A Conversation with Richard Rhea, Chartwell Properties
Nashville Business Journal
Background
Name/age: Richard Rhea, 63
Title: Managing partner
Company: Chartwell Properties and other affiliated companies
What does your company do?
Real estate investment and development
Address: 120 Woodmont Blvd., Nashville 37205
Web: http://www.manningbellemeade.com
Most recently read book: “The Fruitful Life,” by Jerry Bridges
Favorite music artist: Andrea Bocelli
Favorite sports team: Indianapolis Colts Education: Bachelor of science in civil engineering
Chartwell Properties is an internationally known real estate development firm known for high-end developments. In Telluride, Colo., the company is developing under the name Retreat Partners. It’s developing the $60 million The Manning at Belle Meade in Nashville. The project will include 34 residences from $950,000 to $5.5 million, estate living with resort service, from concierge to a wellness and fitness center.
What’s the most out-of-the-box thing you’ve done in business?
I once considered a project in Moscow, Russia.
What was the result?
After visiting Russia several times, I decided at that particular time it was a bit like the Wild West.
What single thing makes your company stand out?
I have made a point of surrounding myself with people of integrity.
What was the moment you knew what you wanted to do professionally?
I came to the realization while working my way through college for an engineering and construction company. I admired my boss, and I found the whole process very interesting.
What word best describes your leadership style?
Two words - by example.
Goal yet to be achieved?
The never- ending goal of continually building rewarding relationships.
Professional pet peeve?
Duplicity.
What do you do to relieve stress?
I set aside daily time to pray. If I find myself overwhelmed, I jump schedule.
Favorite hobbies?
Books, snow skiing, developing resort properties, studying art and architecture.
Pets?
We just lost our Locksley, our bichon friend of 16 years, who proved that with proper training, man can be dog’s best friend.
Person outside of your family you would most like to spend time on an island with?
Would love to spend time with Colts coach Tony Dungy to get his thoughts on life.
If you had a $1 million windfall, you would:
I think LaRawn and I might invest in a few antique cars and continue to support our various ministries and charities.
It is 11 on Saturday morning. Where are you?
Bread & Co., having coffee with my wife, LaRawn.
What line of work would you pursue if you couldn’t work in your present one?
I really like what I am doing, but I would consider going back to school to become an architect.
Company other than your own that you most admire?
The Staubach Company
CEO of another company who you admire?
Don Meeks of Meeks/Partners because of his integrity and talent.
Biggest professional mistake and how you overcame it?
In my earlier years, I showed a lack of wisdom.
They’re making a movie of your life. Is it a drama or comedy and who plays you?
If it had to be made, I’d prefer a simple documentary.
What lies ahead for the upscale market in real estate?
Continued good health and lots of opportunity.
How does Nashville shape up against other markets that you have developed in?
Comparing Nashville with other markets depends on location and type of product. Nashville has a diversified economy and continues to create positive job growth. There are some pockets of over supply but those are generally seen as short-term conditions. We are developing in the Colorado ski country where the premier markets are experiencing record sales, particularly in their high-end products. Nashville is historically a steady market without the peaks and valleys of some other locations. I believe these fundamentals are still in place.
