Category Archives: Real Estate

Thinking About Starting a Business and Relocating? Here’s What to Keep in Mind

There are so many incredible aspects to working in the modern era, and one of them is the simplicity of setting up a  home-based business. Running your own business has numerous advantages, but it can also require some changes, such as relocating to a bigger home. If you are set on starting a business but your place isn’t suitable for both living and working, expert real estate agency The Licata Group offers a few things to keep in mind.

Moving to Accommodate Your Business

Starting your business and moving at the same time is no joke; however, it is doable. It will take energy, time, and money, but what will help you the most is significant planning ahead of time and a checklist to keep you on track. 

What Goes Into Home Buying

Before planning to buy a new home, it’s crucial to check your credit score to see what you can and cannot afford. The next step is working with a professional from The Licata Group who can help you with the process to figure out what type of house will fit your needs.

The home-hunting process can be daunting, especially when you’re also starting a business, but it is essential to keep a few things in mind, such as finding out which location will be ideal for your new clients. You should also make a list of aspects you want in your house, such as a workspace or a garage, to allow your business to function at its maximum – both for now and in the future – and enable you to live comfortably while running a startup.

Once you’ve found the right home, make an offer and schedule the inspection to ensure the house doesn’t have any underlying issues. What you need to do next is secure your financing, get a homeowners’ insurance policy, close the sale, transfer your information to the new place, and move in.

Whether you decide to use a moving company or handle everything yourself, set up a budget for this process to keep yourself on track financially. If you’ve decided on a DIY move, make a point to stay organized by packing room by room, labeling your inventory, and finding cheap packing supplies. Sorting your stuff first when relocating will help you tremendously and allow you to get working sooner than later.

Starting a Successful Business in a Bigger House

Today, more people are starting businesses, and they are doing it from the comfort of their homes. Still, not all states allow this, so make sure you research your state’s regulations to avoid mistakes and make your business legal.

To lead your small business to success, look for gaps in the market – this means you need to find a need that’s not met in the industry and fill it by delivering more than expected. You must then choose a business structure and put together a business plan. Your business should also have an online presence, so look for cost-effective marketing tactics, such as using social media and email to make you and your services known.

To start most businesses – depending on the service or product you plan to offer – you don’t necessarily need a degree; however, having a master’s certification can gain you some leverage, such as higher pay, a broader network, and increased credibility. If you find that you need to boost your business acumen, consider enrolling in an online degree program that doesn’t cramp your ability to run your business at the same time. 

Starting a home-based business is attractive for many because it offers a work-life balance. While moving to a bigger home to accommodate a new business may seem lofty for some, it is the best decision you can make if you consider the costs, future profits and choose the right property.

When you’re ready to find the perfect home, connect with a professional from The Licata Group to find the perfect Home. Call today to begin your house hunting journey! 540-388-2541

 Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Image Source: Pexels

Fabulous Home For Sale in Broadlands, VA! 21468 Glebe View Drive Now SOLD!!

Welcome to pristine 21468 Glebe View Drive, an elegant and stately home in sought after Broadlands, where pride of ownership throughout is most evident! You will be delighted when you arrive by the curb appeal and lush yard…and that’s just the beginning of how fabulous this home really is. As you enter, you immediately notice the two story foyer with sweeping staircase and gleaming hardwood floors. Perfectly situated off the foyer is a formal living room with ample windows, creating a bright and airy feel that flows so effortlessly into the formal dining room, separated by stunning architecture. The gourmet kitchen shines with upgraded stainless steel appliances, granite counters, a large island, and eat in area.

You will be wowed by the gracious family room with floor to ceiling stone fireplace. The study/office completes the main level with french doors, and plenty of light. The owner’s suite is one of grandeur with it’s generous size, walk in closet and tray ceiling. Luxurious best describes the owner’s bath with soaking tub, vanities, and you will feel like you are at a spa. The upper level boasts three additional bedrooms and another full bath. Entering the lower level, you will be impressed by the recessed lighting and abundance of windows that create the main level feel. The incredible bar with no expense spared, family room and game area will make entertaining a breeze. Your spectacular expansive deck open to a beautiful tree lined yard. These will be favorite spots for entertaining or relaxing! Again…welcome home! For more information on 21468 Glebe View Drive, Click Here!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Stunning Home For Sale in Callaway, MD! 44913 Widgeon Place Now SOLD

Welcome to 44913 Widgeon Place, located in a cul-de-sac offering a quick drive to Patuxant Navel Air Base. This beautiful colonial is nestled between the Patuxant and Potomac Rivers with close access to the Chesapeake Bay. As you arrive, you will immediately notice the fabulous front porch. Imagine relaxing with your favorite beverage or book. Upon entering, you are welcomed by gleaming hardwood floors, an open floor plan, and a stunning stairway. You will love cooking in this spacious kitchen with upgraded appliances and a pantry to die for!

The flow from the kitchen, dining area and family room will make entertaining or everyday living a breeze. The upper-level owner’s suite is sure to delight with the vaulted ceilings, space to spread out, and an en-suite, spa-like bathroom! The upper-level boasts a landing with quaint sitting area that would be perfect flex space and three additional bedrooms. The outdoor living area includes an awesome deck that will accommodate incredible backyard barbecues and a yard that is ready for your garden or swing set or both! Welcome home! For more information on 44913 Widgeon Place, Click Here!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Free Virtual Home Seller Seminar on 2/13 From 11:00 AM – 12:00PM EST!

Join the Licata Group team for a fun, informative, and free webinar where you will learn how to BEST prepare your home for sale for top-dollar from leading industry professionals.

Interest rates continue to stay at a historic-low with more buyers than homes that are available! You’ll learn how the current market is affecting the home selling process and how it’s often leading to multiple-offer situations.

A Q&A session will be held at the end to answer your questions.

We understand the need to sell your home for the highest market value in the least amount of time, and you’ll learn how this can be achieved in this one-hour session! Join us for a fun, interactive, and informative webinar on February 13th, 11 am. Click Here to register!

 Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Stellar Home For Sale in Lake of the Woods, VA! 207 Madison Circle Now SOLD!!

Welcome to 207 Madison Circle! The first thing you will notice is the water views from your front door! This solidly built home is full of light and offers flex spaces on both levels. You will love the spacious living and dining areas, along with three bedrooms (one with attached bath as main floor primary) and flex space (classroom or office, perhaps?) on the main level. The upper level boasts either a private guest suite with en-suite bath or second owner’s suite with upper deck access, which would also make a great classroom or private office! Relax on the other spacious deck and enjoy the sounds of nature while you overlook your private, deep (246+ feet), level, tree lined backyard. Wait…there’s more….. an oversized one car detached garage with workshop space offering its own entrance, and a shed. Even though this home is being sold “As Is,” don’t let that fool you! You are already starting out with equity! For more information on 207 Madison Circle, 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 home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

The LOW-down on Real Estate at the Lake 2020 By Pat Licata

The continued inventory shortage experienced by most regions of the country was clearly evident in Lake of the Woods again in 2020. Listings decreased by 11.6%, from 397 in 2019 to 351 in 2020, while closed sales were up 4% from 301 to 313. New construction accounted for 34 of the 313 sales. The median sold price increased a healthy 7.87% year over year from $270000 to $291,250 in 2020.

Of the 313 total sales reported in 2020, only 8, or 2 1/2%, were either short sales or foreclosures. At the height of the distressed real estate market in 2010, a whopping 43% of all sales were either short sales or foreclosures.

Now let’s look at our steady growth over the past five years:

In 2017, there were 291 total sales, a whopping 21.7% increase over 2016 at 239. The median sales price climbed to $239,000.

In 2018, 234 homes sold, which was an 8% decrease from 2017. The median sales price rose to $249,900. In 2019, we realized a 28.63% gain in homes over 2018, with a total of 301 selling.

Average Days on the Market (DOM), which is the number of days it takes from the time a property is listed until it goes under contract, has steadily declined from 117 in 2016 to 37 in 2020.

It’s also telling to note that a significant number of lots have sold in the past five years.  From January 1, 2016-Decemeber 31, 2020, a total of 196 lots sold: 24 in 2016; 37 in 2017; 45 in 2018, 41 in 2019; and 49 in 2020. There simply are very few lots left in LOW.

New construction has been climbing, as well. 2016 realized 28 new construction starts; in 2017, there were 30; in 2018, there were 34; in 2019, there were 48; and there were a whopping 66 new starts in 2020.

Another notable statistic is the dramatic rise in average sold price to original list price ratio. It has steadily risen from 93.9% in 2016 to 99.2% in 2020.

According to Freddie Mac and the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage rates were expected to stay within the 3.7-3.9% range in 2020. Interestingly, rates were surely seen well below those numbers. As of today, it’s possible to obtain a 15-year fixed rate below 2%, with the 30-year rate below 3%. Financial experts are expecting another year of low interest rates.

The prognosis for 2021, as it was in 2020, is excellent! In LOW, there are 9 homes active on the market as of 1/14/2021. In January of 2019, there were 57. Low, stable rates and hopefully more inventory should propel us to experience another year of healthy sales and appreciation.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Beautiful Home with Brick Fireplace For Sale in Lake of the Woods, VA! 129 Parliament Street Now SOLD!!

Welcome home to 129 Parliament Street in amenity-rich Lake of the Woods! You’ll love the location within walking distance of the pool, park, and Community Center! Upon entering, the light-filled living room with soaring ceilings and a brick fireplace for those chilly nights will wow you. The kitchen boasts upgraded appliances, breakfast bar and a large dining area with access to the deck. Off the deck you’ll find a private, level back yard perfect for gardening and enjoying outdoor activities. The main level also offers the owner’s bedroom, full bath and laundry. The upper level features a loft which is open to the living room below. This would make an awesome office or craft room, and it would be perfect as a virtual learning area. There’s even a private deck off of the loft! The upper level features two additional bedrooms and a full bath. For more information on 129 Parliament Street, 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 home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Current Real Estate Statistics for 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 home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Lake of the Woods December 2020 Market Statistics


In December, 25 homes sold in Lake of the Woods.
1 sold between $130-199,000;
4 sold between $200-249,000;
8 sold between $249,900-299,000;
8 sold between $300-399,000;
3 sold between $400-599,000;
1 home sold over $1,000,000!

13 Active Listings for Sale
42 Homes Under Contract
315 Homes Sold since January 1, 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 home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

Why Homebuyers are Moving to Orange County, VA

If you have to describe it in just a word, many would say that Orange County, VA, is outstanding. It’s a great place to live, work, and enjoy every moment of free time relaxing in nature. In essence, there is beautiful scenery throughout the county, but also many historically rich locations. If you need a place far from the city crowds, you will find plenty of that in Orange County for sure. Far from all the bustle but close enough to benefit from modern amenities. This is why many homebuyers are moving to Orange County, VA, searching for a more quiet life. And when you add affordable costs and low taxes into the combination, it speaks for itself. Today, we will explore some of the most common reasons people are deciding to live in this beautiful area.

Several reasons homebuyers are moving to Orange County, VA

People have different reasons for purchasing a home. While it’s not always an easy decision, financial situation and quality of life are some of the main ones. But, finding the right community where you will enjoy and feel safe without spending a fortune can be challenging. However, this is precisely what many cities and towns in Orange County, VA offer. Overall, there are numerous appealing benefits Orange County can provide to its residents. From the quiet way of life to an excellent education to access to work. These are the reasons why it’s an immensely popular housing market. So, if you have the opportunity, you should seize it.

Discovering Orange County

Many people discover how beautiful Orange County is by mere occasion. Plenty of today’s residents were simple tourists passing by, but once they saw how convenient it is to live here, they decided to relocate.

History lovers enjoy tours through Montpelier and other historically rich locations, while nature enthusiasts come here for the fantastic landscape. And plenty of others just notice how leisure is a lifestyle here. Suddenly, enjoying a quiet country lifestyle while having access to city amenities becomes the idea. And taking a break from all the urban stress and settling into affordable Orange County is becoming a goal. After such discovery, many decide to explore the local estate market.

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Many people are visiting Orange County for its amazing nature.

Wonderful weather

Besides so many things you can do and visit, Orange County has terrific weather. You can enjoy the lakeshore and visit the mountains on the same day. Just make sure you hit the right season since there are four distinctly beautiful seasons here. In January, temperatures are between 25 and 50F, while in July, it can be as high as nearly 90F.

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From water to mountains, you have everything in Orange County.

Orange County geography

Orange County is a relatively leveled county with elevation going between 170 and 1200 feet. Even the highest summits, like Clark Mountain and Merry Mountain, don’t go above those heights. There is also Lake Orange, a preferable destination for those who enjoy the shoreline. This is one of the county’s best places for fishing, camping, and hiking. If you are more into boating, swimming, or waterskiing, you can also visit the northern parts of Lake Anna.

Working in Orange County, VA

History and beautiful nature are not the only conveniences of living in Orange County. Many fine places are within driving distance to large industrial cities. This means buyers are considering living in a calm environment and working nearby. On top of it, you always know all amenities are a short drive away. At the same time, you can find many major employers from agriculture to manufacturing to other sectors hiring here. But that’s not all. Orange County offers a fertile ground for all kinds of startups, so if you are looking to start your own business or expand an existing one, it can be a great opportunity. In addition, its location makes it accessible to major airports and ports, so transportations won’t be a problem.

Small-town atmosphere

The small-town atmosphere is another reason why buyers choose Orange County. Plenty of communities offer a laid back lifestyle in the middle of incredible scenery. These are the places where people mostly know each other and take good care of their neighbors. Each location has numerous gatherings and events where locals can enjoy. From different parks to farmer’s markets, it just adds to the overall atmosphere, making the entire Orange County more enticing. Of course, those who want more privacy can move to more secluded places on the outskirts of towns or mountains. These are the places where they can enjoy the impressive mountain views and fenced pastures like in movies. Just make sure to organize your relocation on time so that movers can take you to your new home in good weather.

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Private ranch-style property is quite common to find.

Education

Homebuyers with kids, or those who plan on having them, show great interest in education. It’s fair to say that Orange County is dedicated to providing high-quality education. It’s constantly working on improving the education system, programs, and facilities, which is one of the main reasons families decide to buy a home and settle down here.

Orange County is an excellent place to spend your retirement in

Orange County also offers plenty of quite popular and quality places for retirees. Not only because of the slow pace of life, or wonderful nature and convenient weather. But also because of excellent healthcare access and affordability. Some of the best locations for retirees are those close to big city amenities and top-level medical facilities. And if you are looking for affordability, Orange County offers some of the best home prices in Virginia, as well as those in senior communities. Just make sure you contact the right agents to help you with information about locations and prices.

If you are a homebuyer who needs to ensure a life in a quiet place far from all the city bustle, Orange County welcomes you. This county offers something for everyone. You can enjoy living in completely private areas far from others, or you can live in friendly communities that care for each other. In most cases, homebuyers are moving to Orange County, VA, for a convenient and affordable lifestyle. With numerous locations that offer everything within a short drive, you can have everything you need.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

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

Pictures:

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