Category Archives: Northern Virginia

Health Benefits of Waterfront Living in Virginia

Living near water is something many people around the US dream of. Speaking of dreams and future objectives, living in one of the most beautiful US states – Virginia – is a thought many people go to bed with. Today, we’ve decided to put the two fantasies together. In other words, we’ll introduce you to all the health benefits of waterfront living in Virginia. Not only does it sound incredible, but it also comes with many health advantages. Therefore, stay tuned for some helpful info and tips!

#1 Waterfront living enhances the quality of your sleep

Needless to say, a good night’s sleep is a crucial element of your well-being. Research study results have proved that people who live near water enjoy a more restful sleep. Also, the same studies have shown that the same group faces less stress daily. Your body needs to rest, and there isn’t a better place to recover from a long working day than nested inside a peaceful environment. Get rid of stress, and maximize your joy. Most of the time, waterfront living in Virginia is synonymous with the lack of noise pollution we’re pretty used to enduring in the cities. You won’t have trouble falling asleep once you move to some of the state’s jaw-droppingly-attractive waterfront neighborhoods.

A cat sleeping under bed covers.
Living near water enhances the quality of sleep.

#2 Waterfront living enables you to enjoy water-related activities anytime you want

Being right there, near a larger body of water, will enable you to enjoy all your favorite water-related activities. And, if you own a boat, even better! Living close to the water will probably mean you have your own dock, too. As a boat owner, you’ll always want to opt for a property that offers this advantage. You don’t want to worry about driving to the spot where you’ve pared your boat or finding the ideal storage place. Also, docks aren’t only functional as parking spaces. You can use your dock as a diving board, a fishing spot, or simply a place where you sit down, crack open a cold beverage and enjoy the scenery. Who knows, you might even come up with a philosophical school of your own while water-gazing.

#3 Living near water is healthy even if you’re a city dweller

We’re pretty sure you understand this article doesn’t only cover non-urban waterfront properties. Virginia’s got some fantastic cities located near or directly placed upon a solid body of water. Just take Richmond or Alexandria as examples. A German research study has found that living near water is excellent for urban dwellers, too. We’re talking ponds, pools, and even – water fountains! Therefore, buying a waterfront property in Virginia will help you overcome some of the disadvantages city life offers to its “practitioners”. As mentioned above, you’ll enjoy less stress and better sleeping conditions. Lastly, if you’re a recovering addict, living near water will help ease the process, as professionals at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center point out.

 A typical street scene in Richmond, VA.
Waterfront living improves the overall quality of life, even if you’re a city dweller.

#4 Enjoy better air quality with waterfront living in Virginia

Air quality tends to be better near water. Also, some people are more prone to sit, relax and unwind a little near water. In other words, they tend to breathe deeper and smoother. So air quality is crucial in such moments. Not to mention all the vegetation and plants usually found near water. Those are your natural air filters. You won’t need to buy expensive air cleaners for your waterfront property in Virginia.

#5 Fewer nosy neighbors (for non-urban waterfront dwellers)

One can’t say this is a direct health benefit, but you’ll agree it has something to do with how we perceive our surroundings, thus affecting our everyday well-being. For example, let’s say you’ve bought yourself a scenic Virginia lake home. You might notice that the next home is not so close. In other words, you’ll soon find out that you will have to deal with fewer nosy neighbors. 

Lake homes tend to be further apart, thus allowing their owners more privacy than they’d enjoy in a more traditional suburban neighborhood. A lake home will help you deal with all the troubles city life plagues us with. This much-needed intimacy can be a savior for all those struggling with something or trying to get back on their feet. For example, this serenity is perfect for recovering addicts who want to get long-term help. There are many long-term addiction treatments in West Virginia, but recovery doesn’t stop there. A little bit of peace and quiet that your waterfront property can bring will work wonders for mental health. 

#6 Let’s consider the sound of water

We’ve implied this in the previous paragraphs, but it’s nevertheless crucial that we emphasize the calming properties of the sound of water. Did you know that the sound of running water, rushing and trickling, or waves smoothly hitting the shoreline possess fantastic calming and emotionally healing properties? Once you add that sound to the waterfront breeze, you get a match made in heaven, as they say. There isn’t a more comprehensive calm, as many people that own a waterfront property like to point out.

A bridge on the river in Richmond, VA.
The sound of running water has a soothing effect on the human mind.

#7 Living near water will inspire you to enjoy other fun (outdoor) activities

Of course, it’s not like simply sitting down in a cool shade with a good book by a body of water isn’t enough. However, enjoying a waterfront property in Virginia will allow you to immerse yourself in other fun activities. We’re talking about all the great outdoor efforts one can partake in: hiking, camping, wildlife watching, etc. Nature is a remedy, don’t trust anyone who tells you the opposite. 

Closing thoughts on the subject

These were some of the many health benefits of waterfront living in Virginia. Now you’ve seen all the advantages of buying a (vacation) waterfront property in one of the most scenic US states. If you were hesitant before, we’re pretty sure you don’t have any doubts about whether such a decision is a good one!

Photos used:
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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.

cherry blossoms

National Cherry Blossom Festival 2023 in Washington, DC

It’s almost that time of year again! Elegant cherry blossoms will bloom, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival will too. The 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival will take place March 20th – April 16th during the peak blooming period.  Peak bloom is when the Yoshino cherry tree blossoms open at about 70% and grace the Tidal Basin in Washington D.C. with its heavenly blush-like color views.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s traditional Opening Ceremony is a celebration of the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington D.C. as a tribute to the long-lasting fellowship between the United States and Japan. Artists from both countries will proceed in a special performance as part of the tradition.  Throughout the days you will have the opportunity to partake in the pleasures that the festival brings from the Blossom Kite Festival, a parade, Petalpalooza, the Pink Tie Party, Paws and Petlas, and more. The parade is scheduled to occur Saturday, April 15th, on Constitution Ave (between 9th & 15th Streets) in Washington, DC. Portions of the parade are free to the public, so get there early as it is first-come, first-serve. For more information on this event, including purchasing tickets, visit https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.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.

Outdoor Aventure & RV Expo at Fredericksburg Exp Center

Imagine this…it’s 2023 in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and you’re at the Outdoor Adventure & RV Expo, driving away with a brand new RV that fits your whole family with an epic adventure ahead of you. The Fredericksburg Expo Center is hosting the Outdoor Adventure & RV Expo March 3rd – 5th, 2023. Show hours are Friday, March 3rd, 1 pm – 7 pm, Saturday, March 4th, 10 am – 6 pm, and Sunday, March 5th, 11 am – 3 pm. Don’t miss out on this perfect opportunity to view the different makes and models of RVs and the latest camping gear. Have a question? Take a moment to speak with the pros. To buy tickets to this event, click 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.

122 Columbus Cove, Stafford Virginia 22554 SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!!

Come home to this pristine 5 bedroom 3.5 bath home in the first section of the gated community of Aquia Harbour. This is no cookie-cutter home. The unique 4-level home is sure to impress. The primary bedroom sits by itself on the 4th floor for complete privacy from kids or guests. The 3rd floor has 4 bedrooms waiting to be filled and a full bathroom. The main level consists of a living room, a large family room with a fireplace, a dining room, and a stunning kitchen suitable for any chef. The basement has a large rec room, a potential 6th bedroom (NTC), a full bathroom, and plenty of space to add a small kitchenette. The all-season room will be great all year round for relaxing in a well-created oasis. It also has a large deck off the family room, perfect for summertime grilling. The home sits on a little over, a half-acre lot with plenty of room for kids and pets to play. Aquia Harbour is located approximately 45 miles south of Washington DC, 15 miles north of Fredericksburg, and 70 miles north of Richmond. The historic Aquia Creek runs through the community providing a year-round navigable waterway leading to the Potomac River and onto the Chesapeake Bay.

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.

43920 Hickory Corner Terrace #109, Ashburn VA 20147 NOW, SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

This is the big one! The 3 bedrooms, 3 levels, and 2.5 bathrooms make this the largest model unit in the Ridges at Belmont Country Club. This home features a garage, a long driveway for 2 extra cars, as well as a ground-level patio, and a 2nd-floor balcony making this one of the most desirable homes in the community. The main level has hardwood flooring throughout, while the eat-in kitchen consists of larger cabinets providing tons of storage, stainless appliances, and, granite countertops. The primary bedroom suite is on the lower level and provides enough space for a corner office and leads out to a private patio and storage. The second level has 2 ample-sized bedrooms providing great natural light from both ends of the home. The Club Corp, Belmont Country Club offers golf, parks, trails, a pool & more. With your membership, you have access to other Club Corp facilities throughout the US and internationally. The DC City club and the Tower Club in Tysons Corner are great business clubs with restaurants that you can use as well. Great Loudoun schools are within walking distance of Belmont Chase, which features Whole Foods and numerous restaurants. The W&OD Trail for jogging and biking, and One Loudoun with a movie theater, Trader Joe’s, and more restaurants, within a 5-minute commute. You are in the center of everything and can get anywhere fast using major commuter routes, Dulles Airport, or the metro silver line. Monthly fees include cable/internet, phone, water & lawn care.

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.

4006 Lakeview Pkwy, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 UNDER CONTRACT by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 4006 Lakeview Pkwy, where you’ll love your golf course view and fine finishes throughout! Conveniently located between the front and back gates, this meticulously maintained home will wow you from the moment the circular driveway greets you. As you enter, you’ll immediately appreciate the gleaming hardwood floors, which are present throughout the main living areas. A vaulted ceiling and bow window are features of the living room that truly stand out, while the adjoining dining area features chair and crown molding, as well as corner built-ins. You’ll love the expansive breakfast bar found in the kitchen with room for several chefs! This floorplan truly makes entertaining a breeze or enjoying time intimate time with family. The family room, highlighted by a cozy fireplace, flows from the dining area/kitchen. Off of the family room lies the fabulous three-season room, boasting fabulous views of the golf course! This expansive room will be a favorite in which to relax with your morning brew or favorite beverage. Ready for a cookout? The deck off of the three-season room provides all the space you desire! As you ascend the stairs, the two spacious bedrooms and full bath are sure to please. And wait until you see the amazing storage area this level provides!

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.

7 Reasons to Move to Virginia This Year

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.

 Images used:

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https://www.pexels.com/photo/university-chapel-in-virginia-5580132/

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https://www.pexels.com/photo/alcohol-barrel-basement-beer-434311/

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.

6307 Chaucer View Cir, Alexandria Virginia SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Professionals!

Welcome to 6307 Chaucer View Circle, located in private, exclusive Landmark Mews. Close to everything you want and a commuter’s dream location for DC and all the surrounding Fairfax County locations, this quality-built 4 bedroom, 4 level townhome boasts 3 full and 2 half bathrooms. Offering more than 3200 finished sq ft, you’ll be impressed by the generously sized rooms, open spaces, and hardwood floors in the living and dining areas. The expansive primary bedroom with ensuite bath is almost the same size as the bonus 4th bedroom/loft (17′ x 30′), which also boasts a full bathroom. The private backyard and deck will become a favorite place to unwind or to gather with friends! When getting out and about is a necessity, you’ll love the proximity to I-395, the Van Dorn Metro, gorgeous parks, grocery stores, restaurants, and incredible shopping options (from Springfield Mall to Tysons Corner to Tanger Outlets National Harbor).

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.

3106 Savoy Dr, Fairfax Virginia 22031 SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate LLC!

Close to the Vienna Metro station, this well-kept home has everything you need and is MOVE IN READY! A tri-level traditional home with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, there is plenty of room for family & friends to create new memories with you! The spacious main level offers gorgeous hardwood floors, an easy flow to the bright eat-in kitchen with access to the back deck, and a fenced yard. Relax in the cozy family room with a brick fireplace. Just off the family room, step into a gorgeous sunroom and screened-in porch, perfect to relax and enjoy nature year round! Retreat to the quiet upper level for a spacious primary suite and bedrooms.  The lower level with extra bedroom rooms/flex space and family room will be a favorite place for a game room, fitness room, you name it! In the huge full basement, you will have plenty of storage, and flex space, where ever your imagination will take you! A must-see!  Schedule your tour today!

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.

June 2022 Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 Real Estate Market Statistics

In June, 35 homes were SOLD in Lake of the Woods.

1 sold below $250,000.00
4 sold between $250,000-299,999;
8 sold between $300-349,999;
8 sold between $350,000-399,999;
9 sold between $400-499,999;
4 sold between $500,000-$999,999;
1 sold over $1,000,000.

38 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale
32 Homes Under Contract
151 Homes Sold since January 1, 2022.

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.