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New to Richmond and don't know a soul?

By
Real Estate Agent with Lott Realty Group at Rashkind Saunders & Co.

Sounds scary ... moving to a new town and and you don't know a single soul!  But it happens all the time.  While Richmond has the reputation of not being terrbily welcoming, I found that wasn't the case at all! You just have to put forth a little work and you'll be surrounded by Richmonders for years to come.

 

When we first move to Richmond, we literally didn't know anyone. Really- NO ONE... unless you count our Realtor, who we meet on our first house hunting trip. I remember him offering to throw us a housewarming party once we bought our house. I awkwardly brushed him off ... because I wouldn't have anyone to invite to a housewarming party.  

So if you find yourself new to Richmond and longing to meet some friends,  here are few things to try:

 

Join a neighborhood Woman's Club-  Within a month of moving into our home, I found myself at a Fan Woman's Club meeting.  Again, didn't know a soul. But give me a glass of wine and surround me with my new neighbors .... it was an instant connection. Depending on where you live within Richmond VA, there are a number of other womans clubs -  Museum District Woman's Club,  Tuckahoe Woman's Club, Ginter Park Woman's Club. Most of these Clubs are part social, part voluteer and part neighborhood improvement.  Volunteer to be a a committee within the Club and you'll have a chance interact with a smaller group, which can be easier to strike up some conversation.  Who knows, you could find your next BFF here.

 

Join Junior League of Richmond- This is another group that I joined when moving to town. While this group has a National (and International presence), it's all about the local community.   While the Junior League of Richmond does require a bit of a time committment, you'll find it's a great way to make friends while giving back to your new community.  And if you don't know much about your new community, they'll show you the way.  And if you ever have to leave Richmond VA (shame on you), you can transfer your membership to another Junior League locations.

 

Join your Neigborhood Association-  Eventually I'd get past the "women only" places for the men out there! An association if great for everyone. Now I'm not talking about those associations that meet once a year to review the bylaws to determine if they should allow for black shutters in the neigborhood. While those are fine (or a necessary evil), that won't get the job done if you are looking for some connections.  Look for those that have subcommittees and groups. Events within the neighborhood are a bonus.  Progressive dinners are my personal favorite.  If you haven't decided on a neighborhood yet, be sure to ask you Realtor about the local association. He/she should be a good resource for this information.  Maybe an active association is part of your criteria?

 

Join the PTA (if you have kids in school)- Every school has a PTA and it can be a great way to meet some new parents. I have friends that rave about Fox Elementary PTA.  Again, volunteer on a committee and you'll increase your "friendship making odds."  Your kids may even get a play date out of it.

 

I'm sure the list could go on and on ... but hopefully these will help fill up your social calendar in Richmond VA.  Your BFF is right around the corner.

 

Now comes the plug ... If you are looking to relocate to Richmond VA, be sure to reach out to Shane Lott at Lott Realty Group at Keller Williams.  Experience my passion for real estate and Richmond VA.  Heck, you just might make your first friend in Richmond VA.

Michael Dagner
Brokers Guild Classic - Denver, CO
Your Denver Homes Realty Expert

Shane, you certainly know what its like to be the new kid on the block.  A giver of great advice to all newcomers in Richmond.

Jan 29, 2015 01:53 PM