Archives: July 2020

Stellar Home With Cathedral Ceilings and Updated Kitchen in Lake of the Woods! 208 Westover Pkwy Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 208 Westover Parkway! Step inside to be delighted by the open floor plan, cathedral ceilings, and fine finishes. You will love the stylish, updated kitchen that is bright, beautiful, and features black/stainless steel appliances, upgraded quartz counter tops, tile back splash and a large island. The living room is spacious with a grand window that allows so much natural light and features a fireplace to warm up to on those cool nights. The master suite offers an en-suite bath and entrance to the deck, where you can relax and enjoy your favorite beverage and take in the view of the private tree lined yard. Two additional bedrooms, another full bath and a dining area complete the main level. There’s more: the lower level boasts a family room and laundry room with half bath. The oversized two car garage provides ample space for parking and storage. The private, level yard is picture perfect! For more information on 208 Westover Pkwy, 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.

Beautiful House With Cathedral Ceilings in Lake of the Woods! 1209 Confederate Drive Now SOLD!!

If privacy and space is what you crave then 1209 Confederate Drive is the one for you! Once inside, you are delighted by the open floor plan, cathedral ceilings and gas fireplace. Enjoy preparing meals in this stylish kitchen with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinets, breakfast area, pantry and breakfast area. You will love the master suite with fireplace, walk in closet and the master bath has soaking tub and double vanities. The lower-level is perfect with a light filled family room, bar and two more bedrooms with full bath. Relax on your deck and enjoy a private tree lined yard. For more information on 1209 Confederate Drive, 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.

Fredericksburg Nationals Live Music Fridays on 8/14 & 8/28 From 6:00PM – 10:00PM

Are you ready to go out to the ballpark for some music? Join the Fredericksburg Nationals on Friday, August 14th and Friday, August 28th from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM as they have Live Music Friday’s at the New Fredericksburg Ballpark! You’ll also get the chance to catch the Washington Nationals games which will be broadcasted on the video board! Concessions and Fredericksburg Nationals Merchandise will be made available to purchase. Food trucks will also be present to help satisfy your hunger! The gates will open at 6:00 PM EST with a 1,000 person maximum occupancy in order to ensure the safety of fans and staff.

Admission will be free with only a $5 per car parking fee. Masks are REQUIRED for entry, and seating will be properly spaced out to ensure everyone’s safety. If you’ve been craving to get out to the New Fredericksburg Ballpark, now’s your chance! For more information on the event, 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

Beautiful Custom-Built House For Sale in Lake of the Woods, VA! 312 Battlefield Road Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 312 Battlefield Road! This beautiful custom-built home, nestled in the trees, and move in ready will delight from the moment you drive up. Once you enter, you are welcomed by gleaming hardwood floors, a great room with gas fireplace, fine finishes throughout, and a sought-after open floor plan! The kitchen has upgraded appliances, pantry and a large island! You will love the master suite that is so inviting and spacious. The en-suite master bath has a double vanity and a gorgeous tiled shower with jets. Two more spacious bedrooms, full bath and laundry room complete the main level. Enjoy sitting on the screened porch with your favorite beverage off the master suite. The lower level features a family room with gas fireplace, a 4th bedroom and half bath. That is not all…. off the lower level patio is a separate room that can be used as a garden potting room and also a workshop and storage. Imagine sitting on your deck listening to all the sounds of nature, entertaining family and friends or just relaxing. A whole house generator conveys with automatic transfer! For more information on 312 Battlefield Road, 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.

Finding Your Accessible Dream Home

Image provided by Pexels

“Accessible” and “dream home” aren’t two words that typically go together, but as home builders embrace universal design, it’s becoming easier to find homes that are both accessible and beautiful. If you’re a home buyer with a disability or are simply looking for a “forever home” that you can live in through every stage of life, read this guide to learn how you can buy an accessible home.

Buying an Accessible Home

There are lots of reasons why you might want an accessible home. Accessible homes enable independence for seniors and people with disabilities. Many accessible features also make daily life easier for people from all walks of life, whether it’s a parent pushing a stroller or carrying arm loads of groceries into the house.

Even if you don’t need an accessible home today, it’s smart to consider accessibility in your home purchase. Needs change over time, and buying for accessibility today ensures you can live in your home for years to come.

Along with accessibility needs, you’ll also need to consider your budget (Lake of the Woods home sales average $285,000) and which type of mortgage fits your finances best. If you have a spotty credit history, an FHA loan may be your best option. For example, PennyMac FHA loans have broader credit requirements, and you may be able to pay as little as 3.5 percent down. 

Accessible Homes: The Basics

A lot goes into making a home fully accessible. However, the average homeowner doesn’t need every accessibility feature available. If you’re in search of a forever home or shopping for an age-friendly home for your senior years, pay attention to major details like these:

  • Single-story living.
  • Step-free entrances.
  • Flush thresholds.
  • Wide doorways and hallways.
  • Ample lighting.
  • Raised power outlets.
  • Blocking for grab bars.

Thankfully, these home features are popular in new construction, making it relatively easy for buyers to find a house that offers basic accessibility. However, while these are the building blocks of accessible housing, they may not be all you need to enjoy full independence at home.

3 Ways to Increase Home Accessibility

Even when buying new construction, you may need to make changes to achieve full accessibility at home. Since remodeling can be costly, it’s important to factor these costs into your home-buying budget. You may even be able to roll remodeling expenses into your mortgage!

Replacing Carpet

One popular change for wheelchair and mobility device users is replacing carpet with wood floors. Mobility devices can’t move easily on plush carpet, and seniors are more prone to fall with high-pile carpeting underfoot. While there are a variety of alternatives to carpet, wood flooring offers the best return on investment because it’s both durable and in high demand by home buyers. Homeowners can save money by choosing inexpensive woods, removing old flooring themselves, and scheduling installation while the home is empty.

Adapting Counters and Cabinets

Most homes come with standard-height countertops and cabinets, but these can be inaccessible for wheelchair users and people with other disabilities. However, with counters and cabinetry accounting for as much as 60 percent of kitchen remodeling costs — which run nearly $30,000 on average — creating an accessible kitchen is costly. If you can’t afford to completely replace counters and cabinets or are worried about impacting your home’s resale value, talk to your contractor about working with what you have. For example, you may be able to add storage solutions that maximize lower cabinets or install a two-tier kitchen island to match your existing space.

Designing an Accessible Bathroom

Due to the high cost of bathroom remodeling, it’s best to buy a home that already suits your accessibility needs. But if you can’t find the right home in your budget, you may have no choice but to invest in bathroom updates. While minor changes like installing an accessible shower head and grab bars are affordable, replacing a bathtub with a walk-in tub or barrier-free shower costs as much as $5,000 or $15,000, respectively. However, for people who need them, the independence an accessible bathroom provides is priceless.

Finding a home that checks every box is difficult in the best of circumstances. When you have a disability or need an age-friendly home, finding the right home can seem impossible. But the truth is that there are lots of homes out there just waiting to be turned into your accessible dream home. Rather than giving up on your house hunt, reach out to an experienced agent who knows how to find the right home for you.

 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

Stunning House With Upgraded Kitchen Cabinets in Lake of the Woods, VA! 4015 Lakeview Pkwy Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 4015 Lakeview Parkway! This spacious, move in ready home boasts a sought-after open floor plan with a split bedroom design and and incredible kitchen with upgraded cabinets and black appliances! The spacious, inviting living room is light filled with a gas fireplace for those cool nights! The master suite features dual closets and en-suite bath. Relax in the expansive sunroom with access to your deck while enjoying the privacy this beautiful wooded lot that backs to the golf course provides. Get your lake life started with your own private oasis! Short drive to golf course! For more information on 4015 Lakeview Pkwy, 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.

15 Home Selling Terms to Add to Your Vocabulary

Even if you’ve sold a home before, deciphering real estate jargon can still seem impossible. There’s a lot of unique terminology you should know if you want to make the most of your sale, which means it’s crucial to be well-versed in some of the most common home selling terms before you list. If you’re still confused by contingencies or trying to decode disclosures, our glossary of real estate terms is here to get you on track.

15 Home Selling Terms, Explained

Here’s our A to Z list of the most important home selling vocab every seller should be familiar with. If you don’t see a specific term listed here, feel free to give us a call—we’d love to answer your questions!

Appraisal

House with coin stacks

The estimated market value of your property. Oftentimes a buyer will need to have a home appraised in order to secure financing.

As-Is

Listing a home “as-is” means that you’re selling it in its current state. This term tells buyers that you aren’t willing to make any changes or take money off the price—they will be responsible for handling all repairs.

Closing Costs

Calculating closing costs

This blanket term describes all the extra fees that come with closing on a home, which are usually deducted from the profit you make on the sale. Common closing costs include agent commissions (for you and the buyer), title fees, loan payoff costs, and any outstanding taxes or expenses.

Commission

This is what you’ll pay your agent (and the buyer’s agent) for their services. Commission is often negotiable and tends to be 5 to 6% of a home’s sale price, with around 3% going to each agent.

Comparative Market Analysis

House figure on top of a calculator

Often abbreviated as CMA, this detailed evaluation of your home’s value is based on similar properties that have recently sold in your neighborhood.

Contingency

A contingency is a certain condition that must be met before a home is sold. If a contingency is not met, the buyer or seller can exit the deal, typically with no penalties. Financing, home inspections, and appraisals are just a few common contingencies.

Disclosures

Signing paperwork

Disclosures refer to any specific defects in a home that you’re legally obligated to share with a buyer. Required disclosures vary from state to state and even town to town, but your agent should be familiar with the most common types in your area.

Earnest Money

This is a security deposit submitted by a buyer after they’ve put in an offer to show that they’re serious about purchasing your home. The money is typically applied towards their closing costs if the sale moves forward.

Escrow

Agent chatting about an escrow account

An escrow account is normally set up by a lender to hold earnest money until the sale of a home. However, escrow accounts can also be used by lenders to hold real estate taxes and insurance premiums as you pay off your mortgage.

For Sale by Owner

Sometimes abbreviated as FSBO, this is when a homeowner tries to sell their property without the help of an agent, usually to avoid paying commission.

Real Estate Agent

Real estate agent helping a client

A real estate agent is someone who has passed a real estate exam and possesses a license that allows them to buy or sell homes in a specific area.

Real Estate Broker

Real estate brokers are agents who have received additional education, passed a broker exam, and completed a certain number of transactions. Most agents work under the supervision of a broker.

Realtor®

Realtors talking to each other

A Realtor® is an agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of Realtors. Realtors® are required to follow a strict code of ethics and pay annual membership dues.

Staging

Staging is the process of styling and updating your home for potential buyers. It can involve cleaning, repainting, decluttering, making repairs, and moving around furniture to make your space look its best.

Under Contract

Under contract sign

When a home is under contract, the seller has accepted an offer from a buyer, and that buyer has the exclusive right to purchase the property.

Thinking About Selling Soon?

If you’re getting ready to list your home, we can help you navigate every step of the process. Just reach out to us to learn more about the services we offer to our sellers, and let us know if you have any questions. We’d be happy to lend you our expertise!

Gorgeous Home With Breathtaking Architecture in Lake of the Woods, VA! 3923 Lakeview Pkwy Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 3923 Lakeview Parkway! This beautiful custom-built home, nestled in the trees, beautifully landscaped, private and close to the front gate. Even before going inside you are in awe! Once you enter, you are welcomed by gleaming hardwood floors, a corner gas fireplace, fine finishes, and a sought-after open floor plan! The ample windows and skylights allow the sun to shine in this well-maintained, move in ready Lake of the Woods home. You will love the master suite with a sitting room, inviting master bath and two large walk-in closets. The bonus room above the garage is ideal for additional flex space, office or even a bedroom. That is not all…. the crawl space is conditioned and is being used as a workshop and storage. The garage is oversize and finished with additional storage. Imagine sitting on your screened porch or deck listening to all the sounds of nature, entertaining family and friends or just relaxing. For more information on 3923 Lakeview Pkwy, 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.

Stellar Home in Fredericksburg, VA! 324 Burman Lane Now SOLD!

Welcome to 324 Burman Lane! Imagine the privacy of backing to the woods, sitting on your deck, relaxing, and enjoying the sounds of nature while being so close to all that Harrison Crossing, Central Park, and downtown Fredericksburg have to offer! As perfect as the yard is, and not having an HOA, you will also love the interior spaces. The kitchen has all the amenities, island, and large eating area. The spacious living room is open and bright! The lower level offers a huge family room with a wood stove for those cold winter nights, bedroom, full bath, flex space and large laundry room. For more information on 324 Burman Lane, 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

Open Houses 7/12/2020 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM! *Face Masks Required For Entry*

Join us this Sunday, 7/12/2020, as we show off these four gorgeous homes in and around Lake of the Woods, VA!

Face masks will be required to enter into any property, and social distancing is highly recommended.

For more information about each home, click the addresses below!

3923 Lakeview Pkwy in Lake of the Woods, Priced at $385,000 (COMING SOON)

109 Ashlawn Court in Lake of the Woods, Priced at $429,900

106 Confederate Circle in Lake of the Woods, Priced at $539,900

34129 Enchanted Way in Locust Grove, Priced at $549,900

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 lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com