The Joy of Looking

The Lynchburg area offers a truly impressive inventory of housing, from revitalized historic districts, to new eco-friendly communities, and everything in between. Trendy loft or traditional condo? Victorian-era urban mansion or contemporary countryside getaway? Authentic 1920s bungalow or mid-century atomic ranch? Poolside or lakeside? Walkable or four-wheel drive? Cobblestone, asphalt, or dirt road?

What you have heard is true: A short drive in any direction from Lynchburg’s historic downtown will take you from an urban loft apartment to a peaceful rural retreat. But you may not be aware that a similar experience can be had on foot, thanks to the amazing network of scenic hiking and biking trails meandering through the heart of the city. This enviable swatch of urban greenspace is easily accessed from well-established neighborhoods throughout Lynchburg, giving residents—picnickers, joggers, dog walkers, and birdwatchers—a chance to get away from it all without leaving town.

The city is full of surprises and housing is no exception. Even William “Billy” Walker, whose family-owned real estate firm has been around for 121 years, continues to be amazed by Lynchburg’s expanding market, which remains remarkably resistant to boom-bust cycles. During the past decade, Walker has been especially impressed by the changes that have taken place in two very different areas: the increased demand for urban-dwelling options in the historic downtown district and the emergence of new upscale neighborhoods in places like Forest, just outside the city limits.

Historic and Vintage

Lynchburg-style cosmopolitan living consists of grand, nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century commercial buildings converted into ultra-contemporary dwellings designed to showcase authentic brick-and-hardwood details and views of the James River. Downtown lofts, condos, and apartments offer close proximity to eateries, museums, the YMCA, Riverfront Park, and the Community Market. Plus,  residents are guaranteed a front row seat during special downtown events.

Downtown is surrounded by several residential historic districts, each representing a distinct phase of Lynchburg’s rich architectural history. Self-guided walking tours and occasional open houses draw tourists to these enchanting neighborhoods.

Not too far beyond the city’s historic core, Lynchburg features a variety of mature, tree-lined neighborhoods surrounded by schools, parks, historic sites, and shopping areas. Some 1920s–1970s vintage communities have a charming college-town look. Others are more stately—complemented by nearby country clubs, boutiques, and popular restaurants.

Characteristic elements of Lynchburg’s architectural traditions carry over into many newer neighborhoods as well, giving the city a surprisingly cohesive style and presentation. 

Community Updates

Perhaps best described as a walkable small town within the City of Lynchburg, Wyndhurst prides itself on being, “A new community with an old-fashioned feel.” The town center is home to a variety of businesses, including banks, coffee shops, salons, florists, and a YMCA. Housing choices feature a little bit of everything: singlefamily homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments. Community life is encouraged through seasonal events.

Cornerstone, the latest community-style development in Lynchburg is credited as the first and only one featuring full fiber optic technology for high-speed data and Internet services. Still under construction, this mixed-housing neighborhood will be the future location of upscale businesses and shops. In addition, the neighborhood offers a 25-acre Borel/Allen park with walking, jogging, and biking trails.

Lynchburg’s comprehensive plan through 2020 calls for efforts to promote “village concept,” mixed-use, walkable (or cyclable) developments like Wyndhurst and Cornerstone, which meet many of the daily needs of residents—much like the city’s originall downtown.

These updated, pedestrian-friendly communities make good use of the city’s remaining land, encourage healthy lifestyles,decrease traffic, and are easily served by energy-saving transit.

The Nearby Outskirts
Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third president of the United States, built his getaway home, an octagonal masterpiece called Poplar Forest, on an estate that sits just outside of the Lynchburg city limits, in Bedford County.

Today the Forest area lures homebuyers in search of both tranquil country living and quick access to city workplaces, shopping centers, and cultural events. Quite a few developments offer traditional amenities such as club houses, golf courses, lakes, and trails. Forest is also home to an eco-friendly community of single-family, energy-conserving houses. An Eco Home model in the Great Oaks subdivision is open for tours on Thursday and Sunday afternoons.

The City of Lynchburg is bordered by four counties—Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell—all of which feature a “best of both worlds” blend of countryside settings and easy commutes into Lynchburg.

At Home in Central Virginia
The counties surrounding Lynchburg are dotted with wonderful small towns, state parks and historic landmarks, orchards and wineries, natural areas offering breathtaking mountain views, and vacation destinations like Smith Mountain Lake.

Here, dreams of restoring a farmhouse or discovering a true rustic retreat come true.The counties also provide abundant outdoor recreational opportunities—including some of the region’s most exciting seasonal festivals—making it possible for city dwellers to enjoy action-packed “staycations” during weekends and holidays. Some families take this concept a step further, spending three-seasons in town and summering in nearby vacation homes and rentals.