Welcome to The Rabbit Whole, the best source for the transplant community, offering news and insights about relocation to the Richmond metro area, custom home builds, and Richmond culture.

Based in Richmond, our podcast dives deep into the complexities of custom home building and real estate transactions in Virginia and beyond. We highlight the pressing need for consumer rights protection, advocating for substantial reforms to safeguard homeowners from industry malpractices.

Featured Articles on The Looking Glass
Virginia Podcast Shares FOIA Docs that Unveil the State’s Corporate Bias Over the Public Good.
Virginia Podcast Shares FOIA Docs that Unveil the State’s Corporate Bias Over the Public Good.

A recent Freedom of Information Act request to DPOR reveals critical lapses in the state's construction oversight. We are dedicated to exposing these lapses on our newest endeavor, the Rabbit Whole Podcast. Since 2020, the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has decriminalized and deregulated violations committed by contractors in Virginia.

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What I Wish I Had Known Before Building a Home with a Custom Builder in Richmond.
Construction & Remodeling
What I Wish I Had Known Before Building a Home with a Custom Builder in Richmond.
Construction & Remodeling

Building a custom home in Richmond, Virginia, can be fraught with hidden pitfalls. Homebuyers often face defects like structural issues, HVAC problems, water leaks, electrical flaws, and poor workmanship. Despite warranties, getting coverage is difficult due to exemptions and uncooperative builders. Understanding your rights and taking proactive measures can help address issues effectively and protect your investment.

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Construction & Remodeling
Governor Youngkin's Vetoes and Legislative Compromises: Another Look at Gubernatorial Leadership and Purple State Outcomes
State Regulations
Governor Youngkin's Vetoes and Legislative Compromises: Another Look at Gubernatorial Leadership and Purple State Outcomes
State Regulations

Governor Glenn Youngkin has recently made significant moves in Virginia's legislative landscape by vetoing 20 bills and signing 30 others. These actions have sparked considerable debate and reactions from both sides of the political aisle. The vetoes include some of the most far-reaching changes proposed by the 2024 General Assembly, particularly those aimed at altering Virginia's court proceedings and reducing the governor's oversight of state agencies. Youngkin's swift actions, taken just five days after the legislature adjourned, have set the stage for a contentious political environment and limited new legislative proposals.

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State Regulations
Corporatocracy by Veto
State Regulations
Corporatocracy by Veto
State Regulations

An examination of the loss of consumer protections in Virginia as Governor Youngkin - by veto - holds Virginia in lockstep with Mississippi as one of only two states in the country that do not allow class action lawsuits. Examine the cost of corporate protection and the new status quo for consumers as the state forges ahead in favor of Corporatocracy.

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State Regulations
Fair is Fair
Legal Issues
Fair is Fair
Legal Issues

A recap of the second episode, “Fair is Fair”. This deep dive covers the current administration’s efforts to expand exemptions for unlicensed work in Virginia which was previously prohibited in the state. Discussion extends to the failure of the new construction home that inevitably led the homeowners to pay repair costs and mold remediation, and details the long term health consequences for their children. Follow along as they recount why the state is failing at regulation that could prevent harm.

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Legal Issues
4 Things to Consider If You Build a New Construction Home
Construction & Remodeling
4 Things to Consider If You Build a New Construction Home
Construction & Remodeling

Uncover four hidden dangers in new construction: inadequate ventilation, hidden structural defects, unseen environmental hazards, and legal challenges with home warranties. Learn how these issues impact health and safety, and discover proactive measures to protect your investment.

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Construction & Remodeling

Empowering Homeowners

We are dedicated to providing practical insights that empower homeowners. Whether you're navigating a new home purchase or a custom build, our content equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and protect your interests. We share our story so you can tell a better one.

Advocating for Industry Reforms

Our mission is to champion consumer protection in the construction industry. We advocate for meaningful changes that address the root causes of regulatory failures and promote a fairer, more transparent process for homebuyers and builders alike.

Your Guide to Custom Home Building.

From selecting the right builder to understanding complex real estate transactions, we guide you through every step of the custom home-building process. Our resources are designed to help you navigate the challenges posed by corporate-dominated states and ensure your project's success.

Explore Our Resources

At The Rabbit Whole, we offer what we’ve learned freely. Our in-depth articles, podcast episodes, and expert guides cover various topics related to new homes, custom builds, and consumer protection in the construction industry.

Join Our Community

Stay ahead of the curve with our latest updates and insights. Subscribe to our podcast and become part of a community dedicated to advocating for better industry practices and consumer rights in home construction.

  • 4.3

    years since we signed with an RVA custom home builder

  • $85,000 and counting

    Spent on repairs since closing after the ceiling collapsed, our HVAC systems failed, mold remediation, leak and fire damage

  • $145,000

    spent on legal costs so far

  • $250,000+

    what it would cost to make our new construction home meet our contract specs