Why this home stands out
What sets this condo apart is the rare combination of urban walkability and near-instant base access. Ghent Square is one of Norfolk's most distinctive addresses — a mid-1980s planned community with a genuine neighborhood feel, mature landscaping, and green space woven throughout. You're not trading convenience for character here; you get both. The layout makes smart use of 1,081 square feet, and the location does the heavy lifting for your daily routine.
GHENT SQUARE and the Norfolk real estate market
Ghent Square sits within Norfolk's broader Ghent district, one of the city's most beloved and well-established urban neighborhoods. Think tree-lined streets, a mix of architectural eras, independent restaurants, galleries, and a community that actually knows its neighbors. The square itself was developed in the 1980s as a cohesive residential enclave, and it still carries that intentional, close-knit energy today. Green spaces like Botetourt Gardens and the Ghent Square Playground are steps from your door, giving the area a surprisingly relaxed pace for a location so close to downtown Norfolk. Norfolk as a city offers a full cultural calendar — the Chrysler Museum of Art, the Attucks Theatre, the Naro Cinema, and the Elizabeth River waterfront are all within a short drive. Whether you're drawn to the restaurant scene, the arts community, or simply the ease of getting around without a car, Ghent Square delivers a lifestyle that's hard to replicate elsewhere in Hampton Roads.
What's nearby
Day-to-day life at 696 Mowbray Arch #950 is genuinely easy. Harris Teeter is 0.4 miles out for a full grocery run, and Organic Food Depot is just a half-mile away if you prefer a more curated shop. For a quick bite, El Chuyo, Gym N Juice-Norfolk, and Sanctuary are all within 0.2 miles. Seoul Society and The Natural Path Cafe and Studio are your go-to coffee stops, both a short walk away. Fitness options are equally close — Danny Guillen is 0.1 miles out, with Pilates, Health & Dance by Everlea and Hi Definition Fit Club rounding out the options nearby. Ghent Square Playground and Botetourt Gardens are practically in your backyard.
For different buyers
For military families relocating
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is a two-minute drive from 696 Mowbray Arch #950, and USCG Base Portsmouth is three minutes out — making this one of the tightest base-to-front-door commutes in the region. A VA loan can make ownership here straightforward, and the walkable Ghent Square neighborhood means one car can genuinely go a long way for a busy military household.
For first-time buyers
If you've been looking for a foothold in one of Norfolk's most desirable neighborhoods, 696 Mowbray Arch #950 is a compelling starting point. At 1,081 square feet with two bedrooms, it's sized right for a first home — manageable, efficient, and set inside Ghent Square where the neighborhood itself adds daily value. Walkable groceries, parks, and restaurants mean your lifestyle doesn't depend on a second car.
More buyer questions
How far is 696 Mowbray Arch #950 from Naval Medical Center Portsmouth?
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is approximately a two-minute drive from this address, making it one of the closest residential options to the base in the area. USCG Base Portsmouth is just three minutes away as well.
What is the Ghent Square neighborhood like to live in?
Ghent Square is a planned mid-1980s residential community set within Norfolk's larger Ghent district, known for walkability, mature green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy easy access to independent restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and the broader cultural amenities of downtown Norfolk.
Is 696 Mowbray Arch #950 part of an HOA?
Yes, this condominium is part of a homeowners association. HOA details, including what's covered and any community rules, are available through the listing documentation.
What is the flood risk at this address?
Flood zone information for 696 Mowbray Arch #950 is displayed in the FloodRisk tile on this page — check there for the most current FEMA designation and risk level for this specific property.
Can I use a VA loan to purchase a condo at 696 Mowbray Arch #950?
VA loan eligibility for condos depends on whether the condominium project is on the VA's approved list — your lender can confirm the status of Ghent Square quickly. If approved, a VA loan can be an excellent financing path given the property's proximity to Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and USCG Base Portsmouth.
Ready to see 696 Mowbray Arch #950 in person? Tom and Dariya Milan at LPT Realty know Ghent Square well — reach out and let's set up a walkthrough on your schedule.
