If you're a buyer in today's housing market, you’ve likely heard about large institutional investors—Wall Street firms buying up homes across the country. It sounds intimidating, right? But here's the truth: big investors are not dominating the market, especially here in Central Virginia.

At Don Reid Properties, we want to set the record straight. Despite headlines about corporate investors scooping up homes, they’re only a small piece of the puzzle, and they are not outbidding the average Greater Richmond Area homebuyer.

📉 Institutional Investors Own a Tiny Slice of U.S. Housing

A recent report from the Wall Street Journal highlights that, as of late 2023, institutional investors (those owning 1,000+ homes) only own about 0.4% of all single-family homes in the U.S. That’s right—less than half of 1%.

This means the overwhelming majority of homes in your neighborhood are owned by individuals and families—not corporations. Whether you’re shopping for a first home in Chesterfield County or upgrading in Midlothian, you’re likely competing with other regular buyers just like you.

🏡 Real Estate in Richmond VA Is Still Personal and Local

In Central Virginia, real estate remains a people-first business. Local homeowners, investors, and first-time buyers make up the bulk of activity. National data backs this up:

• Most homes are bought by owner-occupants—people planning to live in them, not rent them out.

• Small investors—think mom-and-pop landlords—own a far greater share than large Wall Street firms.

• In the Greater Richmond area, big institutional purchases are rare, especially compared to cities like Atlanta or Phoenix.

So if you’re house hunting and worried you’ll be outbid by a major investor, you can breathe easy. You're still the main player in today’s market.

💼 What This Means for Homebuyers in the Richmond Area

Here’s what you should know if you're actively looking for a home in Richmond, Midlothian, or surrounding areas:

✅ You still have buying power – With fewer competing institutional buyers, your offer matters.
✅ Local insight wins – Working with a local expert like Don Reid Properties gives you a real edge in negotiations and home selection.
✅ Timing is everything – Our team can help you act quickly when the right home hits the market.

💬 Final Thought: Don’t Let Investor Headlines Hold You Back

The media can make the market sound scarier than it is—but here in Richmond, VA, the market is still full of opportunity for everyday buyers. If you're looking to make a move, know that you're not competing with corporate giants—you’re competing with neighbors.

📞 Ready to Find the Right Home?

Don Reid Properties is here to help you buy with confidence, not fear. Whether you're buying your first home, relocating, or moving up, we know the Richmond market—from Chesterfield to Midlothian and beyond.

👉 Let’s connect today to start your home search the smart way:
Schedule a Buyer Consultation