Category Archives: VA

Modern Comfort Meets Traditional Charm: 4-Bedroom Corner Lot Home in Lake of the Woods: 601 Yorktown Blvd. offered at $474,900

Step into this stunning 2,208 sqft better-than-new home in Lake of the Woods, where modern comfort meets traditional charm. Built in 2022 and perfectly move-in ready, this home offers a thoughtfully designed main level that’s perfect for both everyday living and entertaining, heated and cooled by a Trane two-zone system. The inviting entry foyer opens up to a formal dining room, ideal for hosting gatherings and special occasions. The versatile living room provides the flexibility to serve as a home office or flex space tailored to your lifestyle. At the heart of the home is a cozy family room with a warm fireplace, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxing evenings. Adjacent to the family room, the spacious kitchen and breakfast area with an island offer a welcoming space for culinary adventures and quality time with loved ones. Throughout the main level, luxury vinyl plank flooring adds style and durability, while upgraded molding, including chair rail, crown molding, and wainscoting in the dining room, enhances the sophisticated feel of the space. On the upper level, you’ll find the primary suite, designed with your comfort in mind. Tray ceilings add an elegant touch to the room, while the generous walk-in closet provides ample storage space. The en-suite bathroom is a luxurious retreat, featuring a double vanity, a soaker tub, and a separate shower. Three additional well-appointed bedrooms and another full bathroom ensure that everyone has their own private space. For added convenience, the upper level also includes a laundry room with a newer washer and dryer, making chores a breeze. Plush carpeting on the second floor provides comfort underfoot, while the upper floor bathrooms are adorned with beautiful ceramic tile. Outside, this home continues to impress with its attractive and low-maintenance features. The exterior boasts a timeless stone foundation, while the concrete front porch and walkways enhance the home’s curb appeal. The spacious rear deck invites you to enjoy outdoor entertaining—whether it’s a relaxed evening barbecue or a lively gathering with friends and family. Situated on a prime corner lot backed to trees, this home offers both privacy and a sense of community in the amenity-filled Lake of the Woods. The driveway’s bump-out provides room for storing your boat, additional cars, or trailer. And the tall, conditioned crawl space is perfect for additional storage. The oversized two-car garage is equipped with a 240v 50AMP NEMA 14-50 outlet for level 2 charging of an electric vehicle. Located in close proximity to the lake’s amenities, this home is just a 2-minute walk to Hollyfield Park, a 2-minute bike ride to Sweetbriar Park and pool, and a small marina perfect for launching your kayak. Plus, you’re just a 2-minute drive from the back gate for easy access to Route 20. Don’t miss the opportunity to make it yours! Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a paradise of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, an equestrian center, fire and rescue services, and even a church within its bounds, this community offers a diverse range of activities. From boating, water skiing, kayaking, and golfing to the simple joy of soaking in mesmerizing views from the clubhouse, deck, yard, or beaches, there’s something for everyone. Engage your interests by joining over 60 clubs and organizations, or perhaps indulge in a game of bridge or contribute your talents as a volunteer. Lake of the Woods truly caters to your lifestyle. Located in Orange County, enjoy the added advantage of low real estate taxes. With home prices spanning from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the ideal haven for both full-time residents and weekenders. Don’t just take my word for it – come and see for yourself! Allow me to guide you through a tour of “the lake,” showcasing the very essence of what makes this community so special. Experience the captivating charm of Lake of the Woods firsthand!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com

Build Your Dream Home on a Private, Lot in Lake of the Woods: 135 Monticello Circle offered at $68,000

Nestled in the heart of the amenity-rich Lake of the Woods community, this exceptional half-acre lot is the canvas for your dream home. Whether you envision a serene everyday retreat or a luxurious vacation escape, this prime location offers unmatched potential. Backing up to historic battlefield grounds, the lot ensures unparalleled privacy and a touch of history right in your backyard. Imagine waking up to the peaceful surroundings, knowing that your dream home is not just a possibility, but a reality waiting to be realized. Ideal for those who seek both tranquility and convenience, this lot is where dreams come true. Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a paradise of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, an equestrian center, fire and rescue services, and even a church within its bounds, this community offers a diverse range of activities. From boating, water skiing, kayaking, and golfing to the simple joy of soaking in mesmerizing views from the clubhouse, deck, yard, or beaches, there’s something for everyone. Engage your interests by joining over 60 clubs and organizations, or perhaps indulge in a game of bridge or contribute your talents as a volunteer. Lake of the Woods truly caters to your lifestyle. Located in Orange County, enjoy the added advantage of low real estate taxes. With home prices spanning from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the ideal haven for both full-time residents and weekenders. Don’t just take my word for it – come and see for yourself! Allow me to guide you through a tour of Lake of the Woods, showcasing the very essence of what makes this community so special. Experience firsthand the captivating charm of Lake of the Woods!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

Lakeside Retreat: Charming Cedar Home with Private Dock in Lake of the Woods: 104 Manassas Point offered at $859,900

Discover your dream waterfront retreat in the amenity-rich Lake of the Woods community! This 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom cedar home offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern living, perfect for those who love to entertain or simply relax by the water. With an open floor plan, soaring cathedral ceilings, and two impressive stone fireplaces, this home exudes warmth and character from the moment you step inside.

The main level features two cozy bedrooms and a bathroom, along with a spacious living area highlighted by wood walls and ceilings that create a cabin-like ambiance. A wrought iron spiral “lighthouse” staircase adds a touch of elegance, leading you to the loft where you’ll find a serene bedroom and bathroom with a skylight, perfect for soaking in the natural light.

The lower level is all about fun and relaxation, with a sizable rec room, an additional bedroom, and a bathroom—ideal for hosting guests or enjoying family time. Step outside onto the expansive deck and take in the stunning views of the lake, or stroll down to your private dock where approximately 60 feet of lakefront awaits. Whether you’re boating, kayaking, or simply enjoying the tranquil waters, this home offers the ultimate lakeside lifestyle.

With so much to offer, this Lake of the Woods gem is more than just a home—it’s a getaway you’ll never want to leave. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to make it yours!

Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a paradise of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, an equestrian center, fire and rescue services, and even a church within its bounds, this community offers a diverse range of activities. From boating, water skiing, kayaking, and golfing to the simple joy of soaking in mesmerizing views from the clubhouse, deck, yard, or beaches, there’s something for everyone. Engage your interests by joining over 60 clubs and organizations, or perhaps indulge in a game of bridge or contribute your talents as a volunteer. Lake of the Woods truly caters to your lifestyle.

Located in Orange County, enjoy the added advantage of low real estate taxes. With home prices spanning from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the ideal haven for both full-time residents and weekenders. Don’t just take my word for it – come and see for yourself! Allow me to guide you through a tour of Lake of the Woods, showcasing the very essence of what makes this community so special. Experience firsthand the captivating charm of Lake of the Woods!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

🌊 Lakefront Bliss Awaits! 🌊105 Windy Ln. offered at $549,900

Prepare to fall in love with this charming 4 bedroom, 4 bath lakefront home, where every corner invites you to entertain and/or relax in style…or both! With decks wrapping around the house and a beautiful patio overlooking the serene lake, this home is perfect for fun gatherings or peaceful moments by the water. And wait until you see the lakefront space! The low-maintenance natural landscaping lets you spend time doing the important things–like kayaking or hiking.

Step inside and be greeted by hardwood floors throughout the open-concept main level with stunning lake views. The main level features a living and dining area, a kitchen with table space, and a very large primary bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, providing a perfect retreat.

Venture upstairs to discover another spacious primary bedroom with a fabulously updated ensuite bathroom, offering modern features and a touch of elegance. You’ll also find two additional spacious bedrooms and a guest bath on this level, making it ideal for family and friends.

The fully finished basement is a versatile space with LVP flooring throughout, a second living area, a room that can serve as an extra bedroom (not to code)/office, and a full bathroom. With easy access to the outdoors and generous lake views, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation or fun. Take a leisurely kayak ride or fish from your dock or troll around the lake in your electric pontoon… the possibilities are endless.

The separate, fantastic outdoor areas provide numerous opportunities to play or relax! There’s even a perfect spot to hang your hammock among the trees. Nature lovers will love this location, as frequent visitors include blue herons, red-tailed hawks, swans, deer, and even sightings of bald eagles and ospreys. Patios, decks, and amazing lakefront spaces are waiting!

This home seamlessly blends charm, character, and functionality. The property includes an expanded driveway that can easily fit multiple cars for family and friends. Don’t miss out on making this lakefront paradise your own!

Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a community full of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, a clubhouse, beaches, an equestrian center, fire and rescue services, and even a church within its bounds, this community offers a diverse range of activities. From boating, water skiing, kayaking, and golfing to the simple joy of soaking in mesmerizing views from the clubhouse, deck, yard, or beaches, there’s something for everyone. Engage your interests by joining any of over 60 clubs and organizations, indulging in a game of bridge, or contributing your talents as a volunteer. Lake of the Woods truly caters to your lifestyle.

Located in Orange County, enjoy the added advantage of low real estate taxes. With home prices spanning from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the ideal haven for both full-time residents and weekenders. Don’t just take my word for it – come and see for yourself! Allow me to guide you through a tour of Lake of the Woods, showcasing the very essence of what makes this community so special. Experience firsthand the captivating charm of Lake of the Woods!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

IS IT TIME TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF?

Even though it’s one of the main structural elements of the house, the roof of many homes becomes an afterthought, giving way to more eye-catching elements like windows and landscaping. But make no mistake, a well-maintained roof that suits your home makes a big impact on curb appeal.

Because it’s such an important part of your house, it’s advised to inspect your roof annually, and after potentially damaging events like storms with high winds or hail.

It may be time to replace your roof if:

  • Your shingles are cracked, worn, cupped, or damaged; rubbers are warped or shrinking
  • You have water damage upstairs or in the attic
  • The roof is sagging, or shingles, flashing, or fascia are missing
  • Moss, mold, algae, or fungus are growing on the roof
  • You’ve had recent hail or wind damage
  • Your roof is over 20 years old.

How to choose your new roofing:
When it’s time, it can feel a little overwhelming to navigate all the options, here’s a little help to guide your planning and decision-making process.

Cost –When evaluating your options, avoid basing your decision solely on the cheapest price, aim for a good value – a quality installation, sound materials, and a good lifespan. Prices vary widely between materials, both for the roofing itself and the installation. The good news is that you can achieve a variety of looks to fit your budget with metal, synthetic, asphalt, wood, solar, green, clay, and slate options.

Style – You’ll want to choose something that coordinates with the architecture and aesthetics of your home. There are several materials and colors to choose from.

Structure – What can your home support? While wood shake, asphalt, and standing seam metal roofing materials are lightweight, clay tiles, slate, and green roofs can be heavy and require special support, ventilation, drainage, or even wiring for solar.

Environment – Do you have snow and ice? Intense heat or cold? High humidity? Fire- or flood-prone? High winds? Make sure the materials you choose are a good match for your climate and surroundings. If you’re considering solar, ensure you’ll have adequate sun exposure.

Durability – Slate tile shingles may last 200 years or more, and rolled roofing may last only 5-10. Given the investment that replacing your roof requires, durability is an important factor.

Installation – Quality installation is crucial to the function and longevity of your roof. Some materials will be easy, and some will require specialized expertise and systems. Understand what’s required and interview multiple contractors to ensure you get the most from your investment.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

Warm Welcomes and Happy send-offs!

The word welcome in multiple languages

Licata Group would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new homeowners! We often have really fun events hosted throughout the year, do frequent giveaways (think lotto scratchers, pies, FredNats tickets, just to name a few!), and also provide real estate market updates as well as local upcoming community events. We would like to take this opportunity to invite you to join our newsletter so you can never be without it! Sign up here. Or call our office at 540-388-2541.

Jeffery & Jacqueline Hunter

Nigel & Anne Goodwin

Judith Fahy

Edgar & Ghislaine Aguirre

Christopher Peck

Kristen Lynch

Linda Wight

David & Debra Ott

John & Mary Gibson

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

Labor Day – US
We often think of Labor Day as the unofficial end of summer, signaling the beginning of the school year and fall sports, the end of festival season, fair seasons, and tourist season. Amid the family picnics, vacations, sporting events, and back-to-school routines, you may be wondering why we have a holiday to remind us of work. Let’s take a look at some interesting facts about the history of Labor Day.

The Beginnings
Labor Day was officially established on the first Monday of September in both Canada and the USA in 1894, but the labor movement was well underway far before then. The first origins of Labor Day are attributed to a significant demonstration for worker’s rights by the Toronto Trades Assembly in 1872 where they petitioned for the release of 24 imprisoned leaders of the Toronto Typographical Union. At that time, trade unions were still illegal, and the 24 were arrested for striking to campaign for a nine-hour working day.
There was wide public support for the parade, and more parades and demonstrations followed. Later that year (1872) laws against trade unions were repealed in Canada. Spring celebrations and demonstrations ensued as the labor movement gained momentum.


Parades and Picnics
Labor Day has been celebrated with parades and picnics from the very beginning. In the 1880s, local workers and trade unions would have a street parade as a public demonstration of their solidarity and strength, followed by a public picnic with speeches campaigning for worker’s rights. Following a labor convention in New York in September 1882, labor organizations in the U.S. and Canada actively promoted workers’ celebrations, often held in September to take advantage of the perfect weather.

First Monday in September
Although Worker’s Day is observed internationally on May 1, Canada and the United States celebrate Labor Day in September. Labor strikes were volatile and sometimes violent. In May of 1886, the Haymarket Affair in Chicago was particularly violent with several resulting deaths. As some labor leaders advocated to establish the national holiday in May, government officials were hesitant to establish a national holiday that seemed to commemorate such violent clashes. While spring celebrations took hold around the world, the U.S. and Canada opted to align the holiday with the existing local September celebrations, officially establishing Labor Day in 1894.

Today it’s easy to take so many of our rights for granted, Labor Day is a great opportunity to recall how hard-fought the workers’ rights we know today were.
Sources: thecanadianencyclopedia.ca & colorado.edu

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

July 2024 Real Estate Statistics for Low

In July, 17 homes were SOLD in Lake of the Woods.

1 sold below $250,000.00
2  sold between $250,000-299,999;
1 sold between $300,000-349,999;
4 sold between $350,000-399,999;
7 sold between $400,000-499,999;
2 sold between $500,000-$999,999;

31 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale
11 Homes Under Contract
125 Homes Sold since January 1, 2024

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

Charming Rambler with Endless Potential: 10043 Alum Springs Road Offered at $279,000

Charming 1949 Home with Endless Potential! Discover the charm of this adorable home built in 1949, offering 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom across 1,832 square feet. Nestled on a spacious 3-acre lot, this property is a fantastic canvas for its new owners to make their own. While the home does require some TLC, its potential is undeniable. The expansive lot provides ample space for outdoor activities, gardening, or even future expansions. Embrace the opportunity to restore and personalize this lovely home to your taste. Don’t miss out on this rare find with so much potential! Schedule a viewing today and imagine the possibilities.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or 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, one of our 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 contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.

Classic Italian Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting Italian dish that’s easy to make, look no further than Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic recipe is a favorite for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and simplicity. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
  • 150g (5.3 oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100g (3.5 oz) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
  • 50g (1.7 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cloves of garlic, peeled
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Salt
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Cook the Pancetta:
    • In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and cook until golden, then remove them.
    • Add the diced pancetta (or guanciale) to the skillet and cook until crispy. Remove from heat.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Combine Everything:
    • Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to coat in the rendered fat.
    • Remove the skillet from heat and pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Serve:
    • Divide the pasta among plates, and garnish with extra cheese, more black pepper, and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Carbonara:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Authentic pancetta or guanciale and fresh Pecorino Romano cheese will elevate your dish.
  • Work quickly: When adding the egg mixture, make sure the pasta is hot but not on direct heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
  • Pasta water is your friend: It helps create a silky sauce, so don’t forget to reserve some before draining the pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Spaghetti Carbonara is a true testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor, yet light enough to enjoy any time of the year. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions.

 Dining Out in the Area

If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.

If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.