Articles Tagged "Prince George"

For many of us pet owners and dog lovers, quick access to pet-friendly amenities is essential. Things like boarding and pet stores are important, but sometimes your pup needs a little bit of luxury too. Central Virginia has it all -- from options for pet-friendly outdoor activities, doggie spas, and even upscale overnight accommodations. Our real estate agents love pets, so it only made sense that we'd create a quick list of our favorite places around Central Virginia to treat our pups.

1. Dog Krazy - 3310 W. Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221
   If you're looking for some of the highest quality pet products around, a stop by Dog Krazy is in order. This specialty pet store offers a wide selection of quality dog food as well as essentials, toys, and treats. You'll also enjoy checking out their assortment of doggie baked goods. 
   
   
2. Ruff Canine Club - 1924 Ellen Rd, Richmond, VA 23230
   This members-only dog club offers a recreational haven for your pup. Dogs have plenty of room to run around and play at Ruff Canine Club, while owners can enjoy a drink at the dog bar. Memberships are available on a monthly or annual basis, but you can also buy a guest pass for the day if you want to check it out.
   
   
3. Dogtopia - 13615 Hull Street Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112
   Looking for some great boarding options? Dogtopia is a premier destination for daycare, boarding, and spa services. However, this is more than just a place to drop off your dog -- the staff at Dogtopia offer training to help pets learn valuable social skills during their stay. The daycare is an off-leash setting, so your dog will have complete freedom to explore. Dogtopia is a great option for pet boarding, especially if you're considering one of these great Midlothian homes for sale nearby.
   
   
4. Swift Creek Animal Hospital & Pet Resort - 2331 Colony Crossing Pl, Midlothian, VA 23112
   Easy access to high-quality medical care can be found at Swift Creek Animal Hospital. This vet clinic offers comprehensive services to help keep your dog feeling healthy. Emergency services, basic health care, dental care, and even laser treatments, you'll find everything you need and more. They also have an onsite pet resort for daycare, boarding, and spa services.
   
   
5. Scott Memorial Park - 6680 Courthouse Rd, Prince George, VA 23875
   If your pet is in need of some fresh air, a nice walk Scott Memorial Park could do you both some good. This beautiful park consists of ballfields, playgrounds, walking trails, and obstacle courses, spread across 10 acres of land. It's the perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon. If you love this park, you might enjoy checking out some great Prince George homes for sale just down the road.
   
   
6. Dorey Park and Recreation Center - 2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico, VA 23231
   Head on over to Henrico and check out one of the best dog parks in Central Virginia. Dorey Park has an excellent outdoor, off-leash dog park. It's about 1 acre and is surrounded by a 6-foot fence. The park has its own section for small pups and another one for large dogs. There is also a trailhead for the Virginia Capital Trail right next to the park, so you can head on a nice walk in the woods. There are also plenty of gorgeous Henrico homes for sale not too far away.

Access to amenities and resources for your pet is important when selecting a new place to live. Contact us for more information on all the great things Central Virginia has to offer.

Central Virginia is always in full bloom when late summer rolls around. It's a season our real estate agents look forward to all year! Our local farms and gardens are bursting with life this season, and we're thrilled to share these great places to see the colors and taste the flavors of the season.

• Agecroft Hall & Gardens - 4305 Sulgrave Rd, Richmond, VA 23221
  A splendid Tudor manor house and estate overlooking the James River, Agecroft Hall & Gardens offers splendid scenery in the heart of Richmond. It has several unique gardens, and the Shakespeare Garden is especially not to be missed, with its historic 1920s fountain tucked away among the boxwood trees. Agecroft Hall's beautifully manicured gardens have earned it a place on the Richmond Garden Trail, which includes some of the most picturesque sites in the city near these Richmond homes for sale. 
  
  
• Fresh Branch Farm - 13801 N Ivey Mill Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23838
  There's always something new growing and something fun to explore at Fresh Branch Farm. You-pick sunflowers are always a highlight of their summer season, and visitors can pick their own blooms from vast fields of towering sunflowers. They're usually in full bloom by August. Located just minutes from many Chesterfield County homes for sale, Fresh Branch Farm also offers grass-fed Piedmontese beef shares and fresh eggs from their large flock of free-range chickens.
  
  
• Lavender Fields Herb Farm - 11300 Winfrey Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059
  If you're in Virginia in June, be sure to stop at Lavender Fields Herb Farm to see their 200 lavender plants in full bloom. But if you're planning a visit later in the summer, rest assured that there's still plenty to see at this lovely farm just outside Richmond. They offer dozens of herb, vegetable, and fruit crops that are seasonally available, and many of their specialties, like lavender ice cream and lavender lemonade, are available throughout the warmer months. You'll find them just a short drive from these Glen Allen homes for sale, among the rolling hills of Henrico County. 
  
  
• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden - 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228
  Spanning more than 50 acres, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a prime destination to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world. With more than a dozen themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and Cherry Tree Walk, Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens offers something special in every season. Late summer visitors can delight in finding the roses, daylilies, hibiscus, gardenias, and sacred lotus in full bloom. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is located a stone's throw from these Henrico homes for sale, just outside Richmond. 
  
  
• Going for Green Farm - Merchants Hope Rd. Prince George, VA 23875
  Bring home locally grown flowers when you stop by Going for Green Farm. Sarah is the owner and "chief flower grower" who started her business near Prince George homes for sale. Be sure to check out their schedule for farmers markets they'll be attending with their locally grown sunflowers and other late summer blooms. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Central Virginia, and be sure to ask our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Richmond and the surrounding areas.

Warm weather has returned to Central Virginia, and while it might not quite be summer yet, our real estate agents are already dreaming of summer fun in the sun. And is there any more enjoyable way to spend a sunny day than at your local miniature golf course?

Many of us have fond memories of playing putt-putt golf as youngsters. So whether you're looking for a place to take your kids now that you're grown-up—or maybe you want to relive some childhood nostalgia of your own—these are the best mini golf courses in Central Virginia!

1. Putt-Putt Fun Center - 7901 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23235
   You're always in for a good time at the Putt-Putt Fun Center. With three 18-hole miniature golf courses, they have more than enough entertainment to keep the whole family happy for hours and hours. The courses even offer great practice for experienced golfers looking to improve their putting skills. The Putt-Putt Fun Center also offers arcade games, go-karts, and bumper boats, and it's a great place for birthdays and other parties near these Richmond homes for sale. 
   
   
2. Ironbridge Sports Park - 11400 Iron Bridge Rd, Chester, VA 23831
   Specializing in non-stop family fun, Ironbridge Sports Park offers an endless array of outdoor activities. They have a great miniature golf course, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. You can also enjoy a covered driving range, outdoor laser tag arena, nine batting cages, and a go-kart track. Plus, their on-site cafe serves all kinds of tasty goodies. Located just minutes from many Chesterfield County homes for sale, Ironbridge Sports Park is open year-round. 
   
   
3. Windy Hill Golf Course - 16500 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA 23113
   Windy Hill Golf Course is a great destination for fans of mini-golf and golf. In addition to two 18-hole miniature golf courses, Windy Hill also offers beautiful 9- and 18-hole regulation golf courses, along with a fully-stocked pro shop. There's really something here for golfers of every age and skill level, along with other attractions like batting cages and a go-kart track. Windy Hill Golf Course is located a stone's throw from these Midlothian homes for sale.
   
   
4. Swaders Sports Park - 4725 Whitehill Blvd, Prince George, VA 23875
   You'll find two professionally designed miniature golf courses at Swader's Sports Park, each complete with waterfalls, fountains, and streams. Mini golf here is always equal parts relaxing and challenging, and you can also try out a wide range of other outdoor family fun, from batting cages and bowling to a driving range and laser tag. Swaders Sports Park also hosts all kinds of events,  and they're located just up the road from many beautiful Prince George homes for sale. 
   
   
5. Hanover Sports Park - 11000 Washington Hwy, Glen Allen, VA 2305
   Open year-round and lit up well after dark, the mini-golf course at Hanover Sports Park is one of the most popular in the area. It's always a challenge to avoid the hazards and beat the par of 42 on this 18-hole course. Hanover Sports Park also offers a fully covered driving range with 28 teeing areas and seven batting cages that throw both baseballs and softballs. With numerous Glen Allen homes for sale nearby, you never have to go far for outdoor family fun. 

Central Virginia is a fun place to be in the summertime, with endless opportunities to enjoy the warm, sunny weather. Contact us to learn more about life in Central Virginia, and talk to our team of dedicated real estate agents about finding your dream home today!

Owning a home is a great investment, but it's not all fun and games. Any property requires regular maintenance to keep it in good repair, and as the owner, it falls to you. You'll find that there is typically a hierarchy of maintenance: things you can hold off on for a little while versus things that need to be done on time or immediately lest bigger problems develop. Here are five home maintenance tasks our real estate agents say you shouldn't skip and why you should prioritize them.

1. HVAC Tune-ups
   A professional should set eyes on your HVAC system at least once a year, preferably twice if you have central AC. The general rule of thumb is to have your furnace tuned up in the fall and your AC tuned up in the spring. This not only keeps everything running smoothly and extends the life of the system and its components but also enables your technician to keep an eye out for developing problems before they become large (and expensive) problems. Having a well-maintained HVAC system can also help when it comes time to sell, as the furnace is one of the things buyers look at when they browse Central Virginia homes for sale.
   
   
2. Water Heater Maintenance
   Many people install a water heater and forget about it until, of course, it stops working or starts leaking. Annual maintenance can actually make a huge difference in the life of your water heater, however, and possibly even catch problems before they lead to significant water damage. A tech will inspect your water heater for signs of problems and then drain and flush it to get rid of sediment buildup that collects on the bottom of the water heater, leading to corrosion and heating element failure.
   
   
3. Gutter Cleaning
   Cleaning your gutters is another thing that needs to happen on a seasonal basis. Most experts recommend having your gutters cleaned in the spring and fall, but if you live in an area with many big trees, you may need to clean them more frequently. Gutters that aren't cleaned regularly may get clogged with debris from nearby trees, causing them to back up. The resulting overflow of water could cause expensive water damage to your home if not caught in time.
   
   
4. Sump Pump Testing
   A sump pump isn't a "set it and forget it" kind of feature. It's easy to forget that it's down there in the basement, but if you don't do some periodic maintenance, you could end up without it when it's finally needed. You can test your sump pump by simply pouring some water in just to make sure it'll still kick on when needed. If it doesn't, you should get a technician out to have a look as soon as possible.
   
   
5. Dryer Vent Cleaning
   Many people forget or don't realize that their dryer vents need to be cleaned out periodically. The lint trap collects most of the lint from your laundry, but some still gets by and will build up in the dryer vent over time. In addition to making your clothes dry more slowly, if that lint buildup gets bad enough, it can actually start a fire!

A well-cared-for house requires less emergency maintenance and will show better when it's time to sell. If you're thinking about selling your home, take the time to get caught up on all of your deferred maintenance, and then contact us to get the listing process started.

Whether your home needs a few upgrades or you want to complete some overdue repairs to get it ready to put on the market, opting for a DIY project can help you save money and let you complete the project on your terms. Our real estate agents know that an updated, well-maintained property is attractive to potential buyers. Here are some best practices to follow before starting a DIY project. 

1. Know What Tools You'll Need
   Having the skills and ability to complete a DIY project is part of the process; you also need to confirm that you have the tools to do the job (or can access them). It's surprising how many tools a seemingly simple project requires. You don't want to put your project on hold because you have to scramble to find a special wrench or drill bit to complete the work. If you don't have the tools in your toolbox, see if you can borrow the items from a friend or even rent the piece. Many hardware stores have rental programs for tools commonly used in DIY projects. 

2. Consider the Time Required for the Project
   Another component to research is how long the project will take. Remember, you'll need to prepare the space for the project and gather supplies for the project. Once the project is complete, you'll need to clean the space and return it to its former appearance. All of these tasks can add hours to a seemingly quick project. If something goes awry during the project, this will add even more time.
   
   For example, let's say you want to paint your living room. After all, a fresh coat of paint often helps Richmond homes for sale look their best. Before starting, you'll need to research your options for paint and paint tools, compare prices, and purchase your supplies. Moving and protecting your furniture and photos will take some time. You'll also need to clean the walls and fill any holes or cracks; this adds another hour to the project. You anticipate spending two hours painting the walls. However, this is for one coat of paint. If the paint requires two coats of paint, you'll need to double your estimate. Once all your painting is complete, factor in an hour to clean up, uncover the furniture, and move things back into place. A job that you thought might only take 2-4 hours can actually take double that amount of time. 

3. Go Through the Project Before You Get Started
   Before you start the project, read through the instructions from start to finish. This ensures you understand the time, resources, and skillset required to complete the project. Make sure to keep your limitations in mind. Some projects seem simple but call for advanced skills that novice DIYers may not have. 

4. Know How to Handle Mistakes
   Mistakes are a part of any DIY project. Try to prevent mistakes by using the correct materials and tools. Slow down, and make sure to double-check your measurements. When a mistake occurs, have additional materials on-hand to remedy your errors.

After you complete your latest DIY project are you ready to put your home on the market? Contact us today to get started!

Now that 2020 is in the rearview mirror, do you find you've become even more tethered to your cell phone, laptop, TV, and other electronic devices? Spend time away from your screen on Friday, March 5, during the National Day of Unplugging. Plan your nature retreat at these places near Richmond!  

1. RVA Paddlesports - 1320 School St., Richmond, VA 23220
   Getting tired of the day-to-day routine? Make some waves with RVA Paddlesports. Take in a stunning blend of natural and urban scenery with whitewater rafting on the James River. If you prefer something a little more relaxing, opt for the serenity of kayaking. Landlubbers don't get left out thanks to RVA Paddlesports' rock climbing classes at Manchester Climbing Wall. Visit the website for information about schedules and rates.
   
   
2. Virginia Capital Trail - 200 S. 3rd St., Richmond, VA 23219
   Hiking may be the perfect outdoor activity. It requires no special equipment or expenses. There's no better place to hit the trails than Virginia Capital Trail, a 51.7-mile, dog-friendly, multi-use path that stretches from Richmond to Williamsburg. Pack a lunch and take a break at one of the picnic areas along the way. Be sure to check out the Virginia State Capitol, Tyler Pottersfield Bridge, and other nearby attractions. 
   
   
3. Eco Trek Adventures - 1604 Fine St., Prince George, VA 23875
   According to the owners of Eco Trek Adventures, they founded their company as a proactive solution to their self-professed "boat addiction." Eco Trek is a nonprofit organization staffed by volunteer kayak and canoe instructors and tour guides. Boat rentals, tours, and lessons are offered at hourly, half-day, and full-day rates. Enjoy the thrill of spotting blue herons or leaping sturgeon just minutes from Prince George homes for sale. Call ahead for information about availability.
   
   
4. Fort Clifton Park - 100 Brockwell Lane, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
   Enjoy the great outdoors with the whole family at Fort Clifton Park, one of the appealing features around Colonial Heights homes for sale. Ballfields, basketball courts, a playground, and a fishing pier provide fun for the whole family. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., with expanded hours until 9 p.m. between April 1 and October 31.
   
   
5. Canopy Adventure Park - 600 Founders Bridge Blvd., Midlothian, VA 23113
   Get a bird's-eye view of the beautiful area surrounding Midlothian homes for sale from the thrilling rope courses at Canopy Adventure Park. Four different courses incorporate 10 ziplines along with aerial bridges, cargo nets, and other challenging obstacles. Degrees of difficulty range from easy to expert, so you can spend as much or as little time as you choose on each course. Admission for a two-and-a-half-hour session is $45 for adults and $40 for kids between the ages of 10-14. Advance purchase on the website is required. Canopy is open on weekends from 10 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. 

After a day of unplugging, what's better than heading back to the comfort of your own Richmond home? Whatever your real estate needs, contact us at Napier ERA for dedicated and professional assistance.  

May & June are going strong in Richmond's Real Estate Market

It's a GREAT time to list your home in Central Virginia because home inventory is low and prices are rising.

The real estate market in our area continues to be extremely active and in the month of May alone, 2,513 homes were listed, and 1,952 homes were successfully sold!The average sales price in our area was $300,826 in May 2020 compared to $288,203 last May – more than a 4% increase!

If you've been putting off listing your home, this could be the perfect opportunity to contact a Napier ERA sales professional, who can give you an accurate assessment of what you can expect in your market.

Contact Napier ERA today to get started!

Five Farmers Markets Picked For You

Our real estate agents know the value of a balanced breakfast, and you can't quite get it right without plenty of fresh produce. But farm-fresh fruits and vegetables are often hard to come by.  That is unless you live in an area with plenty of thriving farmers markets like the RVA.

A farmers market serves as both a market for fresh produce and a community gathering place where locals can deepen their connection to the Earth and the way their food is produced. These open-air retail areas give consumers a chance to buy directly from farmers.

This has a number of wonderful effects on the community and economy.

Farmers markets cut costs on both sides of the equation. Produce doesn't have to be trucked from far away to reach consumers, and farmers don't have to make agreements with distributors who add costly overhead fees. Produce is fresher, and there's less environmental impact.

There are several different farmers markets throughout the RVA. While many of them are found near Richmond homes for sale, they are also distributed all across the region. When you live in Virginia, you'll never have to fret over "food deserts" where good produce isn't available.

Here's a quick look at some of the farmers market in our local communities.

1. South of the James Market – New Kent Avenue, Richmond, VA 23225
   South of the James Market is an initiative of GrowRVA, a nonprofit that promotes sustainability in partnership with local farms and the arts. It is one of the best-known farmers markets here in Virginia and is open every Saturday from 8 in the morning. With seasonal produce, beverages, spices, honey, and local crafts, there's always something new to be found.
2. Prince George Farmers Market – 6380 Scott Memorial Park, Prince George, VA 23875
   Prince George Farmers Market is a fun feature adjacent to Prince George homes for sale that will brighten up your Saturdays. It's a producer-grower market that focuses on keeping food regional and sustainable. Strict quantity standards help ensure every piece of produce is exactly what consumers expect. Plus, it's right beside the local library. Make a morning of it!
3. Lakeside Farmers Market – 6106 Lakeside Avenue, Henrico, VA 23228
   Henrico homes for sale aren't far from Lakeside Farmers Market. It's one of the original neighborhood farmers markets and is open all year long. Seasonal schedules do vary, but it's always open all day on Wednesday. In addition to scrumptious fruits, veggies, cheeses, and even meats, you'll enjoy the guarantee: You can return any unsatisfactory products within a week.
4. Westchester Farmers Market – 15785 WC Main Street, Midlothian, VA, 23113
   Westchester Farmers Market offers the best fruits and vegetables around to the future owners of Midlothian homes for sale. Formerly known as the Powhatan Farmers Market, it is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2019. Opening day is May 16th every year. On the first Thursday of each month, the market welcomes young entrepreneurs to sell produce and crafts at the Kids' Market.
5. Chesterfield County Farmers Market – 6701 Mimms Loop, Chesterfield, VA 23832
   Look at Chesterfield County homes for sale and you'll have access to this famous farmers market. From May through August, Chesterfield County Farmers Market will delight you with magnificent fruits, veggies, eggs, bread, and jam. Kids love the kettle corn treats! Recently, the market teamed up with local food trucks to participate in Food Truck Wednesday, too.

Amazing farmers markets are just the beginning of what you can discover around RVA. Our expert real estate team will help you find a Virginia dream home. Whatever your goals, we give you the inside track.

Contact us today. We look forward to helping you soon.