How this recent graduate found his perfect first home in the Sherwood Forest neighborhood

Colin Chapman is a recent college graduate. He was eager to move out from his parents' home and have his own space. When he learned that owning a home was more accessible than he thought, he called his realtor and they started exploring options.

“I contacted Regi Stevenson, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty,” explained Colin. “She was referred to me by my boss, who had worked with Regi on several occasions. Regi was amazing throughout the entire house-buying process. She held a first-time homeowner seminar that I attended and there I learned about all the grants and opportunities that are available to anyone purchasing their first home. I would recommend Regi Stevenson, 1,000%, to anyone looking to purchase a home."

Colin had a proverbial Wish List for his first home. He wanted vintage charm, like hardwood floors, and he wanted a home with enough space to entertain. Also, he hoped to find a place with a small backyard. Above all, Colin wanted to find a home that was centrally located. As an adjunct professor at the University of Memphis and executive assistant to Memphis-based interior designer Carmeon Hamilton, Colin’s preference was to be in the University District.

“I knew with my budget I’d have to do some projects to make the house feel like a home,” said Colin. “However, with my love for interior design, I was unafraid to tackle a project or two. Regi and I toured eight different properties. Immediately, I fell in love with this home — and it was the last one I toured.”

Colin paid $124,900 for a home (c. 1952) with 1,400 square feet of living space in the Sherwood Forest neighborhood. The ranch-style house had three bedrooms and one bathroom. Plus, there was a bonus room and a separate laundry room. The eat-in kitchen came furnished with black appliances, including a four-burner gas stove, coupled with simple white cabinets. And there were hardwood floors throughout the house. The bathroom had retained the original tile flooring which added to the vintage vibe. There was a fully floored attic that offered plenty of storage. Moreover, the previous owner completed $53,000 worth of improvements to the house in 2020 and offered to replace the roof with a full-price offer.

“This home felt cozy to me the minute I walked in,” recalled Colin. “It had a feeling of history and plenty of charm. I loved the original hardwood floors and the crown molding throughout the house. I do plan to completely renovate the kitchen. And, I’m working on painting each room one by one. My style is full of color and I want to show that in my home. In fact, for the exterior, I’d love to have the house painted a deep navy blue and compliment it with a new fence.”

“The biggest difference is having a space of my own,” continued Colin. “I love my neighborhood because it is quiet and settled. All of my neighbors have lived in the neighborhood for years and there’s a strong sense of community here. I also love the trees and mature landscaping.”