Spring is often considered a time for renewal, and as the flowers begin to bloom and the days grow longer, many people feel compelled to celebrate the season by giving their homes a thorough cleaning. While spring cleaning your living space is important, taking time to clean out any mental and emotional clutter that may be weighing you down can be beneficial as well.
Thinking it may be time for a “spring cleaning for the soul?” are 5 tips to help you start fresh this spring:
Examine your beliefs and thought patterns. Do you harbor any limiting beliefs that may be holding you back from pursuing your dreams or living your most fulfilled life? Do you struggle with negative self-talk or other harmful behaviors? Identifying and addressing these patterns is essential for creating more space for happiness and growth, but doing so may require you to take proactive measures, such as working with a professional counselor or coach.
Take stock of your relationships. From professional acquaintances to friends or romantic partners to family members, the people close to you can have a significant impact on your overall happiness. Therefore, as difficult as it may be, it’s important to occasionally look at the relationships in your life and see if there are any that repeatedly bring you down or drain your energy. While it’s not always necessary to end the relationship, you may need to find a way to set boundaries in order to protect your mental and emotional health.
Make your physical health a priority. It’s difficult to be happy when you’re not feeling your best physically. While goals related to diet and exercise are more often associated with New Year’s, spring can also be a great time to commit to your physical well-being. For instance, with the weather getting nicer, make time for regular walks or hikes, and try to incorporate as many in-season fruits and veggies into your diet as possible.
Cut down on daily distractions. In our noisy world, it can be difficult to avoid letting various distractions drain our time and energy. Whether you find yourself distracted by social media, the news, binge-watching your favorite TV shows, or anything else, now is a good time to become more aware of your “time-sucks” and try to cut down on them.
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.
Kosher salt 8 ounces penne 8 ounces snap peas, trimmed and halved crosswise 1 bunch thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces 1 small bunch kale (preferably Tuscan kale), stems removed and leaves roughly chopped 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 large bunch fresh chives, chopped Grated zest of 1 lemon, plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon 1/4 cup coarsely grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs; add the peas, asparagus and kale to the pot during the last 3 minutes of cooking and stir occasionally. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain the pasta and vegetables. Meanwhile, combine the olive oil, all but 2 tablespoons chives, the lemon zest and juice, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper in a blender. Add 3 tablespoons cold water and pulse until smooth, scraping down the inside of the blender. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in the tarragon and drizzle with olive oil.
Add the pasta and vegetables to the chive puree along with 1/4 cup of the reserved cooking water and half of the cheese; season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat, adding more cooking water to loosen, if necessary. Serve topped with the remaining cheese and chives.
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 quick upgrades to major renovations, home remodeling projects can be an effective way to enhance your enjoyment of your living space while (hopefully) boosting resale value. However, many home improvements carry significant costs—and particularly if you’re planning to move soon, you may be wondering which upgrades offer the strongest return on investment. While specific amounts will vary depending on the market in your area and your home’s price range, the National Association of REALTORS® Research Group’s 2022 Remodeling Impact Report offers some interesting insights into the most valuable home improvements. Here are a few key takeaways from the report:
– When it came to interior remodeling projects, hardwood floor refinishing carried the greatest cost recovery at 147% of the project cost; homeowners spent an average of $3,400 to have their hardwood floors refinished and recovered an estimated $5,000 in added value at resale. Installing new wood flooring was close behind at 118% cost recovery, followed by upgrading the home’s insulation at 100%.
– While kitchen and bathroom remodels are often thought to have the greatest impact at resale, these projects fell lower on the list in terms of cost recovery, with complete kitchen renovations at 75% and bathroom renovations at 71%. Only 13% of realtors said they would recommend that their clients undertake a kitchen renovation before selling their home, and 26% would recommend a bathroom renovation.
– As far as exterior remodeling projects, adding new roofing and new garage doors delivered the highest ROI, both with 100% cost recovery. Surprisingly, new windows and doors yielded the least amount of value at resale. New vinyl windows had an average cost recovery of 67% and new wood windows 63%, with only 4% of realtors saying they’d recommend that their clients install either before putting their homes on the market. New steel front doors brought a cost recovery of 63% and fiberglass doors 60%, and just 3% of realtors would recommend these upgrades.
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.
The Lake of the Woods Church is hosting its annual LOWC Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 1st at 11 AM. There will be over 1,000 eggs hidden, and a drawing for door prizes. Getting hungry? The Family Food Palace Food Truck will be present for purchase. The Easter Egg Hunt starts at 11:15 AM. The drawing and Gospel message will be after the Hunt. All are welcome to join. For more info, please message the Lake of the Woods Church on Facebook or email Mandy at Mandy.Robinson@lowchurch.org
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.
TRIAD and Orange County Sheriff’s Office Presents THRIVE BEYOND 55, a free, local community conference at the Lake of the Woods Church on Wednesday, April 19th from 9am to 3pm. TRIAD is an initiative of the Sherriff’s Office that focuses on the safety and security of the county’s older adults, providing programs to prevent victimization and tools to help us thrive. There will be speakers covering topics such as fraud, protecting your assets, and a keynote from the Office of the State Attorney General. TRIAD Coordinator, Deputy Ron Kesner will talk about TRIAD’s programs that benefit older adults. There will be coffee, a catered lunch, door prizes, and exhibitors that serve the senior community. Please spread the word and flyer to anyone who may benefit from attending this free conference. Registration is required due to limited seating – please follow the instructions in the flyer below to register!
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 recent financial events could lead to significant savings on your dream home
In the ever-changing world of finance and real estate, sometimes the unexpected can lead to new opportunities. The recent collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and a few other regional banks might seem like bad news, but it could actually present a golden opportunity for potential homebuyers. Let’s delve into the backstory and explore how these events can benefit you.
A Brief Backstory
A few years ago, in 2020 and 2021, banks saw a flood of new deposits as a result of stimulus money and increased savings during the pandemic. To make the most of this influx, banks invested in low-interest treasury bonds and mortgage-backed securities, locking in 1-2% returns for years. Fast forward to today, and the Federal Reserve has significantly raised interest rates, making those previous investments far less attractive. This series of events has contributed to the banks’ downfall.
The Silver Lining for Homebuyers
The collapse of these banks and the subsequent rapid drop in interest rates have led to a decrease in mortgage rates, as they typically align with the 10-year treasury. We’re now seeing mortgage rates below 6%—a significant decrease that could save you over $200 a month on the average home in our area!
Seizing the Opportunity
If you or someone you know has been considering purchasing a home, this recent turn of events could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to save big. Here are a few steps you can take to make the most of these favorable financial conditions:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage: With lower interest rates available, now is the time to secure your mortgage pre-approval to lock in these favorable rates.
Start your home search: Begin exploring potential homes and neighborhoods that fit your criteria. Consider working with a knowledgeable real estate agent who can guide you through the process and help you make the most of this opportunity.
Navigating the Current Market
The recent collapse of banks might seem like a cause for concern, but it has opened up a window of opportunity for homebuyers to secure their dream home at a potentially lower cost. By acting quickly and working with knowledgeable professionals, you can take advantage of this rare chance to save on your mortgage and make your dream of homeownership a reality.
If you have any questions or need assistance navigating these unique market conditions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Your dream home is here! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rambler built in 2020 offers an impressive 1605 square feet of living space. The open floor plan creates a welcoming environment, perfect for entertaining and spending quality time with loved ones. Privacy is a priority in this home as two spacious bedrooms and a full bath are separate from the primary suite, providing an added layer of seclusion. Relax on lazy afternoons on the covered porch or retreat to the luxurious primary suite, complete with a large walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom featuring a double vanity and a large walk-in shower. This home boasts modern features and exceptional attention to detail, sure to impress any homeowner. The two-car garage provides ample space for parking with other uses and is an essential feature for families that need extra storage space or for those who want to pursue a hobby without disturbing the rest of the family. Come see for yourself and make this spectacular creation your forever home! 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 contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
This elegant colonial home, built in 2021, offers the perfect blend of classic design and modern convenience. Nestled near the back gate of the community, it boasts a 2-car garage and a charming front porch, perfect for relaxing on lazy afternoons. The main level of the home is bright and airy, with an open-concept design that makes it perfect for entertaining guests. The kitchen features sleek stainless steel appliances, gleaming granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space for storage. The adjacent living and dining areas provide ample space for relaxation and conversation. Upstairs, the primary suite is a true oasis, with a spacious walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom. Here, you’ll find a stand-up shower with bench seating, and a double vanity with gorgeous granite countertops. Two additional bedrooms and a hall bath round out the second floor of the home. The finished basement of the home offers even more living space, with a large rec room, a fourth bedroom, and a full bath. Looking for an in-law suite, older teen quarters, or multi-generational living? The basement offers so much flexibility! Whether you’re hosting out-of-town guests or simply looking for a place to unwind, this home has everything you need to feel comfortable and relaxed. Come see it for yourself today!
Located in 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.
Indulge in the ultimate waterfront lifestyle with this magnificent 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home. From the moment you step inside, the luxury vinyl flooring and spacious main level greet you warmly. The primary bedroom and full bath provide a perfect haven to unwind with its jetted tub, stand-up shower, and double vanity. The half bath on the main level makes it an ideal spot for entertaining guests while admiring the picturesque views of the water. Don’t forget about the expansive deck off the living room to share its lake views while grilling and entertaining. As you venture downstairs, you’ll find two more sizable bedrooms and another full bathroom, perfect for hosting family and guests. However, the real standout feature of this property is the screened porch tucked under the main deck. You can enjoy the tranquil water views while napping, reading a book, or while sipping on your favorite beverage, listening to music, and sharing laughs with your loved ones. This home is a water lover’s paradise, with water views from almost every room and offering ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming right at your doorstep. You’ll love the spacious rooms, garage, and unbeatable location of this waterfront gem. Don’t miss the chance to make this dream home yours!
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 contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
One of the great things about living in Orange County, VA, is that fantastic locally-grown food is available for a low price. Living healthy and supporting the local community is easy in a location like this one. With these farmers markets in Orange County, VA, grocery shopping is easy. In addition, these farmer’s markets have more than just vegetables and herbs. You will find a wide range of products, from hand-made souvenirs to sweet treats. Furthermore, farmer’s markets make shopping a pleasant and stress-free experience.
Benefits of going to farmers markets in Orange County, VA
The economic pros of going shopping at farmer’s markets are plenty. It is a great way to save money on your weekly grocery shopping. As you’ll find almost everything you need in one place, you won’t have to spend as much on gas. You can support the local small businesses and farms by purchasing their produce. Meeting the local business owners will be easy, too. It’s one of the ways to connect with people. If you are looking to move to Orange County permanently, the friendly community will surely motivate you to make that step forward. To make the entire process of moving and unpacking your new household easier, you can do it efficiently with a couple of simple tricks. Following these tips will make moving effortless.
But there are other benefits of farmer’s markets that you may not see at first. Your diet will improve, as you’ll have only the best and healthiest products available. You can even start meal prepping if you haven’t already. Meal prepping is something anyone who is looking to live an eco-friendly lifestyle should do. Not only will it let you help the environment, but it will eliminate cooking throughout the work week. This will give you more free time to spend however you’d like. And by shopping locally for your products, you will produce less waste. Orange County is the perfect place where you can live a simple life and connect with nature.
Purchase fabulous products at low prices.
Liberty Mills Farm
This farm is a great place to do your shopping in Orange County. What distinguishes Liberty Mills Farm from the rest of these farmer’s markets is the wide range of different homemade sweets and treats. They are more healthy and tasty than store-bought options. Seasonal products such as strawberries and pumpkins are popular products. But what’s even more popular is the variety of different condiments, such as salsa and barbecue sauce. However, Liberty Mills Farm is also a good way to spend a day with your family or friends. It features various activities you can enjoy during your visit. A corn maze is a simple activity for all ages. Besides this, you can visit the pumpkin patch or enjoy the sunflower festival. At any time of the year, this farmer’s market offers great products and fabulous fun. This farm truly makes grocery shopping an unforgettable experience.
Miller Farms Market
Open every day except Sunday; the Millers Farm Market has everything you will need for your weekly meal prep. It is located in Locust Grove and features CSA. This stands for community-supported agriculture, and it is an easy way to support local businesses. It makes shopping easier than going to the store and picking everything out. With this business model, you will have easier access to local produce. This farmers market is known for having fresh milk and good-quality meat. Another important thing you can buy here during the winter months is firewood.
One of these farmer’s markets in Orange County features a sunflower festival
The Market at Grelen
If you love gardening, this is the right place for you to visit. At this farmers market, you’ll find several different and fabulous plants for your garden. The Market at Grelen has everything you need, from houseplants to trees. Besides the plants, The Market at Grelen also features gifts, home decor, and other locally-made things. If you are starting your gardening hobby, you can buy all the tools and accessories you’ll need right here, along with the plants. Orange County is the perfect place to move to if you want to connect with nature and spend time doing outdoor activities, including gardening. Once you visit this farmers market, you’ll notice just how beautiful it is, so much so that it has become a popular place for weddings, photo shoots, and other private events. It truly is a place you’ll love returning to.
Darnell’s Garden Patch
There’s nothing better than buying produce straight from the producers at farmers markets in Orange County. Darnell’s Garden Patch makes it possible to buy fresh produce for a low price. This is a family-run business right here in Orange, VA. They have a wide range of products you can purchase. Here, you’ll find a garden center with everything you need. You can purchase fresh herbs, such as rosemary and parsley. These will make cooking more enjoyable. Besides the veggies and herbs, they have a wide range of other products, too.
Honey is another popular item you can purchase right here. But regular honey isn’t the only honey-based product offered here. You can purchase some of the available honey lollipops as a unique treat. And if you love a good cup of coffee, you can buy some great, locally roasted coffee at Darnell’s Garden Patch. They even have a decaf option for you to try out. Their selection of hand-made souvenirs and household items makes weekly shopping trips a little more fun. Treat yourself to a hand-made piece of jewelry during your shopping trip.
Honey is another product you can find in some of these markets
The bottom line
These farmers markets in Orange County have everything you will ever need for your weekly grocery shopping. You’ll support the local community and your neighbors by purchasing all your products here. In addition, you’ll upgrade your diet and make it healthier than ever. Living an eco-friendly life will be much easier when you take advantage of the wonderful location that is Orange County. Visit some of the farmer’s markets and see for yourself why they are such a popular choice. Once you start shopping here, you’ll never return to the supermarkets.
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.
