Welcome to 3608 Lakeview, ready for you to call home! You’ll be impressed by the condition of the home, with new paint, and new carpet, and it is as clean as a whistle! Four expansive bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, a cozy fireplace in the living room, office/flex space, and a two-car garage are sure to please! Need storage? The partial basement is perfect! 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 volunteer 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 $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders.
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.
Consisting of a visual assessment of a home’s structure and systems, a home inspection is a crucial step in the real estate process—particularly for buyers, who will be made aware of any notable problems that may increase their bargaining power against the seller, or even cause them to reconsider the purchase altogether. While not everything revealed during a home inspection is serious, there are certain defects about which buyers should always consult their realtors for guidance. Here are four red flags that buyers shouldn’t ignore:
A crumbling foundation. A home’s foundation ensures that it is structurally sound, protecting all the fixtures and systems within. If the inspection reveals cracks or other forms of deterioration in the foundation, buyers should be aware that these could be very expensive to fix in the future.
Mold. Typically stemming from water leaks and/or poor air circulation, mold carries significant health risks and can be difficult to eliminate. While an inspection should reveal the presence of mold if it exists, buyers can also be on the alert by looking for musty smells or discoloration around the walls or ceilings.
Termites. While termites are common—particularly in older homes—they can cause major damage to a home’s structure over time. If the inspection shows signs of termites, a specialist will likely need to be called in to quell the infestation and prevent further damage.
Electrical problems. If a home’s wiring or circuits are outdated or were improperly installed, they may create fire hazards and other problems.
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.
1 Tbsp. (or more) extra-virgin olive oil 8 oz. fresh chorizo, casings removed 1 lb. butternut squash (about ½ of a medium squash), peeled, cut into ½” pieces (about 4 cups) 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped Kosher salt Lime wedges and cilantro leaves with tender stems (for serving)
Directions
Heat oil in a large heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high. Cook chorizo, breaking up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl with a slotted spoon; reserve skillet with fat. Add butternut squash and onion to reserved skillet and cook over medium-high, adding more oil if needed and stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender, 10–15 minutes. Stir in chorizo and season with salt. Squeeze a lime wedge over and top with cilantro. Serve with additional lime wedges for squeezing over.
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.
From smartphone apps to streaming TV services, there are endless options for entertainment in today’s digital age. However, the timeless hobby of reading books offers several benefits for physical and mental health that may be lacking with more technologically oriented activities. Designated as National Book Month, October is the perfect time to curl up with a good book and celebrate the simple pleasure of reading.
While doing so, here are a few of the key health benefits of reading to keep in mind:
Stronger connectivity in the brain. Several studies using MRI scans have confirmed that reading involves a complex network of circuits and signals in the brain that become stronger and more sophisticated the more you read.
Reduced stress. A 2009 study measured the effects of yoga, humor, and reading on students undergoing high-stress educational programs in the U.S. The results indicated that reading for just 30 minutes at a time was as effective as practicing yoga or experiencing humor at lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of psychological distress.
Bigger vocabulary. Not surprisingly, reading increases your exposure to unfamiliar words in contexts that will help you learn their meaning, thereby expanding your vocabulary.
Increased ability to empathize. Love reading fiction? Here’s some good news—studies indicate that by delving into the inner worlds of characters, people who read literary fiction display a heightened ability to empathize with the feelings and beliefs of others in real life. This is particularly true for long-term lovers of fiction; they develop what researchers call the “theory of mind,” or a set of skills critical to building and maintaining social relationships.
Reduced risk of age-related cognitive declines. Although it hasn’t been conclusively shown that reading can prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that older adults who read and solve math problems every day not only maintain but can even improve their cognitive functioning. The practice keeps your mind engaged, which can help prevent the development of the plaques and lesions found in the brains of people with dementia.
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.
Welcome to 622 Cornwallis Avenue! Imagine the lifestyle you’ll experience and the memories you’ll create in this fantastic waterfront home featuring amazing main lake views, spectacular sunrises, and ample room for large gatherings! Every bedroom enjoys the water views, and all offer outdoor access! As you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the private setting near the end of a cul-de-sac, and be wowed by the main lake views! Step inside, and you’ll immediately be greeted by lake views, an open floor plan, and a living room with an incredible floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace to warm those chilly evenings. The kitchen provides all the amenities with stainless steel appliances and a generous-sized breakfast bar that leads to the expansive screened porch perfect for early morning coffee or simply relaxing. The main level is completed by the primary bedroom with an ensuite bath and laundry room. Ascending the stairs to the upper level, you’ll find two large bedrooms that provide lake views and a full bath. The lower level is sure to please! Descending the stairs, you are greeted by a huge family room with a gorgeous brick fireplace and a bar area that accesses the concrete patio for outdoor enjoyment. The lower level also boasts an additional bedroom, full bath, and large storage room for all those water toys. Of course, the water frontage is spectacular! Swim from your dock, launch your canoe or kayak, hop on your boat for a day of fun, or simply bask in the sun waterside from your own private oasis! 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, 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 volunteer 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 $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 what’s to love in 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 contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Virginia is a beautiful state with a unique history. It brings many people not only to visit but also to make this extraordinary place their home. In 2021 Virginia has seen a steady rise of people flocking to live there. The reasons to choose Virginia are many. Some people come because of family and lifestyle, and others because of jobs, retirement, and health. Whichever the reasons to come here are, here is what you can expect from this beautiful state. This article will discuss 7 reasons to move to Virginia this year.
People move to Virginia for various reasons
There is no doubt about it; Virginia is one of the most popular places people are coming to. According to studies, most people came to Virginia because of their family and the comfortable lifestyle. And those reasons are the deciding factor for above 50% of out-of-state arrivals. Other reasons are retirement, job seeking, and health care, respectively. When looking at these numbers, there can be no surprise that the populace coming consists of:
families
adults
job seekers
seniors
Property experts from LakeOfTheWoods state that the number of arrivals from 2021 will also be seen in the current year. There has been a steady increase after the COVID-19 crisis. Many people want to find getaways and start a new life here in Virginia.
The reason to move to Virginia is quality education
The State of Virginia has some of the best options for higher education. It is the home of more than 40 public universities, which is not a small number. Some of them, such as The University of Virginia, The College of William and Mary, and Virginia Tech, are the most sought-after universities. Ones with a good “pedigree” and chance of an excellent career. They are some of the oldest universities built from the end of the 17th century. If you are looking to offer your child the best education, the experts from Next Stop Movers suggest that coming to Virginia is the way to go. Many of their clients move to Virginia, particularly to pursue education opportunities.
Place for retirement
Looking for a place to retire to? Then look no further, as Virginia can be just the spot for you. Friendly, warm-welcoming, and tightly-knitted societies provide excellent opportunities to choose your ideal neighborhood. Virginia towns also enjoy one of the lowest crime rates in the US. Good housing options for aging in place add to the pros of living here. Probably the most compelling reason why seniors choose Virginia is tax friendliness. Any retiree can deduct up to $12,000 in pension and retirement income state taxes, which is a considerable amount. On top of that, the state does not tax Social Security benefits, making Virginia an ideal place for seniors and retirees.
A festival state
During the year, many festivals are held in Virginia. It is one of the more prominent reasons people are coming in draws. There is much happening that can appeal to even the most exquisite tastes. The Blues, Brews, and Barbecue festival is held in the first half of the year. It is located in Yorktown and begins every May. If you are going to Virginia Beach, don’t miss the Neptune Festival. In April, Winchester is hosting its pride, The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. This enormous festival consists of more than 25 events, including music, dining, and carnivals. You can attend the Deep Roots’ Fall Festival in Orange County in the fall. Don’t miss out on the chance to attend these festivals when coming to Virginia.
Moving to Virginia interstate
Moving can be challenging and stressful, requiring a lot of time, patience, and money to succeed. When moving interstate, for example, from NC to VA, an NC-based team can help you with everything you need when moving to Virginia. This way, you will save your money and precious time, which you can dedicate to more pressing matters. On top of that, you will not have to carry anything by yourself. That can be handled by a punctual team of professionals who will do the heavy lifting for you.
Good healthcare
Virginia is renowned in the US for its excellent healthcare. The state is investing a lot of effort and money in its healthcare. So much so that Virginia is constantly rising on the list of the best public health providers every year. Excellent hospitals such as Inova Fairfax Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General, and other centers make it a perfect spot for every person with health issues, disabilities, or seniors.
A thriving economy is a reason to move to Virginia
If you are looking for good reasons to move to Virginia, this may help you decide. Virginia is home to a diverse economy. From the shipbuilding industry, farming, and seafood harvesting. You can also find many fine wineries and distilleries. The various business opportunities brought many intellectuals and investors. This led to a steady rise and boom in the economy of Virginia, and career options are also many. A perfect place for young entrepreneurs and families seeking quality jobs.
Move to Virginia because of the weather
Moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year, hot summers, and mild winters are what make Virginia so special. It has a humid subtropical climate and one that you can enjoy no matter the season. Depending on where you choose to settle in Virginia, you can see winter snow and enjoy hot summer days in the sun. Be prepared, though, because the weather is constantly changing, bringing many rainy days and nights.
Moving to Virginia brings a lot of benefits. Virginia has everything from the tax deduction if you are a senior, good healthcare, diverse culture, to a great education and weather. However, there are also annual festivals and friendly tightly-knitted societies in rural places, making it a perfect spot for early retirement. Diverse cuisine and steady rise in economy prove Virginia is also an ideal option for entrepreneurs and thriving families. The landscape and nature are also something that you can treasure if you like spending time outdoors. Come to Virginia and experience a modern lifestyle combined with American tradition.
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.
Waterfront escape on a double lot. Perfect for the weekend getaway on the lake. Relax on the front porch with a cup of Joe in the morning and plan out your day at the lake. The open floor plan provides ample space for entertaining inside and plenty of space outside for any large event. Easy access to the home along with plenty of storage options for your aqua toys, and a fenced-in portion for Fido makes this the perfect weekend getaway. Bring your boat and keep it on your dock. The house has hardwood floors and a great fireplace to create the perfect lake house environment.
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.
Welcome to 1120 Lakeview Parkway, where you’ll be wowed by the fine features of this immaculately kept home! Gleaming hardwood floors, updated kitchen and baths, huge loft and 4th bedroom/flex space make this one the one! Boasting an open floorplan of 2700+ sq ft of expansive rooms, entertaining or simply living with ease is a breeze! The upper-level space offers endless possibilities; craft room, quilting, classroom, office, bedroom, and 2nd living area…what’s best for you? The wrap-around deck is perfect for enjoying your level backyard backing to trees for sought-after privacy. Is a workshop, studio, craft room, or more storage what you’re seeking? Look no further! The property conveys a storage loft in the garage and a large shed with electricity.
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 volunteer 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 $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 what’s to love in 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 contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to 1300 Eastover, where you’ll enjoy fantastic water views every day! Kayak, boat, canoe, and fish with ease from your own lushly landscaped backyard! When not enjoying water activities, relax in your sunroom or on your deck while admiring your gorgeous gardens and view of serene Keaton’s Lake. The updated kitchen and cozy fireplace welcome your family and guests. The main level boasts the primary bedroom with ensuite bath and a second bedroom, along with another updated baths. Descending the stairs to the expansive lower-level family room, you’ll immediately notice that it provides a second living area, including a wet bar and a second fireplace, as well as access to the patio and lake. The third bedroom provides access to the patio and onto the gardens with pathways winding to the lake. You’ll appreciate the amazing updates that have been ongoing in this fantastic home featuring almost 2500 sq ft since 2013: Tesla solar panels and power wall, new siding and gutters, new HVAC (including ductwork), new roof, new water heater, lake pump for landscape watering, carpeting, garage door…the list goes on! Why not see for yourself? A boat tour is gladly provided!
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 volunteer 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 $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 what’s to love in 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 contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Ignore the negative news—the market is coming back down to earth
Homeowners have record equity, and buyers have more inventory
This is a great time to make a move in the market, so contact us today!
You might hear a lot of doom and gloom news about the housing market lately, but let’s put it in perspective. The COVID-19 global pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions to financial markets, including housing. Now, with everyone ready to move forward, the historic hot housing market is returning to normal. Let’s look at what that means for buyers and sellers.
The current housing market and forecast
Our last blog post looked at mortgage rates in their historical context. While today’s rates range between 5-6% and are certainly higher than homebuyers’ rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, they’re nothing extraordinary. Today’s rates are still far below the all-time high of 18.45% set back in the 1980s!
A recent report by Fannie Mae forecasts that over the next 12 months, US consumers anticipate home prices to fall for the first time in two years. With potential buyers expecting further price declines and sellers not keen on giving up their lower, fixed mortgage rate, now is the time to buy or sell your home.
However, for first-time homebuyers seeking to make a move, news of continued cooling of home prices is welcome, which will keep demand high. While current homeowners considering selling may be concerned that they missed the window to realize their equity gains or will lose out on their current lower mortgage rate, it’s important to remember the larger historical trends regarding real estate investments. And, if you’re purchasing another home, you have more homes to choose from.
What home sellers need to know right now
Don’t listen to the news cycle pedaling doom and gloom about your equity gains and home value. Buying or selling property is always a good investment. The real estate market always presents opportunities, and home prices are simply moderating from historic highs.
Moreover, homeownership is a long-term asset that pays out over time, and the record equity gains of the past few years that current homeowners have enjoyed aren’t likely to ever happen again. So, while home prices are cooling off, the decline is less than 1%, leaving those equity gains intact when you decide it’s time to sell.
What home buyers need to know right now
CoStar Group, an online real estate analytics provider, recently reported negative growth in asking rental prices for the first time in 20 months, falling 0.1%. While this is undoubtedly welcome news for renters and would-be homeowners battling skyrocketing rental prices, the cost of rent remains a high hurdle for many to clear every month.
For potential homebuyers wondering if now is the time to stop paying rent and move toward homeownership, it’s worth remembering that owning a home will always be a better long-term investment of your money than renting.
So, despite a new Fannie May survey declaring that around half of today’s consumers hold a negative view of the market and think it would be difficult to get a mortgage today, this is overly pessimistic. Moreover, there are numerous loan options for qualifying buyers, such as first-time buyers and veteran programs.
Getting a mortgage is one of the most significant financial moves a person will ever make, and preparation is critical. So before you apply, spend some time ensuring that your credit and finances are in order. Because when you find your perfect home, you’ll want to be able to make an offer immediately.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to make a move, don’t get caught up in the frenzy of negative news. Instead, work with your local team that knows the micro-housing market in your area. Our real estate agents have decades of experience and understand how to help you navigate the market. Contact us today to figure out your best options for buying and selling your home!