First-time buyers
Buying your first home
Most of my first-time buyers thought they needed way more saved than they did. We'll start with what you can actually afford and the grants you might qualify for.
How buying works with me
Hi, I'm Lavonya
Your Petersburg & Chesterfield Realtor for first homes, new builds, and big moves
Your first home, a move across the country, or a brand-new build. Whatever brought you here, I'll walk you through every step so you always know what comes next.
PetersburgChesterfieldColonial HeightsDinwiddiePrince George
where do you start?
Pick the move that sounds like you
New construction
Buying a brand-new home
The builder's sales rep works for the builder. I work for you, from picking the lot to the final walkthrough. New or resale, you don't have to decide yet. I'll show you both side by side.
How new construction works
Relocation & PCS
Moving to Virginia
Orders to Fort Lee or a new job in Richmond? I'll help you compare commutes, schools, and neighborhoods, then tour homes with you on video before you ever arrive.
Your Moving to Virginia plan
Sellers
Selling your home
Find out what your home is worth on your street, not by a national average. Then we'll build a pricing and marketing plan that brings the right buyer.
Get a free home valuation
Wait, really?
You probably don't need 20% down
Virginia Housing has programs built for first-time buyers. Most people I talk to have never heard of them.
2–2.5%Of the purchase price toward your down payment with Virginia Housing's down payment assistance grant. It never has to be repaid.
Up to 2%Of the purchase price toward closing costs with Virginia Housing's closing cost grant, for eligible buyers using certain government-backed loans.
0% downIs possible with Virginia Housing's Plus Second Mortgage, which covers your down payment as a separate low-cost loan.
Programs require a Virginia Housing loan and have income and price limits. Some grants are funded in rounds and can run out, so what's available changes during the year. A Virginia Housing approved lender confirms what's open and what you qualify for.
nice to meet you
Realtor, mom, and your biggest fan on closing day
I grew up in Gloucester and spent most of my life in Hampton Roads. Then came Fredericksburg, where I got a taste of Northern Virginia life, then I relocated to Richmond for work. Petersburg's charm is what finally won me over, and it's home now.
Becoming a mom changed how I think about home. It's not the square footage. It's whether your family can grow there, and whether the payment lets you sleep at night. That's how I guide every client.
eXp RealtyFirst-time buyersNew constructionRelocation
easy does it
Three steps to get started
No pressure and no commitment. Just a clear picture of where you stand.
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Tell me your goals
A five-minute questionnaire about your timeline, budget, and must-haves, so our first call is about you, not small talk.
Fill out the questionnaire -
Grab the free guide
Every step from pre-approval to closing day, plus my list of trusted local lenders, inspectors, and insurance agents.
Download the buyer guide -
Book your consult
We'll build your roadmap together and I'll connect you with a lender, so you know your real buying power before you tour.
Pick a time
kind words
What my clients say
She took the time to understand our needs, answered every question we had, and made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth and manageable.
★★★★★
Sean C. · Google reviewVery patient, gave great information, and does not make you feel like they are forcing you into a home.
★★★★★
Richard C. · First-time buyer · Google reviewShe really made the process of getting my second home so smooth and was there to guide me through the whole process.
★★★★★
Jacoby C. · Google reviewShe is honest, sincere and straight to the point. No fluff and no ambiguity. She was definitely on our side.
★★★★★
David · Home buyerSwipe for more →
around town
Where I live, work, and get my coffee
Neighborhood guides written by someone who actually lives here. Commute times, schools, and the spots locals love.
local heroes
See the program
Teachers, nurses, military, and first responders: you get a thank-you
I'm a proud Front Range Heroes agent. Buy with me and our partner lender and you'll get a commission rebate plus lender credits that can cover part or even all of your upfront closing costs. Active duty, veterans, National Guard, healthcare, teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS all qualify.
let's do this
Ready when you are
Whether you're buying in three months or just starting to wonder, the guide is the best first step. It's free, and it's the stuff nobody else tells you.