Articles Tagged "Henrico"

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.

The key to a successful and affordable move is to plan ahead. This way, you can start saving and budgeting well in advance of your moving date. But what expenses do you need to account for as you plan your move? Our real estate agents list some often-forgotten moving expenses below.

• Moving Insurance
  When you hire a moving company, they generally charge you a base moving fee, plus additional fees for extra services like furniture assembly or appliance prep.
  
  One extra fee customers don't always account for is the cost of moving insurance. Most moving companies include a certain amount of insurance by default, but it's often wise to pay for additional coverage, especially if you have valuable items. Your moving company should be able to give you a quote for this insurance based on the value of your possessions.
  
  
• Equipment Rental
  If you're moving things yourself, you may want to rent a dolly or moving straps to make carrying heavy items easier. You can rent these items from a local moving truck rental service. (Don't forget to account for the cost of renting a moving truck for your DIY move, too.)
  
  
• Vehicle Shipping
  If you own more than one vehicle, you may need to drive one to your new home and have the other one shipped. Get quotes for vehicle shipping well in advance of your move. You'll often get a better rate if you book this service early.
  
  
• Overnight Stays
  If you're moving a long distance, it might take you more than one day to drive to your destination. So make sure you budget for a night in a hotel as you calculate your expected moving costs. Even if you stay at a friend's house along the way, there may be costs involved, such as the cost of eating dinner out that night.
  
  
• Dining Out
  When you're busy packing and moving, you'll probably eat out or order takeout more often than usual. As such, it's wise to budget for a few extra restaurant meals around the time of your move. The earlier you prioritize unpacking your kitchen items, the lower the cost.
  
  
• Packing Supplies
  If you are packing yourself or doing the whole move yourself, you will need lots of packing supplies, including boxes, tape, and packing peanuts. You can save money by reusing packing supplies that friends may have, but make sure you still budget some funds for these materials. You can never have too much tape or too many markers.
  
  
• Child Care
  If you have children, you may want to hire a sitter on days you're doing most of the packing. Even if a family member or friend is willing to watch the kids, it's nice to give them some cash as a "thank you."
  
  
• Gasoline
  Whether you're driving a moving truck or just your personal vehicle to your new home, be sure to account for the cost of fuel. You'll probably use more gas than usual, making trips to the store for moving supplies, driving to the truck rental place, and driving to restaurants, too, so a little extra wiggle room in the budget doesn't hurt here.

When you set a moving budget ahead of time, there are fewer surprises along the way. If you happen to still be looking at Richmond homes for sale, don't dismay. We're confident you'll soon find the perfect place and start planning your move. Contact us if you'd like some assistance on your homebuying journey.

Redecorating after moving into a new home can feel like an insurmountable task. Let's say you've finally closed on one of these Richmond homes for sale and are looking to change up a few things to fit your style better. Now, where do you start?

Let's take a closer look at the trending paint colors that will inspire you in 2022. Make sure to consider the mood you want to inspire and the types of rooms you might want to use these trends for in your home.

• Bring on the Energy with Red
  Red is energetic, lively and just happens to be the color of good luck. While many people associate the color red with exteriors, country barns, and farmhouses, red is undergoing a renaissance in interiors. Red is becoming a pretty popular color for dining rooms, living rooms, and entryways because of its ability to awaken appetites and spur conversations. When you first paint a room red, it can feel overwhelming. Here, the key is to pay attention to what colors, materials, and décor pieces you pair red with. Red, of course, makes a great accent color. You can paint one wall red or just the ceiling to give the room a nice, cozy feel without overwhelming it. 
  
  
• Evoke Happiness with Yellow
  ​​​​​​​Yellow is the color of happiness and is considered the strongest color psychologically. It brings positive vibes and can instantly lift your mood and energy levels the minute you walk into a room. The shade citron is a muted yellow that's grounding and calming without being draining. It's a beautiful color that's abundant in nature. Plus, it pairs excellently with olive greens. Yellow can make a room feel bigger. Moreover, wooden furniture looks great with yellow walls. Yellow is a great color for living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and bathrooms. It can awaken a space by inducing excitement and enthusiasm.
  
  
• Green for Calming Shades
  Green is the most prolific color in nature. Painting your walls green can bring about that same calming energy you get when walking in nature. There's a reason actors and TV show guests relax in greenrooms before appearing on talk shows. It's a calming color that brings a sense of relaxation, safety, and security into a space. For this reason, green is a great color for your bedroom, living room, or kitchen. It's also one of the easiest colors to decorate around.
  
  
• Bring Richness with Pantone's Color of the Year
  Soft lilac is going to be everywhere in 2022. It's a shade of purple that's soothing and relaxing. In fact, all shades of purple have this effect to varying degrees. However, deeper shades like plum can make a room feel more luxurious and dignified. The elegance of purple is undeniable, and while it's not the color you expect when walking into a room, it's more versatile than you think. Pantone has released a new color, Very Peri Pantone 17-3938, a vibrant shade of periwinkle designed to pique creativity while bringing warmth and joy into a room. It's been named the Pantone color of the year for 2022, designed to merge the calming qualities of blue with the dynamic presence of a violet-red undertone, making it the perfect color for absolutely any room in your house.

2022 is your year! Our real estate agents are well-versed in Richmond real estate and can help you find a home that suits your style and needs. Contact us today so you can start searching for a home where you can utilize your favorite interior design trends.

Officially opened in 2015, the Virginia Capital Trail unites the state's past and present. Pedestrians and bikers can travel just over 51 miles between Jamestown, Virginia's first capital, and Richmond. 

Our real estate agents enjoy visiting these exciting attractions along the trail, just minutes from Richmond homes for sale.

• Belle Isle - 300 Tredegar St., Richmond, VA 23219
  How many cities can boast a scenic island right in the heart of downtown? Just cross the Tredegar St. pedestrian bridge to reach Belle Isle, a natural oasis in the James River. Activities include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and fishing. Water is too rough for swimming, but the large, flat rocks found around the island are perfect for sunbathing. Belle Isle is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• The Valentine - 1015 E. Clay St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Take a walk through years of Richmond history with a visit to the Valentine. For more than a century, the Valentine has served as a repository for collections and exhibits that bring Richmond's past to life for a current audience. One of the highlights is the Costume & Textiles Collection, featuring more than 30,000 pieces of clothing and accessories spanning the late 18th century to the present day. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults and free for kids under age 18.
  
  
• Canal Walk - 139 Virginia St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Stretching 1.25 miles along the James River, the Canal Walk serves as an outdoor museum. A fascinating series of medallions, statues and exhibits depict major events and themes throughout 400 years of Richmond's history. George Washington, an early supporter of canal transportation, was instrumental in the passage of legislation authorizing the Kanawha Canal. The Canal Walk is open 24/7 to walkers, bikers, and leashed pets.
  
  
• Deep Bottom Park & Four Mile Creek - 9525 Deep Bottom Rd., Henrico, VA 23231
  The Virginia Capital Trail isn't just for landlubbers. Deep Bottom Park & Four Mile Creek, not far from Henrico homes for sale, has two boat ramps and a canoe launch providing access to the James River. Try your luck fishing or just enjoy a leisurely day on the water. Be sure to bring Fido along, as leashed dogs are welcome. Park hours are sunrise to sunset daily.
  
  
• Great Shiplock Park - 2803 Dock St., Richmond, VA 23223
  Located at mile marker 51.2, Great Shiplock Park is the western trailhead for the Virginia Capital Trail. The park is one of the quieter, less-visited parts of the trail, making it a nice place to get away with a good book or simply take in the scenic views of downtown Richmond and the James River. Cross the footbridge to Chapel Island and fish for shad, white perch, and smallmouth bass. Great Shiplock Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• National Battlefield Park - 470 Tredegar St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Take the whole family for a living history lesson at National Battlefield Park, which encompasses 13 war-related sites around the city. Follow the self-guided driving tour or walk the pet-friendly trails at Gaines' Mill, Totopotomoy Creek, Cold Harbor, and Malvern Hill. Battlefield areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset and there is no charge for admission.

Blaze your own real estate trail in Richmond. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn more.

If you're moving to Richmond, you're in luck. You're just in time for the VCU Health Richmond Marathon! Always tremendous fun, the annual event is eagerly anticipated by runners and spectators alike. And there's still time to sign up! There are plenty of Richmond homes for sale that put you just a stone's throw away from where the action will be. Here's what to expect.

Signing Up

The VCU Health Richmond Marathon will be held Saturday, November 13th, beginning at 7:45 am. Heralded as "America's Friendliest Marathon," anyone 16 years or older can sign up to run. Registration spots had initially all been filled, but due to popular demand, more spots have been added for those still wishing to run. However, be advised that anyone signing up at this point will receive their medal by mail sometime in early 2022 rather than on race day.

Registering for the VCU Health Richmond Marathon is also a great way to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Unlike Richmond, Boston has strict time requirements you must meet, based on your age and gender, if you want to run in the marathon. Richmond is one of the most popular qualifiers for running in Boston.

If you sign up for the marathon between now and November 7th, you'll pay a $130 entry fee. If you wait until the last minute and sign up in the week leading up to the race, that goes up to $140. However, anyone who makes a $50 to Kids Run RVA can get $20 knocked off their entry fee.

The Course

The VCU Health Richmond Marathon begins at Grace St. and 5th and follows a circuitous route to the Canal Walk on the scenic riverfront, at 5th and Tredegar St. Plenty of help and amenities are stationed along the route. Water and Nuun Replenisher gel are available every 2 miles until mile 20 and every 1 mile after that. Bathrooms are also available at each water stop. GU energy gel will be available at Mile 14 and Mile 21, and there are Junk Food Stops at Miles 16 and 22 and Pickle Juice at Mile 23. Medical aid will also be available along the course if needed.

There's no hurry to finish the race, but the course will only be open for 7 hours total, and provided services will be shut down sequentially as the day progresses. Therefore, to continue availing yourself of the water and other amenities, you must maintain a minimum speed of around 4 miles an hour - a brisk walk.

Other Courses

If 26.2 miles seems daunting, there are several other races being run that day. The CarMax Richmond Half Marathon starts just one block over but covers an entirely different city area. And the Allianz Partners 8K is just under 5 miles, starting at 7 am.

Even if you're not available on the 13th, you can still run. If you sign up to compete virtually, you can run anytime in November and get all the perks of competing in person - as well as all the swag. If you're ambitious, you can do the Richmond Challenge: Run one race on race day and the other two virtually throughout the month for a chance at even more glory and prestige.

There are marathons all over, but Richmond's is one of the most fun. Plus, the area has many local running trails for you to work on your marathon time. And that's just the tip of the iceberg of what the area has to offer. Contact us when you're ready to make Richmond your home. Our real estate agents can help you get settled and find everything you need.

Finding the perfect gift can be a challenge, no matter what the occasion. One occasion that may have you scratching your head is shopping for a house-warming present for a new homeowner.

Is your friend or relative settling in among Richmond homes for sale? Our real estate agents have vast experience helping homeowners acquire the home of their dreams or selling their homes so they can move on -- but they also know a thing or two about what a new homeowner might welcome in the way of a gift.

Here are a few suggestions your friend or relative will love having in their newly acquired home.

1. Every Home Chef Needs One: an Instant Pot
   There are lots of Instant Pots on the market, so you'll have to decide about how many functions (do your friends/family members need the frying function?), and how big (will the 3-quart do for a couple, or does the growing family need a 10-12-quart model?). Regardless of size or number of functions, your giftee will love how fast an Instant Pot can cook dinner so that they can get back to unpacking boxes.
   
   
2. Chip in for a Robotic Vacuum
   A robotic vacuum is perfect for the folks with a big, shedding dog, multiple cats, or just a family with kids tracking dirt in and out. Maybe you have one, and you've seen the amazing way these self-propelled vacuum cleaners go about ensuring the floor is dust-free. They're pricey, though, so maybe this is a gift a couple or more of you can go into buying together. Your giftee will be forever grateful.
   
   
3. Celebrate Their New Space with Wine
   After moving, your giftees may want to break out their new wine glasses and give them a try. There are all kinds of wine glasses on the market these days, and if you didn't know, some are for white wine -- that's the more traditional shape we think of a wine glass having -- and a bigger, more balloon-like shape, which aerates red wine better, bringing out the flavor. What might really work as a gift is a set of four, good-quality wine glasses with pretty patterns etched on them. Consider gifting with a bottle of their favorite wine.
   
   
4. Give a Polyethylene Chopping Board
   These are sturdy enough to stand up to strenuous chopping chores but you can find some pretty ones too, in an assortment of colors. Some are so pretty they can do double duty as a cheese tray. Add in some local cheese to encourage them to use their new chopping board as a cheese tray. Polyethylene chopping boards are easy to clean with soap and water.
   
   
5. Cook up a Present for Their New Kitchen
   The kitchen is the heart of the home, so gifting something for the kitchen means you're giving the new homeowner a great gift! There are plenty of things you can gift to encourage the new homeowner to utilize their new cooking space. Consider spice mixes, olive oils, or fresh pasta from a local farmers market. They'll appreciate the gift when they get to try it out in their new kitchen. 

Need tips on buying or selling a home in the Richmond area? Contact us today. 

Moving to a new place is never easy. In addition to the chore of dragging your stuff from one house to another, you also have to readjust to a new area and find a way to incorporate all of your old routines into unfamiliar surroundings. For instance, walking and playing with your dog. There are plenty of Richmond homes for sale, where you and your family can move, but where are the dog-friendly hiking trails near those homes? We've got you covered. Here are a few of our favorite spaces in nature where you and your dog can walk, hike, and play.

• James River North Bank and Buttermilk Loop Trail - 4190 Riverside Drive, Richmond, VA 23225.
  This 6.9-mile loop near Richmond is rated of moderate difficulty. It's great for hiking and biking and has beautiful views of the river. It's accessible year-round, but can get fairly busy, particularly on weekends. Not only are dogs welcome on this trail, but horses are, too.
  
  
• Texas Beach Trail - 1907 Texas Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220.
  Located near James River Park, this 4.8-mile hiking trail isn't in the Lone Star State, but right here in Virginia. A simple hike with mostly dirt trails, it will take between 1 and 3 hours, and runs over bridges and alongside train tracks. There are plenty of beautiful sites to see along the way, from muraled walls to old stone structures to flowing water, and more. It's a great place to take your dog and explore.
  
  
• Powhite Park - 7200 Jahnke Road, Richmond, VA 23225.
  Tucked away behind a series of busy streets and a hospital complex, Powhite Park is a great place to leave behind the bustling city and commune with nature for a while. It's 100 acres of woods and wetlands, great for watching wildlife, such as deer, birds, beavers, and more. You can walk your dog or ride your bike here, among the twisting trails, in peace and serenity.
  
  
• Dutch Gap - 341 Henricus Park Road, Chester, VA 23836.
  Richmond isn't the only area with dog-friendly hiking trails. If you go a little bit south, you'll find great Chesterfield homes for sale, and plenty of hiking for you and your dog in that area too. The Dutch Gap Conservation Area has several easy hiking trails, without much elevation, making it great for families, as well as for pets. There are 5.8 total miles of hiking trails, along with campgrounds, picnic areas, and spots for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. You and your dog will love it here.
  
  
• Cheswick Park - 1700 Forest Avenue, Henrico, VA 23229.
  There are any number of beautiful Henrico homes for sale as well, and hiking trails in this area surrounding Richmond for both you and your dog. Cheswick Park is open daily from dawn to dusk and features about a mile of trails where you can walk your furry friend. It also has a playground and a picnic area that takes reservations for parties and other gatherings. This beautiful, wooded area is a great place for you and your pet to get away for a few hours.

These are just a few of the amazing trails and parks in the Richmond area where you and your dog can have fun together. Our real estate agents can help you find all the best hiking spots near you. Contact us today.

Our real estate agents know local dining is one of the big things that many new homeowners think about when deciding on a home. No matter what your tastes are, you won't be disappointed in the RVA. World-class cuisine of many different styles can be found seemingly around every corner.

The vibrant startup scene of the Richmond, Virginia area also applies to the restaurant industry. Experienced chefs and restaurateurs are constantly creating new experiences for residents and visitors to enjoy. Over the last decade, vegetarian and vegan options have expanded by leaps and bounds.

Now, the RVA is one of the best places in America for plant-based dining.

Let's take a look at some of the most enticing local options:

• Carytown Burgers & Fries – 5404 Lakeside Avenue, Henrico, VA 23228
  Carytown Burgers & Fries was rated #1 for more than a decade. Billing itself as a "local legend," it has a strong claim to offering one of the best burgers in town. It was also one of the first burger joints in the RVA to expand with a full selection of soy, black bean, and vegan patties. You'll also find mock chicken dishes and plenty of salads to choose from. All this and more is not far from Henrico homes for sale.
  
  
• Hang Space – 8002 Buford Court, Richmond, VA 23235
  Hang Space is a 100% vegan eatery where you can order online or by phone for even faster service. This is a partnership between two beloved local brands, the Go Go Vegan Go and Yummvees Catering and Meal Prep. Now open Thursday through Sunday, it's got a varied assortment of delicious salads and 100% plant-based alternative meats. It's a great pick within minutes of some top Richmond homes for sale.
  
  
• Ipanema Cafe –  917 West Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23220
  A welcoming spot on beautiful Grace Street, Ipanema Cafe is a full-service vegan and vegetarian cafe and bar. A venerable and established brand with operations since 1998, it boasts the best patio on Grace Street for outdoor dining. Karaoke, wine tasting, and other events take place here regularly. In addition to the healthy meals, it also stands out for its robust, vegan-friendly desserts.
  
  
• Goatocado – 1823 West Main Street, Richmond, VA 23220
  Goatocado will charm you with more than just a fun name. This fast-casual restaurant is heralded as a "conscious kitchen" focused on healthy, vibrant meals. It has been around for a long time, developing from a food cart into its current space. Attracting plenty of kudos for its recently expanded menu in a brand new location, it will tempt even omnivores.
  
  
• Philly Vegan – 1126 Hull Street, Richmond, VA 23224
  Philly Vegan brings an unexpected taste of Philadelphia to the RVA. This family-owned and operated vegan restaurant began with a mission to bring the flavors of the authentic Philly cheesesteak to the world of plant-based dining. Once a month, the restaurant hosts a "Pay What You Can" Day to help those in need. It's also renowned for its $6 dairy-free milkshakes in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and peanut butter.

Ready to learn more about what the Richmond area has to offer? Contact us today at Joyner Fine Properties to discover more about the Richmond area.

Coordinating the logistics of a move is rarely an easy task, which is why our real estate agents are always trying to offer tips to make things as easy as possible. In our experience, renting a storage unit can help make things significantly easier during the home sale and moving process. However, many of our clients wonder if the benefits are worth the expense. If you're planning on moving soon, below are 5 ways renting a storage unit can make your life a lot easier.

• You Can Protect Your Belongings
  The chaotic nature of a move often leaves many concerned about the safety of their special belongings. Whether it's furniture, art, or keepsakes a storage unit gives you the opportunity to relocate your most important assets before the move begins. This can ultimately prevent them from being lost or damaged by the movers.
  
  
• Easier To Stage Your Home
  Decluttering your home and removing personal items is an important part of the home staging process. We often recommend sellers create a neutral environment that enables potential buyers to see themselves in the space. For some great staging examples, check out these Richmond homes for sale.
  
  During the home staging process, you may want the option of quickly relocating furniture or decor. A storage unit offers an alternative to cramming everything in the corner of your basement.
  
  
• It Will Be Easier To Downsize
  Deciding what items can stay and what can go often makes downsizing difficult. If you're planning to move into a smaller home, a storage unit can allow you to downsize on your own terms. Instead of being under pressure to get rid of a ton of things at once, a storage unit gives you that extra space to hang on to your belongings and part with them incrementally over time.
  
  
• You Can Manage The Gap Between Closing Dates
  Aligning closing dates is one of the most difficult aspects of buying and selling a home at the same time. If the closing dates of your current home and future home don't align, you may want to consider temporarily storing your belongings in a unit while you rent an apartment or stay with a family member.  A storage unit can also help ease the pressure of finding a new home within a set time frame. Knowing you have a storage solution as a backup plan, you can take your time when searching for the perfect next home.
  
  
• Storage Units Are Affordable
  Many people are understandably concerned about the cost of a storage unit, but they are usually affordable. A storage unit typically costs anywhere from $100 to $300 per month, and the rates are usually based on location and unit size. In most cases, you can rent them on a month-to-month basis.

Moving is often one of the most stressful events in life, but a storage unit is a great way to make things a lot easier. For move moving tips, contact us today.

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.

Richmond is one of the best cities in the region for craft breweries, and the Richmond Beer Trail is the perfect way to discover all that local breweries have to offer. As you travel the trail, you'll have the opportunity to experience the best local breweries and the many attractions in the unique communities where each brewery is located. Our real estate agents have all of the details on 5 breweries that you won't want to miss along the Richmond Beer Trail.

• Intermission Beer Company – 10089 Brook Rd., Glen Allen, VA 23059
  Founded by a husband-and-wife team of film majors with a passion for craft brewing, Intermission Beer Company makes it easy to enjoy a great brew anytime with a convenient location near Glen Allen homes for sale. If you love unique events at your favorite breweries, you'll always have something new to experience at Intermission Beer Company. Throughout the week, you will find live music, trivia nights, book clubs, meetups for car enthusiasts, open mic comedy, and even a knitting club. No matter when you visit, you're sure to love one of the many craft brews on tap.
  
  
• Extra Billy's Brewery & Smokehouse – 1110 Alverser Dr., Midlothian, VA 23113
  Can't decide between outstanding craft beer or a delicious barbecue dinner? Extra Billy's Brewery & Smokehouse makes it easy to enjoy both, with a location that's around the corner from Midlothian homes for sale. With multiple gold medal award-winning beers on tap and ribs that have consistently been voted among the best in the region, the team at Extra Billy's is committed to going the extra mile to provide you with the best service whenever you visit.
  
  
• Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop – 3406 W. Leigh St., Richmond, VA 23230
  With a busy schedule of special events every week and an even longer list of unique craft beers, Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop has everything you need to enjoy a night on the town near Richmond homes for sale. The large team at Starr Hill operates five excellent breweries in Richmond and beyond, with a mix of flagship brews and seasonal varieties that put fresh spins on your favorite flavors.
  
  
• Legend Brewing Co. – 321 W. 7th St., Richmond, VA 23224
  What started as a small, popular pub more than 25 years ago has since grown into the Legend Brewing Co. that Richmond residents enjoy today. Legend Brewing Co. now has a large, 180-seat restaurant, along with an outdoor dining area that can seat up to 200 guests and a smaller, more intimate beer garden space. This local brewer is known best for its popular Brown Ale and features various seasonal brews that ensure you'll always have something new to try.
  
  
• Molly's Bicycle Shop & Blind Dog Brewery – 4515 W. Hundred Rd., Chester, VA 23831
  It's not every day that you come across a hybrid bicycle shop/brewery, but that's exactly what you'll find when you visit Molly's Bicycle Shop & Blind Dog Brewery. The beer garden at Blind Dog Brewery is the place to be, with a location close to Chesterfield County homes for sale and a great atmosphere for enjoying a cold brew outdoors. This is also a great place to visit if you love live music, with live performances taking place nearly every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday evening.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy the delicious drinks and dining around Richmond? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond area.

The importance of natural light in the home can't be overstated. Everyone loves bright, open rooms, and natural lighting really makes your home appear larger and more welcoming. Maximizing your home's natural lighting can also decrease your utility costs, and more importantly, it can actually improve your mood and mental health.

The best part is, increasing natural light exposure can be easy and cost-effective. While windows are your primary natural light source, there are many simple things you can do to maximize light throughout your house. Here are simple tips from our real estate agents:

• Focus On Light Colors
  Did you know that painting your walls bright colors or using bright colored wallpaper actually helps maximize natural light exposure throughout the room? This is because light coming in from your windows reflects or bounces off light-colored walls. Dark colors do the opposite - they absorb light which lessens its impact. Try different shades of off-white for the best impact. Choosing light-colored furniture can also create the same effect. For inspiration, check out the light colors in some of these beautiful Richmond homes for sale.
  
  
• Add Mirrors And Shiny Surfaces
  Mirrors, shiny surfaces, or anything with reflective properties are effective at helping natural light reach every nook and cranny of a room. Using mirrors and reflective surfaces is a great strategy, especially for rooms that don't see a lot of natural light, to begin with. Mirrors are especially effective at achieving this. Not only do they make for some great home decor, but they also can significantly increase lighting. The larger the mirror or reflective surface, the more light it will reflect. 
  
  
• Choose The Right Flooring
  While we're on the subject of reflective surfaces, think about how the floors in your home reflect light. Naturally shiny surfaces like light hardwood or ceramic will make a room appear much bigger and brighter. Carpet is much less reflective, especially if it's a darker color. Combining reflecting flooring with bright walls can really create a stunning effect.
  
  
• Pick A New Front Door With A Window
  Adding new windows frames to your home can be a fairly expensive home renovation project, but adding a front door with big open windows is much more affordable. If your living room doesn't receive much natural light, a door with a window can serve as an extra light source.
  
  
• Add A Skylight
  The best way to increase natural lighting in a room is by adding a skylight. A skylight is a fantastic addition, especially in the bathroom or kitchen. Since skylights are positioned directly upwards, they're likely to generate more natural light than a regular door or window. While it can be a bit of an expensive investment, skylights are truly a great option.

Whether you're planning to sell your home or are simply looking for ways to spruce up your interior, maximizing natural light is easy and cost-effective. For more tips on home staging techniques, contact us today.

Rain, rain go away! Summer showers are bound to happen and even people who love the rain can get cranky when they are cooped up inside all day. You can stave off that boredom by jumping into a DIY project to stay active. Our real estate agents have a few ideas for projects for kids and grownups alike. Some are just for fun, while others are designed to spruce up Richmond homes for sale. Take a look at some of these great options:

• Update Cabinet Hardware
  Your kitchen will take on a brand new look by simply switching out hinges and handles. New drawer pulls are a great way to add a bright new look to old cabinetry. This is an excellent job for young people just learning how to use tools. If you don't want to replace brass, polish it up to a high shine, and it will look like new. 

• Change Light Fixtures
  This can have a big impact on any room, but perhaps the greatest is in the bathroom. New lights over the sink are simple to install and will make the room more modern and efficient. Don't forget to change out all of the light bulbs. Upgrading the mirror will also make the room much more attractive to potential buyers. With a minimal purchase and a little time, you can transform the room from tired and dingy to bright and beautiful. While you're at it, installing a new ceiling fan is a similar process, adding both comfort and style to any room. 

• Deep Clean Appliances
  You'll marvel at the difference a sparkling stove, spotless microwave, glistening refrigerator, and clean dishwasher will make to the appearance of any kitchen. Pay particular attention to fingerprints on brushed aluminum or chrome. Simply running the dishwasher through a cycle with nothing but a cup of white vinegar will remove the detergent build-up, mineral deposits, and small food particles, leaving it smelling fresh and clean. Add a fresh box of baking soda to the refrigerator to neutralize food odors. 

• Vacuum the Dryer Vent
  Damp lint debris caught in the vent will cause a significant increase in the time required to dry your clothes as well as causing a nasty, musty odor. When that lint dries, it becomes a serious fire hazard. Pull the dryer from the wall and unplug it. Disconnect the dryer hose from the back of the unit and the wall. Vacuum out the lint, or if the hose is damp or shows any signs of damage, consider replacing it. They are only a few dollars at a home improvement store. Clean the wall vent from the inside and the outside of the house to ensure that all debris is removed. Reverse your steps to put everything back in place. 

• Work with the Kids
  Choose a project appropriate for their ages. Young teens and preteens might be capable of helping with the projects listed for adults. You can teach them valuable tool skills and help them understand home maintenance. You will be amazed at the sense of pride they have after assisting with a home improvement project. Smaller children can make simple crafts such as cardboard birdhouses or creating an indoor herb garden. When lunchtime rolls around, you can give kids of any age cooking lessons.

If you're getting your home ready to sell or looking for a new place, don't hesitate to contact us. Our real estate professionals are always ready to assist you at any point in the buying or selling process. 

Is there anything more glorious than summer in Virginia? Make the most of this wonderful season at these entertaining events around Richmond, as suggested by our real estate agents. 

• Farmers Market at Midlothian Urban Farmhouse - 13849 Coalfield Commons Pl., Midlothian, VA 23114
  Midlothian homes for sale offer great access to the benefits of urban and rural areas. One of the best examples is Farmers Market at Midlothian Urban Farmhouse. Eat healthily and support local farmers by purchasing produce, eggs, and meat from market vendors. Community artisans are on hand selling baked goods, candles, soaps, flowers, and other items that make wonderful gifts. Bring Fido along to enjoy a doggie treat while you relax over dinner and live music. Market hours are 4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. each Wednesday through September 29.
  
  
• Restore: The Healing Power of Nature - Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Ave., Henrico, VA 23228
  Get a refreshing respite from the stress of everyday life at Restore: The Healing Power of Nature. Breathe deeply and feel your spirit revive as you explore the 50 acres of spectacular gardens and woodlands of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, just minutes from Henrico homes for sale. Special events such as "The Secret Life of Bugs" and "River City Poets - Poetry in the Garden" reinforce the main theme of the program, which runs daily through Sunday, October 31. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. seven days a week, with extended summer hours on Wednesday and Thursday. Admission is $14 for adults and $8 for kids aged 3-12. 
  
  
• 2021 Richmond Shakespeare Festival - Agecroft Hall, 4305 Sulgrave Rd., Richmond, VA 23221
  Experience timeless theater under the stars at the 2021 Richmond Shakespeare Festival. This year's productions include Twelfth Night, the Bard's classic comedy of unrequited love and mistaken identity, and The Bottom Show, an original presentation based on one of Shakespeare's most endearing characters. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. each Thursday through Sunday until August 15. Tickets are $33 for adults and $20 for students and must be purchased online.
  
  
• Would I Lie to You? - Various locations
  Inspired by a moment of levity during a downtown hike near Richmond homes for sale, George Tisdale created this unique look at the city's cultural history. Would I Lie to You? is a series of four walks featuring more than 25 murals around the downtown area. After the guide regales attendees with a fascinating story behind each mural, each person must decide whether or not the story is true. Walks are scheduled every weekend from Friday through Sunday. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids aged 6-13. Participation is limited, so purchase tickets in advance on the website.
  
  
• Beef Up Your Health 10K - Richmond Raceway, 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23222
  No matter what fitness level you are, there's a spot for you at Beef Up Your Health 10K. If you're not quite up to a 10K yet, boost your endurance with a 5K. There's a one-mile race for kids, while walkers and strollers are also welcome. Runners who participate in the Bishops Events series can earn points for 10K, 5K, and Back of the Pack. Early registration fees are $15 for kids, $25 for 5K, and $40 for 10K, with prices going up to $5 after August 15. Race day is Saturday, August 28 at 8 a.m.

Summer is also a perfect time to buy or sell a home in Richmond. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to get started.

It's easy not to think about your gutters when they're doing their job, but a little cleaning and maintenance should be done at least once or twice a year. If you haven't cleaned your gutters since the trees dropped their leaves last fall, doing your maintenance now will help keep them clean throughout the summer's rainstorms. Here are a few tips from our real estate agents for gutter maintenance this summer.

1. Remove Nests
   First things first: Check your gutters for any nests from animals or creepy crawlies. Birds' nests are commonly found in and around gutters. If you've waited until summer to clean your gutters, chances are the birds aren't using the nests anymore, so you can remove them without worrying about the occupants. Wasps nests, on the other hand, are best left to a professional pest service for your own safety.
   
   
2. Remove Debris
   Before you can flush your gutters, it's important to make sure you remove any loose debris so that you're not washing it all downstream and creating a blockage. Check your gutters for leaves, sticks, and other debris that can be removed manually. It may be time-consuming, but it'll save you any hassle later on.
   
   
3. Flush Your Gutters
   Once you've removed all the loose debris, you can use a garden hose to manually flush the gutters. Make sure the downspouts are running quickly and don't show any signs of blockage inside. If you do find blockages, you can remove the downspout and work on it from the safety of the ground. Clear the blockage by running the garden hose directly into the downspout, running a plumbing snake through the downspout, and if none of those work, disassembling the downspout to find and remove the blockage. Once the downspout is clear, you can reattach it to the gutters.
   
   
4. Repair Any Damage
   Gutters can become damaged over time, especially if they're not cleaned regularly. Inspect your gutters thoroughly for rust, cracks and busted seams, and signs of problems such as algae growth. Algae can be scrubbed off, but cracked or rusted gutters should be repaired or replaced. This is especially important if you're planning on selling your home, as unsightly gutters will be an immediate red flag to potential buyers that can be seen from the street, if not the listing pictures.
   
   
5. Call a Professional if Needed
   Whether you're working on a ladder at gutter height, or leaning down to access the gutters from your roof, cleaning and repairing gutters can be dangerous. Consider whether you have the tools and skills to do this job yourself, and call the pros if you don't. Especially if you are planning to sell the home, it may benefit you to have a pro doing the work, and recent gutter maintenance or even a brand new gutter system will be a selling point over other Richmond homes for sale.

Keeping up on home maintenance is an easy way to protect your investment, but it's especially important to catch up on any maintenance tasks if you're planning on selling your home soon. The outside of your home is a great place to start because that's the first thing a buyer sees. For more suggestions on how to get your home ready to sell and boost your curb appeal, contact us today.

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.

What could be better than a warm, crispy waffle for breakfast, served by your favorite Richmond restaurant? Waffles have been served in some form since the 13th century, making them both one of the oldest and most beloved breakfast dishes in the world. Residents of the Richmond area have no shortage of great places to enjoy a delicious breakfast, and International Waffle Day provides the perfect excuse to order breakfast from a local restaurant. Our real estate agents have all the delicious details on 5 of the best places to order breakfast in the Richmond area.

1. Campus Waffle – 515 N Harrison St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Located close to Richmond homes for sale just a quick trip from the VCU campus, Campus Waffle is the perfect place to order breakfast for International Waffle Day this year. Waffles are served all day, every day, with a unique selection of toppings that you definitely won't find anywhere else. Enjoy a traditional waffle topped with fruit or a Country Breakfast waffle with all the fixings in the morning, then order at night to try something savory like the Chicken Ranch BLT waffle. Campus Waffle also offers a variety of gluten-free and vegan options.

2. LuLu's Restaurant – 21 N 17th St., Richmond, VA 23219
   When you're in the mood for a delicious gourmet breakfast, it's hard to beat the outstanding waffles served at LuLu's Restaurant in Richmond. And you don't have to wait until Sunday to enjoy a great brunch here! LuLu's is open for brunch every day, with a menu that features waffles and so much more. Order ahead online for convenient curbside pickup or local delivery in the Richmond area.

3. Tarrant's Cafe – 1 W Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
   With its full menu available for delivery throughout the Richmond area and contactless curbside pickup, Tarrant's Cafe makes it easy to enjoy a crispy, flavorful waffle from the comfort of home. Everything on the menu is created with fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, and you can taste the difference. Place your order online and grab your favorites from a menu that features something for everyone. The restaurant is also open with limited seating and online reservations.

4. River City Diner – 11430 W Huguenot Rd., Midlothian, VA 23113
   Long a local favorite near Midlothian homes for sale, the lovely River City Diner serves breakfast all day long. Celebrate International Waffle Day with a home-style country breakfast from your favorite local diner, and be sure to leave room for some delicious breakfast side dishes. All of the pancakes and waffles here are made with an award-winning batter that's sure to please, with tons of toppings to customize your meal.

5. The Daily Kitchen & Bar – 12201 W Broad St., Henrico, VA 23233
   It's easy to find a great waffle around Henrico homes for sale, thanks to beloved local dining destinations like The Daily Kitchen & Bar. You can order every Saturday and Sunday for brunch, with a menu that features gourmet twists on all of your breakfast favorites. The Daily Kitchen & Bar also offers a full menu for kids, so it's a great choice if you plan on celebrating International Waffle Day with the whole family.

Your next great meal is never far from your front door when you live in Richmond, and our team is here to help you find your next home in the area. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Richmond, VA area.

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.

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!   

When it comes to your home decorating style, do you struggle to pick out pieces because you don't know what to focus on? Do you feel pulled around by trends? Or do you feel like you can't put your finger on it because everything is mismatched and pieced together? Identifying your home decorating style can be a minefield of indecision and procrastination.

Our real estate agents believe that our homes should be a reflection of our personalities. It has to do with trusting your intuition instead of following the crowd. The following tips for finding the right style of décor for your home will help you create spaces that look beautiful, feel authentic, and make you happy.

• Look in Your Closet
  Take a good, hard look at what's in your closet. Pay attention to the colors, textures, patterns, and fabrics you turn to again and again. Are they mostly neutral?  Or are your favorite clothes made with bold patterns and lots of colors? Let the colors guide you when choosing textiles and décor items for your home.
  
  
• Design a Style Vignette
  A style vignette is an arrangement of objects displayed together in a pleasing, balanced way. The grouping is typically made up of homeware pieces but can also feature craft objects, art, natural elements, flowers, and other mementos. Walk around your home and gather anything that tickles your fantasy and captures the look you're going for. Arrange them and live with them for a few days to help you define the decorating style that appeals to you. If you end up liking the overall vibe, tone, and color scheme, you can spread that style across your entire home.
  
  
• Get Inspired
  You can also use outside inspiration to find your design style. You might want to create a Pinterest board with places and rooms you love or scroll through home décor hashtags on Instagram. See if you can spot a color scheme, trend, or theme that you're most drawn to. Sometimes, however, Instagram and Pinterest can be a bit overwhelming because there are so many beautiful images at one time. Instead, you can just flip through a magazine to find out what you love. Next, look through your magazine and Pinterest boards to decipher commonalities among the photos.
  
  
• Take an Online Decorating Quiz
  There are tons of online decorating quizzes that can help you discover and pinpoint your tastes and preferences, so you can start designing your dream home. Some quizzes will also reveal the paint colors, types of furniture, and accent pieces that you should have in your space. Consider taking multiple design style quizzes at your leisure. You know you've found your style and are ready to start designing if the quizzes end in similar results.
  
  
• Think About Your Current Décor
  It's not common to start decorating from scratch. Walk through your house and make a list of all pieces of furniture, accessories, or art that have to stay. Separate what you love from what you wish you could replace. Next, review the list of things you love to see the common traits and write those down. This will serve as a guide to keep you true to your style.

Need some additional advice about decorating your home as you think about buying one of the Richmond homes for sale? We can help you. Contact us today to schedule tours of beautiful homes in the RVA.

High heating bills pack a real punch into homeowners' budgets each winter. Sure, it's not cheap to keep your entire house warm, but that doesn't mean you accept this as an annual hit to your wallet. Consider these tips from our real estate agents that are free or low-cost tricks for staying warm and saving money.

1. Turn Down Your Thermostat
   Turning your thermostat down a few degrees can shave up to 10% off your heating bill. Whether you're going to be at work all day, running some errands for a few hours, or will be headed out for the weekend, lower your thermostat temperature by 3 to 7 degrees. If you're slightly forgetful or the back and forth is just getting on your nerves, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. You can set it to adjust the heat on a predetermined schedule. Many are Wi-Fi compatible and let you control your thermostat from an app.
   
   
2. Seal Up Air Leaks
   Air leaks allow heat to escape your home easily. Light a candle, and let's do some detective work here. Hold the flame near doors, windows, light fixtures, ceilings, walls, switches, and in areas where cables and wires enter your house. If you see the flame flicker, that could mean you've spotted an air leak. Sealing up those air leaks is as easy as applying some inexpensive caulking, weather stripping, or adding insulating material.
   
   
3. Let Ceiling Fans Work to Your Advantage
   Yep, you read that right. Ceiling fans are typically meant to cool down a room, but they can also be good at warming them up and helping you save on heating bill costs. During cold weather, get that fan to spin clockwise and keep it on the lowest setting. This will push warm air downward, leaving your house feeling warmer.
   
   
4. Don't Let Heat Escape 
   If you don't use a certain room in your house, why heat it? Everyone knows that turning off the lights when exiting a room helps lower your electric bill. The same goes for keeping your windows and doors shut when you leave a room. Even when you're in the room, shutting the doors will allow the heat to hang out in the room, reducing the load on your HVAC system. If you aren't using your fireplace, seal the chimney flue and ensure the glass door is in place to minimize heat loss.
   
   
5. Use a Humidifier
   The air in your home tends to be dry during the winter months. Using a humidifier can help put some moisture in the air and keep your home warm without causing a dramatic increase in your heating bill. The moisture released by the humidifier will retain heat, keeping you more comfortable. 
   
   
6. Let the Sun Hit Things Up
   When the sun comes out, open your shades, curtains, and blinds to make the best use of "passive solar gain." Your home's exterior walls can soak the heat and give some serious warmth the old-fashioned way. 
   
   
7. Call for a Checkup
   Proper maintenance of your heating systems can make a big difference in your home's heating efficiency. You can keep your furnaces or heaters running at peak performance by having them checked by a professional at least once a year. It also pays to have your ductwork fixed to prevent the loss of heated air. Similarly, you should change the air filters to allow better airflow and reduce the strain on your furnace.

Are you looking for beautiful and winter-ready property among the wonderful Richmond homes for sale? Contact us to get started.

With the end of the year approaching, prospective homebuyers have holiday cheer on their minds as they tour Richmond homes for sale. This doesn't mean you should make your home into a replica of the North Pole though! Successfully staging your home for the holidays takes subtlety and class. Here are a few tips for tastefully staging your home for the holidays.

1. Decorate the front door. 
   The front door is your best place to make a good first impression. Hanging a cheery holiday wreath on the door can set the stage for your prospective buyers to imagine themselves in your home for the holidays from the moment they step over that threshold. Don't clutter up the yard with a lot of decorations, though, as it doesn't take much to cross over the line into the realm of tacky. Instead, focus on improving your curb appeal.
   
   
2. Match your decorations to your decor. 
   The best way to achieve subtlety and class is to make sure your holiday decorations blend seamlessly with the existing decor. Opt for holiday colors and styles that complement your themes and furnishings. If you've done your job with staging, these should be fairly neutral, setting the stage for a subtle holiday display.
   
   
3. Remember that less is more. 
   The rule of thumb for staging isn't any different around the holidays. As always, you should minimize the decor as much as possible. Instead of adding holiday decor, replace what you had used for staging before, as you don't want it to appear too cluttered by trying to squeeze everything in. And don't break out your entire collection of holiday ornaments! Just a few tasteful touches, such as a bowl of pinecones on the coffee table or a holiday greenery arrangement, will be just enough to encourage your buyer to envision themselves in your home.
   
   
4. Keep the decor impersonal. 
   Staging your home needs to be impersonal at any time of the year, but perhaps most of all around the holidays, when people are thinking about entertaining and celebrating with their families. This means that not only should you remove family pictures from the walls, but you also should make sure not to hang any holiday decorations that are too personal. We all have our own ways of celebrating the holidays, so keeping your holiday decor subtle and impersonal will allow them to picture themselves and their own traditions in your home.
   
   
5. Highlight your home's best features. 
   Finally, don't forget that the main purpose of staging is to show your home to its best advantage. You can use your holiday decor to highlight your home's best features, just as you would with any other decor. A strategically placed decoration can draw attention to a feature of your home that you want to highlight. Use your decorations sparingly, but use them to help your home shine.

No matter the season, staging a home for sale is an art form. If you feel overwhelmed or are unsure of how to proceed, one of our real estate agents can walk you through it. Contact us today to start the process!

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.

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.

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.

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.