine your endless cooking possibilities with a vegetable garden filled with asparagus, beans, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, cucumbers, okra, and squash.

Garden Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your flower and vegetable gardens blooming and healthy. Here are some helpful tips:

• Mulch garden beds early in the spring

• Apply a light application of 10-10-10 fertilizer over perennial beds

• Deadhead perennials after flowering to extend bloom times

• Cut back and fertilize spring-flowering shrubs after flowering

• Weed your garden beds every week during the growing seasons

• Keep your gardening tools, hoses, and sprinklers in good condition

All flower and vegetable gardens are subjected to a variety of harmful pests that can destroy plants. You can protect your gardens with organic pest control products and barriers made from fabrics, fencing, or mesh around the planting area. Diatomaceous earth, a non-toxic natural product, hinders the movement of pests in and around fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

For information on Richmond homes for sale, contact us to discuss your lifestyle needs and see available properties.

As you do your spring cleaning this year, you may discover some things that you no longer need that would be useful to someone else. Donating unneeded home goods, furnishings, and other items to a donation center near Richmond homes for sale is a great way to make a positive contribution to the community in the process and lighten your own load in the process. Not only is decluttering an important part of spring cleaning, but if you're getting your home ready to list, it'll help make the space appear more inviting.

Declutter and do something good for the community when you have a "donate" pile while working on your spring cleaning. Our real estate agents have the key details on some of the donation centers around Richmond, where you can finish your spring cleaning by helping community members in need.

• ChildSavers – 220 N. 22nd St., Richmond, VA 23223
  With a mission to help the youngest, most vulnerable members of the community, ChildSavers has been assisting children who have experienced trauma for nearly 100 years. This is a great place to donate items that your own children no longer need and help another child in the process. Accepted donations include toys, books, art supplies, and costumes, which all have therapeutic value in the programs offered by ChildSavers.
  
  
• The Clothes Rack – 2618 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Part of the Junior League of Richmond, which has been leading charitable causes in the city for more than 70 years, The Clothes Rack is dedicated to providing quality, affordable clothing, and home goods to the community. Proceeds from their stores go toward community programs, outreach, and advocacy. Clothing, jewelry, home goods, home décor, and small furnishings are all accepted by The Clothes Rack as donations.
  
  
• Housing Families First – 3900 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA 23223
  An organization dedicated to helping families who are experiencing homelessness to find stable housing, Housing Families First accepts donations of a wide variety of home goods. Accepted donations include furnishings of all types and even the simplest of home goods. Basically, anything that can help a family start a life in a new home can be donated to Housing Families First and will go toward helping families in need in the Richmond area.
  
  
• Caritas – 2220 Stockton St., Richmond, VA 23224
  Dedicated to helping community members experiencing homelessness or recovering from addiction find stable housing, Caritas operates a furniture bank that helps community members in need furnish their new homes. If you have lightly used furnishings of nearly any type to donate, this is a great place to make a contribution. For larger items like couches, mattresses, and dressers, Caritas even has a pickup team that will come to your home to accept your donation.

Moving to a new home presents another great opportunity to declutter, and our team is here to help you find your next home. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Richmond, VA, area.