Friends of Wildlife at the Lake (FOWL) and Old Rag Master Naturalists (ORMN), our co-sponsor, cordially invite you to our first wildlife education event, FOWL Fest, on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the LOW Community Center. This is a free, family-friendly event! Participants will have the opportunity to meet the professionals who are leaders in wildlife conservation, who inspire citizens to value the outdoors and their own role in nature, as well as the professionals who care for sick, injured, and orphaned animals, and those who provide educational opportunities and resources to the public. Learn what their individual roles are and how they work together to benefit wildlife and habitat in Virginia. Our presenters will include: ● DWR Wildlife Biologist ● Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary Director ● Lake Anna State Park Chief Ranger ● Orange County Animal Control Officer ● LOW Security Officer ● Dispatches from the Forest nature-based educator Bring your questions about local wildlife and their habitat. Find out how to resolve conflicts between humans and wildlife and learn what you can do to help create a wildlife-friendly environment at home. Special Features: ● Meet native wildlife from Lake Anna State Park and Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary ● Milkweed seed give-away ● Children’s activity table ● Virginia Master Naturalist exhibits on Spotted Lantern Fly, native plants and more ● Virginia Native Plant Society exhibits on native and invasive plants The event is free, but registration is required*. Last day to register is October 20th. Please register here: https://www.oldragmasternaturalists.org/event-fowl.html No dogs other than service animals are permitted. We look forward to seeing you there! *Attendees from outside of LOW must register in order to be put on a guest list at the gate. LOW residents are encouraged to register for an accurate count. To learn more about FOWL, visit our website: www.fowloflow.org or our Facebook page: “Friends of Wildlife at the Lake PUBLIC GROUP.”
Spread the Christmas spirit early this year by adopting an Elderly and/or disabled adult through the Orange County Department of Social Services. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to participate! Please consider the following: please plan to budget approximately $50 per person adopted and plan to make deliveries directly to the individuals’ residences listed on the application. Their application will have their information on it to contact and verify gender, special needs, sizes, food allergies, etc to help determine appropriate gifts to purchase. We hope you are able to participate and spread the holiday cheer and spirit back to the Orange County Community!
There is a form that is required to register for the adoption process, please contact Crystal Hale at 540-672-1155 for a copy of the form.
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.
Knowing your property’s real-time value is more important than ever
Build a relationship with your local real estate team to maximize your money
This is a great time to plan for the future of your home, so contact us today!
From volatile national market trends impacting local housing markets to unforeseen structural problems, a property’s value fluctuation can be tricky to gauge accurately. However, the good news for current and would-be homeowners curious about a property’s actual value in today’s market is that information is more accessible than ever. So let’s look at some of the easiest, most straightforward options for knowing a property’s actual value and why it’s so important!
Know the accurate value of your property
People usually want to know how much a home is worth to take comfort in knowing they’re making a good investment. Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial investments people will ever make. So naturally, when sellers want as much profit as possible and buyers want to pay as little as possible, achieving the right balance between these two when the closing time rolls around can be tricky. Staying informed about your home’s value and the trend of home prices in your local area allows you to make better financial decisions overall. It all boils down to knowing how much a home is realistically worth.
Suppose you’re a current homeowner about to place your property on the market who’s considering a renovation to increase your payout at closing; knowing your home’s current value will help determine if doing so is even necessary, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. Or perhaps you’re a buyer eager to make an offer; knowing a property’s real-time, comparative value in the market could help you avoid overpaying.
And this is where getting to know your local real estate professionals becomes one of the most important decisions you will make.
Build a relationship with your local real estate agent
Regardless of what is happening within the broader national housing market, buying or selling a home is always a local matter. While real estate is an industry heavily influenced by environmental, political, social, and broader economic forces that affect property value and pricing, what is valid for buyers and sellers in San Francisco differs from what is reasonable for buyers and sellers in Sioux Falls, SD.
This is where knowing who your local real estate experts are is invaluable. Top-earning real estate agents have one thing in common: they know their local real estate markets. Ask them any question about the area, and they can answer it, or at least they know where to go and who to ask to find the answer.
So, when you’re ready to put your house on the market or make an offer, the first and easiest step you can and should take is to contact your local real estate professionals. They are experts in their field who understand market etiquette and know how to make a great offer that achieves the difficult balance of satisfying both buyer and seller. The right real estate agent knows how to negotiate the complex web of forms best, and they can foresee issues you might not.
Discover Your Real Estate Partnership
If you’re ready to 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 best navigate today’s market. So don’t hesitate to reach out and say Hello! to figure out your best options for buying or selling your home!
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.
