Category Archives: Licata on the Lake

LicataLive! at 11AM, Every Tuesday on Facebook! (Archived 2021-2022)

Join us every Tuesday at 11 AM EST on our Facebook page for Licata Live,

where you can ask questions to different members of our team every week!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Northern Virginia, or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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 area 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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

May 2021 Lake of the Woods Monthly Market Stats

In May, 24 homes sold in Lake of the Woods.
1 sold between $130-199,999;
1 sold between $200-249,999;
3 sold between $250,000-299,999;
8 sold between $300-349,999;
6 sold between $350,000-399,999;
1 sold between $400-599,999;
1 home sold over $500,000.; 1 home sold over $600,000;
1 home sold over $700,000; 1 home sold over $800,000;
1 home sold over $900,000!

14 Active Listings for Sale
52 Homes Under Contract
135 Homes Sold since January 1, 2021.

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

The Top 4 Questions to Ask When Buying a Home with a Pool

Key Takeaways:

  • Pools are a highly coveted amenity, and having one of your own comes with quite a few perks.
  • Want to know the ins and outs of pool ownership? We’ve outlined some must-ask questions that every homebuyer should consider.
  • No matter what kind of home you’re looking to buy, you can always reach out to us for advice—give us a call to start your next chapter!

Here Are the Questions You Need to Ask Before Buying a Home with a Pool

If you’re in the market for a new home, a pool might be at the top of your wishlist—and having one comes with quite a few health, entertaining, and financial benefits! However, before you commit to buying a home with this luxurious feature, there are some questions you might want to ask first.

Want to learn the ins and outs of buying a home that comes with a pool? Here’s everything you need to know. 

What are the most common types of pools?

Pool with deck and chairs

Generally, most pools fall into two categories: above-ground and in-ground. Above-ground pools cost less to maintain and are statistically safer. However, in-ground pools blend into your yard’s natural landscape, and because they’re permanent, they may increase your home’s value over time. 

Pools can also be subdivided into a number of other categories based on their materials (fiberglass, concrete, etc.), the type of water (fresh or saltwater), and styles (lap pools, infinity pools, or spas). It’s best to do plenty of research in advance and ask your agent for more details on a home’s pool.

What should I know about pool maintenance?

Cleaning a pool

In most cases, pools cost around $100 or more each month to maintain and can require an hour of work per week depending on the season. However, this number varies based on your location and whether or not you use a professional service.

As a pool owner, you’ll be responsible for cleaning any debris, adding pool chemicals, as well as maintaining the pump and filter. You may also want to periodically test pH levels, vacuum your pool, and use cleaners to shock the water.

Over time, your pool will require more expensive maintenance, especially if a part goes bad or there’s a problem with the overall structure. If you have any concerns, your agent can be a helpful resource as you weigh the pros and cons.

Should I worry about pool safety?

If you plan on having children or pets near your pool, you want to ensure that it has the latest safety features. Fencing, mesh covers, and pool alarms add another layer of protection for all ages. If a pool doesn’t already have these upgrades, you’ll want to factor in the cost of adding them. More costly gadgets—such as alarms and fences—will set you back a few hundred dollars. 

Will home inspectors check a pool?

Checking a pool's chemical levels

Home inspectors almost always check a pool during their evaluation. However, if they aren’t well-versed in the specifics of pool maintenance, they may miss some critical issues. If you have any in-depth questions about a pool’s condition, hire a professional pool inspector before the closing. They’ll go beyond a general checklist and give you a thorough look at any problems a pool might have. Most pool inspectors will also provide an itemized list of potential repairs that can help you negotiate the final price of a home.

Want to know some of the most common red flags inspectors might point out? Be wary of any cracks in the pool’s interior, foul-smelling or off-color water, clogged filters, or broken equipment. 

Ready to Have Some Fun in the Sun?

Pools can require some effort and money to maintain, but you simply can’t beat the benefits of having your own swimming space. If you’re dreaming of buying a home with a pool, we’d love to help you track down your perfect place! Just give us a call to get started—we look forward to working with you!

Selling a home with a pool? Contact us to learn more about getting top-dollar in no time at all.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Northern Virginia, or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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 area 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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

135 Madison Cir, LOT for sale in Lake of the Woods, Virginia now SOLD!

Welcome to 135 Madison Circle… an absolutely fabulous half-acre lot located near the Lake of the Woods back gate on one of the most beautiful streets in the community! Build your home here, where mature trees and location make this the one! So get your lake life started by building your perfect place at the lake on one of the few remaining lots!

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, waterskiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, tennis, pickleball, 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 will be wowed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering 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 $150,000+ 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 why I love Lake of the Woods!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

LOW Veterans Club Honor Deceased on Memorial Day

written by: Fred Pulis, Member, LOW Veterans Club

As the nation gets ready to celebrate Memorial Day on Monday, May 31, the LOW Veterans Club will provide an impressive outside ceremony honoring those individuals who have died on military active duty during service to their country.  The approximately one-hour event starting at noon at the flagpole in front of the Lake of the Woods Clubhouse will feature several ways of recognizing those individuals who paid the ultimate price of their lives for their country.

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day on May 5, 1868 because it was a day to decorate the graves of lost loved ones.  Subsequently the name was changed to Memorial Day and was declared to be a national holiday honoring the men and women who died while serving in the United States military. 

LOW residents and their guests are invited to witness the true meaning of Memorial Day.  Some of the patriotic events include proper raising and lowering of the American Flag, reading of the names of the LOW veterans who died in 2020, description of the historic meaning of Memorial Day, and the presentation of the wreath.  Also, newly assigned LOW Veterans Club bugler, Tom Ackman, is a member of the “Buglers Across America” will perform taps. 

In the spirit and intent of honoring fallen armed forces personnel the LOW Veterans Club recommends the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) a nonprofit organization that funded the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall located in Washington, DC.  VVMF has created an In Memory plaque which contains names of the Vietnam veterans who have lost their lives as a result of their service in Vietnam.

Veterans so honored who have succumbed to:  Exposure to Agent Orange; PTSD/Suicide; Cancer; Diabetes; Heart Disease, and Parkinson ’s disease.  For more information contact VVMF at InMemory@vvmf.org.    

For further information about the LOW Veterans Club and its activities, please contact club president Mike Ferguson at 571-972-5313 or email him at colmferguson@msn.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.

LOW Players Tickets Still Available!

The Players singing group, The Show Stoppers, will be entertaining the LOW community members and guests on June 18th on the Clubhouse deck. Broadway show songs and other popular songs are planned to fill the evening with their performance scheduled to begin at 6:30PM. Be sure to RSVP your seat through the Lake of the Woods Clubhouse directly at 540-972-2221.

The last play, Four Weddings and an Elvis was a HUGE success – thank you to everyone who came to show their support (during the hot and cold weather!) during the outside shows!! We are looking forward to the upcoming fall musical comedy The Addams Family! Auditions coming up soon this summer, starting June 13th at 2pm at the Community Center. Callbacks and any additional auditions will be on June 27th at 2pm at the Community Center.

The Players Club members hope to be back inside the community center for this upcoming family-friendly show! Dates are currently selected for the show for October 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, and 24!

Tickets can be purchased at lowplayers.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 contact Pat Licata.

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

Lake of the Woods’ Pools are OPEN

Another great year for Lake of the Woods pools!

Pool hours for Clubhouse pool are: May 29 – September 6th from 11AM to 7PM, daily.
Sweetbriar Pool hours are 1PM – 8PM and are closed on Wednesdays for swim meets.

Snack bars will be open at both pools for yummy snacks and treats for all, featuring new daily specials at the Clubhouse pool.

Enjoy different features at each pool such as a diving board, a slide and a separate wading pool for younger children at the Sweetbriar pool. The Clubhouse pool features an entry ramp with railings, lap lanes, and a splash area with a beach-like entrance!

Stop by one or both of the pools and enjoy the cool water during the hot summer heat!

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.

116 Lee Cir WATERFRONT HOME in Lake of the Woods, Virginia SOLD!!!

The best is yet to come at 116 Lee Circle, boasting 96 ft of waterfrontage on the main lake! Whether you renovate or begin with plans for your dream home on this almost half-acre, fantastic lot, you’ve found your perfect place at the lake! An incredible bonus is the size of the lot; not only is it a perfect waterfront lot, but it is also expansive and ready for you to create your perfect water oasis! Imagine the memories you’ll make experiencing spectacular sunsets, jumping in the lake from your dock, or simply relaxing at the water’s edge. Fun-filled days with family and friends await if you prefer a more active day on the water—bring your boat, jet ski, and/or kayak! Ready for some off-water fun? Lake of the Woods has it all!

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 volunteering 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 the mid-$100,000s 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 why I love Lake of the Woods!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Northern Virginia, or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! 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 area 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 contact Pat Licata.

To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com

Summer Concert Series at the Point is Back!!

It is time for the Summer Sunset Concert Series at the Point to begin! We will kick off the season with Unchained!

The first concert of the Summer- May 28th at the Point in Lake of the Woods will feature the Unchained.  
The concert will take place at Clubhouse Point. The music starts at 7 pm!

Summer Concert Series
(Weather dependent, Bands subject to change)
Friday, May 28th- Unchained Rocks
Friday, June 25th –Reunion Band
Friday, July 23rd –Deja Vu
Friday, August 27th – Island Jerry Duo

The event is 100% funded by sponsors who are also LOW residents! Sponsors include: Licata Group, Locust Grove Veterinary Clinic, Townsend Home Health & Hospice Care, Design Craft Homes, Inspired Electrical Solutions, JK Carpets, Lakeside Title & Escrow, and Lake of the Woods True Value Hardware.

For more information call Pat Licata at 540-735-7998 or e-mail her at pat@licatagroup.com. 

Don’t miss out on the kick-off to the Summer concert season!

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.

Hottest Neighborhoods in Orange County, VA

Big cities are, more often than not, pretty exhausting to live in. Of course, when you are young, they could seem like a convenient solution. However, once you get to a certain age, you begin to crave a more tranquil lifestyle. The one that a huge metropolis certainly can’t provide. Luckily, some places can! Plenty of neighborhoods in Orange County, VA, for example, offer families and retirees a chance to experience a peaceful life without depriving them of exciting things to do. The county is also close to major hubs such as Washington, DC, and Richmond, so even if you start missing the old days, everything’s just a short drive away.

What makes Orange County, VA, a great place to move to?

Perhaps it’s the history that this area is so rich in or the breathtaking landscape because of which you can’t help but be in awe. Maybe it’s the local vineyards with sets of delicious wines available for tasting. Or simply the fact that your dollar goes further in the county of Prince William III of Orange. And yes, lower taxes are to blame as well, being particularly attractive to future homeowners.

Despite the overall rural vibe that most neighborhoods in Orange County, VA share, the region can boast many employment opportunities. Residents of the area tend to work in companies such as Green Applications, American Woodmark, Walmart, and MPS. The county is also known as the biggest producer of grapes in the whole of Virginia, and even further.

The majority of people who choose to settle in Orange County stumble upon it first as tourists. It’s during these visits that they fall in love with the place. And who can blame them? It’s hard to resist the charms of its peculiar little shops, local restaurants serving otherworldly dishes, and historical sights such as Montpelier, the home of our fourth president, James Madison. It’s there that settlers and visitors alike can watch Jack Russel terriers and horses race the first Saturday of November.

Thanks to the affordability and attractive interest rates, the area of Northern Virginia has also recently gained popularity. Some neighborhoods are especially desirable to home buyers, and we will explore what each of them has to offer. Once you’ve decided on the community that’s right for you, you can ask Northern Virginia-based professionals to help you get settled as soon as possible.

The statue of James and Dolly Madison located in one of the neighborhoods in Orange County, VA
Once upon a time, Orange County was home to the fourth US president, James Madison.

The hottest Orange County neighborhoods

Below you will find the highly sought-after Orange County communities that provide their residents with the much-needed peace of mind.

Gordonsville

With a population of about 1800, Gordonsville is quite a small town. However, its size doesn’t stop it from being a great place to live in for just about anyone. Young couples, families with children, and senior citizens can benefit from calling this tiny settlement their home. With plenty of quaint shops, charming cafes, and loads of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities, Gordonsville is equipped with a bit of something for everyone.

Each year, the town organizes Porkapooloza, or as they say, the greatest pork feast on Earth! The whole place is family-friendly and has various parks and playgrounds you can take your kids to. Additionally, crime is practically non-existent here, making the neighborhood pretty safe.

While the actual unemployment rate is slightly below the US average, Gordonsville’s proximity to major cities, such as Charlottesville, more than makes up for it. It’s not unusual for residents of this town to work elsewhere, as commuting to and from work typically takes a short time.

Most of the people living here own their homes, which isn’t peculiar when you think about it. Median home price in Gordonsville falls short of $200,000, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a place with a suburban feel that’s, nonetheless, not too far from the center of all activities.

Those looking to move here won’t be disappointed after venturing into the process. The advantages of life in Gordonsville certainly outweigh the cons. It’s worth noting, however, that before you’ve permanently settled into the area, you will have had to prepare for the moving day. You’ll need to make a detailed plan for the big day. After all, relocations can quickly become troublesome without a carefully devised course of action.

A picture of a cafe
Gordonsville has a number of charming little cafes for people to relax in.

Lake of the Woods

As far as popular neighborhoods in Orange County, VA go, Lake of the Woods is definitely the top pick! It’s suitable for everyone, regardless of their age. Two mesmerizing lakes located in the area allow residents to enjoy swimming and a variety of water sports. In addition, Lake of the Woods can boast its dog-friendly status, as it has several parks and trails that locals use to spend time with their furry friends.

The community is pretty safe and even has a set of its own patrolling units overlooking it. It’s also tightly-knit, which essentially means that neighbors are friendly and willing to help each other. With many events taking place here regularly, it’s no wonder why newcomers are looking to it as a perfect place to purchase a vacation home. While on the topic of property buying, it’s worth mentioning that a typical house here will cost you about $250,000. Not bad for an oasis of peace.

A man and a woman walking their dog in the forest
Lake of the Woods is one of the pet-friendly neighborhoods in Orange County, VA, suitable for taking your dog for a walk.

Orange

Orange County gets its name from the town of Orange, which is, actually, the seat of this county. The overall vibe of this place is quiet, and residents report that there isn’t much to be done here except relax. For some people, however, that may just be enough. That’s not to say the town is utterly dull and there are no reasons to move here. Not at all! Orange is packed with historic sights, excellent schools, and it’s an overall safe community with no real crime.

Despite the practically non-existent nightlife, the town still has some charming restaurants and cafes you can go to. This makes it a perfect choice for everyone looking for neighborhoods in Orange County, VA, that allow them to completely escape city life. Those interested in shopping for properties in the area will be happy to know that the average price of a home lies at around $260,000. Considering that the national average is significantly greater, investing in housing here is a choice well-made.

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.