About Us

ROD PHILLIPS

Owner/Agent

phone: 434-987-6399
email: rodfphillips@gmail.com

After growing up and attending college in Virginia, I moved down to Sarasota, FL. There, my wife Christy and I, started our real estate careers in the luxury waterfront market. We quickly became top producers and represented some of the finest waterfront communities in that area. 

Back in 2007 we wanted to bring our young family back to Virginia and rediscovered Charlottesville and the beautiful surrounding areas.  I quickly jumped into learning our local markets and have continued to build my expertise with detailed local knowledge and great personal service.

After 17 years of selling real estate in this area and owning other brokerages, we opened Dogwood Realty Group to assemble a team of experienced agents who truly care about this community we all call home. 

With 24 years of experience in all aspects of the business and a long list of happy clients,  I know how to help you achieve a successful outcome.

Fun fact about me: I’m a lifelong lover of sports. I grew up mainly playing football and baseball. I played a little college football too. I coached my son’s youth football and lacrosse teams. Nowadays you’ll find me mostly playing tennis and golf. I also love live music and supporting local musicians. A few years ago I jumped at the opportunity to sponsor the music stage at a local brewery, Pro Re Nata, and we have been bringing great live music to the community ever since.

PETE KOOKEN

Owner/Broker

phone: 434-981-3687
email: petekooken@gmail.com

With over 30+ years of experience in the housing industry, I’ve had the pleasure of working on numerous unique projects in the Charlottesville area. As a former custom builder, I bring a fresh perspective to real estate—seeing beyond the surface to understand the true value of a home. My commitment extends beyond transactions; I aim to build lasting relationships with clients.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about the outdoors. Whether it’s whitewater rafting or fishing, I love sharing these adventures with my grandkids. Art and music also hold a special place in my heart—I find joy in both creating and appreciating artistic works.

Currently, my favorite pastime is watching my daughters raise their families in the same community I’ve helped preserve. And yes, pickleball has become quite the enjoyable addition!

Feel free to reach out—I’d love to connect and assist you with your real estate needs!

Fun fact about me: I love hiking with my dog Snoop!

MIKE DAVIS

phone: 540-560-5158
email: michael.chapman.davis@gmail.com

After growing up in the Shenandoah Valley and a short stint in Nashville, TN, my wife, Tanya, and I have happily called Charlottesville home since 2007. We purchased our first home in 2012 and began renovating it on our own, slowly but surely, with skills I learned from my dad (and YouTube!). Installing kitchen cabinets, replacing flooring, updating bathrooms, we did it all. In that time, I gained a new appreciation for home health and maintenance.

With the encouragement of my wife, I decided to take a chance and change careers, receiving my real estate license nearly a decade ago. I pride myself on being able to help buyers and sellers understand the ins-and-outs of their home systems so they can be a better-informed buyer/seller.

I quickly earned Top Producer status and an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) designation and have proudly been helping my amazing clients achieve their buying, selling and investing goals for the past decade. Always striving to go the extra mile for my clients, it’s no surprise I’ve become great friends with many of them outside of real estate.

Fun fact: I was a professional musician for 12 years prior to beginning my real estate career and continue writing and producing as often as possible. You might even catch me playing live at a local vineyard or brewery sometime!

TIM GROSSMAN

phone: 434-242-0227
email: tim.grossman13@gmail.com

My family and I have been living in Charlottesville since 1999. My wife and I have two daughters who grew up in Albemarle County living in Dunlora for 20 years. In 2018, we moved to Ivy in the West Leigh Neighborhood. 

For over 20 years I have bought, sold and invested in many residential properties in Virginia, NY, and PA. I have also been a real estate professional for 22 years. My areas of expertise are Buyers agent, Listing agent, relocations, property management, vacation and short-term rentals.

With my local knowledge of Charlottesville and the surrounding areas, and my desire to help people find their dream home, I would be an asset to buyers, investors, and sellers. I am available anytime to help you!!

BRYANT MORTIMER

phone: 434-996-0103
email: bryant.mortimer@gmail.com

Growing up in Ivy I always appreciated the neighborhood where I was raised, West Leigh. Whether it was fishing and riding bikes in the summer, or sledding and sleepovers in the winter, the one constant was the neighborhood. 

Being proud of where you live is something I took with me when I began practicing real estate. Following college I moved to Washington, DC where I purchased a duplex and began my real estate career. After 12 years in our nation’s capital I returned to Charlottesville, continuing my career in real estate but focusing on new construction with Craig Builders. 

If you have spent any period of time in Charlottesville there is a good chance you have heard the name. Craig Builders has been building semi-custom homes in Albemarle County since 1957 and has a reputation for our commitment to quality construction and exceptional customer service. 

Fun fact about me: When I’m not helping customers through the home building journey you can find me on the golf course, fishing, or spending time outside with my dog Millie.

JOSEPH SULLIVAN

phone: 434-989-8960
email: joseph.rysullivan@gmail.com

I’m a dedicated realtor at Dogwood Realty Group, specializing in residential properties throughout Charlottesville, Crozet, and all of Central Virginia. With a passion for helping clients find their perfect home, I bring a wealth of experience and a personal touch to every transaction.

Having assisted a diverse range of clients, I understand that each real estate journey is unique. I pride myself on always prioritizing my clients’ best interests, ensuring a smooth and successful experience from start to finish. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, looking to upgrade, or seeking to invest, my expertise and commitment will guide you every step of the way.

Beyond real estate, I am an active member of the community who enjoys local music and hiking through Virginia’s beautiful landscapes. My deep connection to the area and genuine love for the region are evident in my enthusiastic approach to finding clients not just a house, but a place they can truly call home.

For personalized, attentive service and a realtor who genuinely cares about your needs, contact me at Dogwood Realty Group.

KAREN NELSON

phone: 757-560-0291
email: ksnelson123@gmail.com

I originally hail from Kane, PA and relocated to Virginia in my early 20’s living in the Tidewater area for many years.  In 1998 I made my way to Crozet where I fell in love with the area’s picturesque landscapes and welcoming community.

Having held my real estate license while in Tidewater I have parlaid my extensive knowledge and expertise making me an outstanding asset in navigating the real estate market in and around the Crozet and Charlottesville area.

When I’m not helping clients find their “perfect” home you can find me embracing the joy of family life.  I am a proud mother to my daughter Aly and to her granddaughter Chloe, enjoying many adventures together!

Fun fact about me: I have recently ventured out into the land of “glamping” with Mike and Charlie, our golden retriever,  which has been great fun! 

CAMERON BURR

phone: 434-242-9722
email: cameronburrrealtor@gmail.com

I have lived in the Crozet community for the past 17 years with my family after relocating from California in 2007. My wife Melissa and I were both seeking a less crowded and hectic environment than Los Angeles to raise our young children and to become our family home. Gratefully the town of Crozet and the Charlottesville community has become that home in more ways than we could have dreamed. Since then, our daughter and son completed their K – 12 education in Albemarle County schools, my wife and I have each worked at several local businesses, and I also spent 5 years as the head coach of the YMCA swim team in Charlottesville. I know the Crozet and Charlottesville families and communities — as a neighbor, colleague, coach, friend as well as a Realtor® — and I am eager to help guide you through the nuances of our local market.

With 25 years experience in client services and sales, I know how to identify the top goals and requirements of my clients, and with that information formulate a strategic plan to achieve those goals. As a Realtor® with Dogwood Realty Group, I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve successful outcomes when buying or selling a property. Whether you are buying or selling a home or just curious about the local market, I would love to offer my support and services. 

Fun fact about me: I have always been drawn to the water – oceans, lakes and pools – I love every activity involving water. Swimming, scuba diving, surfing, diving, boating, skiing, fishing and more. If it is in, at, or around water, I’m happy!

JON TSAKIS

phone: 540-836-9211
email: jon.tsakis@gmail.com

CHRISTY PHILLIPS

phone: 434-987-6388
email: christypphillips7@gmail.com

After growing up in Virginia, I graduated from the University of South Florida and started my career as a software engineer. Over the next decade I became more and more interested in the real estate industry. I finally decided to get my license and practice real estate full time in Sarasota, FL with my husband, Rod. We specialized in selling beautiful waterfront communities and luxury homes.

Wanting to be closer to family, we moved back to Virginia with our two young children and dogs. I decided to join a young and growing tech firm based here in Charlottesville and spent the next decade helping to grow that business into a thriving international company. It was an exciting career and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. In 2023 I decided to retire from my executive role and return to real estate. It’s been a fun change and I really enjoy working with our amazing team.

Fun fact about me: One of my favorite hobbies is cooking, because I love food and the creativity it allows. I also love eating out and trying new restaurants and cuisines. Charlottesville’s fun food scene and abundance of fresh farm ingredients is the ideal place for me. My second favorite thing is sports and fitness. You’ll find me at the pilates studio, playing racquet sports, or attending a wide variety of UVA sporting events.

MELISSA POWELL

phone: 434-249-1499
email: melissa@brsettlement.com

Prior to my current role I worked as a real estate appraiser. I graduated from James Madison University and live in western Albemarle County with my husband and four children.

Outside of the office, I enjoy exercising, playing with my two German Shorthaired Pointers, and spending time with my family.