Archives: March 2023

1327 Lakeview Pkwy, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 SOLD by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Introducing a well-maintained masterpiece located at 1327 Lakeview parkway. This 5 bedroom 3 bath split foyer home is a true gem, offering plenty of space and amenities for even the most discerning homeowner. As you step inside and move upstairs to the main living area you’re greeted by a stunning cathedral ceiling that creates a spacious and airy feel throughout the home. The main level features an open-concept floor plan with a living room, dining area, and a modern kitchen complete with plenty of storage space. Three spacious bedrooms and a guest bath are located on this level, including the primary suite. The luxurious primary suite is sure to impress with its spacious walk-in closet and a private bath with double vanity, jetted tub, and stand-up shower. This peaceful retreat is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. The lower level of the home is equally impressive, with a massive rec room that is perfect for entertaining guests, hosting movie nights, or simply relaxing with family. The gas fireplace provides a warm and cozy ambiance, making it a favorite gathering spot for all. There are two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a laundry room. The oversized garage provides ample room for parking, storage, and workspace, making it a dream for car enthusiasts, hobbyists, or anyone in need of extra storage space. Outside, the flat yard offers plenty of room for outdoor activities, relaxation, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a spacious family home or a place to entertain guests, this home is sure to impress. Don’t miss your chance to make it yours!

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.

Spring Market in Gordonsville, April 1st, 2023.

The Laurie Holladay Shop and Annie Gould Gallery are starting off Spring this year by hosting a Spring Market on Saturday, April 1st from 10 AM – 5 PM. The band, The AP Project will be playing for your musical entertainment from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM. This event is brought to you by Gordonsville on Main. Be sure to Visit MAIN STREET, Gordonsville Virginia on April 1st to check out the Spring Market! The first of many more events to come in Orange County, Virginia. Learn more about The Laurie Holladay Shop here and more about Annie Gould Gallery here, both located in Gordonsville, Virginia!

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.

Easter Bunny is Coming to Unionville, Virginia!

The Easter bunny will be visiting Unionville Florist on TWO Saturdays in April. April 1st and April 8th from 9am to 1pm. Be sure to hop on to say hello! Unionville Florist is located at 26328 Consitution Hwy, Rhoadesville Virginia 22542.

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.

Simple Ways to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Key Takeaways:

  • Curb appeal is an important part of selling your home
  • You can improve your home’s curb appeal without a professional
  • Contact us to see how improving your home’s curb appeal can help it sell

Despite what the phrase suggests, you don’t actually need to have a curb to improve your home’s “curb appeal.” Curb appeal is the overall exterior allure of your home, and has nothing to do with the concrete edge it’s named after. So, if you’re looking to sell your home in 2023–whether it’s a townhome, condo, or single-family residence–you should be evaluating your home’s curb appeal since it’s the first thing prospective buyers see. If you follow these simple tips and apply them appropriately to your property, you can make a good first impression on local homebuyers before anyone even steps through the front door.

If You Have a Lawn, Manicure It

grass being mowed

Manicure may sound like a silly word to use in this instance, but it’s accurate as you’re ultimately tending to your lawn’s cosmetics. Spruce up your lawn before showings by cutting overgrown grass and shrubbery to uniform heights and removing all weeds.. 

Of course, manicuring also includes getting rid of those patches of dried, brown, dead grass. Reseeding for new growth is optimal, but you can use lawn-safe paint to cover brown spots in a pinch if there’s no time to grow new grass. A real, natural look should be your goal as a clean lawn gives the entire property a more elegant appearance.

Tend to Your Garden Beds

windowsill flower bed with pink and white flowers

Even if you don’t have a lawn and grass to worry about, you may have garden beds that need tending. Mulch fades and decorative rocks can get lost over time. Fill in any bare spots; replace your current mulch with a fresh, brightly colored option; and remove dead plants as needed. 

Even if it’s just a windowsill flowerbed, the extra care and attention can go a long way to sprucing up your home’s curb appeal.

Give Your Door a Pop of Color

blue painted door and brick home

The front door is a surprising focal point of your home and can be one of the first things buyers notice. Unless there’s heavy damage to the door, you don’t need to replace it. Simply add a coat or two of paint, using a color that accentuates the scheme of your home. Be mindful of any HOA regulations regarding exterior paint colors as you may have to choose from a specific set of shades.

While you’re painting the door, replace the hardware to match the new color. If your old hardware does match and can be cleaned to look brand new, certainly use it. While you’re replacing the hardware, you might as well swap out any street numbers if you can find a good match.

Upgrade Your Lighting Fixtures

a lone black light fixture

Light fixtures can be a pretty big part of your home’s curb appeal. No matter how many you have, these fixtures should look updated and new. In many cases, you can clean up the ones already installed and maybe even hit them with a can of spray paint. However, it can be necessary to replace them entirely if they’re damaged or beyond repair. 

If you aren’t sure if fixtures need to be repaired, don’t tackle the project alone. We can recommend local experts who can tackle any needed updates.

Install Outdoor Path Lighting

path lighting illuminating stepping stones

Townhomes, condos, or single-family homes typically come with a walkway leading up to your front door. Even if you have a motion sensor flood light, path lighting can really enhance your space, give it a luxurious look, and even improve safety. Path lighting comes in all shapes and sizes, and, for the most part, is solar-powered. 

Additional to path lighting, you may consider adding uplighting to illuminate a lone tree, a planter you’re quite proud of, or to showcase the exterior facade of your home. Uplighting really adds a touch of class to any exterior, leaning even further into the lavished home look with minimal effort needed.

Add Simple Accents

potted plants and welcome mat accents

A home without anything out front to fill the empty space can seem vacant, cold, and dull. Even if you just add potted plants, a welcome mat, or a seasonal wreath, it can go a long way to give a welcoming look and feel. One thing to consider is symmetry. Potted plants look so much better in pairs when they’re symmetrical. 

Try not to crowd your porch or any other area you’re filling in. Just add enough to boost your home’s curb appeal.

Clean It All Up

cleaning gutters

Everything that can be seen from the road should be scrubbed, swept, wiped down, and cleared out. Gutters, stairs, windows, driveways, porches—try to make things as spotless as possible. A clean-looking home is going to be more attractive to buyers because they’ll know it’s been in good hands all these years. A high level of cleanliness shows you really cared about the space, and will certainly get buyers excited to see the rest of your home.

Put Your New Curb Appeal to Use

If you’re putting in all this work to improve your home’s curb appeal, then it must mean you’re getting ready to sell your home in 2023. Reach out to our team today to start discussing how we can leverage your new curb appeal to build a sales strategy that will attract new homebuyers. Our local sales experts use the latest market data for your neighborhood to ensure you’re getting the best return on your home.

Lake of the Woods Community Open Market!

On Saturday, June 3rd from 10am to 4pm, visit Sweetbriar Park in Lake of the Woods for a special Open Market event. Your local residents and vendors will have booths set up with crafts and other miscellaneous items to sell. Interested in participating as a vendor or seller? Registration is open now and payment will be collected between May 1st and May 10th, 2023. It will be $25 for a 10 x 10 outdoor-only spot. No electricity will be provided, so please plan accordingly. Table rentals are available (while supplies last). Contact the Community center for more details at 540-972-9680 or communityactivities@lowa.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.

Summer Theatre Camp Held by Lake of the Woods Players Club

The Summer Theatre Camp held by the Lake of the Woods Players Club at the Lake of the Woods Community Center is scheduled for the week of Monday, June 12th through Friday, June 16th, 2023 between 9AM and 3:30PM. Followed by a theater Camp Show Friday at 6 PM.
Do you have a child between the ages of 8 and 14 that shows interest in acting, singing, dancing, or a combination of all? Keep reading!

Throughout the camp, daily classes will be held for acting, singing, script writing, backstage, dance, and more. All levels are invited to attend with fun games and activities also scheduled. Students will learn and create a show to perform on the last day of camp for family and friends. The cost is $250 per attendee and includes daily snacks, a camp t-shirt, and a Friday evening dinner. Most importantly, you do NOT have to be a Lake of the Woods Resident to attend this camp. Arrangements will be made to grant access in and out of the Front Gate as a visitor during the week of this camp. For more information or to register visit their website here!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by 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.

Living Water Community Clinic in Locust Grove, Virginia Update!

The Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (VAFCC) recently announced that the Living Water Community Clinic in Locust Grove has become a full clinic member. This induction is a mark of distinction and highlights the clinic’s commitment to serving Virginia’s sickest, and most vulnerable people while meeting best practice membership standards for nonprofit management and patient care. 

The Living Water Community Clinic, located in Orange County, provides primary medical care, counseling, medications, diagnostic tests, and referrals to specialists for additional diagnostic tests to low-income patients without insurance or who are underinsured in the counties of Orange, Culpeper, and Spotsylvania. The clinic flourished and even added a dental clinic in May 2021.

The Living Water Community Clinic is one of the 60 free and charitable clinic members across the state working towards a healthier Virginia and is funded by contributions from individuals, area businesses, area churches, organizations, and grants. 

The VAFCC has been the only nonprofit organization whose mission is focused solely on the issues and needs of free and charitable clinics in Virginia for 30 years. In this role, VAFCC provides essential advocacy, support, and resources to the Commonwealth’s free and charitable clinics, helping to ensure Virginia’s medically underserved have access to quality health care. To learn more about the state’s free clinic network, visit www.FreeClinicsCare.org, and to learn more about VAFCC and who they serve, visit www.VaFreeClinics.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.

Gnarly Culpeper Block Party & Brew Fest

Culpeper Renaissance is bringing the Gnarly Culpeper block party and brew fest back on April 29th, 2023 in the Depot District in Downtown Culpeper from 12 pm – 5 pm. Live music entertainment featuring The Unsuitables as the opening act, followed by Full Moon Fever, a Tom Petty Tribute. There will be beer, cider, wine, food, and lawn games. Tickets are required for both general admission and tasting tickets (for the alcohol)! Early bird specials are being sold for a discount on admission and tastings, check them out! Tickets are available for purchase at Far Gohn Brewing Company or online at culpeperdowntown.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.

Liberty Mills Farm 2023 Planned Events!

May 27th, 9:30 AM – 3 PM Strawberry Fest (yum!). Last year there were over 900 attendees!

Sunflower Festival occurs for two weekends starting at the end of August. Guests are invited and welcome to photograph the beautiful sunflowers or create a spectacular bouquet of more than 30 varieties of sunflowers. The festival also includes live music, food, hay wagon rides, and more!

Sunflower Weekend 1, August 26th from 10 AM – 5 PM, August 27th from 11 AM – 5 PM.

Sunflower Weekend 2, September 2nd from 10 AM – 5 PM; September 3rd from 11 AM – 5 PM.

Fall Farm Festival will be held Sept 30th from 10 AM – 5 PM and October 1st from 11 AM – 5 PM.

Liberty Mills Farm is located at 9166 Liberty Mills Rd, Somerset VA 22972

For more information on any of these events, please visit their website here.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by 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.

A woman with a backpack on looking into the distance towards a lake and a forest.

Best Places in Northern Virginia for Nature Lovers

Hey there, welcome to Northern Virginia! This fantastic region of the United States has so much to offer to nature lovers. Various stunning natural landscapes and exciting outdoor recreation opportunities are just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or just looking for a change of scenery, Northern Virginia has some of the best places for nature lovers in the entire country. From breathtaking national parks and scenic trails to peaceful nature centers and botanical gardens, there’s something here for everyone. So sell your home, pack your bags, come on over, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the best places in Northern Virginia for the nature lover!

Shenandoah National Park

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park offers breathtaking views and outdoor recreation opportunities. Established in 1935, the park features over 200,000 acres of protected land and over 500 miles of hiking trails. Popular activities include hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and scenic drives along Skyline Drive. However, visit during peak fall foliage season for stunning autumn colors. Lastly, don’t forget to bring plenty of water, sturdy footwear, and warm clothing, as weather conditions vary throughout the park.

A camping site on top of a hill with a beautiful evening view of hills right next to it.
Camping in one of the best places in Northern Virginia for nature lovers may be cold, but it is worth it!

Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park is one of the must-see places in Northern Virginia for nature lovers. Located just 15 miles from Washington, D.C., this park features stunning views of the Potomac River and cascading waterfalls. Popular activities include hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking, to name a few. And if you’re moving from Portland to Northern Virginia, you’ll be amazed at just how many new views you can take in. However, first things first, you should consider hiring packing services in Portland so pros can help with the packing while planning your future adventure in Northern Virginia. When doing so, don’t forget to add the perfect place to visit for a hearty post-hike meal or a refreshing pint – Old Brogue Irish Pub to your itinerary. 

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a hidden gem in the heart of Northern Virginia. This unique park memorializes President Theodore Roosevelt and helps visitors discover some of America’s rich history. And this can all be done while also connecting to nature! Therefore, take a hike on one of the island’s scenic trails, bird-watch by the river, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the Potomac. While you explore, learn about Roosevelt’s fascinating legacy through monuments and exhibits dedicated to his life. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, Theodore Roosevelt Island is a must-visit destination. Orange County has so many other historical attractions waiting to be discovered!

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Escape to a floral paradise at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, nestled in the heart of Vienna, Northern Virginia. Here you’ll discover 95 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, scenic lakes, and wooded trails that offer a peaceful respite from city life. Some popular areas within the gardens include the Korean Bell Garden, the Gazebo Garden, and the Shade Garden. As a conservation-driven organization, the gardens prioritize sustainability and educate visitors on environmental awareness. For an unforgettable experience, visit during the fall when the gardens come alive with stunning fall foliage and the annual Winter Walk of Lights event.

The Appalachian Trail

Are you ready to hit the trail? The Appalachian Trail is a world-renowned hiking trail that stretches over 2,000 miles. It goes from Georgia to Maine, passing through 14 states in the Eastern United States. And Northern Virginia is home to some of the most scenic sections of the trail, including the (previously mentioned) Shenandoah National Park and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy and many other organizations work tirelessly to preserve and protect this national treasure. And, if you’re looking for inspiration before hitting the trail, we recommend checking out Bill Bryson’s memoir “A Walk in the Woods.” This book chronicles his adventure of hiking the entire trail. And who knows, you may have an even better experience yourself! It is important to note that this trail requires appropriate gear, such as hiking boots, a backpack, and a tent. These are vital, which is why professionals at Royal Moving Company advise on the importance and ways how to store outdoor gear. Trust us. If you follow such advice, you will prolong the longevity of your much-needed gear.

Two people hiking on a trail that goes around some hills and mountains.
Be sure you’re thoroughly prepared for the Appalachian Trail before starting your journey.

Difficult Run and Cross County Trail

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, then the Difficult Run and Cross County Trail is the perfect place. This scenic trail winds through lush forests, past babbling brooks and rocky outcroppings offering breathtaking views at every turn. You can birdwatch or enjoy the area’s natural beauty along the way. Be sure to remain mindful and enjoy the comfort of mother Nature. Plus, by hiking this trail, you’ll be supporting local conservation efforts. And by protecting and preserving these natural areas, the trail helps ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Northern Virginia’s natural landscapes. And this is why it’s one of the best places in Northern Virginia for nature lovers!

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve

Tucked away in the heart of Northern Virginia is the serene Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from everyday life. This 336-acre preserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, including wildflowers, birds, and small mammals. The preserve features a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, making it a popular destination for nature lovers in the area. Grab a couple of your loved ones and explore the best things nature so freely offers.

A woman and a man sitting on a forest floor covered with leaves while the woman is throwing them up in the air.
Sometimes the only thing you need to do to connect to nature is to be present and enjoy the moment.

Hidden Pond Nature Center

Hidden Pond Nature Center is a tranquil oasis among the bustling cities of Northern Virginia. That makes it perfect if you live in places with excellent transportation since you can find yourself among nature in less time than you would think.

As one of the best places in Northern Virginia for nature lovers, it offers a variety of outdoor activities. And this goes for visitors of all ages! Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs on a hike, catch a glimpse of a rare bird species, or reel in the day’s catch at the tranquil pond, be sure to visit Hidden Pond Nature Center. Additionally, the center’s focus on environmental education and conservation efforts makes it an excellent destination for parents. Here you can teach your kids about the region’s unique ecosystem and how we can preserve it.

Photos used:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photography-of-woman-carrying-gray-backpack-3334048/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/bonfire-surrounded-with-green-grass-field-1061640/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/hikers-walking-on-trail-in-mountains-13660327/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/happy-couple-scattering-leaves-in-park-3764176/

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.