Archives: March 2020

Licata Group/KWCP Addressing The Coronavirus

Dear VALUED members of The Licata Group/Keller Williams Capital Properties Family,

We are all aware of the recent Coronavirus pandemic, and we wanted to reach out and assure you that we are taking every necessary effort and precaution to protect the health and safety of our employees, clients and community. While the virus does affect the methods in which traditional business operations are conducted, rest assured that we will continue to operate to the best of our abilities. Our Licata Group team of Full Time Real Estate Advisors are adapting to best meet the needs of clients, and our employees to continue operations. As times change, we must change with them. It is for that reason that we are here to inform you how we will be operating until further notice.

  • Our Licata Group office will continue to operate within normal business hours with limited personnel occupying the facility in order to ensure a healthy working environment. This may change within the coming weeks should the Governor issue a quarantine. Should that occur, our Administrative and Client Support staff are prepared to begin working from home, while still performing their necessary duties.
  • Our Real Estate Advisors will continue their efforts in both the buying and selling process, while taking the necessary precautions to ensure that the health and safety of everyone is protected. This includes sanitizing all doorknobs and any other frequently touched surface with Alcohol wipes, and antibacterial products.

As you are aware, one of the most crucial parts of the home buying and selling process are showings and open houses.

  • Showings will continue to occur; however, we urge both clients and staff to take the necessary precautions when entering a home. This includes frequent sanitization, and proper self-distancing.
  • At this time, all traditional Open Houses have been postponed until it is deemed safe for the public. That being said, we will begin conducting Virtual Open Houses that will walk clients through each home, while explaining everything about the property. These virtual open houses will be displayed on the homepage of our websites, as well as our various social media platforms. Viewers are encouraged to ask any and all questions they may have, to which our advisors will promptly respond to.

We will continue to update you on any further changes that may occur. With the way our world is changing, it’s important to remain optimistic. We sincerely thank you for your understanding and support, as we continue our efforts during this time. Things may change in this world, but we will do our best to adapt and meet the needs of our employees, our clients and our community.

Stay Safe!!

Sincerely,

Your Licata Group Family

Richmond Mac and Cheese Festival Happening on October 12th!

What’s better than Man and Cheese? A whole festival dedicated to it! Be at the Richmond Raceway on October 12th for the 2020 Richmond Mac and Cheese Festival! From 11:30AM – 9PM, you’ll enjoy what is sure to be the cheesiest festival that you’ll ever attend! The portions are larger, with more choices than ever to choose from. This festival is more than just cheese though, as beers, ciders and wines will be available to go along as the perfect pairing! Live entertainment and music will also be available, and you’ll get to place your vote for Richmond’s absolutely best Mac and Cheese! Tickets are expected to sell fast, so don’t miss your chance! Early bird prices range from $15 – $45 depending on what add-ons you want, with free admission for children 12 and under! More information on the festival and purchasing tickets can be found at the “Richmond Mac and Cheese Festival 2020” Facebook Event Page. Don’t miss your chance to be at the cheesiest event in Virginia!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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, one of our area expert advisors 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 properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Unbelievably Stellar Home with Gourmet Kitchen In Sought After Broadlands, VA! 21473 Glebe View Drive Now SOLD!!

Welcome to pristine 21473 Glebe View Drive, an elegant and stately home in sought after Broadlands, where pride of ownership throughout is most evident! You will be delighted when you arrive by the curb appeal and lush yard…and that’s just the beginning of how fabulous this home really is. As you enter, you immediately notice the two story foyer with sweeping staircase and gleaming hardwood floors. Perfectly situated off the foyer is a formal living room with ample windows, creating a bright and airy feel that flows so effortlessly into the formal dining room, separated by stunning architecture. The gourmet kitchen shines with upgraded stainless steel appliances, granite counters, gorgeous tile back splash, a large island, and eat in area with an expansive bay window. You will be wowed by the gracious family room with fireplace, french doors, and transom windows.

The study/office completes the main level with built ins, french doors, and plenty of light. The master suite is one of grandeur with it’s generous size, walk in closet, and inviting sitting room. Luxurious best describes the master bath with soaking tub, his and her vanities, and dressing area. The upper level boasts three additional bedrooms; one with it’s own private bath, while the other two share a Jack and Jill bath. Entering the lower level, you will be impressed by the recessed lighting and abundance of windows that create the main level feel. Your spectacular flagstone patio and/or expansive maintenance free deck open to a beautiful tree lined yard. These will be favorite spots for entertaining or relaxing! Again…welcome home! For more info about this property, Click Here!

 Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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, one of our area expert advisors 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 properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Why Orange County, Va is perfect for ex New Yorkers

There is an ever-growing number of people moving out of New York and trading their previous lifestyle for something different. Luckily, there are so many cities, towns, and counties that can provide you with everything you want your future neighborhood to have. For instance, Orange County, VA is perfect for ex-New Yorkers for many reasons we will try to analyze in this article.

A little bit about Orange County

Orange County is a part of the Los Angeles metropolitan area. With over 3 million inhabitants, it is the third-most populous county in the state of California. The average annual temperature of 20 degrees Celsius makes the county very pleasant for living. Among other things, this is the reason why some Canadians decide to buy properties in Virginia. Orange County takes pride in its educational and sports opportunities. At the same time, the county is home to many start-ups and overall successful companies, which means that the economy is strong too.

Orange County, Va offers suburban lifestyle while having 3 million citizens

Ex New Yorkers move to Orange County for the convenience of suburban living

Although it is a densely populated area, Orange County is mostly suburban. Many New Yorkers opt for living in houses instead of apartments when they move to this area. Who can blame them? When they get tired of everything that the “concrete jungle” has in store for them, they opt for leaving NY for good and trading it for the new lifestyle that they can have here. Some of the benefits of living in Orange County in comparison to NYC in terms of housing include:

  • not having to spend a fortune on rent in NYC – it is not a secret that New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the World for renting a place; Of course, not all NYC counties and neighborhoods cost the same, but still, they are mostly overpriced.
  • being able to afford some home features and amenities that you could only dream of in NYC. To be honest, a house with a nice garden, a water view, or a swimming pool in your backyard comes with a certain price tag in Orange County too, but the numbers are more realistic than in NYC.
  • being able to earn some money on renting a vacation home you can buy in Virginia – A vacation home in Orange County can be a great place for you to relax and earn some extra cash too. It turns out that in many areas, the weekly fee you can get for renting out is greater than the monthly mortgage payment.

The slower pace of life is definitely a plus, but you might need to learn some new skills

After moving from New York City to Orange County, you will have more time for yourself since you won’t be spending it in NYC traffic. On the other hand, a suburban lifestyle might require you to have a driver’s license that you probably didn’t need in NYC.

You might need to learn how to drive after moving from NYC

Work/life balance is so much better in rural areas

Just like we have already mentioned, moving to a suburban or even rural area from an urban one such as NYC can save you a lot of stress in your daily life. Commuting to work might be a little time-consuming if you are used to living and working in the same part of the city, but the benefits of space and money are there to compensate for the loss. In fact, many companies follow the trend of moving their headquarters and offices outside the city centers for these particular reasons. They are able to choose much better spaces within their budget, plus they get overall better working conditions for their employees.

Orange County, VA can be perfect for ex New Yorkers with families

Whatever you crave for – NYC has it. Be that business, culture, entertainment, or anything else, you will be able to find it in New York. However, the Big Apple might not be an ideal place for raising a family. That is exactly why people choose to leave it at a certain period of their lives when they decide to start a family.

We all agree that raising children is easier and often healthier in smaller places. Orange County, VA is specific since it has a vast population, yet its citizens enjoy the privileges of living in smaller communities.

For instance, the crime rate is much lower than in NYC or some other bigger cities. This is usually the first factor people consider when moving to a new town or city with their families.

After that, there is the healthcare factor. Orange County has a great network of hospitals and clinics. Here are some of those:

  • Mary Washington Healthcare/Mary Washington Hospital, Fredericksburg
  • UVA – Culpeper Regional Hospital, Culpeper
  • University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville
  • Martha Jefferson Hospital, Charlottesville

Education in Orange County, VA is also something that can attract ex New Yorkers

Moving professionals such as dynamicmoversnyc.com noticed that there are many people who choose Orange County for their relocation from bigger cities in search of education. Whether they are the ones who plan to continue their schooling, or they would like their children to have better educational opportunities, here they can choose from a variety of public and private schools, colleges, and universities.

Education is one of the reasons why Orange County, Va is perfect for ex New Yorkers

Recreational activities in Orange County

The parks in Orange County might not be as impressive as Central Park in NYC, but they do offer a variety of recreational to entertainment activities. From various sports that can be practiced here to cultural events that are organized all-year-round, there is always something to do in Orange County, Virginia.

This is also a very famous surfing destination! The long sandy beaches will help you relax and forget about your previous hectic life in NYC. So, whatever your reason might be for moving to Orange County, VA, you can rest assured that you will find everything you need in your new hometown.

 Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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, one of our area expert advisors 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 properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Essential and Non-Essential Businesses in Virginia. What’s Open and What’s Closed?

As stated by Governor Northam, these businesses have been classified as Non-Essential, and must remain closed effective at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24th until 11:59 PM on Thursday, April 23rd 2020:

  • Theaters, performing arts centers, concert venues, museums, and other indoor entertainment centers;
  • Fitness centers, gymnasiums, recreation centers, indoor sports facilities, indoor exercise facilities;
  • Beauty salons, barber shops, spas, massage parlors, tanning salons, tattoo shops, and any other location where personal care or personal grooming services are performed that would not allow compliance with social distancing guidelines to remain six feet apart;
  • Racetracks and historic horse racing facilities;
  • Bowling alleys, skating rinks, arcades, amusement parks, trampoline parks, fairs, arts and craft facilities, aquariums, zoos, escape rooms, indoor shooting ranges, public and private social clubs, and all other places of indoor public amusement.

All dining establishments must remain closed as well, however are permitted to continue to offer delivery and/or take out options and services. These include:

  • Restaurants;
  • Dining establishments;
  • Food courts;
  • Farmers markets;
  • Breweries;
  • Microbreweries;
  • Distilleries;
  • Wineries; and
  • Tasting rooms.

These retail businesses are considered to be essential, and may remain open during normal business hours:

  • Grocery stores, pharmacies, and other retailers that sell food and beverage products or pharmacy products, including dollar stores, and department stores with grocery or pharmacy operations;
  • Medical, laboratory, and vision supply retailers;
  • Electronic retailers that sell or service cell phones, computers, tablets, and other communications technology;
  • Automotive parts, accessories, and tire retailers as well as automotive repair facilities;
  • Home improvement, hardware, building material, and building supply retailers;
  • Lawn and garden equipment retailers;
  • Beer, wine, and liquor stores;
  • Retail functions of gas stations and convenience stores;
  • Retail located within healthcare facilities;
  • Banks and other financial institutions with retail functions;
  • Pet stores and feed stores;
  • Printing and office supply stores; and
  • Laundromats and dry cleaners.

Any brick-and-mortar retail establishment not previously listed may remain open, however must limit its capacity to 10 Patron maximum for shopping. This 10-person maximum does not include employees of the establishment. In addition, all patrons and businesses must adhere to practicing social distancing, with a minimum of 6 feet of separation.

When it comes to Real Estate Offices, they are labeled as non-essential, however are permitted to remain open as long as they adhere to social distancing, and the 10-patron limit.

Annual Festival of Kites Happening on September, 12th in Richmond, VA!

The annual Festival of Kites is coming back to town on September 12th, at Brown’s Island in Richmond, Virginia! From 11AM – 6PM you’ll enjoy seeing all the various kites take to the sky, and you’ll definitely want to join in on the fun! Moon bounces and inflatables will also be available for kids and adults to enjoy! If you’re wanting to bring your own kite to fly, you’re more than welcome to, or you can purchase there! Supplies are limited though, so be prepared just in case! If all the kite flying works up an appetite, don’t fret because several food vendors will be setting up, as well as fresh smoothies and other beverages. There will also be an array of various vendors that will be displaying fine art, jewelry crafts and more! This will be a rain or shine event, and admission is FREE, so bring the whole family to join in on the fun!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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, one of our area expert advisors 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 properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Absolutely GORGEOUS Home With Double AND Triple Sided Fireplaces in Fredericksburg, VA! 300 Goldvein Drive Now SOLD!!

Located off of scenic River Road in River Bluffs within minutes of Central Park, I-95, and in the River Bend school district, lies this gorgeous custom built home on 5+ acres. Another bonus is that Rappahannock River access is yours, as well! You’ll love enjoying your favorite morning brew on the deck or patio while communing with nature! The paved, meandering driveway through the trees lends privacy from the street. Upon reaching the home, constructed using the finest materials and presenting fabulous features, you’ll appreciate the low maintenance Hardiplank siding, Anderson windows, gleaming hardwoods, 10 ft ceilings, main level office, upper level bonus room, stunning double sided fireplace in kitchen/family room, and another in master/master sitting room, fresh paint and some new carpeting. But wait…it gets even better! There’s an entire lower level just waiting for you to customize to meet your needs! For more info about this property, be sure to Click Here!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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, one of our area expert advisors 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 properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Cute as A Button Home in Lake of the Woods, VA 22508! 102 Jefferson Avenue Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 102 Jefferson Avenue. Once you enter, you are greeted by gleaming hardwood floors and fine finishes. This sun filled, updated, Lake of the Woods home is move in ready. The upgraded kitchen is one of the beautiful features of this home, with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and new cabinets. The deck is so big and perfect for entertaining, cooking out or just relaxing and enjoying your private tree lined oasis! For more info about this listing, Click Here!

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, water skiing, 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 $150,000+ 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 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.

The 45th Annual Virginia Wine Festival is happening on October 3rd and 4th!

The 45th Annual Virginia Wine Festival is happening on October 3rd & 4th, 2020 from 11AM – 6PM at 44600 Freetown Blvd in Ashburn, VA! Here you’ll get the opportunity to taste over 200 different Virginia wines, and for those that you love, you can buy a case and take it home! What kind of wine festival would it be without food? Multiple food trucks will be set up, giving you a variety to choose from; including pizza, tacos, Korean, BBQ, vegetarian and more! General admission tickets are $39 if purchased in advance, and are good for a single day, with your choice of going on Saturday or Sunday! Tickets include a Virginia Wine Festival wine glass, and unlimited tastings! VIP tickets can also be purchased for $69 in advance and include “exclusive” Reserve Wine Tasting, as well as additional benefits! More information about the event and where you can purchase tickets can be found on the Virginia Wine Festival Facebook Event page.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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, one of our area expert advisors 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 properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Gorgeous Home With Ceiling-to-Floor Fireplace in Lake of the Woods, VA! 327 Birchside Circle Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 327 Birchside Circle where you can enjoy relaxing on your front porch, partially covered deck which backs to the golf course or gardening in your yard. Once you enter, you are greeted by a gorgeous ceiling to floor stone fireplace! The kitchen is spacious with plenty of counter and cabinet space. You will love the master suite being spacious with the walk in closet and the master bath with double vanity. For more information about this listing, be sure to 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.