While replacing your furnace or boiler with a new, energy-efficient model, installing new windows and doors, re-insulating your attic, or upgrading to solar panels will have the greatest impact on heating costs, they’ll also have the greatest impact on your bank account. Smart homeowners can still reduce their heating bills with these simple, easy strategies.
Manage Windows
Manage your windows and doors to significantly reduce the demand for your heating system. First, seal up any drafts with caulking or weather stripping. Attend to older windows with removable silicone caulking, weather stripping, or a plastic film window insulation kit. After drafts are addressed, put your curtains or shades to work for you. During daylight hours, open wide anywhere the windows will let in the light. The sun shining in through the windows will warm your home, taking a bit of pressure off the heating system. In the evenings, as temperatures drop, close them to add a layer of insulation, keeping the warmth inside.
Reduce Space
Reduce the amount of heated space to reduce costs as well. Close vents or doors to unused spaces like guest bedrooms (ensure temperatures remain above 50°F/10°C). Consider a space heater, like a radiant oil heater, to keep a particular area warm. For example, if your family gathers in the living room every evening, the house can be maintained at an overall lower temperature and the living room can be kept a little warmer and more comfortable with a space heater during your evenings together.
Focus on People
Focus your efforts on people rather than the space to ensure everyone stays cozy, even with the thermostat set a couple of degrees cooler. To keep everyone comfortable, don your warm sweaters and fuzzy slippers, break out the snuggly blankets, and cozy up with a warm drink. Make your bed with flannel sheets and cozy blankets – for an extra cozy bedtime, warm up the bed with an electric blanket 15 minutes before bedtime. Even adding rugs to hard floors can change the way you feel in your home. A programmable thermostat can help warm things up when people are home, ensuring maximum comfort, and then automatically reduce the heating temperature again when everyone is away or asleep.
There’s a long list of little ways to improve your home’s efficiency, what are your favorite tips and tricks to manage heating bills?
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 see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Start by filling your containers with smaller items like nuts and grapes, distributing them evenly. (If you wanted to use a dip instead, you could add that here.)
Tuck the crackers towards the back of the container, leaving some space in the front for the toothpick-skewered items.
Using toothpicks, skewer a variety of ingredients such as cheeses, meats, olives, berries, and other desired items.
Use mini forks or extra picks to present individual pieces of cheese or other specialty items, placing them strategically within the cup.
Insert the toothpick-skewered items into the container, varying their heights and colors to create visual interest.
Fill in any remaining gaps in the container with extra ingredients to hold everything securely in place.
For an added touch, garnish the charcuterie cup with a sprig of fresh herb and cheese slices cut from mini cookie cutters.
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 see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Between the Thanksgiving Day NFL games and the Macy’s Parade, the family visits and delicious meals, the wonderful fall weather, and the long weekend take a moment to notice the abundance around you and the things you’re grateful for this year. It’s easy to start with family and friends, home, and health. To really stir your sense of gratitude and appreciation though, set aside some time for reflection. Here are a few questions to help with your gratitude list:
What was I able to experience this year? What did I see or touch, what new foods did I try, or where did I travel to?
How did my relationships impact my life this year? Was someone particularly kind or supportive of me? Was I able to be of service to someone else in a meaningful way? Did I have any wonderful conversations?
What would it be like to live somewhere else? What modern comforts and conveniences do I have? What freedoms and rights do I have? What resources do I have access to?
What little moments of joy did I find this year? Did I feel the warmth of the sun on my shoulders or see the silvery moon reflecting on the surface of a lake? Did I hear a child’s laughter or enjoy a coffee and a sunrise?
What did I accomplish this year? What did I learn? What changes have I navigated? What have I created? What challenges have I overcome?
What matters to me? What are my values and how was I able to live by them this year?
What good was I able to put out into the world this year?
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 see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Our homes are our most personal, most intimate spaces – even the best houseguests disrupt our lives. If you’re looking forward to visiting with friends and family this season, communication is key. These quick tips will help you make the most of your time together and avoid stress or hard feelings.
Dinner or a Party
When hosting a party, include both the start and end times in the invitation and let your guests know what to expect. Include what kinds of food to expect, the attire, and any special activities you have planned – for example, if you’ve hired a photographer for a rare extended family photo, let everyone know to gather at 6 p.m. in front of the fireplace for photos.
At the end of the night, wrap things up with your guests. Gather their coats and belongings, pack up some dessert for them to take home, and move the conversation to the entryway. To usher out lingering guests, put away the food and drinks, stop the music, and start cleaning up. One particularly clever way to make sure the party ends on time is to plan an outing at the end of the party – like a stroll through a local holiday light display or a movie.
Overnight houseguests
When hosting overnight guests, again, include the end time in the invitation and let your guests know what to expect. Before the visit begins, discuss transportation, arrival time, departure time, accommodations, and house rules. For example, will they be sleeping in the guest room or on the couch? Are there allergies or food preferences to consider? Do they understand that foul language is not allowed in front of the kids? And is everyone very clear on the last day? Plan activities during the visit, and plan for downtime as well. Overplanning will leave everyone tired and tense with little time for relaxation. Try scheduling one main activity per day, and don’t be afraid to plan independent time too so your guests can explore on their own. Provide a map with your favorite places marked or a visitor’s guide highlighting events and attractions in the area.
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 contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Get ready for the experience of a lifetime with an exhilarating evening of mystery and intrigue at “Motive, Means and Maggiano’s,” presented by Keith & Margo’s Murder Mystery. This event is perfect for those who relish solving puzzles, uncovering secrets, and immersing themselves in a thrilling investigation.
Date and Time:
Sunday, November 12, 2023 Doors open at 6:15 PM, please be in your seats by 7 PM for the show to begin promptly at 7 PM Ticket Price:
$88 per person Ticket Includes:
Dinner Two drink tickets for house beer or wine Entertainment Non-alcoholic beverages (coffee, tea, sodas) are included with your dinner Cocktail Hour Before Showtime:
Enjoy delectable Stuffed Mushrooms and Calamari Fritte during the cocktail hour. Family-Style Dinner, served with Fresh Baked Ciabatta Rolls:
Salads: Caesar Salad & Maggiano’s Salad
Main Course: Spaghetti with Meatball, Rigatoni Arrabbiata with Chicken, Chicken Piccata, Salmon Lemon & Herb
Dessert: Maggiano’s Dessert Sampler
This is your chance to be part of an engaging homicide investigation while relishing the atmosphere and fabulous cuisine of Maggiano’s Little Italy. But keep in mind, that you might find yourself as the prime suspect. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable evening of suspense and fine dining.
Please note that this event is exclusively for those aged 21 and above.
Secure your tickets now to experience “Motive, Means, and Maggiano’s.” Get ready for an evening filled with laughter, suspense, and delicious Italian cuisine. Tickets are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot by visiting the Eventbrite page here.
Unmasking the Mystery: Halloween Murder at Maggiano’s Springfield
Halloween is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate this spooktacular season than by immersing yourself in a thrilling murder mystery, all while indulging in delectable Italian cuisine? Maggiano’s Little Italy is here to expose your inner detective with their Halloween Murder Mystery event at the Springfield location! Get ready for an evening of suspense, laughter, and unforgettable flavors that you won’t want to miss.
A Night of Mystery and Intrigue
Picture this: You step into the elegant, polished space of Maggiano’s Little Italy, the aroma of classic Italian fare filling the air. The ambiance is relaxed, and you can feel the excitement building as you prepare to be transported into a world of suspense. This isn’t just any dinner; it’s a murder mystery waiting to unravel.
Play Detective for a Night
Are you a fan of solving puzzles and uncovering secrets? Well, this event is tailor-made for you! The Halloween Murder Mystery at Maggiano’s Springfield offers you the chance to step into the shoes of a detective, right in the midst of a hilarious homicide investigation. As you enjoy the sumptuous Italian cuisine and soak in the atmosphere, you’ll find yourself drawn into a web of clues and suspects. And here’s the twist: you could become the leading suspect! It’s a thrilling challenge that will keep you engaged throughout the evening.
A Culinary Journey to Remember
But that’s not all – the star of the show is undoubtedly the family-style dinner that accompanies this unforgettable mystery. Maggiano’s Little Italy is known for its classic Italian fare served in generous portions, and this event is no exception. Let’s take a sneak peek at the menu:
First Course:
Calamari Fritte
Balsamic Tomato Bruschetta
Italian Tossed Salad
Caesar Salad
Second Course:
Four Cheese Ravioli with Pesto Alfredo Sauce
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
Chicken Parmesan
Salmon Lemon & Herb
Dessert:
Tiramisu
New York Style Cheesecake
Your taste buds are in for a treat as you savor these mouthwatering dishes, served family-style for you to share and enjoy with your fellow detectives.
Ticket Options
To make this experience even more enticing, Maggiano’s offers two ticket options:
$65 per person: Includes dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, and entertainment.
$75 per person: Includes dinner, one beer or glass of wine per person, non-alcoholic beverages, and entertainment.
Pricing includes taxes and fees, though gratuity is not included. For those looking to enjoy alcoholic beverages, a cash bar is available (cash only). Please note that this event is exclusively for those aged 21 and above.
Get Your Tickets Now!
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this hair-raising Halloween Murder Mystery at Maggiano’s Springfield. Gather your friends, put on your detective hats, and prepare for an evening of laughter, suspense, and delicious Italian cuisine. Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to secure yours by visiting the Eventbrite page here.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Halloween is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate this spooktacular season than by indulging in a creative, chocolate-filled adventure with your children? The Conche Chocolate & Cake Studio invites you to join their Mommy + Me Chocolate Sculpture Class for a memorable and sweet experience that combines quality time with your little ones and unleashes your collective imagination!
The Conche Studio is a place where chocolate fantasies come to life, and they are ready to share their passion with you. Located at 22446 Davis Drive in Sterling, VA, this artisan chocolate and custom cake production facility is a haven for all things sweet and delightful. They offer handcrafted custom cakes, artisan chocolates, and even culinary and baking classes taught by an award-winning team. It’s where every moment and every occasion becomes unforgettable by indulging in the world of chocolate.
Date and Time to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 21, from 10 am to 12 pm EDT. This is the day when magic happens in the form of a Mommy + Me Chocolate Sculpture Class. And here’s the sweetest part – there’s no age limit for the children! As long as Mommy can handle them, everyone is welcome to join in the fun.
Let Your Imagination Run Wild
Imagine spending quality time with your children, rolling up your sleeves together, and crafting something truly special out of chocolate. In this creative workshop, you’ll learn how to make a seasonally themed chocolate sculpture in The Conche Studio’s very own chocolate lab, designed by none other than Celebrity Chef Santosh Tiptur.
For just $50 per person, you’ll have access to this unique experience. But here’s the twist: one ticket buys you one sculpture. So, if you want to collaborate with your child and work on a sculpture together, go ahead and purchase one ticket. But if you both have an artistic vision that must be realized in chocolate, then grab two tickets and each create your own masterpiece.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to bond with your little ones, embrace your inner chocolatier, and create lasting memories this Halloween season. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot by visiting the Eventbrite page here.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
If the arrival of spooky season has you dreaming up costumes and decorations, you’re in good company. Halloween is a favorite holiday in the United States and one of the most fun! With these tips, you could have the best trick-or-treat house on the block.
Make it Obvious
Most importantly, ensure the front porch is well-lit to signal your house is open for trick-or-treating. The more lighting the better – consider lit-up jack-o-lanterns and decorations and add lighting for walkways to make the path clear. Adding fall- or Halloween-themed decorations can help advertise that costumed visitors are welcome. You can keep it simple with a wreath or some window decals, or you can put on a fantastic show with scary figures, colored lighting, spooky music, and a fog machine. (Don’t make it too scary though if you don’t want to scare the little ones off.)
It’s All About the Treats
If you want that coveted spot as THE house to visit, you’ve got to have great treats. Now, keep them store-bought and pre-packaged because parents worry about poisoned treats, but use your imagination, and get the good stuff. Give uncommon treats to be remembered. Here are some ideas: hot cocoa, microwave popcorn, fruit roll-ups, gum, chips, crackers, or full-sized candy bars.
It’s great to offer allergy-safe and non-food options to make sure there’s a treat for everybody. It can be super fun to fill a bowl with princess jewelry, glow sticks, slime, bookmarks, collectible cards, miniature plushies, temporary tattoos, stickers, or any small toys you can think of.
Make it an Experience
It’s so much more fun when you have fun with it. Wear a costume to hand out treats, play music or a spooky sounds playlist, or set up motion-activated figures and lights. You could put something spooky in the bottom of the treat bowl or even have a small activity like decorating miniature pumpkins with colorful markers, making balloon animals, or taking instant photographs and giving them to the parents.
Take the experience to the next level by inviting your neighbors to stop over. Make smores on a front yard campfire, offer refreshments, and set up activities for the kids.
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 contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Understanding your home equity can be a game-changer when deciding to sell your home, especially in today’s market of high mortgage rates.
Nearly 70% of homeowners have significant equity, making it an opportune time to consider selling.
Our expert real estate team is here to guide you through the process, offering free home equity assessments and answering any questions you may have.
What is Home Equity and Why Does It Matter?
Home equity is more than just a financial term; it’s your ticket to new opportunities. In simple terms, home equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and the remaining balance on your mortgage. But why should you care? Well, with today’s real estate market, understanding your home equity can be a game-changer when you decide to move.
The Equity Boom: A Silver Lining in Today’s Market
You’re not alone if you’re hesitant to sell your home due to high mortgage rates. However, there’s good news. According to data from ATTOM and the Census, nearly 68.7% of homeowners have either paid off their mortgages or have at least 50% equity in their homes. That’s right—almost 70% of homeowners are sitting on a goldmine of equity!
How Understanding Your Equity Can Ease the Selling Process
Knowing your home equity can remove a lot of the uncertainty around selling your home. With significant equity, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing your next home, negotiating deals, and even covering moving expenses. And the best part? Our expert real estate team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Leveraging Equity: Your Hidden Asset
Understanding your home equity isn’t just about knowing numbers; it’s about leveraging this asset to your advantage. With our expertise, we can help you strategize on how to use your equity for a down payment on a new home, or even as a financial cushion for future investments. It’s not just about selling your home; it’s about planning your financial future.
Take the Next Step: Unlock Your Home Equity Today
Ready to unlock the potential of your home equity? Don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact our expert real estate team today for a free home equity assessment or with any questions you may have. Your future home awaits!
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 contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to the Largest (Amherst model) townhome in Riverside Station with 3408 sqft of living space on 3 fully finished levels with builder upgraded bump outs on all 3 levels. This home has a bright and open floorplan on the main floor with a living room/dining room/kitchen for easy and cozy living. Hardwood floors, 9 ft tray ceilings, and granite countertops are gleaming and appealing. A sunroom with access to the spacious Trex deck/balcony will be the spot, for sun and relaxation. Newly fenced and landscaped rear yard and remodeled lower level theater room. The upper level is home to 3 bedrooms. For quiet privacy, the primary suite has a lovely sitting room to enjoy with a spacious en-suite bath. You will love having the 2 car garage to make life easy in this beautiful, mature, small community with fantastic nature and wildlife trails, parks, and the Occoquan River to enjoy. Yet it is also close to everything and is a commuter’s dream with the ability to walk to the VRE , and 5 mins driving to I95 and the commuter bus terminal. If you are looking for something close to everything, this is the one!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Oil and gas prices are the highest in United States history!
Individuals and families are shifting how they think about housing, from suburban versus urban to downsizing or going multigenerational.
It’s critical to work with an agent who understands the right fit for you and your family.
Record-high oil and gas prices are changing home buying and selling
It’s difficult to escape the news: gas prices are surging across the nation, with the increase averaging $1 per gallon. With costs at historical highs, the ripple effect changes how we think about everything. That includes the largest line item on any household’s budget: their home. How will this new reality change how people buy and sell real estate? Let’s take a look at some of the main considerations.
Urban Versus Suburban
Traditional wisdom says that the suburbs are more affordable with their long commutes, while cities are expensive due to more amenities and desirability. But when the daily commute costs more than it ever has in the history of the country, the conventional advice isn’t necessarily the right move for everyone.
To judge whether relocating from the suburban to the urban is right for you, take a look at the commute time, proximity of local amenities, and public transportation. Some urban centers offer more robust and reliable options for getting around, while others are still heavily car-dependent. If moving into the city won’t get you out of your car, the suburbs are still a good choice. But big city living is an attractive option if you can reduce how often your family drives—or even go from a multi-car family to a single vehicle.
Reconsider Your Housing Footprint
The size of a home is always a big consideration when you’re looking at your next place. Right now, there’s the added pressure of the costs of heating and cooling a home to consider when you think about total square footage. On average, the cost of natural gas is up 24% in February 2022 compared to the previous year, and electricity is up 9%.
Downsizing can be a smart reason to sell your home and buy a new one, especially if your family situation has changed and you don’t need as much space. With less to heat, cool, and maintain, finding a home that’s just the right size for the stage of life you’re in is something your agent can help you with.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, families started moving back in together at rising rates. Now, more than 40% of homebuyers consider multigenerational living in their purchasing decision. New developments are dedicated to building homes and communities that accommodate people at different stages of their lives. And, if the family situation changes, being able to rent out a dedicated space is an excellent source of passive income.
Whether you’re looking to go small by yourself or go big and share the costs, homes that are renovated with energy-efficient appliances, or new construction with the latest smart home technologies, are especially attractive. These are smart decisions to make now that will also save you costs in the long run, even when oil and gas prices stabilize.
Act Fast to Lock in Interest Rates
Gas prices are tied closely to mortgage rates. Yep, it really does affect everything! Mortgage lenders want to have an extra cushion over inflation when they set rates, and with the rise of oil and gas prices, interest rates will get pushed up too. If you’re buying a home, it’s time to get serious about making offers. Higher mortgage rates will impact what you can afford.
For sellers, this can impact the white-hot housing market streak that was the dominant theme for the last few years. With interest rates set to rise, home sellers may want to be flexible about offers, in case the market shifts dramatically as interest rates go up throughout the remainder of the year. Of course, this varies widely by market, and you’ll want to consult your agent before making any decisions on offers on your home.
Make Your Move
There’s no time to wait—with the market changing this rapidly, you’ll want to leave yourself enough time to have options and make a well-informed decision. That’s why you need to work with an agent that understands the ups and downs of this historic market and considers the needs of you and your family. Contact us today to get started!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
