Category Archives: REALTOR

Licata Group Shred Day Returns, Saturday, April 30th, 2022!


The Licata Group team with the assistance of LOW Fire and Rescue 29 will be hosting a Community Shred Day on Saturday, April 30th from 11 AM – 2PM! Just in time for the end of tax season, so salsa on over and safely and securely shred your documents! The Shred-it truck will be located within the Food Lion parking lot across from the Lake of the Woods front gate, near our office at 36111 Goodwin Drive (between AT&T and CVS). Donations are encouraged but not required, as all proceeds will benefit Lake of the Woods Fire and Rescue. Fire and Rescue will be on-site assisting! We love being a resource to our community, so come and shred to your heart’s content! The Orange County Animal shelter will be present with adoptable animals. Bring your appetite, too! The fabulous Taco Tuesday Food Truck will be there selling a delicious variety of Mexican fare.

 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

The Most Romantic Towns to Live in Orange County, Virginia

Starting your life together as a young couple is highly exciting and romantic. Going house-hunting, choosing a place to live, and decorating your new home are all the steps to building your new life. One of the sweetest tasks here is selecting a location for your new home. Virginia attracts many new residents each year, so you won’t go wrong if you choose to call it home, too. Here are the most romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia. 

Top reasons for moving to Orange County, VA

For those who are still hesitant about their location choice, we’ve got some helpful info that might convince you to move to Virginia. Orange County is one of many counties in this state, but it’s undoubtedly one of the favorites among new residents. People move here for different reasons:

  • A family-friendly lifestyle is encouraged in Orange County, which is why many young couples decide to start their families here;
  • Nature – beautiful scenery ensures there’s always something to do, so people regularly engage in different outdoor activities;
  • Education – Virginia belongs to the top 10 most educated states. Education has a high priority here, so if you’re moving with kids, you can be sure they will have the opportunity to learn;
  • Four seasons – in Virginia, you can experience four distinct seasons and enjoy each of them to the fullest. Summers are hot and humid, and summer months are pretty busy with tourists. On the other hand, winters can be pretty cold and harsh, but they offer various winter activities.

If this was enough to convince you to move to Orange County, just make sure you do everything it takes to have the relocation that goes according to plan. Even when moving locally, a reliable moving team, safe packing, and on-time preparations are a must. 

A building in Virginia
Virginia has a lot to offer – explore your options carefully.

New home in Virginia – the most romantic towns to live in Orange County 

We’ve got some excellent news for young couples looking for a new home. There are several romantic towns you can choose from! 

Orange 

Let’s start with the seat of Orange County, the place where most people start their search. Historical buildings surrounded by beautiful nature make this place one of the most romantic towns to live in Orange County. Orange is also one of the most popular places in the state, as its natural resources support various industries and create many job opportunities. 

Gordonsville

This place is a perfect example of a romantic small town that’s most suitable for those looking for a place to raise a family. Most residents own their homes here, and you can enjoy an authentic suburban feel. The charming streets of Gordonsville make the town quite romantic – red-brick buildings with colorful details, many flowers, and old-style street lights are everywhere. You will enjoy taking a walk and visiting some of the galleries and quaint shops, finishing the night at one of the super romantic restaurants. Also, there are a couple of wineries nearby, which can be a perfect way to spend a romantic weekend. The place is popular among tourists, but many also decide to move here and call Gordonsville home. 

Lake of the Woods 

Located at the east of Orange County, Lake of the Woods is a census-designated place that has become quite popular in recent years. The fact that it’s located on the lake makes the place genuinely romantic. But, locals love it for its rural feel, safe and family-friendly environment, and excellent public schools. The population is just above 8,000, making it easy to make friends and feel at home. There’s so much to do here – golfing, beach activities, fishing, kayaking, etc. 

Sunset on a lake
Imagine living near a lake. Romantic sunsets could become your everyday reality. 

Moving to Orange County, VA

Once you choose a new home, you will need to start planning your move. Begin by creating a unique timeline. It will help you keep track of your progress and prevent you from forgetting or missing something. You’ll be more organized and therefore more successful.

Picking a suitable moving team is never easy. You will trust your household to strangers, so they need to be professional, reliable, and experienced. The pros at A2B Moving and Storage recommend hiring someone who already has a lot of experience with relocations in Virginia. Local pros usually have more affordable rates and know the fastest and safest ways to deliver your items.

It’s essential to take packing seriously. If you are organized, you’ll have a much faster and more efficient move. Firstly, remove all the things that are just eating up the space: all the clutter, unused items, broken and outdated pieces. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of what you need to pack and how many moving supplies you need.

Label your items according to the room they belong in. This is particularly important for those moving in to a big home. Write on each box what’s inside it and where it should go. Your movers will then put them in the fitting room, making the unpacking process easier for you.

Finally, pack the essentials separately. You probably won’t have the energy and time to unpack everything on your first night in your new home. Make sure you’ve got everything you need in one separate box—pack basic toiletries, sheets and pajamas, chargers, etc. 

A family of four holding hands in one of the most romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia
Building a family in one of the most romantic towns to live in Orange County is a dream come true for many people. 

Romance in Virginia 

Choosing one of the romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia, is an excellent idea. However, the romance and spark of your relationship don’t depend on it. Choose a place where you can start building new memories together and watch your new life unfold! 

Meta description: Couples looking for a place to start a family – explore the most romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia for your new home. 

Photos used:

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https://www.pexels.com/photo/low-angle-photography-of-brown-wooden-dock-at-golden-house-205002/

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

https://www.pexels.com/photo/couple-while-holding-hands-691045/

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.

625 Mt Pleasant Dr, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 SOLD by the Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 625 Mt. Pleasant Dr! This immaculate, updated, and well-maintained home in Lake of the Woods truly has it all. From the moment you arrive, you will love the inviting curb appeal, circular driveway, and front porch. Upon entering, you are greeted by gleaming hardwood floors, fine finishes, and a sought-after open floor plan. The ample windows in the living room allow the sun to shine in and provide so much natural light. This expansive chef’s kitchen features a breakfast bar, granite countertops, backsplash, skylights, and upgraded stainless-steel appliances. In addition, the open concept style leads into the formal dining room with a fireplace for embracing that romantic dinner you’re planning. An etched glass door opens into a mini bar area, perfect for all your entertainment needs! The owner’s suite is spacious, with French doors to the living room and offers an en-suite bath featuring two separate sink vanities, a walk-in beautifully tiled shower, a luxurious soaking tub. Perfect place to unwind and relax. Heading to the beautiful back yard, grab your favorite beverage and enjoy the privacy, as this is sure to become one of your favorite spots. Not to be overlooked, this house has a whole house generator for peace of mind.

Lake of the Woods, a private, gated, secured community, 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.

313 Westover Pkwy, Lake of the Woods Virginia now SOLD by the Licata Group EXP Realty Real Estate Advisors!

Welcome to 313 Westover Parkway! If you are looking for a roomy, open floor plan home with views of #15 Fairway then this is the one! The living room boasts a gas fireplace and high ceilings with 2 skylights that are sure to please the eye as you enter. Formal dining room is adject with chair railings. The kitchen combined with the living room makes entertaining fun with access to the screened in porch and deck, bring your grill! The spacious owner’s suite with an adjoining sitting room is perfect for a home office, with a sliding door that also gives access to the screened in porch. The en-suite bathroom with a soaking tub, shower, double sink is sure to accommodate all your comforts. This home has plentiful closets and storage spaces.

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.

January 2022 Lake of the Woods, Virginia Real Estate Statistics

In January, 15 homes SOLD in Lake of the Woods.

0 sold below $250,000.00
1 sold between $250,000-299,999;
3 sold between $300-349,999;
2 sold between $350,000-399,999;
6 sold between $400-499,999;
1 sold between $500,000-$999,999;
2 sold over $1,000,000!

13 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale
25 Homes Under Contract
15 Homes Sold since January 1, 2022.

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

Thinking of Selling Your Home in the Next 18 Months? This is for You! Home Seller Seminar on 3/26/22!

If you are thinking of selling within the next 18 months, this is where you need to be on March 26th!
There will be local vendors in attendance to help you!  We have a trusted lender, professional photographer, and an estate sales professional, just to name a few. We want to provide you access to all the resources you will need to sell your home for the most money in the least amount of time.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions not only to the listing agent, but also the vendors that will be presenting. Selling your home doesn’t have to be a hassle and we want to make sure you have all the information you need so you know what to expect!
Please join: Licata Group on Saturday, March 26th, from 11am – 1:00pm at the Lake of the Woods Clubhouse in Locust Grove.
RSVP HERE by March 25th, or by calling 540-388-2541.

Reserve your spot today!!!
Light refreshments will be served.
See you there!

Lake of the Woods Virginia  Seller Seminar Flyer March 26th
Lake of the Woods Virginia Seller Seminar Flyer March 26th

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your professionals for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia, we are your proven Real Estate professionals. 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, the Licata Group 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.

How Will Inflation Affect the Housing Market?

Key Takeaways:

  • The historic low housing inventory creates value opportunities in competitive housing markets.
  • Anticipation of new home listings to hit a 10-year high as some owners see right now as the best time to sell.
  • Condo and rental demand are likely to surge as inventory supply chain issues impact the housing market.

This Year Will Bring Balance to the Housing Market

After two consecutive years in which words like “unprecedented,” “historic,” and “white-hot” have been buzzing about, we can now add “inflation” to the list.

What is inflation, and how will it affect the real estate market in 2022?

Real estate is not immune from the inflationary effects of declining purchasing power on an economy. When prices go up, so do the costs associated with real estate. In a nutshell, that’s how inflation works; like a rising tide lifts all boats, so does inflation with rising costs. However, there are always reasons to be genuinely confident in real estate’s proven ability to hedge against inflation and be profitable.

Here are three particulars and tips to help you navigate these inflationary waters and better prepare you to make your move when you decide it’s time to do so.

#1: Low Housing Inventory Drives Values

Dictionary showing the word inflation being highlighted.

With the market expected to remain undersupplied throughout the year and with this year already seeing historic low numbers in housing inventory, continued supply chain issues, and material costs resulting from inflationary pressure will undoubtedly influence the market. Many analysts are anticipating a modest 3% growth in home values, compared to the 24% return that last year saw.

Historically, it is well-documented that real estate remains profitable when inflation affects an economy. One reason is that landlords can always pass their cost increases off to their tenants. But the real lesson here is the age-old axiom that scarcity creates value. So instead of seeing the record-low number of housing inventory as something to steer clear of, it means that while there may be much competition in home buying, that’s because of the value of being a homeowner.

#2: New Listings to Hit 10-Year High

Image showing a couple signing real estate documents with money in front of them.

The end of double-digit price growth in home values will also encourage more homeowners to cash out finally, which will create more inventory in the market. But as the market settles down and becomes more balanced, homeowners will also be more inclined to list their homes to offset inflationary pressures elsewhere, though it will not be enough to meet the expected historical demand in 2022. This increase in listings of existing homes will also coincide with a slight increase in the listings of newly constructed homes, similarly expected to be the highest in a decade.

New home inventory should increase from 2021’s bottom, but we anticipate the market will remain undersupplied. In particular, the entry-level supply of new home construction will remain highly constrained.

#3: Condo and Rental Demand Will Take Off

Image showing a luxury condominium overlooking several swimming pools.

2022 will also see the end of mortgage forbearance, which along with inflationary pressures, will cause many homeowners to sell and rent instead. This surge in rental costs and demand will create opportunities for others looking to get into the housing market. As a result, expect rents to increase 7% by the end of 2022, more than double the predicted year-over-year growth in home prices of 3%, once again proving that homeownership is always a more reliable use and investment of your money.

As the pandemic subsides, more people will live in cities once again where renting is more common. Additionally, the strong labor market will cause many movers wanting to move into a new town the opportunity to get to know their new city before they commit to homeownership.

The Market Is Moving—Get Started Now

There’s always much to consider when buying a new home. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or looking for your next, understanding the more significant economic trends is always important to maximize your efforts’ success. So contact us today and let us know how we can help support you in your journey.

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.

6418 Marye Rd, Woodford Virginia 22580 UNDER CONTRACT by the Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors

Welcome to 6418 Marye Rd! If acreage and privacy are what you crave, then this is the one! You will enjoy entertaining family and friends with the privacy of 1 1/2 acres, plenty of space to roam and create your own backyard oasis and that’s only the beginning! The inside features a family room with a gas fireplace, perfect for those chilly winter evenings. The sunny kitchen has a handy cooktop and wall in the oven and pantry for all your cooking needs with adjoining space for your table and chairs. Off the kitchen is a sunroom where you can let your imagination go wild with possibilities! Lovely re-stained hardwood floors throughout the house and into all three-bedroom. The owner’s bedroom with an en-suite bathroom has a walk-in shower. This house boasts a huge full basement, perfect for a game room, extra space to make a comfy space for guests, workshop, the possibilities for this house are endless! The basement has an inside entrance and an outside entrance.

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 LOWdown on Real Estate at the Lake 2021 by Pat Licata, REALTOR®

2021 proved to be a great year for Lake of the Woods real estate! Year-over-year, homes sales were up, median sold price was up, days on the market were down, and average sold to original list price ratio was above 100%!

A screenshot of a cell phone

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A screenshot of a cell phone

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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. 2020 showed a slight gain in sales at 313, yet the median sold price increased 7.87% to $291,250, up from $270,000 in 2019. And then came the 2021 market: a whopping 14.7% increase in the number of homes sold and a median sold price increase of 15.9 percent over 2020.

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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 93 in 2017 to 16 in 2021.

It’s also telling to note that a significant number of lots have sold in the past five years.  From January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2021, a total of 196 lots sold: 24 in 2016; 37 in 2017; 45 in 2018, 41 in 2019; 49 in 2020; and only 24 in 20201. Coincidentally, 2016 and 2021 realized the identical number of lot sales (reported in the MLS). There simply are very few lots left in LOW.

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Of the MLS sales reported in 2017-2021, new construction numbers have varied. 2017 saw 20 new construction homes sales; 2018 dipped to only 11; 2019 realized 31; 2020 sales jumped to 41, while 2021 ended at 37. 

Again, there aren’t many lots left in LOW, which, of course, will impact new construction sales in the future. 

Another notable statistic is the dramatic rise in average sold price to original list price ratio. It has steadily risen from 95.5% in 2017 to 100.9% in 2021.

According to Freddie Mac and the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage rates are expected to rise and end 2022 in the 3.75-4% range for a 30-year fixed. Today, it is possible to obtain a 15-year fixed rate just under 3%. 

The prognosis for 2022 is excellent! In LOW, there are 15 homes active on the market as of 1/26/2022. Low rates and hopefully more inventory should propel us to experience another year of healthy sales and appreciation, although appreciation is expected to slow from what we’ve experienced the past two years.

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.