Archives: September 2021

How to Choose a Seasoned Agent for Your Home Sale

Key Takeaways:

  • Selling your home is a chance to maximize your equity, so you owe it to yourself to find the perfect listing agent.  
  • Searching for a listing agent is just as important as your home search, so make sure to meet with at least three candidates before making a decision. 
  • We’re telling you the must-ask questions to track down a listing agent—and now, you can put our team to the test when you list your home with us! 

Home Sellers, Don’t Settle For Second Best

Many sellers are under the impression that any listing agent can sell their home instantly for the best possible price—but that’s simply not the case. Did you know that 77% of home sellers only contact one agent before listing their home? When it comes to trusting someone with your biggest investment, it’s crucial to do plenty of research to find the right fit. And you should never settle for second, which is why we recommend meeting with at least three agents before making your decision. We’ve outlined some must-ask questions to help you track down the perfect listing agent!

What’s your marketing plan? 

tripod set up for property pictures

The best way to sell your home is to expose it to as many prospective buyers as possible, which requires a strategic marketing plan. Ask potential agents about their specific marketing tactics, and you can even have them provide examples from past clients. Just listing your home online and scheduling an open house shouldn’t be the extent of an agent’s marketing plan. As agents who have crafted masterful marketing plans ourselves, we have the data to target your home’s most likely buyers—and even more importantly, we know exactly how to reach them.  

How long have you been working in real estate in my area

realtor walking outside

Almost every agent can boast “decades of combined experience” when it comes to their team’s time working in the real estate industry—but what about selling homes in your specific area? Real estate isn’t the same everywhere, which is why you should choose an agent who is local to your area. This way, you can be confident knowing that your home will be competitively listed in comparison to other properties in the area. And if your agent happens to also work with buyers in the area, then they may be able to direct them to your listing! 

How many active clients do you work with at one time? 

realtor and client meeting

One of the most important things to analyze about your potential agent is their availability. When asking about an agent’s active clients, you want their answer to fall within a sweet spot range—not having many clients can be a red flag, while trying to sell too many properties at once may mean they can’t provide the personalized experience that you deserve. Working with around 10 to 15 clients at once is pretty standard and should still allow for plenty of one-on-one time between you and your potential agent. 

Tell me more about your pricing strategies 

discussing home pricing strategies

As a seller, you want to choose an agent who can deliver a top-dollar home sale. A seasoned agent can determine the value of your home in a snap—during your first meeting, go ahead and give them details about your property and ask them for a competitive list price. By doing this, you’ll be able to gauge the agent’s pricing expertise on the spot and ensure they give you a realistic amount. A qualified agent will take into consideration other recently sold homes in the area and ask about any renovations you’ve completed. 

And finally…what’s your specialty? 

realtors reading property blueprint

While many listing agents have ample experience across the board, many also specialize in certain types of real estate. Whether it be new construction or luxury properties, it’s crucial to see whether an agent’s specific skill set aligns with the features of your home. And don’t be shy about requesting a sold portfolio—this way, you can see if any of the agent’s sold listings are similar to your property. 

Use Our Local Expertise—List Your Home With Us 

When it comes to selling your home, choosing the right agent matters more than you think. If you want to work with professionals who know the local market better than anyone else, then you should contact one of our listing agents. We have a wealth of cutting-edge seller resources, in addition to our unparalleled passion for earning our clients top dollar on their home sales. We’ve clued you in on all the tough questions to ask, and we’re more than ready to share our expertise with you! 

fredericksburg virginia dog show

“America’s Oldest” The Fredericksburg DOG MART Returns!

On Saturday, September 25th between 9:30 AM – 3 PM visit 12400 Herndon Rd, Spotsylvania, Virginia for a FREE dog-lovers event! This will mark the 323rd Anniversary of Fredericksburg’s DOG-MART and will feature a dog show, adoption showcase, raffles, demonstrations, and food and beverages.

Check out the archery activities and BB Gun shooting for the kids! Taste the fresh cooked burgers, fries, and other delicious food trucks on hand. Watch the amazing dogs perform during their show.

There is no cost to enter, however, parking is $5. Bring in a Dog Food donation for free raffle tickets! Learn more about this event here.

This event is hosted by: The Fredericksburg-Rappahannock Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

lake of the woods virginia art show 2021

Lake of the Woods 37th Annual Fine Art Show and Sale – Save the Date!

Visit the LOW Community Center, Saturday and Sunday, September 25th and 26th between 10AM – 5PM to enjoy fine arts created by our very own local artists here in Lake of the Woods, Virginia.

This event will be the 37th Annual Fine Art Show held by the Lake of the Woods Visual Arts Council (LOWVAC) now known as LOW Arts, with the first having been in 1981; unfortunately, due to the pandemic in 2020, it was not held.

There will be a variety of mediums showcased and for sale, including paintings, photography, glass, fiber, jewelry, pottery, mixed media, and so much more, there is sure to be something for everyone! In addition to art, the Lake Authors of the Wilderness will be attending for sales and signing of their books, and the LOW Woodworking Club will reveal their creations made during one of their Challenges. Not only LOW artists will be featured; student artwork from the local county public schools will also be on display for admiration.

There will be a RAFFLES and a Silent Auction held to benefit the Orange County public school art programs with a theme of “LAKE LIFE.” Up for raffle will be 6 different wooden animals pull toys (animals of the lake) hand-painted by LOW artists, a “basket of art” that includes hundreds of dollars worth of artwork from participating artists, a gorgeous wood cutting board, and lastly, two large panels each featuring a dozen small works by LOW Arts members. Visit here for more information about the show.

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

12812 orange plank rd, locust grove virginia 22508

12812 Orange Plank Rd, Locust Grove, Virginia 22508 SOLD by the Licata Group, EXP Realty!

Welcome to stunning, well-maintained 12812 Orange Plank Road, nestled among the trees on almost two acres with no HOA! Welcomed by an inviting front porch, you can easily imagine relaxing with your favorite beverage, reading a book, or talking with friends. As you enter, you will love the wide foyer and the architecture of columns, built-ins that define the living room, and the beautiful stone fireplace in the family room that will keep you warm on those chilly nights. The kitchen is incredible, with all the desirable amenities, boasting granite countertops, a center island, stainless steel appliances. Even better is that it is open to the other living areas to allow family and friends to be close as you prepare a meal or entertain. The owner’s suite is delightfully spacious and full of light, as well as the en-suite bath that features an oversized shower with gorgeous tile work, double vanity, and a large walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms, another full bath, and a large laundry room complete the main level. Through the 26’ x 24’ garage, a doorway leads to a bedroom with its own private entrance, full bath, and walk-in closet that comprise the 4th bedroom and 3rd full bath. Enjoy the oversized patio and create a fabulous outdoor space while nature serenades you as you decompress from the busy day! You will feel like you are miles away from everything; however, you are close to shopping, and dining, as well as surrounded by history. Located in the sought-after Riverbend school district!

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

lake of the woods community yard sale 2021

LOW Fall Community Yard Sale in October!

On Saturday, October 2nd the Lake of the Woods Community will be hosting their community yard sale.

What a great way to start off Fall, remove all those items in your home that no longer serve you and/or bring you joy! Items will vary from toys, clothing, books, household items, lawn and garden tools, sports equipment, board games, and much more!

Join your fellow community neighbors on Saturday, October 2nd from 9am to 2pm at Sweetbriar Park in Lake of the Woods for the ultimate community yard sale.

Spaces do cost $15 each, and to rent a table will be an additional $10 per table. Tables are limited, please contact the Community Center at 540-972-9680 for more info!

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

10814 Peach tree, fredericksburg virginia

10814 Peach Tree Drive in Fredericksburg, Virginia, now SOLD! by the Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 10814 Peach Tree Drive, boasting fresh paint, flooring, and a brand-new roof! If space and privacy are what you crave, then this is the one! As you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the brick accents and landscaping. As you enter, you will be delighted by the spacious living room that is full of natural light and the character of the archways leading into the kitchen and dining room. The kitchen provides a breakfast bar ready for your stools and offers plenty of counter space to spread out. Two bedrooms are located on this level, with the larger having direct access to a full bathroom. As you continue through the house to the lower level, you’ll find an additional two bedrooms and a full bath. The expansive family room that leads out to the patio is sure to please, along with an incredible fenced-in backyard, perfect for family, pets, or a garden. And wait until you see the large shed! Conveniently located in the sought-after Riverbend school district, restaurants and shopping are just minutes away!

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

110 cumberland cir, lake of the woods virginia 22508

110 Cumberland Cir, Lake of the Woods, Virginia 22508 NOW SOLD!!

Welcome to 110 Cumberland Circle! This well-maintained waterfront home is perfectly nestled among the trees on Keaton Lake, so grab your fishing pole, kayak, or camera, and let’s get this lake life started! You’ll fall in love as soon as you turn into the tree-lined driveway, providing privacy from the road. The landscaping, walking path down to the lake, screened porch, expansive deck, and the abundance of privacy will make this one “the one” prior to even stepping inside…but wait until you do! Once you enter, the foyer and incredibly spacious living room with fireplace which flows so easily into the kitchen will impress. A main level owner’s suite with en-suite bath will sure to please. The lower level boasts a large family room, two additional bedrooms and a full bath. That’s not all, you also have two storage rooms and a workshop. Imagine sitting on the screened porch and listening to nature serenade you.

Located in Lake of the Woods, a private, gated, secured community that 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 the mid-$200,000 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 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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

painting

Best Home Upgrades for the Fall

Fall is the season that carries the meaning of warm and cozy. Experts say it is the perfect time for renovating and falling in love with your home. To do so, it would be good to make a priority list of all the projects you want to tackle to make your home ideal. But, even if you want to find some of the best home upgrades for the fall to increase your home’s value and make it attractive to potential buyers, this article is suitable for you too. We have created a list of various projects to choose from, depending on your time and budget. The projects you are about to read range from minor maintenance to major upgrades. Either way, we are sure you will find something that suits your family’s needs and desires.

Which are the best home upgrades for the fall?

Once you decide to renovate, the thrill and excitement start. However, once you get down to business, you realize how many steps you need to take to make your wishes come true. It’s essential to bear in mind that it’s normal to start feeling anxious or pressured.

The key to successful remodeling is to be prepared and organized. Of course, you can make a list of priority tasks you want to do, but it would be good to make a step-by-step list to follow to ensure a smooth process. For example, if you plan on remodeling your living space, you should consider getting a portable storage unit to give you extra space where you need it. This way, you will remove all the things in the way while still being able to access them. 

Finally, let’s take a look at some of the best home upgrades for the fall.

  • Exterior accessories upgrade
  • Front door repainting or replacement
  • Painting the exterior
  • Power washing
  • Gutter cleaning
  • Roof repair
  • Deck refreshment
  • Switching to a thermostat
  • Heated flooring in the bathroom

Upgrade your exterior accessories

Your exterior is the first thing you or anyone sees. So, if you always think of that one light bulb not working above your front door, now is the time to replace it. Additionally, paying attention to your lighting when staging your home is a good idea if you are looking to sell your house.

house number 216
Small, but still, one of the best home upgrades for the fall. Update your mailbox and home number.

House numbers and mailboxes are also small things worth upgrading. It would be best to have your exterior accessories matching in material and color. 

Replace or repaint your front door

Replacing the front door will give you peace of mind knowing you and your family are safe. It will also give your entrance much-needed flair. 

The easiest and more cost-efficient way is to repaint your front door. The best thing of all is that by doing so, you can make your home stand out in just one afternoon.

Painting your exterior is one of the best home upgrades for the fall

If your house could use a fresh coat of paint, go for it. This is especially important if you want to sell your house in the near future. Painting your home’s exterior will do wonders for curb appeal. So, before you call the experts from Zippy Shell Northern Virginia to help you relocate, pick up the paint rollers and put on some clothes you don’t mind staining!

Another thing you might want to consider if you are not a fan of painting is to install new siding. By doing so, you will boost your home’s curb appeal and durability.

Power wash the exterior

Your exterior might need a good and thorough power wash. Numerous materials, such as brick, concrete, wood, metal, vinyl, are surfaces that you can power wash. With that said, it would be best if you used less pressure on painted surfaces.

Clean your gutters

This is a step that often tends to be neglected. However, it shouldn’t, since your gutters work hard during fall and wintertime. 

cleaned gutters on a white roof
It’s best to clean your gutters before it gets too cold.

Snow and winter can be hard on gutters, so it would be best to have a routine inspection twice a year. Also, pay attention to any cracks or holes that need to be fixed before the cold weather arrives.

Repair your roof

Repairing or even replacing your roof during fall will make your home’s insulation better, and therefore lead to lower heating costs. 

rain falling on a roof
A functional roof gives anyone peace of mind.

Another advantage of repairing or replacing your roof is that it enhances curb appeal. Potential buyers will be more attracted to a home with a new and secured roof. On the other hand, buyers might try to negotiate a lower price if your roof needs repairs.

Refresh the deck

You can revive your deck by simply power-washing and hand-scrubbing it, which will make it seem like new. You should then go ahead and add a protective coat of semitransparent paint. 

two friends sitting on sofas on the deck
A deck is a place that gathers family and friends, don’t neglect it.

Switch to a thermostat

It might be time to switch to a thermostat and lower your energy bill during colder months. Digital thermostats can lower your bills to up to 180$ a year. The best thing is there’s a variety of models to choose from. For example, there are simple versions that only control heat and can be found for a price of 25$. Also, there are more complicated units that control humidifying and cooling too. 

Install heated flooring in your bathroom

Heated floors keep you and your feet warm, especially during colder months. We can agree that no one likes walking into a cold bathroom in the morning or stepping on a cold floor after a hot shower.

a bathroom with heated flooring
Heated floors are cozy and energy-efficient.

The takeaway from best home upgrades for the fall

The end of summer is just around the corner. Use this in-between time to take up some of the best home upgrades for the fall to make your home cozy and secure or give potential buyers what they want to see. Good luck!

Meta description: If you are looking to raise the value of your home or simply spruce it up, read on. Here are the best home upgrades for the fall!

Photos used:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-women-sitting-on-sofa-238385/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-roof-while-raining-2663254/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/red-helmet-on-white-wooden-fence-8853521/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/modern-bathroom-interior-with-freestanding-tub-6207947/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/216-number-2053903/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/apply-blue-brush-carpentry-221027/

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Our Full Guide to This Winter’s Cooled-Down Market

Key Takeaways:

  • According to this winter’s market forecast, there’s going to be a flurry of new housing inventory that benefits both buyers and sellers.
  • More housing inventory provides additional options for buyers and newfound confidence for sellers who need to find a home after they list.
  • Thinking about making a move? It’s not too early to begin planning—and by starting now, you’ll be settled in your next home by the new year!

The Winter Weather Forecast Is Calling for a Cooled-Down Market

It might still be the beginning of autumn, but it’s never too early to start planning a successful home sale! If you’re thinking about listing your home this winter, you should expect the market to look a little different by the end of the year. Winter is usually the quietest time for real estate, which means you can look forward to a cooled-down winter market forecast. A slower-moving market will give sellers more time to prepare their listings and peruse the market for their next homes.

Here’s what more housing inventory means for sellers

homeowners meeting with realtor

After enduring a red-hot sellers’ market so far in 2021, this year’s winter market forecast is finally calling for increased housing inventory. More homes on the market means two things for sellers: they gain more time to prepare their listings, but they might need to do a little more to stand out from the competition.

With additional properties expected to hit the market this winter, we want to make sure you get your home listed before our area gets snowed in with sellers. From highlighting your home’s top features to marketing it to targeted buyers, we can sell your property for top dollar in no time.

Homebuyers, your holiday present is here

homeowners hugging in kitchen

Instead of a present under the tree, what if we could give you a new home instead? Current predictions indicate an onset of new housing inventory this winter, which means more options for buyers. So bundle up buyers—it’s finally going to be your turn to make a move in the market. More housing inventory and continually low interest rates could lead to a long-awaited decrease in home prices, all of which will help create a more balanced market.

As your local area experts, we know how to land your dream home in just the right community. So whether you’ve been browsing for your next home or already know you’re going to need a house after you sell, you can count on us to find your perfect place. And by using our comprehensive market reports, we can help you secure a home within your budget, too!

Now’s the time to take advantage of this year’s wintery market mix

couple meeting with realtor over coffee

While it might be tempting to put off listing your home until after the holiday season, you never know when the market is going to shift again. Trying to time the market is one of the biggest mistakes you can make as a homeowner, and we’re here to assure you that this winter (or even fall!) is the time to make your real estate move.

Both buyers and sellers can take advantage of this year’s wintery market mix of competitive listings and increased housing inventory. New properties on the market will provide buyers with more housing options to choose from, and sellers can list their homes knowing that they’ll be able to find a new place after they sell. And if you’re listing soon, you don’t have to worry about making your property stand out—our top-notch agents can handle all the details.

Ready to Slide Into the Market This Winter?

Hop on your sleds, we’re ready to help you slide into the real estate market this winter! Buying or selling your home—even during the holiday season—doesn’t have to be stressful. Allow us to handle all the details of your real estate transaction for you this winter, so you can be settled in your next home by the new year!

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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.