Shifting easily between real estate and philanthropy, Todd Boyd has built a career that extends beyond selling homes. A longtime Richmond-area broker, Boyd has used his business — from his showroom in Stratford Hills to a growing network of agents — as a platform to support local nonprofits, showcase artists and strengthen community ties. 

In his early days as a programmer analyst with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, Boyd felt like he was doing what was expected of him. He had completed a BFA at Concord University in West Virginia and a master’s in computer science at VCU and had begun carving out a career path. 

“It felt like I was doing what I was supposed to do,” Boyd said. “It paid well, but it didn’t make me happy.” 

In 2002, a friend suggested he get a real estate license. Boyd discovered he enjoyed selling homes and helping clients see the design potential of their properties, often advising them on improvements to increase value. He later obtained his broker’s license and founded Boyd Realty Group, which now has 15 agents. 

After years of advising clients on home design, Boyd opened a showroom featuring cabinetry, tile, countertops, flooring and lighting hardware at deep discounts, often at wholesale prices. The space was designed to simplify the renovation process and reflect his belief that quality materials and thoughtful design should be accessible. 

The showroom soon became a space for community engagement, hosting fundraisers for local nonprofits such as Artspace. It now serves as an extension of the Artspace gallery while also featuring work from other art spaces and student art from local schools. 

“I’ve owned a restaurant and catered. I know how to entertain,” Boyd said. “I help nonprofits develop the concept, food, decorations and promotions — whatever they need. We’ve had over 40 events here, and I love giving back to the community in this way.” 

Boyd hosted the third annual fundraiser for the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls this month, conceiving a holiday bazaar in which all proceeds benefit the organization. The event also provides local artists — many of whom may not otherwise have opportunities to showcase their work — a platform to do so. 

Other recipients of Boyd’s fundraising efforts include Conflux Dance Theater, a local contemporary dance company, and RVA Soccer. Overall, he has raised thousands for local nonprofits. 

“When we attach ourselves to a cause, such as partnering with local nonprofits, we fulfill our responsibility to give back and strengthen community ties,” Boyd said, highlighting his active role in fostering community partnerships. 

Boyd’s efforts to give back continue to grow. His newest project, Dream Built Homes, focuses on building affordable, well-designed homes for first-time buyers. Working with a builder and a designer, Boyd plans to accept lower profits to move beyond basic finishes and improve overall design quality. He and his partners expect to break ground in Chesterfield County and east of Richmond. 

“The community trusts us,” he said. “There have been hundreds and hundreds of people who have come through our doors. I want to do what I can for those I can.” 

Where are you from?

Bluefield, West Virginia. 

Tell me about your family.

I met my husband in Costa Rica. We dated when I was living in Costa Rica part time. We got a 90-day fiancé visa and were married in 2022. He has two daughters who will join us here in the U.S. soon. 

What is the name of your brokerage?

Boyd Realty Group. 

Where do you live now?

Stratford Hills. 

Why did you start your own brokerage?

I liked being in charge of myself. 

Why do you continue to expand the brokerage into other areas?

I like advising clients on how to improve their properties for a better price. I’ve worked with investors to acquire historical properties and renovated 25 homes with them. I wanted to bring that into my real estate business. I like designing and renovating. 

What are you advising your real estate clients to do in 2026?

I’ve been doing it long enough to have seen almost every environment. My advice is not to do anything right now. A lot of pent-up demand will be released in 2026. If you can wait six months, wait. Prices have been correcting. We’ve been in an artificial market because it wasn’t driven by typical market conditions. The National Association of Realtors has listed Richmond among its top 10 hot spots, and the recent New York Times article about Richmond is driving interest. 

How do you promote your fundraising efforts?

We have a significant social media presence and an extensive biweekly email list. Our reach can be between 20,000 and 30,000, depending on the organization we’re working with. 

Why fundraise for nonprofits?

I’ve been doing it for decades. Food and entertaining are something I love to do. As real estate brokers, we owe it to our communities to give back. It’s more than just getting a check. Richmond is a very special place with cool people. Also, my parents were amazing people. Taught me to count my blessings. 

How do you start the day?

It depends on the season. I don’t spring out of bed quickly in the winter. My office is so close to where I live, so I like to go there and have my coffee. Sometimes I’ll go to Pony Pasture for a walk. When I get to the office, I prioritize my to-do list. Then the agents come in, and we’ll sit in the showroom and talk about the day. 

What do you do in your downtime?

I like to cook, especially international cuisines. I take cooking classes when I travel and that includes Thailand and Cambodia, Mexico, Spain, Jamaica, Barbados and Central America. 

What do you like to cook?

I start out by thinking about what country I want to cook. I make my own spice blends. I give them as Christmas presents. Seeds are everywhere in my kitchen. 

What’s your favorite hobby?

I’m a Professional Association of Diving Instructors-certified diver, so I’ve been to every developed island in the Caribbean. I dive with sharks. I love wildlife dives. Reefs are pretty, but I’m fascinated by sharks. As long as you know how to behave and not look like dinner, you should be okay. 

Who is your dream dinner party guest?

It’s Albert Einstein, because he’s well-known for having such a brilliant mind, but he was also a philosopher. 

What is a quote that inspires you?

“There are only two ways to live your life: one is as though nothing is a miracle, the other is as though everything is a miracle,” by Albert Einstein. 

Who has influenced you the most in your life?

My dad. When I got to know him as an adult, I found out he was the kindest and caring person. He worked hard. I took his work ethic for granted when I was young. 

What is a book that has influenced you?

“The Art of Happiness,” by the 14th Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler. 

What was your last concert?

Boz Scaggs. I also love dance music, Southern rock and classical piano. I took piano for six years. I like almost all forms of music. 

What’s next?

Breaking ground for Dreams Built Homes in March. I’m also looking to purchase in Nicaragua. I can see myself spending a lot of time there.