Balsamic Grilled Steak Salad with Peaches

Balsamic Grilled Steak Salad with Peaches

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. skirt steak, fat trimmed
  • 1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp. packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 6 c. baby arugula
  • 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 c. crumbled blue cheese or feta

Directions:

  • In a large resealable plastic bag or baking dish, combine steak, vinegar, garlic and brown sugar. Marinate 20 minutes at room temperature.
  • Heat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Remove steak from marinate, coat with vegetable oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Grill until desired doneness, 3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let rest 5 to 10 minutes, then slice against the grain.
  • Make dressing: In a small bowl whisk together olive oil and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
  • Arrange salad: In a large serving bowl, add arugula, peaches, blue cheese or feta, and steak. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss.

Source: delish.com

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.

How to plan your perfect stress free staycation

How to Plan Your Perfect Stress-Free Summer Staycation

Staycations are one of the most popular trends in travel right now. The definition of a staycation can vary, but the meaning of a staycation is a short break from your everyday routine. A staycation can involve a day or two off of work exploring places or enjoying activities you don’t typically experience in your hometown. Or, a staycation can be a short weekend or weekday trip taken within a few hours’ drive from home. Staycations can win out over regular vacations on a few fronts, including less time off of work, shorter travel distances, less planning, and often less budget.

Taking a staycation can be stress-free and straightforward – here’s how to do it:

– Designate a time for your staycation. You can request a day or two off of work or make your staycation happen on the weekend. Like you would do with a regular vacation, you should block this time off on your calendar to reserve it just for a staycation.

– Decide where you want to go (if anywhere) on your staycation. How far are you interested in traveling? Do you want to stay in your own home or treat yourself to a hotel or vacation rental?

– Plan some fun staycation activities to look forward to. Think hikes, spa days, museums, restaurants, or anything else you’ve wanted to do but don’t generally have time for.

– Leave “real life” behind. Resist the urge to spend part of your staycation cleaning the house or grocery shopping. Don’t schedule a dentist appointment or anything not in the staycation spirit during this time, just because you’re off of work.

If you take a staycation during a weekday, take advantage of everyone else being at work and visit the usually super crowded places during the week. Many businesses offer discounts for services at off-peak times, so you can often find a great deal if you want to treat yourself. Taking even a small amount of time off can benefit your mental health. Staycations are perfect for parents who need a break but don’t want to go too far, people feeling burned out at work, anyone on a budget, couples in a rut, or friends looking for a reunion.

Source: tinytrips.com

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.

Now Could Be the Best Time to Sell Your Home

Key Takeaways:

  • Shifting buyer demand creates lucrative opportunities for decisive sellers
  • Higher mortgage rates have set fire to this already hot housing market
  • Don’t delay—now is the time to contact us and get your home on the market!

The current housing market

With a sudden jump in home listings recently, today’s hot housing market has many homeowners wondering if now is the best time to sell. Of course, trying to time the market perfectly is challenging, though if there ever was a time to sell, this is absolutely a great one. 

Everyone’s situation is different, but if you’ve been thinking about selling your home lately, contact us today to begin the process and maximize your success. 

The supply of homes for sale, explained 

Saleswoman giving home keys to new property owner.

Compared with last year, the supply of homes for sale jumped 9% in May, which is striking considering the historically low supply of home inventory that has defined the US housing market this year. 

As sellers rushed to put their properties onto the market and cash in their equity gains, new home listings rose nearly twice as fast as a year ago in May, while pending home sales fell by almost 4% in April. And with sales of newly built homes dropping by a much broader 16% compared with March, this marked the sixth straight month of sales declines. 

To fully appreciate this drop-off, consider that this softening in demand for housing marks the greatest slowdown on record in nearly a decade. 

Home sales are slowing because mortgage rates have risen sharply since the start of the year, with the most significant gains coming in April and early May. The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage started the year close to 3% and is now well over 5%, causing new home buyers to slow down a bit.

The reality of rising mortgage rates

Businessperson's Hand Protecting Balance Between Percentage Red Cubic Block And House Model On Wooden Seesaw

While homeowners and homebuyers certainly enjoyed locking in 30-year fixed mortgages at the historic low of 2.68% in December 2020, this is far from the norm. It was only a few years ago, during the decade of the 2010’s, that mortgage rates averaged between 3.45% to 4.87%—not that far off from today’s average of just over 5%. 

If you step back even further in time, the absolute highest mortgage rate was a whopping 18.45% in 1981! Like today, that was due to the Federal Reserve raising the federal funds rate to combat inflation, causing mortgage rates to spike. But unlike potential homebuyers in 1981, we have good news on the horizon, as we’re seeing mortgage and refinance rates start to decline for the first time in weeks and the economy showing signs of stabilizing. 

An overdue housing market correction

Chart showing home values changing over time.

If you’re still worried about the housing market, you don’t need to. The good news in these reports is that homes are still selling, and in many cases, they’re still selling above their asking price. The housing market is cooling down due to a lull in buyer demand. However, this cooldown is a much-needed correction to what has been a short-term housing market fueled by the pandemic. 

The critical difference in the market now is that with fewer buyers competing with one another over available housing, home prices rose another 21% in May, meaning equity gains are still there for homeowners. And if you’re looking to sell to downsize and lower your monthly expenses, you’ll be perfectly positioned to find your ideal home with fewer buyers competing with you in the market.

Sell Now for Your Best Return

If you’re considering selling your home, this may be the best possible time to list. With a trusted, experienced real estate team behind you, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve seen the ups and downs of the market over the years. You can always make a smart move, so contact us today to discuss your options!

Should You Sell Your House or Rent It Out?

You have found a new job, a new love, or a new desire to move somewhere else. These are all great reasons to buy that one-way ticket and start packing your bags! But, what about your house? You can’t just leave it be – you have to either sell it or rent it out. Both selling and renting have a lot of pros and cons; however, it will be up to you to decide which option will take the lead. This is going to be complicated and stressful, we know. And, we also know that you are going to need help to decide. That is why we are here—to help you determine whether you should sell your house or rent it out. So, if this is the kind of help you were looking for, keep on reading. 

Signs You Should Sell Your House 

1. Your House is in Seller’s Market 

There is a huge demand for homes in a seller’s market, but there are not enough homes. This means that if your house is in the seller’s market and you decide to sell it, you will do it without any delays and for the highest price possible. Your local real estate agents can help you with this—that is, they will tell you your home’s value and give you advice on how to sell it properly. 

2. You Need Money 

Should you sell your house or rent it out also depends on whether you have enough cash—for your new home and to maintain this old home? Everything costs money. So, evaluate your budget and assess all of your finances. If you have some money to spare, great! But, if you don’t, that is your sign to sell your home. 

3. Your House is Old and Requires Serious Renovation 

Maybe you want to move out of your house because it requires a lot of maintenance. It needs to be renovated and upgraded so that it can fit all of your needs and preferences. If that is the case, you should look for movers on bestcrosscountrymovers.com, relocate, and sell your house. If you can’t live in it, renters won’t be able to either. All renters look for comfortable and modern homes – if your home isn’t that, you will not be able to rent it out. 

An old, damaged wall.
With old and destroyed houses, there is no doubt whether you should sell your house or rent it out

4. You Don’t Want to Be a Landlord 

Renting out your property to strangers means that you will still be responsible for everything that is going on in your house. You will have to take care of all the household issues, finances, and many other problems. And, you will always have to be nearby. This will be just like any other job. Of course, it will provide you with a steady cash flow (almost) every month, but it will also require you to “work” on that property too. If this is not something you are ready to do, better list your house now. 

5. The House Is Just Not Good Rental Material 

As previously said, all renters want to live in modern and comfortable homes. But not only that, they want to live in safe homes that have all the needed amenities both inside and out. They want to live in homes that are close to the city center or, at least, close to some means of transportation. Just think about it–would you rent out a home in the middle of nowhere, and that will make your life extremely difficult? Probably not. So, if your house has similar features, don’t even think about whether you should sell your house or rent it out. The answer is rather obvious. 

A house-shaped keychain representing the uncertainty of whether you should sell your house or rent it out
If you wouldn’t want to rent your home, other people won’t either.

Signs You Should Rent Your House 

1. Demand for Rentals is High in Your Area 

If, for example, you have to move from Virginia to some other state, don’t let all of the reasons mentioned already force you to sell your house and decide to leave for good. There are some great reasons (signs) for you to keep your home and rent it out before you leave. And one of those signs is that you live in an area where there is a high demand for rentals. Those are typically urban areas, areas around schools and colleges, areas close to business districts, etc. Renting your home can be quick, easy, and financially good in these areas. So, before you decide to leave for good, think about this – renting your house can be a wise decision. 

2. Wondering if You Should Sell Your House or Rent It Out When You Are Still Attached to the House 

Maybe a job or some new life event forced you to move out and buy a new house. And, maybe you still love your house—it has everything you need, and it reminds you of your family. It is okay to feel emotionally attached to a property! And, it is okay to rent it out until you figure out what to do. By renting the house out, you will have enough money to take care of it even from the far. So, don’t push yourself to do something you are not ready for. Rent the house until you are ready for the next move—whatever that move may be.

One person giving home keys to another.
If you are still attached to your house, be sure to find some good and reliable tenants.

3. The House is Good Rental Material

If you still don’t know whether you should sell your house or rent it out, just check whether it is a good rental material or not. Besides being in a desired, safe rental market, the house should also have all the wanted amenities. For instance, most renters look for amenities such as big kitchens, new bathrooms, substantial square footage, outdoor area, etc. If your house has all of this, then rent it out. You will certainly be able to find good renters who will be suitable for your house and who will be able to pay a good amount of money for it. 

As you have seen, many signs can help you decide whether to sell your house or rent it out. However, it all depends on you at the end of the day. Look at these signs and evaluate your situation and your house’s condition, but don’t forget to ask yourself what is good for you. 

Meta Description: Wondering whether to sell your house or rent it out? Wonder no more—keep on reading for some expert advice. 

Photos Used: 

https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-silver-key-8293778/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/unfinished-wall-804392/

https://pixabay.com/photos/build-a-house-house-for-sale-4503738/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-giving-keys-from-new-home-to-family-7489107/

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.

Central Park Fredericksburg Virginia 22401 Family Fun Carnival

What other way to kick off the summer then bringing your family to The Family Fun Carnival in Fredericksburg, Virginia? The Carnival will be in town May 27th through June 5th.  Come out and enjoy food and UNLIMITED RIDES! Family and friends are welcome from Monday-Friday: 6 pm ‘till closing and Saturday and Sunday: 3 pm ‘till closing. Come visit the carnival at 1833 Carl D Silver Parkway Fredericksburg 22401! All-day ride wristbands are available as well as individual ticket purchases. The ride tickets and wristbands are sold only inside the event, wristbands, tickets and entry fee are non-refundable. For additonal information or to ask questions visit their website: http://www.amusementpromotionsinc.com/

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.

114 independence ave, lake of the woods va 22508

114 Independence St, Lake of the Woods, Virginia 22508 SOLD!!! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors!

Craving space? You’ll love this great house located in amenity rich Lake of the Woods! The house is perfectly situated on a private lot that backs to trees for privacy. The inside delights with a spacious living room, kitchen/dining area (which provides access to deck), and three bedrooms all on the main level. The lower level is where you will find the master bedroom with attached full bath and expansive closet.  If that isn’t enough, the lower level features a family room and laundry! Enjoy sitting on the deck that backs to a private, level yard.

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 the mid-$100,000s to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience why I love Lake of the Woods!

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

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

116 Eagle, Lake of the Woods VA 22508

116 Eagle Ct, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 SOLD!!! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors!

Welcome to your stress-free oasis located on the golf course! If privacy, serenity, and more space from an unfinished basement to make your own, are what you crave, 116 Eagle Court is for you! Situated on the 9th tee box with a fabulous screened porch to take advantage of the views, you’ll be wowed. The screened porch will become your favorite spot to read a book, have dinner, or simply relax. This well-kept three bedroom, two bath rambler offers a stunning cathedral-ceilinged living room with built-ins and a cozy floor-to-ceiling fireplace to warm those chilly nights. The owner’s suite provides an en-suite bath with shower and double sinks. Let your imagination soar with the possibilities provided by the unfinished lower level: design to accommodate your wants and needs whenever the time is right!

A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, water skiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience what’s to love in Lake of the Woods!

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

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

9605 Bonair Dr, Manassas VA 20109 For Sale

9605 Bonair Dr, Manassas Virginia 20109 SOLD by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors LLC!

Welcome to 9605 Bonair Drive! If you are looking for a spacious home with a private pool, this is the one! A split-level home, it offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy easy living. The upper level has gorgeous hardwood floors in the living room and dining room that have been newly polished. The updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances in the kitchen is sure to please the chef.  Entertain your friends and family in the dining room that has access to the backyard oasis! Before we go outside, you must see the primary suite and additional spacious 2 bedrooms. The lower level space is a perfect den with a wood-burning brick fireplace with a bonus/flex space and a 4th bedroom. A half bath and large laundry with walkout to the back yard. Not to miss is the patio that leads to the private pool oasis boasting amazing establishes gardens! This is one house not to miss, and will go fast!

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.

218 Yorktown Blvd, Lake of the Woods Virginia 22508 SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Real Estate Advisors

Fall in love with this quaint, well-kept home in lovely Lake of the Woods! Enter into the cozy family room with gleaming hardwood floors, high ceiling that leads you into the eat-in kitchen with fabulous amounts of cabinets and counter space. The spacious rooms and primary suite will be the perfect retreats and will accommodate the family in comfort. Huge paved driveway with an expansive front porch will welcome you each day. This is one sure to go fast!

A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, water skiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience what’s to love in Lake of the Woods!

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

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

1230 Thomas Jefferson Pl Fredericksburg VA 22405 for sale

1230 Thomas Jefferson Pl, Fredericksburg Virginia 22405 Townhome SOLD! by Licata Group EXP Realty LLC!

Welcome to 1230 Thomas Jefferson Place!  A wonderfully maintained corner townhouse is full of bright windows for amazing natural lighting. The very bright kitchen features a bay window and spacious counter space. The living room has access to the quaint, private back deck to enjoy all the birds and wildlife. The upper level homes all three bedrooms and a full bath. Very roomy and quiet retreat spaces. Close to everything in south Stafford or near by little town of Fredericksburg, this well kept home is one not to miss!

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.