As a Lake of the Woods resident since 2008 (as a weekender and a full time resident), I’d like to share my journey to the Lake. My husband, John, and I were interested in finding the perfect location for a second/vacation home. Initially, we were open to looking at a beach location, as well as a lake. We began searching in the summer of 2007 through the spring of 2008 for our getaway.
We decided fairly early on that the beach just wasn’t for us because of distance from Northern Virginia and lack of activity during “non-peak season,” we began focusing on the lakes in the area. Having made the trek to Lake Anna and Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia, and Deep Creek Lake in Maryland, something wasn’t “perfect” for us regarding each location. Lake Anna was too busy for us, and Smith Mountain Lake and Deep Creek Lake were both too far for us to enjoy a home regularly, and we also didn’t care for how few conveniences were located close by (ie, grocery store, pharmacy, restaurants, etc).
Then we remembered having visited Lake of the Woods years ago, when we had been a guest of a friend. After our first house-hunting visit to the lake in early spring of 2008, we knew where we wanted to be. Lake of the Woods, as a gated, secured community, gave us peace of mind as weekenders. The community offered us close proximity (1 hr 15 min from Reston), tons of conveniences, as we residents are supported by a grocery store, pharmacy, gas stations, cleaners, nail salons, automotive services, doctors, a library, a post office, many restaurants, and a brand new elementary school-all within 2 1/2 miles of the gates), over 50 clubs and organizations in which to participate, a fabulous clubhouse overlooking the lake that serves excellent food, and a clear, pristine lake!! Oh…did I mention the PGA golf course and equestrian center within the community?? And the Community Center, and the non-denominational Church within the gates? Or the walking trails? And what about the wildlife!
We purchased our home in June of 2008, and after that first year (52 weekends), we realized that we had been to our home at Lake of the Woods 51 of those 52 weekends! That’s when we decided that the “allure of the lake” was just too great to resist and made the change from weekenders to full-time residents!
Call me today at 540/735-7998 for a boat and car tour!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Have you always dreamed of living at the lake? Well look no more, start drawing up the plans for your new build and let’s get this lake life started! A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, waterskiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $100,000 to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience why I love Lake of the Woods! For more info, Click Here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Situated perfectly on the 13th hole and offering privacy, this like-new, one level home boasts a long view of Lake of the Wood’s lush PGA Golf Course. It’s an absolute golfer’s dream, fully equipped with a run in shed for your golf cart! Whether you head out on the course every day or not, the views alone are breathtaking!
You won’t be disappointed with the luxurious lifestyle of this community! A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, waterskiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $100,000 to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience why I love Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Money investment is always a serious endeavor. It takes
doing some serious calculations, thinking and analysis to be able to make the
right and final decision. Bringing the whole process to the end successfully is
highly rewarding. A smart investment, by all means, is the one that brings a return
on the investment – be it a genuine joy or certain financial gain. Bearing in
mind all these facts, is buying real estate in Virginia a good investment? We
can provide you with vital facts on the subject. Then, take your time to deal
with the dilemma and finally decide.
Things to know before considering buying real estate in Virginia as an
investment
It is a well-known fact that Virginia is the promised land
for nature and history lovers. Living among those mostly highly-educated and
friendly people is a real pleasure. Should you want to rest and relax, the
opportunities are ample to have a day trip or an excursion with your family. You
will not miss job opportunities either. If you already live in this state, you
might want to consider your options in other counties or cities as well.
So, before you start seeking professional assistance for your
local relocation in Virginia or even organizing a long-distance move after
purchasing real estate there, here are the facts of key importance to pay
attention to.
High standard and the matching cost of living
Whether we like or not, finances are among the most
important factors when choosing where to live. If you are considering
purchasing real estate in Virginia, it is essential to know that the cost of
living is relatively high. Understandably, the costs vary depending on the
area, but it is impossible not to admit that cities in some counties are very
expensive to live in. On the other hand, considering the number of perks
Virginia offers to its residents, one would say that moving there is worth
considering nevertheless.
To rent or to buy?
To buy we say. The prices of rent are considerably high.
Regardless of the type of residence and the area, rent in Virginia is well
above the national average. Thus, we would agree that buying real estate in
Virginia is an intelligent choice. Depending on the city you choose, you can
expect to pay anything between $220,000 and $850,000 for a decent home. This
wide range proves that you can find a favorable option for any budget. Even if
you have to downsize a bit in the beginning, this is not a reason to worry
since you can find
affordable storage units easily.
The population is on the increase
Yes, and it is getting very diverse. Multiculturalism in the
state makes people tolerant of differences and a nice place to live. You will
get used to your new home location in no time, and maybe consider buying
a vacation home in Virginia as well.
Traffic may spoil the fun
We have to admit that traffic in Virginia can be really
heavy. Hence, considerably lower gas prices when compared to the national
average do not matter much. Commute time is 28.2 minutes on the average, which
is slightly longer. If you opt for using public transportation, you can get a
pass for the unlimited number of rides in 30 days. It costs around $60.
However, minors, seniors and the disabled pay only $35.
A word or two on taxes
Income tax in Virginia is within the range of 2% to 5.75%,
unlike the property taxes which are below the average national value. They range
between 0.42% and 1.37%. If you are preparing for retirement, you will like to
hear that Virginia is a retirement tax-friendly country. Finally, the sales tax
is between 5.3% and 7%, depending on the county.
Healthcare
As is the case with the above-mentioned parameters, the
median healthcare price also varies greatly throughout Virginia. It can be up
to 2% lower than the national average, or be as much as 14% higher. Generally,
the bigger the city the higher the prices.
Timing matters
When considering buying real estate in Virginia as an
investment, timing is an important factor. It affects both the price and the
number of properties on the market. So, if you want to make a good investment,
remember this. If you want to have an immense number of options, spring is the
best time. This period is characterized by increased supply and a lot of
choices. On the other hand, if you have a limited budget, consider conducting
the purchase in summer. The prices tend to be lower and more affordable due to
summer holidays and less serious demand. Anything later than this goes with
certain hazard. You risk not finding the real estate of the quality you need
and want.
Where to buy real estate in Virginia?
Once you decide purchasing real estate in Virginia is what
you really want, choosing where to invest is the next dilemma. Most often,
buyers choose Arlington, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Falls Church, Norfolk, Williamsburg,
and Chantilly. Make a list of your needs, wants, and priorities and choose
accordingly. In case you realize you have made a mistake, study the tips
for marketing your home to millennials or target any other group, and sell
the property. Hence, you will have a chance to find something more appropriate
and invest again. We must admit the whole process is challenging indeed, but it
is not unachievable.
Buying real estate in Virginia – how to do it right?
Buying real estate in Virginia requires professional assistance. Having a real estate agent by your side in the process will save you a lot of trouble. Moreover, it will significantly reduce the risk of making a costly mistake of buying a property of low quality or even dealing with fraudulent sellers. An experienced and knowledgeable agent can help you with getting a mortgage, obtaining the necessary insurance and going through the settlement process smoothly. Then, after signing the contract of sale, you can get down the most important things to do after buying a home. At the end of the day, it turns out that buying real estate in Virginia is a good investment indeed.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Join the LOW Adaptive Water Sports Foundation, Saturday August 10th from 9AM to 4PM for a FREE fun day on the water! Bring your friends and family for the 5th annual event that brings watersports to differently-abled children and their families!
There will be adaptive water-skiing, tubing, pontoon rides, kayaking, paddle-boarding, face painting and many outdoor games to play and participate in! This year, they are partnering with Therapeutic Adventures – IndependencePlus Adaptive Sports to bring adaptive paddling!
Lunch, snacks, and water will be provided for free throughout the day. All participates will also receive a FREE t-shirt, but you must register to participate. You can register here. If you don’t want to participate, come out and show your support!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Build your dream home on this wooded lot in beautiful Lake of the Woods. This lot is less than a block from a public beach, and a very short walk to the park, pool, and neighborhood clubhouse. Come see what the lake life is all about in this gated, amenity filled, lake community. Enjoy your summer golfing, boating, fishing, or dining at the golf course or clubhouse!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
If you have been looking for a spectacular house in a fabulous community, your search is over! This spacious 5 bedroom home with 3 levels is ideal for a large family or someone who likes having space to spread out. Sitting on a beautiful corner lot, with a large deck overlooking your nice green yard and lined with trees for privacy is just the beginning of the perks. Once inside, you are greeted by the foyer with 2 story ceilings and hardwood floors! Sought-after features are to be found throughout the home ranging from extra living spaces on all floors, an attractive master suite with a gorgeous tray ceiling, his and hers walk in closets, and jetted tub in the master bath!
https://youtu.be/dAgeUIne-ww
Feel like venturing out, Lake of the Woods will not disappoint! A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, waterskiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $100,000 to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience why I love Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
You’ll be amazed by the expansive spaces in this immaculate, move-in ready home in amenity-rich Lake of the Woods. And wait until you see the shed that offers power for so many different uses! New flooring and pristine walls will allow you to immediately get started living the lake life!
A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, waterskiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $100,000 to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience why I love Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
May 6, 1864 was a day of changing fortunes as the Union fought the Confederates along Orange Plank Rd. It began with a 5 AM attack by the Union II Corps, reinforced by divisions from V and VI Corps, under command of General Hancock. The attack drove General A.P. Hill’s III Corps from its positions. They fled west towards Parker’s Store. The 7 AM arrival of General Longstreet’s I Corps stemmed the rout. Longstreet’s counter attack at Tapp Field drove the Federals back toward their starting positions to the east. By 10 AM the two armies were at a standstill facing each other astride Orange Plank in the vicinity of the monument to Union General James Wadsworth.
Exhibit 15: Unfinished Railroad Cut
General Lee sent his Chief Engineer, General Smith, to see if there was a way to break the stalemate. Smith and his party walked east along the unfinished railroad, which lay south of the Union’s flank. Both armies were aware of the unfinished railroad about ¼ mile south of and parallel to Orange Plank. In the chaos of battle, neither army had thought about using it as an attack route, or about defending it against such an attack, until Smith’s reconnaissance. Smith found the railroad grade undefended. He returned and reported his findings to Longstreet.
Longstreet sent four brigades to attack
the Union flank under the command of his aide Lt. Col. Sorrel. Sorrel arranged the men along the railroad
grade and, when all men were in position, began the attack shortly after 11
AM. It burst upon the Union flank in
total surprise. In addition, as soon as
the fighting started on the flank, Longstreet’s remaining troops attacked the
Union’s front.
McAlister’s brigade on the Union flank
was first to feel the Confederate onslaught.
It was quickly routed. Soon all eight
Union brigades south of Orange plank had collapsed like dominos. Union General Wadsworth, in command of Union
forces north of Orange Plank, heroically attempted to organize a defense on the
north side of the road. It was to no
avail leaving him mortally wounded. By
12:30 PM, all Union positions had been overrun with the defenders withdrawing
east to Brock Road or north to the Lacy House (Ellwood Manor).
The Confederate’s success quickly
turned to failure. While riding to the
front to direct a continued advance, General Longstreet was accidentally shot
by soldiers of the 12th Virginia of Mahone’s Brigade. While he
survived, it wasn’t until four hours later that the Confederates were able to
reorganize and resume the attack. By
then the Union had strengthened its defenses along Brock Road. The renewed attack failed. In addition to the short term loss, it would
be months before Longstreet recovered sufficiently to resume command.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Back in 2012, as I was driving down Route 20 toward the Locust Grove Town Center, I noticed a sign near the intersection of Route 20 and Zoar Road. The silver sign was erected by the Virginia Department of Historical Resources stating that Robinson’s Tavern was nearby. At that time, there was a restaurant in the Locust Grove Town Center called Robinson’s Tavern and I wondered why that restaurant would have an historical marker. Thus began my research into Robinson’s Tavern.
In 1791, John Robinson bought 168 acres from
Brigadier General Alexander Spotswood on the north side of Orange Turnpike, now
known as Route 20, as part of Spotswood’s efforts to civilize the Wilderness
area of Spotsylvania County. John’s son,
Thomas, built the tavern about 1815. The
tavern was located about where the sign “Locust Grove” is today. In addition to being a typical tavern, it
also served as a stagecoach stop between Charlottesville and Washington.
During the Civil War, the tavern served twice as a
hospital for Union troops.
In the fall of 1863, after the Battle of Gettysburg,
both Generals Robert E. Lee and George G. Meade returned their armies to
Virginia along the Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers. After engaging in several small battles,
Meade developed a plan for his 80,000 troops to attack Lee’s 50,000 troops to end
the fight. Lee’s troops were south of
the Rapidan. Meade heard that Germanna
Ford and two others were unguarded, so he planned to attack from that
direction. The Union crossed the Rapidan
on November 26, and, the Confederates, having heard of the planned attack,
began moving towards the Union. On
November 27, the two sides met near Robinson’s Tavern and Mine Run. The two armies moved around each other for
two days. Finally, on December 1, Meade,
frustrated, moved his troops back across the Rapidan towards Culpeper. The tavern was used as a temporary hospital
during the fight.
In May 1864, General Ulysses S. Grant began his overland campaign, marching east from Culpeper. Confederate General Ewell and his troops camped on the grounds of the tavern on their way to the Wilderness on May 4, 1864. .On May 5 and 6, 1864, the Battle of the Wilderness broke out a few miles up Orange Turnpike. As the fighting got more intense, and Saunders Field began burning, the tavern was set up as a Union hospital for two days.
After the war, life returned to normal. Modernization came to the corner in the
early 1980’s. With the paving of Orange
Turnpike, the purchase of the land around the intersection by Ken and Lora
Dotson and the construction of Locust Grove Town Center’s first building and
the Exxon Station, Robinson’s Tavern was moved about ½ mile west on Zoar
Road. The original building can still be
seen there today.
Upon completion of the second building in the town
center, Robinson’s Tavern Restaurant became one of the occupants until it
closed in 2012. Mountain View Barbeque
became the next occupant from about 2013 to 2014. The site has been Generals Quarters
Restaurant since February 2016.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
