Category Archives: Spotsylvania VA

Open House Waterfront Extravaganza in Amenity-Rich, Lake of the Woods, Virginia!!

Check out our 3 featured waterfront open houses this weekend – Saturday, August 3rd from 12PM – 2PM. (Click the address below for more information about the property)

111 Boxwood Trail priced at $699,000

128 Harrison Cir offered at $534,900

and 542 Harrison Cir that was recently reduced to $625,000!

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.

Valkyrie Ranch in Locust Grove is Hosting After School Program Kick Off Group

Valkyrie Ranch, located at 10053 Barnes Rd, Locust Grove VA 22508, is hosting a Bandanna Club for youths 8 years old and older. They aim to give kids a well-rounded horsemanship education. They will learn about all aspects of horse care, training and of course – riding!

This 8 week after school course is similar to karate in that the children will have the opportunity to work up the levels and earn earn the coordinating colored bandannas. Sessions are 2 hours long and each course is limited to 3 to 4 students. In each session, students will help keep the barn area clean, have a knowledge based lesson, groom and saddle their horses, work with the horses on the ground and RIDE!

After completing and testing for their first level bandanna students continue into group or private riding lessons.

Registration is $325 and includes the 8 week course, t-shirt bandanna club notebook with handouts as well as first level testing after completing the course.

This is a great after school opportunity for those children who love horses and want to learn more about them while working directly with the horses too! Register and learn more information about the after-school program 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.

Trivia Night at the Fareways Cafe in LOW!

Fareways Cafe at Lake of the Woods Golf Club is hosting their weekly Trivia Nights! Each Wednesday beginning August 7th through August 28th from 6pm to 8pm. Come out and have some fun with your neighbors and fellow Lake of the Woods Community members! While you’re there, enjoy a drink and a delicious dinner from the Cafe!

Fareways Cafe is located at 108 Fairway Dr, Locust Grove Virginia 22508.

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.

Orange County’s 4th Annual Chili Cookoff, Brewfest & Corn hole Tournament

Saturday, October 12th from 11AM – 6PM. Join the Orange County Chamber of Commerce as they host the 4th Annual Chili Cookoff, Brewfest and Corn hole Tournament! The festivities will take place at the Orange County Fairgrounds located at 14500 Old Gordonsville Rd, Orange VA 22960.

Chili festival is always delicious with many participants submitting their chili; there will be local and regional craft breweries to quench your thirst and of course, don’t forget to particpate in the East Orange Ruritan Club Corn hole tournament. There are CASH PRIZES for the corn hole tournament and chili cookoff.

Tickets range from $25 – $140. Get more ticket info here. The VIP experience is supposed to be IMPROVED, including: unlimited craft brew tasting, PLUS a $10 food truck voucher, exclusive craft brews and even a MEET & GREET with the WORX!

105.9 SAM FM will be broadcasting the festival from 11am – 1pm and the Worx will take the stage at 1:30PM for your afternoon music entertainment.

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.

Is Buying Real Estate A Good Investment?

Money investment is always a serious endeavor. It takes doing some serious calculations, thinking and analysis to be able to make the right and final decision. Bringing the whole process to the end successfully is highly rewarding. A smart investment, by all means, is the one that brings a return on the investment – be it a genuine joy or certain financial gain. Bearing in mind all these facts, is buying real estate in Virginia a good investment? We can provide you with vital facts on the subject. Then, take your time to deal with the dilemma and finally decide.

Things to know before considering buying real estate in Virginia as an investment

It is a well-known fact that Virginia is the promised land for nature and history lovers. Living among those mostly highly-educated and friendly people is a real pleasure. Should you want to rest and relax, the opportunities are ample to have a day trip or an excursion with your family. You will not miss job opportunities either. If you already live in this state, you might want to consider your options in other counties or cities as well.

Virginia is the promised land for nature and history lovers. Alt.tag: a part of the West Virginia scenery

So, before you start seeking professional assistance for your local relocation in Virginia or even organizing a long-distance move after purchasing real estate there, here are the facts of key importance to pay attention to. 

High standard and the matching cost of living

Whether we like or not, finances are among the most important factors when choosing where to live. If you are considering purchasing real estate in Virginia, it is essential to know that the cost of living is relatively high. Understandably, the costs vary depending on the area, but it is impossible not to admit that cities in some counties are very expensive to live in. On the other hand, considering the number of perks Virginia offers to its residents, one would say that moving there is worth considering nevertheless.

To rent or to buy?

To buy we say. The prices of rent are considerably high. Regardless of the type of residence and the area, rent in Virginia is well above the national average. Thus, we would agree that buying real estate in Virginia is an intelligent choice. Depending on the city you choose, you can expect to pay anything between $220,000 and $850,000 for a decent home. This wide range proves that you can find a favorable option for any budget. Even if you have to downsize a bit in the beginning, this is not a reason to worry since you can find affordable storage units easily.

Figure 3 We say buying real estate in Virginia is a good investment. Alt.tag: a person showing a thumb up for buying real estate in Virginia

The population is on the increase

Yes, and it is getting very diverse. Multiculturalism in the state makes people tolerant of differences and a nice place to live. You will get used to your new home location in no time, and maybe consider buying a vacation home in Virginia as well.

Traffic may spoil the fun

We have to admit that traffic in Virginia can be really heavy. Hence, considerably lower gas prices when compared to the national average do not matter much. Commute time is 28.2 minutes on the average, which is slightly longer. If you opt for using public transportation, you can get a pass for the unlimited number of rides in 30 days. It costs around $60. However, minors, seniors and the disabled pay only $35.

A word or two on taxes

Income tax in Virginia is within the range of 2% to 5.75%, unlike the property taxes which are below the average national value. They range between 0.42% and 1.37%. If you are preparing for retirement, you will like to hear that Virginia is a retirement tax-friendly country. Finally, the sales tax is between 5.3% and 7%, depending on the county.

Healthcare

As is the case with the above-mentioned parameters, the median healthcare price also varies greatly throughout Virginia. It can be up to 2% lower than the national average, or be as much as 14% higher. Generally, the bigger the city the higher the prices.

Timing matters

When considering buying real estate in Virginia as an investment, timing is an important factor. It affects both the price and the number of properties on the market. So, if you want to make a good investment, remember this. If you want to have an immense number of options, spring is the best time. This period is characterized by increased supply and a lot of choices. On the other hand, if you have a limited budget, consider conducting the purchase in summer. The prices tend to be lower and more affordable due to summer holidays and less serious demand. Anything later than this goes with certain hazard. You risk not finding the real estate of the quality you need and want.

Where to buy real estate in Virginia?

Once you decide purchasing real estate in Virginia is what you really want, choosing where to invest is the next dilemma. Most often, buyers choose Arlington, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Falls Church, Norfolk, Williamsburg, and Chantilly. Make a list of your needs, wants, and priorities and choose accordingly. In case you realize you have made a mistake, study the tips for marketing your home to millennials or target any other group, and sell the property. Hence, you will have a chance to find something more appropriate and invest again. We must admit the whole process is challenging indeed, but it is not unachievable.

Figure 4 Arlington is a city worth considering when buying real estate in Virginia. Alt.tag: a view of Arlington

Buying real estate in Virginia – how to do it right?

Buying real estate in Virginia requires professional assistance. Having a real estate agent by your side in the process will save you a lot of trouble. Moreover, it will significantly reduce the risk of making a costly mistake of buying a property of low quality or even dealing with fraudulent sellers. An experienced and knowledgeable agent can help you with getting a mortgage, obtaining the necessary insurance and going through the settlement process smoothly. Then, after signing the contract of sale, you can get down the most important things to do after buying a home. At the end of the day, it turns out that buying real estate in Virginia is a good investment indeed.

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.

Cute-As-A-Button 302 Madison St in Culpeper Virginia is now SOLD!!

Location! Location! Location! Cute as a button and located on a quiet, dead end street with a huge fenced yard, charming front porch and large shade trees. You will immediately feel right at home! Just a short walk to all the popular shops and restaurants located in Culpeper ! What a gem!

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.

506 Liberty Blvd, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 SOLD!!

Your search is over; this is the perfect place to call home! You could easily mistake this house for being brand new–so you can move right in without missing another beautiful day at the lake! Enjoy the fruit trees growing in your yard, days relaxing on your porch and so much more that the community has to offer.

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, waterskiing, 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 $100,000 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 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.

5th Annual Lake of the Woods Virginia Adaptive Children’s Event!

Join the LOW Adaptive Water Sports Foundation, Saturday August 10th from 9AM to 4PM for a FREE fun day on the water! Bring your friends and family for the 5th annual event that brings watersports to differently-abled children and their families!

There will be adaptive water-skiing, tubing, pontoon rides, kayaking, paddle-boarding, face painting and many outdoor games to play and participate in! This year, they are partnering with Therapeutic Adventures – IndependencePlus Adaptive Sports to bring adaptive paddling!

Lunch, snacks, and water will be provided for free throughout the day. All participates will also receive a FREE t-shirt, but you must register to participate. You can register here. If you don’t want to participate, come out and show your support!

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.

Build in Lake of the Woods! 407 Mt Pleasant LOT Now SOLD in Locust Grove, Virginia 22508!!

407 mt pleasant

Build your dream home on this wooded lot in beautiful Lake of the Woods. This lot is less than a block from a public beach, and a very short walk to the park, pool, and neighborhood clubhouse. Come see what the lake life is all about in this gated, amenity filled, lake community. Enjoy your summer golfing, boating, fishing, or dining at the golf course or clubhouse!

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.

Why buying a Vacation Home in Virginia is a Great Investment

Thinking about investing in property, or how nice it would be to vacation at your own lake house instead of renting one? Recently, the economy has led to an increase in second-home purchases, nationwide. Especially in the state of Virginia. When buying a vacation home in Virginia, you’re making one of the few investments that offer both financial and personal rewards. The best thing when purchasing a vacation home is that you don’t have to be rich to pull it off. This investment allows you to diversify your income, plan for retirement, take a vacation without extra costs, and maybe even build wealth. You need to set your goals before buying a second home. Weigh out the pros and cons, and once you’re clear on why you want to buy it, you can focus your search and match it with your priorities.

Advantages of buying a vacation home in Virginia

No matter which part of society you belong to, whether you are a retiree who is seeking to escape city life or a lake lover who wants to live in Lake of the Woods, you have the option of buying a home. Whether you’re looking to buy a property as a vacation home for summers or winters or just looking for an investment property to rent out, there are homes that can meet a wide range of budgets.

Long-term profits

Today, people are starting to value short term over long term profit, because earnings are more significant when repeated many times over a short period. Luckily for you, vacation properties have retained their value because they are located in areas which are still popular. Because the mountains and shorelines are limited, there is a finite number of houses which can be built. That holds the price when it comes to vacation properties.  

Real estate has always had its ups and downs, and will likely continue to have them in the future. Therefore, keep in mind that there is no guarantee that your second home will sell for a higher price in the future.

Pile of fifty euro Banknotes

Vacation properties have retained their value, so renting it is a good choice

Taxes

When buying a vacation home in Virginia, think about tax deductions and how you want to use your property. Will that be a home for rent, or will it only be for personal enjoyment? Many people prefer not to rent their second home because if they did, the interest on the mortgage and the property taxes would be fully deductible from the gross income. This mortgage can be treated the same way you are treating the mortgage on your primary residence.

Income

A great thing about buying a vacation home in Virginia is that you can decide to rent it out. You can always use it yourself. Whether you are renting it or just personally using the property, you are going to have to invest in it. Furnishing a house requests a certain amount of money, but renting afterward can help you return at least a part of it. You have the option to move things from your family home to a vacation home, this way you can redesign your home. Moving your household with professional help is your best option for a stress-free move. Once you have furnished your vacation home, you can start renting it out.

Rental fees differ from season to season. Another important factor is the popularity of the resort location. For most resorts, weekly rental fees are equal to or greater than the monthly mortgage payment.

Convenience

Buying a vacation home in Virginia can be really convenient. You have the option to keep the items that you exclusively use there in your vacation home, which simplifies travel and packing. If you and your family like to ski, you can store some of your winter clothes and ski equipment in your vacation home. This allows you to easily make spontaneous trips for a weekend of skiing without having to worry about packing.

Retirement

The goal most retirees strive for is to have a place of retreat for the times of the year they dislike spending in the primary residence. Buying a vacation home in Virginia is a great investment for those people. You would be one of the lucky ones if you buy a second home before retirement. You then have the time to experience the benefits of a refuge. If it turns out that wasn’t your dream, you also have time to correct the mistake and maybe sell it.

Gathering location

Memories are the one thing no one can take away from us, and places stir memories in people. Both big and small families enjoy annual gatherings. Building a tradition keeps families strong and in some way obligates them to see each other, even for one day. Buying a vacation home in Virginia will not only be an investment for your future, but also an investment for the beautiful memories you’ve created in the past. The annual gatherings keep families close, especially if people are all over the country.

People stand under an awning

You can’t put a price on the memories – especially a home that has been a site of many happy gatherings.

Some people struggle whether to buy a vacation home or not, even when the finances are acceptable. Some of the questions they encounter are:

·      Do I want to vacation in the same place every year?

·      Will this make me happy?

·      Can I handle renting the property to a stranger?

·      Will I come as often as I hope?

·      Will my kids and grandkids use this property once I am gone?

Question mark illustration

Some people struggle to decide whether to buy a vacation home or not

Buying a vacation home in Virginia is a long-term commitment. You need to be prepared if your dreams don’t come true because you could be stuck with high costs and responsibilities for years. For many buyers, dreams do come true, and the payoff is well worth it. Sometimes, you have to risk money to make money.

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.