Friends of Wildlife at the Lake (FOWL) and Old Rag Master Naturalists (ORMN), our co-sponsor, cordially invite you to our first wildlife education event, FOWL Fest, on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the LOW Community Center. This is a free, family-friendly event! Participants will have the opportunity to meet the professionals who are leaders in wildlife conservation, who inspire citizens to value the outdoors and their own role in nature, as well as the professionals who care for sick, injured, and orphaned animals, and those who provide educational opportunities and resources to the public. Learn what their individual roles are and how they work together to benefit wildlife and habitat in Virginia. Our presenters will include: ● DWR Wildlife Biologist ● Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary Director ● Lake Anna State Park Chief Ranger ● Orange County Animal Control Officer ● LOW Security Officer ● Dispatches from the Forest nature-based educator Bring your questions about local wildlife and their habitat. Find out how to resolve conflicts between humans and wildlife and learn what you can do to help create a wildlife-friendly environment at home. Special Features: ● Meet native wildlife from Lake Anna State Park and Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary ● Milkweed seed give-away ● Children’s activity table ● Virginia Master Naturalist exhibits on Spotted Lantern Fly, native plants and more ● Virginia Native Plant Society exhibits on native and invasive plants The event is free, but registration is required*. Last day to register is October 20th. Please register here: https://www.oldragmasternaturalists.org/event-fowl.html No dogs other than service animals are permitted. We look forward to seeing you there! *Attendees from outside of LOW must register in order to be put on a guest list at the gate. LOW residents are encouraged to register for an accurate count. To learn more about FOWL, visit our website: www.fowloflow.org or our Facebook page: “Friends of Wildlife at the Lake PUBLIC GROUP.”
Virginia is a beautiful state with a unique history. It brings many people not only to visit but also to make this extraordinary place their home. In 2021 Virginia has seen a steady rise of people flocking to live there. The reasons to choose Virginia are many. Some people come because of family and lifestyle, and others because of jobs, retirement, and health. Whichever the reasons to come here are, here is what you can expect from this beautiful state. This article will discuss 7 reasons to move to Virginia this year.
People move to Virginia for various reasons
There is no doubt about it; Virginia is one of the most popular places people are coming to. According to studies, most people came to Virginia because of their family and the comfortable lifestyle. And those reasons are the deciding factor for above 50% of out-of-state arrivals. Other reasons are retirement, job seeking, and health care, respectively. When looking at these numbers, there can be no surprise that the populace coming consists of:
families
adults
job seekers
seniors
Property experts from LakeOfTheWoods state that the number of arrivals from 2021 will also be seen in the current year. There has been a steady increase after the COVID-19 crisis. Many people want to find getaways and start a new life here in Virginia.
The reason to move to Virginia is quality education
The State of Virginia has some of the best options for higher education. It is the home of more than 40 public universities, which is not a small number. Some of them, such as The University of Virginia, The College of William and Mary, and Virginia Tech, are the most sought-after universities. Ones with a good “pedigree” and chance of an excellent career. They are some of the oldest universities built from the end of the 17th century. If you are looking to offer your child the best education, the experts from Next Stop Movers suggest that coming to Virginia is the way to go. Many of their clients move to Virginia, particularly to pursue education opportunities.
Place for retirement
Looking for a place to retire to? Then look no further, as Virginia can be just the spot for you. Friendly, warm-welcoming, and tightly-knitted societies provide excellent opportunities to choose your ideal neighborhood. Virginia towns also enjoy one of the lowest crime rates in the US. Good housing options for aging in place add to the pros of living here. Probably the most compelling reason why seniors choose Virginia is tax friendliness. Any retiree can deduct up to $12,000 in pension and retirement income state taxes, which is a considerable amount. On top of that, the state does not tax Social Security benefits, making Virginia an ideal place for seniors and retirees.
A festival state
During the year, many festivals are held in Virginia. It is one of the more prominent reasons people are coming in draws. There is much happening that can appeal to even the most exquisite tastes. The Blues, Brews, and Barbecue festival is held in the first half of the year. It is located in Yorktown and begins every May. If you are going to Virginia Beach, don’t miss the Neptune Festival. In April, Winchester is hosting its pride, The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. This enormous festival consists of more than 25 events, including music, dining, and carnivals. You can attend the Deep Roots’ Fall Festival in Orange County in the fall. Don’t miss out on the chance to attend these festivals when coming to Virginia.
Moving to Virginia interstate
Moving can be challenging and stressful, requiring a lot of time, patience, and money to succeed. When moving interstate, for example, from NC to VA, an NC-based team can help you with everything you need when moving to Virginia. This way, you will save your money and precious time, which you can dedicate to more pressing matters. On top of that, you will not have to carry anything by yourself. That can be handled by a punctual team of professionals who will do the heavy lifting for you.
Good healthcare
Virginia is renowned in the US for its excellent healthcare. The state is investing a lot of effort and money in its healthcare. So much so that Virginia is constantly rising on the list of the best public health providers every year. Excellent hospitals such as Inova Fairfax Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General, and other centers make it a perfect spot for every person with health issues, disabilities, or seniors.
A thriving economy is a reason to move to Virginia
If you are looking for good reasons to move to Virginia, this may help you decide. Virginia is home to a diverse economy. From the shipbuilding industry, farming, and seafood harvesting. You can also find many fine wineries and distilleries. The various business opportunities brought many intellectuals and investors. This led to a steady rise and boom in the economy of Virginia, and career options are also many. A perfect place for young entrepreneurs and families seeking quality jobs.
Move to Virginia because of the weather
Moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year, hot summers, and mild winters are what make Virginia so special. It has a humid subtropical climate and one that you can enjoy no matter the season. Depending on where you choose to settle in Virginia, you can see winter snow and enjoy hot summer days in the sun. Be prepared, though, because the weather is constantly changing, bringing many rainy days and nights.
Moving to Virginia brings a lot of benefits. Virginia has everything from the tax deduction if you are a senior, good healthcare, diverse culture, to a great education and weather. However, there are also annual festivals and friendly tightly-knitted societies in rural places, making it a perfect spot for early retirement. Diverse cuisine and steady rise in economy prove Virginia is also an ideal option for entrepreneurs and thriving families. The landscape and nature are also something that you can treasure if you like spending time outdoors. Come to Virginia and experience a modern lifestyle combined with American tradition.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to 300 Battlefield Road! This home has gorgeous curb appeal, is one level, and has been well maintained! Bright elegance fills every room where you will be proud to host many occasions. Brand new carpets and fresh paint are just part of what makes this house perfect and move-in ready! Gorgeous lighting, a spacious family room with high ceilings, and a beautifully mantled fireplace. The eat-in kitchen with plentiful cabinets and countertops offers the chef all the creature comforts for meal prep! If you are looking for privacy and space in the primary suite, then you will fall in love with this huge suite with an adjoining room with access to the spacious, freshly painted deck and screened-in porch. The gorgeous ornamental fig trees and curly willow provide continued elegance in the backyard. A full-powered workshop is sure to please those who love to be creative and handy. This is one home not to miss!
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 contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
This year will be Orange County’s 47th Street Festival which is hosted by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.
This year’s annual beloved community event will take place from 9AM to 4PM on Saturday, September 10th, and typically features over 200 artisans, craft and commercial vendors, a variety of food and beverage options, live music, a kid’s zone, and a beer and wine garden for the adults. Check out a list of all the vendors already scheduled to be at the event here.
This family-friendly festival attracts an average of 5,000+ people from all over Central Virginia each year and is a great opportunity for community awareness and promotion. This event is completely free to attend, grab the kids and friends as this will be fun for all!
If you’re interested in participating as a vendor, please apply 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 contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
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?
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.
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?
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.
Meta description:
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.
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.
The Annual Orange Uncorked Wine Festival is celebrating it’s 31st annual year!! Sponsored by the Market at Grelen, the Orange Uncorked Wine Festival is due to take place this year on Mother’s Day weekend, on both Saturday May 7th and Sunday, May 8th! It will take place at: 10325 Jacksontown Rd, Somerset Virginia 22972 from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday. Be sure to mark your calendars and buy your tickets! Tickets range from $30-$50 per person while designated driver tickets and ages 13-20 are $10 per ticket and under 12 years old are free! Tickets purchased at the gate are $40 per person. What’s happening at the festival? There will be multiple wineries participating and sharing their vineyard wine tastings, live music and the 2nd annual mustache-beard competition. Must enter online to participate on the competition. There will be a variety of food vendors ready to provide you a tasty treat with your wine pairings. Both days will host live music and a hat contest! To buy tickets online, register for the beard/mustache contest or just to learn more about the event visit their website 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 contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to 400 Liberty Blvd! Located on a picturesque corner lot with beautiful landscaping and a wrap around porch, this is a stunning home with great curb appeal. The front entrance into this traditional style home welcomes you with a formal dining room and formal living room with lovely hardwood floors. You will feel right at home in the spacious family room featuring a beautiful fireplace with pellet stove. The kitchen has all the storage you need with a comfortable eat-in area with access to the side porch. The huge back deck and beautifully landscaped yard are the perfect backdrop for entertaining or just relaxing. Upstairs you have three spacious bedrooms and a hall bathroom as well as the primary bedroom with en-suite bath and jetted soaking tub. Above the garage is a huge bonus room with additional storage. This fabulous space could be used as a game room, office, craft room, or spare bedroom to name a few, the possibilities are endless in this gorgeous home!
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 $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 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.
You are moving into a new home – it’s exciting but rather challenging. And we’re not thinking only of packing – some ‘hidden’ challenges will undoubtedly come your way if you’re not well-prepared. One of them is surely taking care of your furry friend while moving. Pets, especially dogs, can react nervously to the whole thing, making the process even more difficult. Luckily, there’s a way to avoid issues. Here are the best tips on moving to Orange County, VA with your dog.
Why Orange County, VA is great for people with pets
Not every place is good for pets. However, Orange County is undoubtedly one of the pet-friendly ones. Firstly, you can truly enjoy the outdoors – your dog can run, play and jump as much as it wants. There are several parks and other green spaces in cities such as Orange and Gordonsville. Also, most shops allow well-behaved dogs, allowing you to go shopping with your furry friend. Finally, you’ll be able to find a pet-friendly home as well – just be sure to set this as a priority in your house-hunting process.
How to make moving to Orange County, VA with your dog smooth and stress-free?
Relocations are not only stressful for humans – dogs can feel stressed out as well. The biggest reason for it is the disruption of their living space and adapting to the new environment. Dogs rely on the smells around them, so they can become pretty nervous once they need to move into an unfamiliar place. There are ways you can make moving with pets easier for your little friend and prepare for this task – so be sure to remember these tips when you start planning your move to Orange County, VA.
Let moving supplies be there for a while
Bringing new objects to the house can make your dog upset – especially if you start packing ‘their’ items into boxes. Thus, make sure you bring in moving supplies a bit before you need to start packing. This will allow your pet to get used to these items and have no issues once you start packing your household for the move. After going through all the steps of buying a property, hiring movers, and shopping for packing supplies, sitting in a house filled with packing materials might be the last thing you want. However, it’s what your dog needs, and that’s all that should matter.
Dogs are very sensitive to changes – make sure they don’t feel a thing when moving to a new home.
Figure out the transport details
Depending on where you’re coming from, you and your pet will spend more or less time in your car, or a plane, train, etc. Thus, it helps to figure out the transport details on time. If you’ll need a transport box, and your dog is not used to traveling in it – get one beforehand. Let it sit in your home for a couple of weeks, so your pet can get used to it. Put its favorite toys and snacks in this transport box, so the dog can see it’s a safe place to be.
In case you need to travel by plane, and this is the first time for your dog, it’s good to prepare it for it. Some people recommend going together through a car wash, which simulates the sounds and vibrations to the ones you feel on the plane. But most importantly, it’s essential that you are calm and that you speak to your dog in a calm, optimistic voice.
Stick to a routine
Moving house can disrupt your schedule a lot. However, it’s essential to stick to your dog’s routines as much as possible. This includes feeding and playtime and your routines when going for a walk. The routine will ensure your dog feels safe and calm even with all the changes around.
Always stick to the routines when moving to Orange County, VA with your dog
Bring all of your pet’s old items
It’s often recommended to declutter the old household before you start packing and throw away everything that you can replace with new items. However, when moving to Orange County, VA with your dog, try to keep most of the old things. Keep your dog’s old food and water bowls, bed, and toys. Once you arrive at the new bigger/smaller home, these items will help them feel secure and recognize the new place as their new home.
Visit the vet before moving to Orange County, VA
Pay a visit to your old vet before you relocate. They may be able to recommend a new vet in Orange County, VA. Also, they could write all the necessary prescriptions in case your dog takes therapy. Finally, make sure your pet is microchipped – with the updated address. This proved to be useful for pet owners whose pets escaped during the move as they were feeling anxious and scared. Finally, take care of all the documentation, especially when moving from another state or relocating internationally.
Schedule a visit to the pet before moving and get all the necessary documentation for a safe journey.
Keep your dog away on the moving day
Once all the boxes are packed and movers are about to arrive, it’s best to leave your dog in trusted hands but away from the house. Experienced moving companies, such as Zippy Shell NV, recommend you find a place where your furry friend will feel calm and safe. Ask a friend or a trusted dog sitter to take care of your pet while movers do their part. Strangers taking away items from your home are what dogs see as a threat, making them extremely nervous and sometimes aggressive.
Adapting to the new space
After the move, it’s time for the last step to introduce the dog to the new living space. Firstly, make sure the new home is safe for a pet – remove any hazards, close all the doors and windows and then let the dog into the house. As everything is new, your dog will explore the space by trying to smell and touch almost everything in the house. That’s why the environment must be safe for this new curious resident. Moving to Orange County, VA with your dog can be a wonderful experience – but you have to make it such.
Meta description: Moving to Orange County, VA with your dog in the days to come? Then read our article and learn how to get ready for it.
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.
It takes a lot of responsibility to pick a perfect destination for your family. Even if you and your partner have just gotten married and plan to relocate, choosing a family-friendly location might be on your mind. A new home should be suitable for your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. And when a move involves more family members, these criteria seem to expand. The State of Virginia is becoming more and more popular these days, with one of its counties standing out. Orange County, VA is perfect for families – and this guide will tell you all the reasons why. Let’s see if this is where you start looking for a new home with your loved ones.
Orange County, VA basic information
Firstly, let’s get to know this county better before we point out all its family-friendly features. Orange County is located in the Central Piedmont region of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its seat is located in Orange, a small town of about 5,000 residents. The county itself has a population of about 36,000, which seems to be just enough for a family-friendly lifestyle many parents are looking for. But, what’s so special about this country and why it’s perfect for those moving with a family?
Reasons Orange County, VA is family-friendly
Choosing a place where your family can thrive and enjoy life and be safe and peaceful is challenging these days. Orange Country seems to fit that description, and it’s often chosen by families to be their new home. And both first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors consider this area to be the perfect family-friendly zone.
You can have all the peace you want
The peaceful, laid-back lifestyle their residents lead is the main thing people notice about towns in Orange County. Those who currently live in a big city probably want to get away from all the hustle and bustle, and Orange County may just be the place to go. The small-town atmosphere brings the feeling of safety and belonging, making it easy to raise kids. People know each other in these small communities, which can be very beneficial in these challenging years of being a parent of young kids.
Access to nature
Spending time close to nature and away from all the technologies seems to be a luxury in today’s world. Well, it’s a common thing in Orange County, which is such a benefit when it comes to raising kids. To enjoy the natural scenery and fresh air whenever you want often feels precious. Visit the Lake of the Woods and find a place to have a picnic with your loved ones, and you’ll understand why this is the right place to be.
Reminder: spending a day in nature is not the only thing you can do here. There are different activities you can try out and have fun after moving to Orange County.
Kids love nature and animals – let them be close as much as possible.
Less traffic
Orange County communities are relatively small, which results in fewer cars and less traffic. This makes the place a lot safer for kids and ensures parents spend less time in traffic. It’s easier to go to work, go shopping and reach the main airports in the area. People here use cars for longer commutes but like to get around on foot and practice a healthy lifestyle.
Being able to ride a bike without running away from traffic makes Orange County, VA perfect for families.
Where to move – top places in Orange County, VA
After you’re sure that Orange County, VA is perfect for your family, it’s time to research the best places to move. Some of the popular locations include:
Orange – located close to Charlottesville, the area is filled with small businesses, and most of the residents are people with kids or retirees. Good-quality schools attract more and more parents every year;
Lake of the Woods – many parks, two pools, and great schools make this place one of the perfect options for those moving with kids;
Gordonsville is the best place for those looking for a small American town charm and real suburban feel. Moreover, if you are thinking about buying a vacation home in Virginia, this area might be the perfect place for doing so.
Moving to Orange County, VA with your family – how to do it stress-free?
Packing and moving an entire household along with your kids may seem too big of a challenge for parents. That’s why you need to be ahead of it and plan this move in a way that predicts all the potential issues so you can have the smoothest relocation ever. Undoubtedly, the focus of this move should be safety. Unfortunately, many things can go wrong during relocation. Thus, it’s easy to understand that children are your primary concern as you won’t have a task that’s more important than keeping your kids safe on moving day.
Do as much as you can in advance
Moving house is a process that consists of so many steps related to packing, cleaning, documentation, etc. The easiest way to have a stress-free moving day is to plan everything ahead of time and do as many tasks as possible long before the big day comes. Make a list to keep track of all the tasks that await and tick them off as you finish.
Have a team you can trust
The moving business has grown a lot, which led to an increased number of unprofessional and even fraudulent companies. Experienced movers such as Excalibur Moving and Storage have experience with customers who have learned a thing or two about moving scams the hard way, so they recommend you research the companies in detail before making the final choice. Compare their services and fees, explore their website and read the reviews. Finally, see if you can get a recommendation from someone you trust and hire a team that will help you relocate easily.
Include your kids
Depending on the age of your children, this move can be more or less complicated. However, try to include them in the process by talking about the move, asking them to help with the packing, and having a vote in making certain decisions. Appreciating their opinion will help them feel important, valued, and more willing to help you out as a result.
Moving doesn’t need to be stressful and overwhelming – include the kids and make it fun.
So, do you agree that Orange County, VA is perfect for families? We believe you do – start exploring this area and look for an ideal home where you can make new memories with your loved ones.
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 are the highest in United States history!
Individuals and families are shifting how they think about housing, from suburban versus urban to downsizing or going multigenerational.
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
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
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
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.
