Category Archives: Northern Virginia

1539 Grosbeak, Woodbridge VA home for sale

1539 Grosbeak Ct, Woodbridge Virginia 22191 Home SOLD by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors!

Welcome to the Largest (Amherst model) townhome in Riverside Station with 3408 sqft of living space on 3 fully finished levels with builder upgraded bump outs on all 3 levels. This home has a bright and open floorplan on the main floor with a living room/dining room/kitchen for easy and cozy living. Hardwood floors, 9 ft tray ceilings, and granite countertops are gleaming and appealing. A sunroom with access to the spacious Trex deck/balcony will be the spot, for sun and relaxation. Newly fenced and landscaped rear yard and remodeled lower level theater room. The upper level is home to 3 bedrooms. For quiet privacy, the primary suite has a lovely sitting room to enjoy with a spacious en-suite bath. You will love having the 2 car garage to make life easy in this beautiful, mature, small community with fantastic nature and wildlife trails, parks, and the Occoquan River to enjoy. Yet it is also close to everything and is a commuter’s dream with the ability to walk to the VRE , and 5 mins driving to I95 and the commuter bus terminal. If you are looking for something close to everything, this is the one!

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.

Signs You’ve Found Your Perfect Condo

Even if you locate a condo that precisely suits your budget and meets your requirements, there is sometimes a lingering sense of insecurity that will make you wonder if that condo is really “the one”. Believe it or not, you’re not alone as this is quite common and with good cause. After all, you don’t want to make a costly error while purchasing a condo, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer. It’s not only your biggest financial investment, but you’ll be living in it for years. That’s why it’s important to recognize signs you’ve found your perfect condo. Further in this post, you’ll find out what you should pay attention to when shopping for your new condo.

Clear signs that say you’ve found the perfect condo

As you undoubtedly know, finding “the one” is difficult, especially when you’re in the process of buying a home. Studio or one-bedroom apartment? Modern finishes or natural light? Hardwood or tile floors?

Woman showing a condo painted in neutral colors to a man
Your real estate agent will present you with many great options, and you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed if you know what signs to pay attention to.

Finding the condo of your dreams might be difficult with so many options available. Fortunately, there are a few telltale signals that you’ve located your perfect condo. Continue reading, and you might realize that you have already found “the one.”

It gives out a homey feel

The first thing to pay attention to when looking for a condo is the way it makes you feel. You want to find a place you feel comfortable and homey, especially if you’re moving to a new hometown and didn’t get a chance to familiarize yourself with the place. Spending time in a new condo that already feels like home will make this transition easier for you.

The proper condo will entice you in and make you feel at ease. It will instantly make you want to relax in the living room or have a conversation with your real estate agent in the dining room. Going into the bathroom is not at all weird. Indeed, you may have caught yourself opening cabinets or admiring the room. The condo simply feels comfortable and homey. Could this be the right one?

It fits your budget perfectly

No condo is right for you unless it perfectly fits your budget. So when considering which condos to take a look at in person, start by reviewing your budget and knowing how much you can afford. It doesn’t make sense to invest in an expensive home with all the latest amenities if you can’t afford it. It simply doesn’t fit your lifestyle.

Person holding a pencil and pointing at a calculator that's located on a pile of papers
To avoid disappointments, scratch off any alternatives on your list that are way out of your price range, as none of those will be the right condo for you.

Don’t be disheartened if you happen to find a gorgeous place that’s just over your budget that you simply adore. You still have a few choices. For starters, see if you can work out a better price. Or decide to decorate on a budget and invest in cheaper furniture. You might be able to cozy up the place easily while staying within your budget.

The condo sets the bar for all other condos

When you find the perfect condo, you’ll realize that you keep returning to it throughout your search. You go to one open home and admire the living room and kitchen design, but you notice that the layout isn’t as excellent as the one you saw earlier. That condo set “the standard.”

It’s in a perfect location

If you’ve found a condo in a fantastic location that perfectly suits your lifestyle, it could be that you’ve found “the one.” If you’re a homebody who enjoys peace and quiet, for example, you’ll probably prefer to look for apartments in more suburban locations.

On the other hand, if you prefer to be in the thick of things, a thriving downtown neighborhood can be right up your alley. For the added convenience of having restaurants and entertainment within walking distance, you might be ready to compromise on things like assigned parking or square footage. So if you feel like you’ve found an ideal location, perhaps you‘ll overlook minor flaws and realize that you’ve found your perfect condo.

Your perfect condo is just the right size

The most amazing condos aren’t always what you need right now in your life and don’t always fit your lifestyle. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of discovering the perfect apartment in the nicest neighborhood, but don’t forget about the space.

On the other hand, if you found a condo that’s just the right size and with a great layout, it might be worth sacrificing and moving to a slightly less desirable location. It can be tough to find a condo that ticks all of your boxes. So if you’ve found a place with the right size and within your budget, don’t think twice about it.

It simply feels right

Sometimes, you simply know that something is right for you. If a condo appeals to you right away, it’s an indication that it might be the right one for you. Try to imagine yourself living your daily life in that place. Is everything going to work out, or will you have to make some adjustments to your daily routine?

A couple carrying moving boxes while moving into a condo
When you find the right condo, your gut will make sure to send you a sign.

If just the thought of living there makes you happy and your life seems easier, it’s probably the one. However, don’t let love blind you to the price tag. Remember, it’s critical to ensure that your new home fits into your budget in the long run.

Pay attention to these signs, and you’ll know you’ve found your perfect condo!

And that’s it—it all comes down to listening to your gut and paying attention to those subtle signs. Of course, the safest way to go is to get in touch with an experienced Realtor® who’ll guide you on your real estate journey and make sure you’ve found your perfect condo.

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Buying property is a significant investment, and you want to be sure you have found the right one. Read on for signs you’ve found your perfect condo.


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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 contact Pat Licata.

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

2510 Caroline St, Fredericksburg VA 22401 Home for sale

2510 Caroline St in Downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401 Offered for Sale at $482,000 by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors

Perfect downtown location across from Old Mill Park. Just over a mile down the road to the commuter rail, across the street from the Fredericksburg Foot Trail. This charming home is looking for new owners, fenced in rear yard, driveway and street side parking are available.

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.

308 Bishop, Montross Virginia 22520 WATERFRONT Home NOW, SOLD!!! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors LLC

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to own a fantastic, custom home boasting 421 feet of water frontage on Lake Independence by the Potomac. One of the clearest lakes in VA fed by 7 natural springs. 308 Bishop Drive offers privacy as well as all of the wonderful amenities of Stratford Harbour, including Lake Beach, Lake Marina, Potomac River Marina, Shark Tooth Beach as well as a clubhouse with pool, clubhouse tennis and so much more! The home’s original design and excellent build quality have been enhanced by the current seller’s various updates and consistent maintenance through the years. The focus remaining on the outdoors with expansive glass and views from all rooms is evident through the open plan design. The large kitchen, dining room, living room, and sunroom flow seamlessly together for living and entertaining ease. The lower level is designed to offer an in-law/guest suite with a huge great room and separate bedroom (not to code), as well as a kitchenette area. The fully insulate oversized 25′ x 22′ garage has room for toys and cars. The multiple decks and lower patio with outdoor shower, face across the lake, presenting breathtaking views. For your ultimate privacy, no other homes are visible as you gaze across the lake. The serenity and the wonders of nature abound through all the seasons, evoking the feeling of your own personal retreat. The scenic lake views and the opportunity to enjoy the Potomac River and the beaches with access for sailing, fishing, and boating with only 12 miles by boat from the main Chesapeake Bay make this one “the one!” You can truly enjoy it all including Hi-Speed Internet! Two new hot water tanks in 2022, a new roof in 2017, a heat pump in 2012, and regular septic service on a 3-year basis all make this a turnkey home to enjoy immediately.

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.

125 Macon Dr, Stafford Virginia 22554 Townhouse SOLD by the Licata Group Exp Realty LLC!

Welcome to 125 Macon Drive! This gorgeous, well maintained townhome is filled with lots of natural light and beautiful new vinyl plank flooring and carpeting. The entry level homes the one car garage, a half bath, a den and bonus room that leads out to the fenced in backyard with a tall privacy fence. Up on the second level boast a huge living space with a gas fireplace. The incredible spacious gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream! Gorgeous granite counter tops with a center island, 5 burner gas stove top range/oven with a built in microwave above, tons of counter space and cabinets with an ample eat in area. Right off the kitchen is the bright sunroom that leads you out to the deck. This level is open and will make entertaining and daily life a breeze! The spacious owner’s suite and generous en-suite bath are on the third level for all the quiet you deserve. Relax in the lovely soaking tub or walk into your stall shower.

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.

Oil and Gas Prices on the Rise: How It Changes Real Estate

Key Takeaways:

  1. Oil and gas prices are the highest in United States history!
  2. Individuals and families are shifting how they think about housing, from suburban versus urban to downsizing or going multigenerational.
  3. It’s critical to work with an agent who understands the right fit for you and your family.

Record-high oil and gas prices are changing home buying and selling

It’s difficult to escape the news: gas prices are surging across the nation, with the increase averaging $1 per gallon. With costs at historical highs, the ripple effect changes how we think about everything. That includes the largest line item on any household’s budget: their home. How will this new reality change how people buy and sell real estate? Let’s take a look at some of the main considerations.

Urban Versus Suburban

Person filling car with gasoline and check balance at the gas pump.

Traditional wisdom says that the suburbs are more affordable with their long commutes, while cities are expensive due to more amenities and desirability. But when the daily commute costs more than it ever has in the history of the country, the conventional advice isn’t necessarily the right move for everyone.

To judge whether relocating from the suburban to the urban is right for you, take a look at the commute time, proximity of local amenities, and public transportation. Some urban centers offer more robust and reliable options for getting around, while others are still heavily car-dependent. If moving into the city won’t get you out of your car, the suburbs are still a good choice. But big city living is an attractive option if you can reduce how often your family drives—or even go from a multi-car family to a single vehicle.

Reconsider Your Housing Footprint

Portrait of happy extended multigenerational family all together on sofa at home.

The size of a home is always a big consideration when you’re looking at your next place. Right now, there’s the added pressure of the costs of heating and cooling a home to consider when you think about total square footage. On average, the cost of natural gas is up 24% in February 2022 compared to the previous year, and electricity is up 9%.

Downsizing can be a smart reason to sell your home and buy a new one, especially if your family situation has changed and you don’t need as much space. With less to heat, cool, and maintain, finding a home that’s just the right size for the stage of life you’re in is something your agent can help you with.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, families started moving back in together at rising rates. Now, more than 40% of homebuyers consider multigenerational living in their purchasing decision.  New developments are dedicated to building homes and communities that accommodate people at different stages of their lives. And, if the family situation changes, being able to rent out a dedicated space is an excellent source of passive income.

Whether you’re looking to go small by yourself or go big and share the costs, homes that are renovated with energy-efficient appliances, or new construction with the latest smart home technologies, are especially attractive. These are smart decisions to make now that will also save you costs in the long run, even when oil and gas prices stabilize.

Act Fast to Lock in Interest Rates

House Model Near Percentage Sign With Keypad Lock Over Wooden Desk

Gas prices are tied closely to mortgage rates. Yep, it really does affect everything! Mortgage lenders want to have an extra cushion over inflation when they set rates, and with the rise of oil and gas prices, interest rates will get pushed up too. If you’re buying a home, it’s time to get serious about making offers. Higher mortgage rates will impact what you can afford.

For sellers, this can impact the white-hot housing market streak that was the dominant theme for the last few years. With interest rates set to rise, home sellers may want to be flexible about offers, in case the market shifts dramatically as interest rates go up throughout the remainder of the year. Of course, this varies widely by market, and you’ll want to consult your agent before making any decisions on offers on your home.

Make Your Move

There’s no time to wait—with the market changing this rapidly, you’ll want to leave yourself enough time to have options and make a well-informed decision. That’s why you need to work with an agent that understands the ups and downs of this historic market and considers the needs of you and your family. Contact us today to get started!

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.

cherry blossoms

When the Cherry Blossoms are Due to Bloom this Spring!

This year, the highly loved Cherry Blossom festival will resume in person for the first time in two years! Predictions for peak bloom were announced in a press conference on Tuesday, March 1st by the National Park Service. They’re expecting 70% of the blossoms to be open for prime blossom-viewing between March 23rd and March 25th in 2022. Now, for the Annual Cherry Blossom Festival! It is set to take place between March 20th and April 17th and this year will mark the 110th anniversary of Tokyo Mayor Yukio Ozaki’s gift of 3,000 Japanese cherry trees to Washington, DC. Tune in to the festival’s official website “Bloom Watch”, where you can view a live cam of the trees!

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.

Relocating for Work? Here’s What You Need to Know

We all hope for a career that will take us places. Sometimes that could be Orange County, Virginia. Exciting as that is, packing up your life and moving your family can also be stressful — after all, there are a lot of things you’ll need to organize and plan for.  

A relocation package from your employers can help, but the rest is up to you. A checklist can be an invaluable tool to keep you on top of things. The Licata Group presents some key tasks you’ll need to remember to make your career relocation easy, beginning up to two months before your moving date. 

Visit Your New Hometown

While it’s good to know what to expect, a visit to your new location and office can also offer insight on what to prepare for. It also offers a great opportunity to connect with your new colleagues, who can probably offer invaluable advice for your move. If you have children, you may also be looking to scout out new schools before your move. A visit beforehand can give you an idea of which area you want to search for accommodation. 

Plan Your Finances

With a new salary, you might not expect to find a change in their cost of living, so it’s always good to be prepared before relocating. Websites such as Payscale can help you compare the costs of supermarket goods, restaurants, gas, and medical bills. 

Message boards and Facebook groups are also a great place to get unbiased and up-to-date information from fellow residents (and to make friends with your potential neighbors). 

If you need to sign up for a new banking service, make sure you have an easy way to access and transfer your current funds.  

Secure Your New Home

Whether you’re relocating for a set period of time or for the unforeseeable future, it is advisable to consider renting a house before purchasing one so that you have the chance to familiarize yourself with the environment and other housing options. 

Schedule the Move

If you need to buy airplane tickets for you and your family, buying tickets ahead of time is still the cheapest option for tickets. Depending on how many belongings you’ll be taking, you may also need to book a reputable moving company available on your moving date. Compare moving companies to see which fits within your budget and provides the most suitable insurance coverage options to protect your belongings. 

Save all your travel and moving receipts in one handy location, such as a Google Drive, particularly if you will be claiming reimbursement from your employer.

Personalize Your Checklist

Use this information to compile your own checklist that includes important dates and information. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice and use services that can help you find the home of your dreams in Lake of the Woods. After all, it’s not your career that takes you places — it’s all you. 

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.

209 Elm St, Stafford Virginia 22554 Home Now SOLD! by the Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 209 Elm St! You will be in awe from the minute you arrive, you are welcomed by stone accents and a front porch to relax with your favorite beverage. Once inside the excitement just continues with an incredible gourmet kitchen boasting island, stainless steel appliances, granite, and all the amenities of the perfect chef’s kitchen. Everyday life and entertaining will be a breeze with the openness of the main level. The owner’s suite is elegant and features a luxurious en-suite bath, a perfect retreat from the daily grind. The third-floor host more bedrooms and a full bath to comfortably accommodate friends and family. Find your way to the finished basement for more deluxe space to entertain in the rec room and home gym! So many possibilities in this well-kept home! Elegant outdoor entertainment will be a breeze with the spacious deck and lower-level patio. Exterior security cameras in front and back of the home for peace of mind. But to add more to this already extravagant home is the rare opportunity to own a new home with solar panels installed and saving you money and giving you tax credits. Why wait for new construction when this incredible home was brand new in 2020!

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.

Everything But the Garage Sale at Fredericksburg Expo Center April 9th and 10th

Do you love garage and yard sales but don’t like the hassle of driving to various locations to check out all the goods? Well, this is the PERFECT event for you! On Saturday, April 9th and Sunday, April 10th the Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center will be hosting an “Everything But the Garage Sale”! This is the largest yard sale in the area expanding over two days. There will be a variety of items like housewares, furniture, kids stuff, antiques, collectibles, and more from homeowners and collectors alike! Grab a friend and head over or a fun day of bargain hunting and shopping! General admission is from 9am – 5pm on Saturday. Sunday the expo center will be open 10am – 3pm. Tickets are on sale now, visit here to purchase.

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.