Today’s real estate market is heavily skewed towards sellers, making now the perfect time to list your home.
Many would-be sellers have questions about moving when the market is this hot—and we have the answers you need to get started.
If you’re considering selling your home soon, it’s crucial to work with a top local agent. Give us a call to see what we bring to the table!
The Top 5 Questions Every Seller Asks in Today’s Market
Whether you’re eager to list or are just thinking about selling, you’ve probably heard that the 2021 real estate market is one for the record books. Since last year’s swift economic recovery, home values just keep getting higher, and it’s not uncommon for listings to sell over asking price in just a few days. And according to the National Association of Realtors, the typical home is now selling for 14.1% more than last year.
Have a few reservations about listing your home right now? Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our sellers.
Should I even consider selling right now?
To put it simply: yes! There’s never been a better time to sell, especially if you’ve built up equity by living in the same home for a while. Since the beginning of the pandemic, we’ve seen a national housing shortage, record-low interest rates, and a surge of serious buyers. This has driven prices to all-time highs, and many buyers are even waiving contingencies or paying extra for the right home.
Looking for another reason to move? A recent survey by NerdWallet found that one in six homeowners plan to list their home in the next 18 months. So if you want to take advantage of today’s crazy market and beat out the competition, you shouldn’t wait much longer.
Will I be able to buy a new home after I sell?
A majority of homeowners aren’t worried about selling their home—they’re actually more concerned with buying a new one. If your home sells quicker than you expect, you still have options. You may be able to request “use and occupancy” or “rent-back” contingencies from your buyer, which allow you to live in your current home until you find a new one. It’s also worth asking your buyer if they’re willing to be flexible with the closing date. Depending on your situation, it might even be more advantageous to buy before you sell.
Do I need to work with an agent if the market is so hot?
Many homeowners believe they can make an even bigger profit by not using an agent, particularly in a seller’s market. While you may save some money on commission, you could end up selling your home for below its true market value. And let’s be honest—nobody has time to sort through dozens of offers or handle all the complicated paperwork that comes with selling a home!
If you want to price your home right and ensure a stress-free selling experience, it’s worth paying for an agent.
Should I still stage my home or make improvements?
Unless your home is in dire need of an update, there’s no need to make any major changes before you list. However, it’s still a good idea to do a little staging to get your space looking its best. Start by tidying up, getting rid of clutter, and depersonalizing as much as possible.
If you’re trying to sell a fixer-upper and don’t want to complete any repairs, consider listing “as-is.” This tells potential buyers that you won’t be making any changes—what they see is what they get.
What’s my home worth in today’s market?
Tempted to use an online estimator to see how much your home is worth? Before you type in your address, consider reaching out to a local real estate agent instead. The real estate market in our area changes day by day, and an agent will have up-to-date data that’s more accurate than any algorithm.
If you’ve lived in your house for at least a few years, your property has probably increased in value more than you’d expect. Get in touch with us today for a complimentary valuation, or give us a call for more personalized advice!
Sell Your Home with Confidence
Selling your home shouldn’t be a stressful experience. If you have even more questions about today’s market, just drop us a line—we’re here to make the entire process hassle-free!
Curious about your home’s value? Send over your address, and we’ll conduct a free, no-obligation home value estimate.
Welcome home to 1324 Lakeview Parkway! This immaculate home in Lake of the Woods truly has it all. From the moment you pull into the driveway, you will love the inviting curb appeal and the beautifully landscaped yard. Once you enter, you are greeted by gleaming hardwood floors, a cozy fireplace, fine finishes, and a sought-after open floor plan. The cathedral ceilings with skylights and ample windows allow the sun to shine into this well-maintained, move in ready home. The large living space opens to the kitchen and breakfast room which allows plenty of dining space. There is also a separate room with double glass doors that could be used as a formal dining room, sitting room, or office. The desirable split bedroom design is sure to please with two bedrooms and a full bathroom down a separate hallway on the other side of the home from the primary bedroom. The fourth bedroom, which could also be a bonus room or office, is upstairs above the garage. The owner’s suite is spacious and offers an en-suite bath with double vanities, remodeled shower and a big walk in closet with built-in shelves. The recently added sunroom with shiplap siding is so inviting and will certainly be one of your favorite spots, with its own heating and AC it can be enjoyed year- round. The sunroom has doors through both the owners’ bedroom and living room. The sunroom also leads out to the deck, patio, and backyard which is an entertainer’s dream. The roof was replaced in 2020, the Trane HVAC and water heater in 2015, and upgraded Anderson windows, there are so many upgrades and advantages to this home, come see for yourself before it’s too late!
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 $150,000+ 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 homeworth?” 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.
You will absolutely fall in love with 609 Stratford Circle! You are welcomed by gleaming hardwood floors, formal dining room with columns, a living room featuring cathedral ceilings, a gas fireplace for those cool nights, and an abundance of natural light. Enjoy cooking in the spacious kitchen with breakfast bar, as well as a dining area with access to the screened porch. The open floor plan will make entertaining a breeze! The sought after split bedroom design with an incredible, expansive owner’s suite featuring a double closets, the large en-suite bath features a soaking tub to melt the day away. Imagine quiet evenings in the screened porch with your favorite beverage, reading a book or enjoying cookouts with spacious outdoor living areas and spending time with family and friends.
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 $150,000+ 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 homeworth?” 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.
Get your lake life started with this stunning, turn key waterfront deck house. Built using the finest materials, it offers post & beam construction, mahogany trim, soaring wood ceilings & abundant glass to soak in wonderful lake views. It is spacious with a wonderfully laid out open concept that creates many incredible spaces to love everyday life as well as family and friends. This home is the entertainer+GGs dream home with an incredibly expansive dining room, the gourmet kitchen with beautifully detailed cabinetry, upgraded appliances, granite countertops and island. The great room will delight with the incredible floor to ceiling stone fireplace with built-ins and amazing views of the lake. The expansive owner’s suite comprises the upper level and opens to lofts overlooking the main level, including a luxurious en-suite bath with soaking tub and gorgeous tiled shower. The lower level features a family room with a wood stove, 2 full baths and 4 bedrooms, as well as storage for all your water toys. Beautiful walkways and hardscape, including a waterfall, guide you to your waterside oasis to soak in the true lake house experience well into the evening with the perfect amount of light to create an amazing ambiance. Bring your boat to enjoy your private dock and begin making your priceless memories!
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 $150,000+ 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!
burg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” 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.
Join us this Saturday 5/1 & Sunday 5/2 as we show off these beautiful homes for sale in Lake of the Woods, VA! Face masks will be required to enter, and social distancing is highly recommended. For more information about the home, click the link below!
609 Stratford Circle, Lake of the Woods, VA Priced at $369,900 (COMING SOON!)
1324 Lakeview Pkwy, Lake of the Woods, VA Priced at $379,900 (COMING SOON!)
300 Mt Pleasant Drive, Lake of the Woods, VA Priced at $939,900 (COMING SOON!)
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.
This stunning, stone town home, just steps from the Potomac River, Over 3,800 sq. ft, including a 2-Car Garage, open floor plan with walls of windows, high ceilings, and gleaming hardwood floors. The main level features an inviting foyer, a family room with floor to ceiling stone fireplace and a french door to a lovely deck with amazing views. The family room opens into the gourmet chefs kitchen with center island, breakfast bar, breakfast nook, pantry, granite, custom backsplash, stainless steel appliances. The angled staircase leads to the upper level with Owner’s Suite with a wall of windows, gas fireplace and an en-suite bath with dual vanity, separate shower, soaking tub and walk in cedar closet. The lower level features an incredible great room with gas fireplace with access to a beautiful patio and another bedroom and full bath. You will love River Creek and all the Amenities – Golf Course, Clubhouse with restaurant and fitness center, pools, tennis courts, walking trails along the Potomac River, Kayaking, Basketball Courts, Tot Lots and more!
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
Welcome to 604 Mt Pleasant Dr…. the brick accents welcome you to this custom-built home, close to the front gate. Once you enter, you are greeted by gleaming hardwood floors, a cozy fireplace, fine finishes, and a sought-after open floor plan! The ample windows and skylights allow the sun to shine into this well-maintained, move in ready Lake of the Woods home. The kitchen has been remodeled with beautiful granite counter tops, backsplash and white cabinets. Sought after split bedroom design is sure to please. The owner’s suite is spacious and offers an en-suite bath that you will love with double vanity, soaking tub and separate shower. The screened porch is massive and so inviting and will be one of your favorite spots as well as the deck. For more information on 604 Mt Pleasant Drive, Click Here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Join us this Saturday 4/24 & Sunday 4/25 as we show off this beautiful home for sale in Lake of the Woods, VA! Face masks will be required to enter, and social distancing is highly recommended. For more information about the home, click the link below!
604 Mt Pleasant Drive, Lake of the Woods, VA Priced at $379,900 (COMING SOON)
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 is ready to celebrate its many small businesses starting on Sunday, May 2, 2021 presented by the Orange County VA Economic Development and Orange County Chamber of Commerce! If you’re a resident in Orange County or a small business owner, we encourage you to participate in this wonderful community event! Shop, dine and explore the many small businesses of Orange County! Remember to use the hashtags #buyorangeva and #OCsmallbusinessweek whenever you visit a small business! For more information and to stay up-to-date, Click Here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Despite the ongoing pandemic, the real estate market is more competitive than ever before—and that means buyers have to do more to get their offer accepted.
Want to stand out from the competition and score the home of your dreams? Our four tips can help you achieve real estate success in no time.
If you have any questions about buying in today’s hot market, just give us a call for even more personalized advice!
The 4 Tips Every Buyer Needs to Know in 2021
If you’ve been house-hunting for a while, you’ve probably noticed that today’s real estate market is more than just a little competitive. Low mortgage rates, high demand, and dwindling inventory have created ideal conditions for sellers—but it’s still very possible to score a fantastic deal on a home.
Want to know the secret to buying a home in 2021? Here are four tips that can help you take back control in a seller-driven market.
Get your finances in order
First and foremost, you need to get your finances in order before you even consider looking at homes. Start by paying off as much debt as you can and increasing your credit score. It’s also a good idea to keep track of just how much you have saved for a down payment. Sellers are more likely to choose buyers who can put down at least 15% or pay cash.
Want to strengthen your offer even more? Get preapproved or attach a higher earnest money deposit to show a seller you’re serious about buying their home.
Know what you want
Buying a home is one of life’s most exciting milestones. However, it’s easy to get caught up in the little details—which is why it’s crucial to do your research in advance. Connect with a local agent early on to discuss your home-buying goals. A good agent will help you hone in on your budget, wants, and needs, as well as the right area or neighborhood.
Prepare for a bidding war
According to a recent survey by Redfin, more than half of all buyers found themselves in a bidding war last year. And while the idea of competing against other home-seekers might seem overwhelming, there are a few things you can do to stand out.
If you’re trying to score a house with multiple bids, send in your best and final offer up front. You may also want to include an escalation clause, which automatically increases your purchase price by certain increments (like a few thousand dollars at a time) so you avoid getting outbid.
It’s also a good idea to consider homes below your budget, especially if you have your heart set on a popular neighborhood. This gives you some flexibility if you end up in a bidding war.
Appeal to the seller
Even if you find yourself in a bidding war, it’s still possible to come out ahead. Believe it or not, sellers don’t always choose the highest offer, even if it far exceeds the original asking price.
You can appeal to a seller’s peace of mind by limiting your contingencies, offering to pay closing costs, and letting them choose the closing date. Adding these extra bonuses might seem minor, but they can really impact a seller’s final decision.
Only Buy with the Best
Working with a top-notch agent can help you navigate 2021’s crazy real estate market with ease. So if you’re looking for some guidance, it’s time to give us a call!
Whether you’re at the beginning of the buying process or are already searching for a home, you can trust us to help you find your perfect place. Contact us today to get started; we look forward to working with you.
