Archives: October 2022

October 2022 Lake of the Woods Monthly Market Statistics

In October, 15 homes were SOLD in Lake of the Woods.

0 sold below $250,000.00
2 sold between $250,000-299,999;
3 sold between $300-349,999;
5 sold between $350,000-399,999;
3 sold between $400-499,999;
2 sold between $500,000-$999,999;

39 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale
23 Homes Under Contract
245 Homes Sold since January 1, 2022.

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.

7 Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Fredericksburg

Virginia has long been one of the most popular states for people looking for a new home in the US. It’s commonly called the ‘State for Lovers’ – lovers of nature, family-friendly lifestyle, history, and more. People move here for its economic stability, affordability, and geographical position. Virginia is a state of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and many things to do, so it’s widely recognized as a great place to settle with your family. One of the towns that stand out in the crowd is Fredericksburg, a small place with a population of about 30,000. However, the number of people living in this town is rapidly growing, and there are several reasons for it. A solid economy, job market, affordable homes, and proximity to Washington and Baltimore attract people from around the country. That’s why it’s no surprise if you feel like this may be the location for your next home. It’s just left to find a great home in an area of the city that suits your lifestyle and needs. And this guide will help you do that – here are some tips for choosing the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg and making it your new home. 

Why Fredericksburg should be the place to look for a home

With a couple of big cities nearby, many people are easily drawn to Richmond, Baltimore, or even Washington to be their next home. However, there are a few reasons why you should pick a smaller town and start house-hunting over there. The small-town feel comes with a rich history, many craft breweries, amazing food, and a friendly community. The place makes it easy to settle down, especially if you’re moving with your little ones. You can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and safety of a small town while still being less than an hour’s drive away from a bigger place such as Richmond.

 People of Fredericksburg enjoy a great commuting system downtown with many restaurants and stores and a couple of beautiful parksKenmore Park, Alu Springs Park, Old Mill Park, and more. Overall, Fredericksburg is a great place to live, so let’s see how you can pick the right neighborhood for your new home.  

a family having a picnic in a park in Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is a great place to raise a family. 

Tips for choosing the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg

Even though it’s a relatively small city, Fredericksburg has a lot to offer. There are a couple of great neighborhoods with quite distinct features, so it’s important to know how to choose the one that will make a great home for your family. 

  1. Evaluate your needs first 

To be able to make the right choice, you need to know what you are looking for. Depending on your lifestyle, you might be looking for a place that’s more or less busy or family-friendly. For example, Downtown Fredericksburg is perfect for people who like city life and have everything they need within walking distance. On the other hand, Falmouth will give you a more peaceful vibe and separate your home from all the hustle and bustle of the downtown. Consider your plans for the future as well as your lifestyle to be able to choose the right place to live. 

aerial view of the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg
See what kind of neighborhood you’re looking for first.
  1. Consider your budget 

Not all neighborhoods come with the same price. Consider your budget before you start looking for homes. Most expensive homes are usually located in Downtown Fredericksburg or Plank Road-Route 3 area, whereas Dixon Street-Mayfield can offer affordable homes in the Fredericksburg market. 

  1. Proximity to the necessary amenities 

Some families don’t want to be away from their favorite restaurant, their kids’ school, or the local hospital. If there are locations in the city you need to be close to, look for neighborhoods in that area. Sometimes, location is the top priority for certain families, and they are willing to pay more for a convenient area of a city. 

  1. Safety 

Unfortunately, every city comes with neighborhoods that have lower or higher crime rates. Moving with your family makes safety one of your top priorities. Neighborhoods with the lowest crime rates in Fredericksburg are Highland homes, Stafford Lakes Village, Bel Plains Estates, etc. A safe neighborhood is well-lit at night, with walkable streets, friendly neighbors, and low crime rates, so be sure to investigate the neighborhoods you like before you start looking at homes in that area.

Remember: safety should you a top priority in the moving process, too. Make sure you hire reliable experts in the area for your local move to ensure a secure transfer of your items. Do research on trustworthy local moving teams and minimize the chances of dealing with fraud.

kids playing outside
Safety is a top priority for families with kids.
  1. Old or new buildings in a neighborhood

Another factor that can shape your decision is the period most properties were made. Neighborhoods with mostly older homes will probably come with a lower price but also a high risk of repairs. On the other hand, newer properties are less likely to be renovated, which is why they are often more expensive. 

  1. Noise and traffic

If you’re moving with kids, this is one of the factors that might make you change your mind about a neighborhood. A quiet street with a wide sidewalk is perfect for families with kids. Less traffic makes the neighborhood safer for kids to play and ride bikes. And if there’s a great school nearby – it’s undoubtedly a place to look for a home. Furthermore, a quiet neighborhood is more convenient for people who work from home, as they need a more peaceful environment for their home office. 

  1. Visit the neighborhoods you like for the best impression 

There are many things you can check online or by asking around. However, the best method of choosing the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg is going and taking a look by yourself. Visit the areas you like and see how you feel walking those streets. You can explore local amenities, talk to neighbors and see if you really feel the place you visited can be your new home. And one thing is for sure – Fredericksburg will welcome you with open arms!

https://www.pexels.com/photo/miniature-village-photo-667221/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-view-of-house-village-2255938/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/family-out-on-a-picnic-7669144/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/girls-jumping-playing-outdoor-game-5275307/

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.

127 Saylers Creek Rd, Lake of the Woods, Virginia 22508 SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 127 Saylers Creek Rd, where you’ll love the configuration of rooms which allows for so many possibilities of space usage! The living room, eat-in kitchen plus adjoining family room (currently used as dining area), and formal dining room (currently used as an office) comprise the main level. The kitchen provides access to the deck, which provides a seamless flow for enjoying grilling/dining on the deck. A huge added bonus is the sought-after private, level backyard that includes a 10′ x 10′ shed for extra storage! You have all the room you need on the upper level too! The primary bedroom and ensuite bath, three additional bedrooms, and a full hall bath and laundry are located here.

An active lifestyle for all can be experienced by every resident, regardless of age! This spectacular property is located in Lake of the Woods, 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!

110 Battlefield Rd, Lake of the Woods, Virginia SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Professionals!

This one-level beauty is ready for you in a quiet location in a private, gated, secure community. You’ll be wowed by the condition and appeal of the fine features! Hardwoods, soaring ceilings, expansive primary suite with sitting room, awesome architecture, and screened porch, too, all on a private lot!

You’ll love the Lake of the Woods lifestyle: beaches, pools, stables, tennis, dining, golf and so much more! Located in Lake of the Woods, 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.

Essential Safety Tips When Your Home is on the Market

When selling your home, there are countless considerations to take into account. From keeping everything clean and tidy at all times to negotiating counteroffers, you may find yourself so overwhelmed that thinking about how to keep your family and possessions safe may fall by the wayside. However, with strangers constantly coming through your home for showings, safety must be a top priority. Here are some tips from the National Association of Realtors for how to stay safe when your home is on the market:

  • Before showings, remove all valuables or lock them in a safe. This includes items such as jewelry, money, credit cards and checks, personal documents (such as bills or bank statements, which may contain information that could be used to steal your identity), electronic devices, as well as prescription medications.
  • Never show your home on your own. Your realtor should be present for all showings—even if someone contacts you and identifies themselves as a buyer’s agent.
  • Ensure that your pets are secured or removed from the home before showings. The process of selling your home can be stressful for pets too, and if they attack anyone during a showing, you may be held liable.
  • After open houses, double-check that all doors and windows are locked. Sometimes, thieves will visit an open house and discreetly look for points of entry, and then return later to break in. It’s always important to ensure your home is secured against potential intruders—particularly after showings and open houses.

Source: nar.realtor.com

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.

Creamy Cauliflower Garlic Rice

Ingredients

6–8 cups chopped cauliflower
4 cups vegetable broth + 2 cups water
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups brown rice
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
6–8 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese for topping
Directions

Cook the rice according to the package directions. Set aside.
Bring the vegetable broth and water to a boil in a large pot. Add the cauliflower and boil for about 10 minutes, until tender. Transfer cauliflower pieces to a blender or food processor.

Puree the cauliflower, adding milk or extra vegetable broth to get a smooth, creamy consistency. Season with salt. Pour over the cooked rice and stir to combine.

In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter and add the garlic, sauteing over low heat until the garlic is very fragrant about 3-5 minutes. Add the creamy rice mixture and stir until butter and garlic is incorporated. Add cheese on top or stir it throughout the rice to get it melted. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Source: pinchofyum.com

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.

How to Keep the Spirit of Thanksgiving Alive Year-Round

The month of November is often associated with feelings of abundance and gratitude–yet once Thanksgiving has passed, many of us revert to being absorbed by the more negative or mundane aspects of daily life. While it may not be possible to feel grateful all the time, there are many benefits to making an effort to incorporate gratitude into your life far beyond Thanksgiving. For example, gratitude has been linked to physical and mental health benefits such as a stronger immune system, better relationships, a more optimistic attitude, and greater overall happiness.

As you prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, here are a few ideas for channeling the spirit of the season and incorporating gratitude into your everyday life year-round:

  • While maintaining a gratitude journal is not a new idea, there are some specific techniques that may help you get the most out of your practice. For instance, try not to overthink it: simply jot down a few things you feel thankful for each day. Be as specific as possible, and focus on the ordinary details of your day-to-day life. Entries in your journal don’t need to be lengthy or well-written; they simply serve to highlight the positive aspects of your life and provide you with a source of joy on bleaker days. If you have a day where you’re struggling to feel grateful for anything, try to identify something you normally take for granted, such as “clean drinking water” or “air conditioning.”
  • Thinking back on your past, reflect on obstacles you’ve overcome and difficult times through which you have persevered. Focus on how they made you stronger, and appreciate how your life has improved since then. By making the choice to let go of past hurts, you will free yourself to welcome future happiness.
  • Live in the moment, without dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Savor even the most ordinary experiences and try to view them as opportunities for growth..
  • Most people try to show the world the best aspects of their lives while concealing the negative. Therefore, you never really know what someone is going through, and allowing feelings of jealousy to consume you is a waste of energy. Instead, focus on making your own life the best it can possibly be without comparing your journey to that of others.

source: healthline.com

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.

43920 Hickory Corner Terrace #109, Ashburn VA 20147 NOW, SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

This is the big one! The 3 bedrooms, 3 levels, and 2.5 bathrooms make this the largest model unit in the Ridges at Belmont Country Club. This home features a garage, a long driveway for 2 extra cars, as well as a ground-level patio, and a 2nd-floor balcony making this one of the most desirable homes in the community. The main level has hardwood flooring throughout, while the eat-in kitchen consists of larger cabinets providing tons of storage, stainless appliances, and, granite countertops. The primary bedroom suite is on the lower level and provides enough space for a corner office and leads out to a private patio and storage. The second level has 2 ample-sized bedrooms providing great natural light from both ends of the home. The Club Corp, Belmont Country Club offers golf, parks, trails, a pool & more. With your membership, you have access to other Club Corp facilities throughout the US and internationally. The DC City club and the Tower Club in Tysons Corner are great business clubs with restaurants that you can use as well. Great Loudoun schools are within walking distance of Belmont Chase, which features Whole Foods and numerous restaurants. The W&OD Trail for jogging and biking, and One Loudoun with a movie theater, Trader Joe’s, and more restaurants, within a 5-minute commute. You are in the center of everything and can get anywhere fast using major commuter routes, Dulles Airport, or the metro silver line. Monthly fees include cable/internet, phone, water & lawn care.

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.

701 Monticello Cir, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC

Welcome to 701 Monticello Circle, a fabulous contemporary home featuring space galore, a workshop off the garage, and a fantastic private, wooded lot! You’ll be wowed the moment you enter by beautiful flooring, a chef’s kitchen with upgraded countertops, cabinetry, a backsplash, and a main-level primary suite. The expansive light-filled living room, off the kitchen, has a fireplace for those cool nights. Enjoy the spacious deck just off the kitchen/dining room perfect for entertaining or relaxing. If privacy is what you crave then you’ll love the primary bedroom with the luxurious ensuite bath! Upstairs you’ll find two more spacious bedrooms complete with an updated full bath. Looking for even more space? The unfinished basement is ready for whatever you have planned and is complete with a bathroom rough-in. Have a hobby or just need even more space to spread out? Then you don’t want to miss the workshop behind the garage, complete with workbenches and storage shelves. The possibilities are endless!

This spectacular home is located in a private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods, 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 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 contact Pat Licata.

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

104 Federal Rd, Lake of the Woods, Virginia 22508 SOLD by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 104 Federal Rd, providing a newly sealed driveway on the exterior and fresh paint on the interior! The expansive great room will become a favorite spot when you’re not enjoying the sunroom! The open floor plan and eat-in kitchen will make entertaining or hosting family a breeze. Privacy is offered by the split floor plan, with the primary bedroom and en-suite bath separated from the two additional bedrooms and hall full bath. The primary suite is complete with jetted tub and a separate shower in the en-suite bath, so you may soak the day away! This spectacular home is located in a private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods, that offers anything and everything you could possibly want.

Located in Lake of the Woods, 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.