For Ryan Richmond, enjoying life has always been synonymous with the outdoors. He cherishes the simple pleasures: the quiet focus of fishing; the thrill of hunting; the dusty trails of four-wheeling—anything that offers an escape to nature. Growing up in rural Fayetteville, Ohio, he developed a deep appreciation for life connected to the land.
Brittany’s upbringing, however, was rooted in the suburbs but embraced the rural lifestyle after meeting Ryan. She and Ryan began to share adventures together and, to her own surprise, Brittany discovered a love for the various outdoor activities. “At first, I was a trooper for Ryan,” she said. “But I ended up really enjoying it.”
Their first home together was small and crowded, especially after the birth of their eldest son, Tate. “To say things were cramped would be an understatement,” she said. “The single bathroom was probably the worst to deal with.”
Thus they began their search, and initially, their desire to build their forever home began with a bare land purchase. A connection through Ryan’s former coworker led them to a promising piece of acreage. The moment Ryan laid eyes on it, he knew it was perfect. Brittany was cautious at first, but his vision convinced her. “We didn't look back after that,” she said.
The property was underdeveloped and lacked essentials like utilities, but as an excavation contractor, Ryan saw that as an opportunity. While they waited to build, the land became their sanctuary—a place to explore and enjoy together.
Their journey was supported by Rural 1st®. As a committed partner, Rural 1st guided Ryan and Brittany through each step of the loan and building process. They facilitated the initial land purchase, supported the Richmond’s expansion to a sprawling 40 acres and ultimately provided the vital construction loan that would transform their vision into a tangible reality.
“We feel like we have this really special place,” Brittany said. “A sanctuary that we were able to create.”
Unlike traditional banks, Rural 1st demonstrated a genuine understanding and willingness to work with bare land, offering loan terms that were reasonable and accessible. Ryan commends their Loan Officer Roger Hauke’s responsiveness and efficiency; particularly when it was crucial to act quickly during the initial land purchase.
Ryan appreciated the convenience of Rural 1st’s online build program. He found the system simple and efficient, allowing them to manage the financial aspects of their construction seamlessly and online.
Today, their 40-acre haven is a space to work, raise their sons and enjoy the land they love. “We worked extremely hard for a lot of years to have this,” Ryan said. “To see the kids out there playing and enjoying the land—it feels like we’ve made it.”
Their property reflects the values they hope to pass on. “All we can hope for is that Tate is pulling down the road 40 years from now and is just as proud of this place as we are,” Brittany said.
Rural 1st was instrumental in helping Ryan and Brittany get Closer to what Matters®—turning their vision into a place they can enjoy today and for generations to come.
Interested in building your own rural haven? Connect with a Rural 1st loan officer today to learn more.
