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Meet John Martin

AboutJohn Martin

Broker / Owner

With nearly two decades of real estate experience, John Martin has established himself as one of the region’s top brokers, achieving the highest honors in production with nearly $250 million in sales over the past five years alone. As a co-owner of Shaheen, Ruth, Martin & Fonville Real Estate, John has helped lead the firm to remarkable success—surpassing $5.5 billion in sales volume since its founding in May 2017 and becoming one of the most dominant local firms in the marketplace.

John is recognized as one of the top-selling luxury agents in Virginia, with more than 80 sales over $1 million and record-setting transactions year after year in both Richmond and Williamsburg. His expertise spans across Richmond, Williamsburg, and the Peninsula, where he bridges markets and delivers results for clients at all price points—from luxury estates to waterfront properties, from Governor’s Land to GoochlandHenrico to Kingsmill on the James, and across Yorktown, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Hanover, Hampton, and Richmond’s historic Fan District.

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      John MartinQuestion & Answer

      What is your favorite thing about your town?
      I have always been enamored by the early 1900’s architecture of the City of Richmond. Living in the Near West End and Museum District, you can imagine how things were during 1920’s & 1930’s when the building boom was trying to keep up with a quickly growing Richmond population. The homes were built with standards like Oak & Pine hardwood floors, brass lighting fixtures, glass doorknobs, and millwork that isn’t done today. The plans were more compartmentalized then because of lifestyle during that time, but the character of the elevations are so unique. From the Fan District to Three Chopt, you can see how Richmond became so popular with its style and layout.
      What initially drew you to real estate?
      I grew up in a Real Estate family and was around it not knowing that I was absorbing information. After two decades of selling, I have seen the growth from a simple contract to an online platform that has made our business explode with technology. That said, personal interaction is still key to being a Realtor and why the online selling platforms have failed so many times. Buying and selling a house is one of most important things a person can do and usually their biggest asset, so you cannot trust it with just anyone.
      How does your background bring a unique perspective to your work?
      I have several work and family backgrounds that have changed my worldview of life. At an early age, I was on a sales floor in my family retail business interacting with clients and helping my family make a living. I always worked as a teenager and learned the ropes of construction all the way through to framing homes, installing gutters, custom tile work, and hanging drywall. The background has helped me understand that houses have simple parts that need to be put together in a serious way. My retail sales background has enabled me to make sure customers are comfortable with me and the process.
      Why is relationship building so key to your success?
      You have to build relationships to make it in this business. If you do a great job and sincerely help your clients along the way, then it pays off. I have always let my work ethic drive my business. Clients know and will always call you back if you treat them right.
      How has your previous experience benefited your practice of real estate?
      My previous experience with construction and growing up in a family-run business has really helped me. I have always lived by the saying “In Real Estate, you are unemployed every day your wake up.”

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      ClientTestimonials

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      One of the most important qualities of a good realtor is to listen to the client and understand their needs and preferences. John did exactly that. He asked me questions about my budget, location, size, style, and features of the home I wanted. He also paid attention to my lifestyle, hobbies, and family situation. He did not try to push me into buying something that did not suit me or that I could not afford. He respected my choices and gave me honest feedback and advice. Another reason why I recommend John is that he searched for the best options that matched my criteria and showed me only the ones that were worth seeing. He did not waste my time with homes that were overpriced, outdated, or in bad condition. John's attitude of "I like to win" inspired confidence, and he negotiated the best deal for me and helped me save money and time. Finally, I appreciate my realtor for being responsive and supportive throughout the whole process. He was always available to answer my questions, address my concerns, and update me on the progress. He also helped me with the paperwork, inspections, appraisals, and closing. He made sure that everything went smoothly and that I was satisfied with the outcome. He was not only a professional, but also a friend who cared about my happiness. In conclusion, I recommend John because he listened to my needs and preferences, searched for the best options and negotiated the best deal, and was responsive and supportive throughout the process. He helped me find and buy my dream home and I am very grateful for his service.
      Knowledgeable, approachable, sense of competence, supportive throughout the entire process.
      John helped us sell and buy our homes and was amazing to work with- Honest, easy-going and great at communicating with us during the whole process. Fantastic realtor and I absolutely recommend him for anyone looking for someone who knows their stuff and is great to work with!

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