Category Archives: Fredericksburg Real Estate

“Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center: An Upcoming Spectacular Destination in Spotsylvania, VA!”

Greetings, adventure seekers and fun enthusiasts! If you’re looking forward to a getaway to create unforgettable memories with your family and friends, it’s only a few years away, as ground has been broken in Spotsy! Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center is bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to Spotsylvania County, Virginia, and I’m here to give you a sneak peek into the excitement that awaits.

Unveiling a Wonderland in Spotsylvania

In 2026, the grand doors of Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center will swing open, welcoming guests to a sprawling paradise that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. This $900 million wonderland, situated conveniently off I-95, is set to be Virginia’s largest indoor waterpark and convention center, making it the ultimate adventure destination for families in the DC-Maryland-Virginia metro area and beyond.

Splash into Adventure

Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center is renowned for its unique blend of America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark Resorts and world-class meeting and convention spaces. This massive resort will boast over 175,000 square feet of indoor waterpark fun, featuring hair-raising waterslides, wave pools, a thrilling kids’ play area, and even indoor surfing. Every guest’s stay includes complimentary access to this aquatic wonderland.

Adventure Awaits Indoors and Outdoors

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The Tom Foolerys Adventure Park offers a plethora of indoor attractions and activities, including a ropes course, arcade games, zip lines, and climbing walls. If you’re craving more thrills, the 90,000-square-foot indoor theme park has you covered with a ropes course, climbing obstacles, zip lines, laser tag, mini-golf, and an impressive selection of arcade games.

For those who like to stay active even during their vacations, Kalahari Fitness and Training provides an on-site fitness studio complete with free weights, machines, and more. Plus, there are 24-hour fitness centers for the night owls. And yes, free WiFi to share your memorable moments!

A World of Accommodations

Choose from a variety of room styles to cater to your needs and preferences. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll find options like Single Suites, Double Queen Sofa rooms, King Bunk Suites, and King Suites featuring whirlpool tubs for a touch of luxury. Every room is beautifully appointed with imported African art and artifacts, creating a unique and inspiring atmosphere.

More Than Just Water Fun

At Kalahari, creating experiences for everyone is the mission. Beyond the waterpark, you can enjoy character visits, cutting-edge arcades, mini-golf, live entertainment, and unique retail shops. Be sure to check out the wide array of goods hand-picked by family owners, and supplied by African partners, to bring back a piece of Africa as a lasting memory of your getaway.

A Culinary Adventure

World-class dining is a significant part of the Kalahari experience. The resort features an array of restaurants, from Double Cut Steak House offering robust selections to Sortino’s Italian Kitchen, delivering the flavors of Italy. Cinco Niños serves modern Mexican cuisine, while B-Lux Grill & Bar tempts you with unique burgers and shakes. And for those with a sweet tooth, The Last Bite will satisfy your cravings.

Perfect for Business and Beyond

For those looking to mix work and play, Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center offers over 150,000 square feet of meeting space, diverse shopping, and expansive venues. The resort transforms business meetings into enjoyable family experiences, bridging the gap between obligations and enjoyment.

Cherish Life’s Moments

But Kalahari isn’t just about business; it’s also about the celebration of love and family. Imagine having your wedding at Kalahari Resorts, where every detail, from catering to activities, is taken care of. It’s a day that you and your loved ones will remember forever.

Meeting Expectations and More

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is your ultimate all-under-one-roof experience. From trade shows to family reunions, it’s an ideal location for any gathering. With versatile meeting spaces, stunning accommodations, and exceptional amenities, we ensure picture-perfect stays, meetings, and experiences that go beyond expectations.

So, are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait for the doors to open! Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center in Spotsylvania, VA, is poised to be the destination for making unforgettable memories with family, friends, and colleagues.

 Kalahari – where every moment is an adventure waiting to happen. 🌴💦🌞🎉

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our expert advisors 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 be a Great Host and Avoid Stress

Our homes are our most personal, most intimate spaces – even the best houseguests disrupt our lives. If you’re looking forward to visiting with friends and family this season, communication is key. These quick tips will help you make the most of your time together and avoid stress or hard feelings.

Dinner or a Party

When hosting a party, include both the start and end times in the invitation and let your guests know what to expect. Include what kinds of food to expect, the attire, and any special activities you have planned – for example, if you’ve hired a photographer for a rare extended family photo, let everyone know to gather at 6 p.m. in front of the fireplace for photos.

At the end of the night, wrap things up with your guests. Gather their coats and belongings, pack up some dessert for them to take home, and move the conversation to the entryway. To usher out lingering guests, put away the food and drinks, stop the music, and start cleaning up. One particularly clever way to make sure the party ends on time is to plan an outing at the end of the party – like a stroll through a local holiday light display or a movie.

Overnight houseguests

When hosting overnight guests, again, include the end time in the invitation and let your guests know what to expect. Before the visit begins, discuss transportation, arrival time, departure time, accommodations, and house rules. For example, will they be sleeping in the guest room or on the couch? Are there allergies or food preferences to consider? Do they understand that foul language is not allowed in front of the kids? And is everyone very clear on the last day? Plan activities during the visit, and plan for downtime as well. Overplanning will leave everyone tired and tense with little time for relaxation. Try scheduling one main activity per day, and don’t be afraid to plan independent time too so your guests can explore on their own. Provide a map with your favorite places marked or a visitor’s guide highlighting events and attractions in the area.

Sources: psychologytoday.com & theglobeandmail.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.

The Best Trick-or-Treat House on the Block!

If the arrival of spooky season has you dreaming up costumes and decorations, you’re in good company. Halloween is a favorite holiday in the United States and one of the most fun! With these tips, you could have the best trick-or-treat house on the block.

Make it Obvious

Most importantly, ensure the front porch is well-lit to signal your house is open for trick-or-treating. The more lighting the better – consider lit-up jack-o-lanterns and decorations and add lighting for walkways to make the path clear. Adding fall- or Halloween-themed decorations can help advertise that costumed visitors are welcome. You can keep it simple with a wreath or some window decals, or you can put on a fantastic show with scary figures, colored lighting, spooky music, and a fog machine. (Don’t make it too scary though if you don’t want to scare the little ones off.)

It’s All About the Treats

If you want that coveted spot as THE house to visit, you’ve got to have great treats. Now, keep them store-bought and pre-packaged because parents worry about poisoned treats, but use your imagination, and get the good stuff. Give uncommon treats to be remembered. Here are some ideas: hot cocoa, microwave popcorn, fruit roll-ups, gum, chips, crackers, or full-sized candy bars.

It’s great to offer allergy-safe and non-food options to make sure there’s a treat for everybody. It can be super fun to fill a bowl with princess jewelry, glow sticks, slime, bookmarks, collectible cards, miniature plushies, temporary tattoos, stickers, or any small toys you can think of.

Make it an Experience

It’s so much more fun when you have fun with it. Wear a costume to hand out treats, play music or a spooky sounds playlist, or set up motion-activated figures and lights. You could put something spooky in the bottom of the treat bowl or even have a small activity like decorating miniature pumpkins with colorful markers, making balloon animals, or taking instant photographs and giving them to the parents.

Take the experience to the next level by inviting your neighbors to stop over. Make smores on a front yard campfire, offer refreshments, and set up activities for the kids.

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.

Maximize Your Home Sale with the Power of Equity

Key Points

  • Understanding your home equity can be a game-changer when deciding to sell your home, especially in today’s market of high mortgage rates.
  • Nearly 70% of homeowners have significant equity, making it an opportune time to consider selling.
  • Our expert real estate team is here to guide you through the process, offering free home equity assessments and answering any questions you may have.

What is Home Equity and Why Does It Matter?

couple standing in the kitchen chatting

Home equity is more than just a financial term; it’s your ticket to new opportunities. In simple terms, home equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and the remaining balance on your mortgage. But why should you care? Well, with today’s real estate market, understanding your home equity can be a game-changer when you decide to move.

The Equity Boom: A Silver Lining in Today’s Market

couple waving at laptop on virtual meeting

You’re not alone if you’re hesitant to sell your home due to high mortgage rates. However, there’s good news. According to data from ATTOM and the Census, nearly 68.7% of homeowners have either paid off their mortgages or have at least 50% equity in their homes. That’s right—almost 70% of homeowners are sitting on a goldmine of equity!

How Understanding Your Equity Can Ease the Selling Process

couple moving packing boxes

Knowing your home equity can remove a lot of the uncertainty around selling your home. With significant equity, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing your next home, negotiating deals, and even covering moving expenses. And the best part? Our expert real estate team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Leveraging Equity: Your Hidden Asset

handing over house keyes

Understanding your home equity isn’t just about knowing numbers; it’s about leveraging this asset to your advantage. With our expertise, we can help you strategize on how to use your equity for a down payment on a new home, or even as a financial cushion for future investments. It’s not just about selling your home; it’s about planning your financial future.

Take the Next Step: Unlock Your Home Equity Today

Ready to unlock the potential of your home equity? Don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact our expert real estate team today for a free home equity assessment or with any questions you may have. Your future home awaits!

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.

Under Contract: Welcome Home to 12004 Branchwater Street, Fredericksburg, Va. 22407


Welcome to your beautifully renovated dream home! This spacious split-level gem, spanning approximately 2,400 square feet, offers not only a modern and stylish living space but also a treasure trove of cherished memories waiting to be created. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the inviting atmosphere of fresh paint and luxurious LVP flooring that extends throughout the entire home. The heart of this residence, the kitchen, has undergone a complete transformation, boasting white shaker-style cabinets, elegant granite countertops, and gleaming stainless steel appliances. It’s a chef’s paradise ready to host holiday cooking extravaganzas and friendly cook-offs. The upper level features a generous living room and an adjacent dining room that seamlessly leads to a brand-new back deck overlooking the backyard. Imagine enjoying alfresco dinners and gatherings under the open sky, creating countless new memories with loved ones. Venturing down the hall, you’ll discover the primary ensuite, two more cozy bedrooms, and a well-appointed guest bathroom. This upper level is designed for comfort and convenience, providing ample space for rest and relaxation. The lower level of this home is a true delight, offering two additional bedrooms, another full bathroom, a spacious family room, and an expansive laundry room with plenty of storage and convenient outdoor access. It’s the perfect setting for movie nights, game days, and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Speaking of location, this fantastic property is ideally situated with a wealth of shopping and dining options just moments away. Plus, its proximity to I-95 ensures easy access to all the attractions and opportunities that the area has to offer. This home isn’t just a house; it’s a canvas for a lifetime of warmth, laughter, and memories. Don’t miss the chance to make it your own and create the next chapter in its story. Come and experience the true essence of welcoming, family-friendly living at its finest. Your new home awaits!

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.

Norfolk Mac & Cheese Festival

  

<a href=”https://www.vecteezy.com/free-photos”>Free Stock photos by Vecteezy</a>

September 30 · 2pm – October 1 · 8pm

Waterside District

333 Waterside Drive Norfolk, VA 23510

Get ready to dive into a world of cheesy indulgence at the 4th annual Norfolk Mac & Cheese Festival, coming to the vibrant Waterside District on September 30th & October 1st, 2023! This event is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of everyone’s favorite comfort food – Mac n’ Cheese! So mark your calendars and bring your appetites for a two-day extravaganza that promises to be cheesier and more delicious than ever before.

Imagine a festival where your taste buds dance with joy amidst the aroma of creamy, savory, and crispy Mac & Cheese delights. It’s more than a food festival; it’s a cheesy paradise where dreams of macaroni are made. From peppery kicks to crispy breadcrumbs, you’ll discover a spectrum of flavors that cater to every mac and cheese desire you’ve ever had.

But it’s not just about the cheese – it’s about the experience. This family-friendly event is loaded with entertainment that will keep you grinning from ear to ear. With live performances that set the stage for an unforgettable atmosphere, the festival also boasts thrilling eating contests that will have you cheering on contestants as they devour mouthfuls of cheesy goodness. And if you’re up for some friendly competition, grab a partner and join the Cornhole Tournament and other tailgate games that’ll keep the excitement going.

Picture yourself wandering through the festival’s artisan marketplace, discovering unique finds and delectable treats. But let’s not forget the kids! A Family Fun Zone awaits, complete with bounce houses, face painters, and even a free Pumpkin Patch & Painting station. And for the VIP experience seekers, there’s an exclusive area where you can savor all-you-can-eat mac and cheese, sip on crafted beverages, and enjoy special amenities that make your visit even more extraordinary.

Speaking of tickets, the General Admission ticket is a steal at just $9.99*. This grants you entry into the festival and includes a drink voucher to get you started on your cheesy journey. If you’re ready to go all out, the VIP ticket at $54.99* grants you early access, all-you-can-eat mac and cheese, multiple drink vouchers, and access to the VIP area with premium amenities.

Hungry yet? Over 15 Mac & Cheese Food Vendors, offering more than 40 styles of this delightful dish, will be waiting to impress your taste buds. To navigate this cheesy wonderland, the voucher system is in play. Purchase voucher sheets and exchange them for servings of your desired mac and cheese creations. And don’t worry – if you’re thirsty, there are bars, beverage stations, and a craft beer garden serving up your favorite drinks.

For those with a competitive streak, the Mac & Cheese Eating Contest will have you cheering and gasping in awe as participants battle to become the ultimate mac and cheese champion. And let’s not forget the awards ceremony – where the finest mac and cheese creations are recognized and celebrated.

So, gather your friends, bring your family, and join us at the Norfolk Mac & Cheese Festival for a cheesy celebration that’s bound to leave you smiling, satisfied, and perhaps a little bit cheesier than before. And remember, children 10 and under are free – making it an event that’s perfect for all ages. Don’t miss out on this cheesy extravaganza; your taste buds will thank you! So click the link below to purchase your tickets today.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/norfolk-mac-cheese-festival-tickets-690417115177?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse

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 home owners. 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.

Kale Quinoa Salad with Walnuts, Cranberries, and Feta 


Ingredients 

4 cups loosely packed shredded kale
2 cups shredded Brussels sprout leaves (about 1/2 pound of Brussels sprouts, shredded)
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 cup dried cranberries
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
1 cup California Walnuts
1/2 cup poppy seed dressing

Directions 

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and toss to combine and coat all ingredients with dressing.

Add more dressing as needed.

Source: rachelcooks.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 home owners. 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.

5228 Sweet Gum terrace, fredericksburg virginia

5228 Sweet Gum Terrace, Fredericksburg Virginia 22407 SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC

This great townhouse boasts a spacious and inviting eat-in kitchen, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying family meals. With three cozy bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms, there is ample space for all. The convenience of having laundry on the second floor makes daily chores a breeze, while the laminate flooring throughout the home adds a touch of elegance and durability. Step out onto the deck and take in the fresh air and sunshine in your own fully fenced-in backyard. Located in a prime location, this townhouse is just a stone’s throw away from shopping, restaurants, hospitals, the VRE, and I-95. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this house your home.

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 Get Your Home Ready to Sell in 2023

Key Takeaways:

  • Sell your home faster with these easy repair and design tips
  • Minor improvements can make a big difference
  • Contact us to sell your home for top dollar in 2023

Thinking about selling your home in 2023? Your property’s interior and exterior look and feel have a direct impact on the final sale price of your home. Investing in minor improvements such as paint, flooring, or furniture creates an inviting atmosphere and draws potential buyers. Before you list your home, try these proven tips to help get you every penny your home is worth!

Remove extra clutter in your home

Realtor is giving the keys to a home to clients.

A home free of clutter can help potential buyers see the true beauty in your space. Not only does removing the clutter make viewing easier, but a clean room shows that you take care of your home. Removing items blocking walkways or other essential areas allows buyers to better imagine their furniture and possessions in each room. Decluttering also helps you keep organized as you move out, simplifying the packing process. Don’t let unnecessary objects get in the way of potential buyers seeing how great your space is!

A fresh coat of paint goes a long way

Neutral living room

Neutral colors make a home appear clean, open, and inviting, so painting the walls in a neutral shade is a must for anyone getting ready to sell their property. Neutral colors help buyers envision the space as their own – allowing them to mentally plan how they’ll use the rooms in their new home. Plain colors can also make furniture and other decorations stand out, so they don’t have to worry about adjusting pieces to match what was already on the walls. Utilizing neutral colors will give potential buyers an idea of how a room would look if decorated with their own style and personality.

Entice homebuyers as soon as they arrive

Beautiful, Newly Built Luxury Home Exterior

Increasing your home’s curb appeal is an easy and satisfying way to give your living space a fresh look. By tidying up the yard and enhancing the house’s exterior, you can create an inviting atmosphere that potential buyers will love coming home to. Taking care of the lawn can be as simple as mowing regularly or adding potted plants and foliage that match your decor style. Paying extra attention to specific details, like painting the front door, can help your property stand out nicely. An easy and inexpensive option to add instant curb appeal is to have your house power-washed. With just a little effort, you can craft a stunning outdoor environment that will draw admirers far and wide.

Let’s Discuss Your Real Estate Goals

If you’re thinking about selling your home in 2023, right now is the best time to start getting ready. Contact our team to discuss your real estate goals so we can help you build a smart strategy for selling. Our team has the local experience you need and backs our advice with the latest market data for your neighborhood to help you get top dollar for your home!

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.

FXBG Kid Fest 2023!

We all know the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference center is on its A-game when it comes to organizing events. It doesn’t stop at the FXBG Kids Fest event this February 11th-12th, 2023. Doors will be open from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 10am – 3 pm on Sunday. As presented on their website, this event is about celebrating the kids.  For the kiddos, it will be like a second birthday of the year. Pack them up and bring them over to the FXBG Kids Fest, where they get to unload all their extra energy and make you the #1 person in their world, even if it’s for one day.  Kid’s tickets are $5 each, while general admission for adults is $8. There are additional fees for select activities once inside the venue. For more information about this event and to purchase tickets, visit 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.