Tag Archives: holiday

Do the Holidays Affect Real Estate?

There are certain things the holidays are suitable for. They tend to bring out the best in us. It’s a time for family, sharing, all those warm moments that tend to be forgotten about under the sometimes grueling regime of everyday life. However, they might not be the best for some other things. For one, the holidays don’t seem to have a favorable stance towards your weight loss program. They also seem to adversely impact the contents of your wallet. What we want to know is how do the holidays affect real estate? Is it wise to place a delightful one-story ranch with a fully furnished basement under the Christmas tree, or is it best left for warmer days? For the TLDR readers out there, the answer is yes. For those who don’t know the acronym or want a little more insight, let’s take a closer look together!

Caroling or Shopping

There are plenty of Christmas holiday activities to try in Virginia, and buying or selling a house is one of them! If you delve a little deeper into human behavior, you understand why the holidays are an interesting time. On the one hand, many people will be partaking in the holidays themselves. So, instead of looking at open homes, they will be caroling. I use this as a simple example to express the differences that will emerge in the way people act. Most people will enjoy the time-off and use it to unwind. However, a smaller but rather dedicated contingent of well-motivated individuals will not cease with their prior activities. They will continue to look for that perfect home. Serious sellers will keep their properties listed and welcome all new offers. Why would they choose to do this? Because they know the score. Less competition means a jollier time for those involved. No bidding wars and smaller chances of losing the offer. Most statistics point to the fact that demand wanes right before and during the holidays. You have one guess as to when it spikes again. Using that little pocket of calm to your advantage seems prudent.

Ariel shot of tent lot at Virginia Key Beach Park
Look at it this way, whilst all these people are partying in temporary tents on Key Beach Part, you could be finding your permanent dream home

Serious Offers Only Please

How many times have we seen this written in any kind of advertisement? So many times that it has lost all meaning. Of course, you are looking for a serious offer; nobody wants to waste their time. If only you could do that for the house you are trying to sell. The spring and summer have a jam-packed inventory, with all kinds of properties on sale. It makes sense, too; there are plenty of buyers out there. The problem is, some of them are just perusing. Going to open houses, weighing their options, maybe even killing time. Not an ideal scenario. Now go back to what we touched upon in the previous section. During the holidays, you only have serious buyers and sellers. Anybody willing to forego holiday laziness (a term I just coined, not to be understood as anything derogatory, but presenting well-deserved rest) means they are on a mission. If you are looking at a condo while the wind is blowing and the rain is falling, you are seriously considering buying it. Therefore, listing your home with a reliable company during the holidays could be the right thing to do! If sellers are accommodating enough to show you their property and are not selling it during the ‘prime’ season, it means they really need to sell.

Georgian style house in Virginia
The spring is more appealing, but the holiday season offers hidden incentives that could tip the scales in your favor!

Low Temperatures, Low Interest Rates

I’ll start by saying this isn’t a guarantee. There are no certainties when it comes to economics, finances, love, lucky numbers on a lottery ticket, and pretty much life in general. Still, all we can do is look at trends and hedge our bets accordingly. Don’t worry; there is some science behind all of this. As always, all the headings are somewhat interlinked. It is a sort of holiday domino effect if you will. Holidays and colder weather mean people, by and large, postpone their house-hunting activities. This leads to a decrease in demand. Therefore, fewer loans are being taken out. As financial business declines, it’s time for those all-important incentives. Interest rates are lowered, financing becomes more favorable, and those still in the game are suddenly privy to a nice little monetary advantage. You can use those savings to call up Allstate Moving and Storage, and they’ll have you in your new home before you can say ‘pumpkin pie’!

Do the Holidays Affect Real Estate? Let’s See What Taxes Have to Say

Believe it or not, there are tax benefits to be had as we start to round off the year. Let’s say it together – this is not a guarantee. A lot depends on your financial situation. However, if you itemize deductions when you purchase a home, you could be able to save some money. Mortgage interest rates and property taxes, to name just some, could be deductible. If the house is not being bought for the sole purpose of being a home you will live in, but rather an investment asset where you will run a business, further deductions could be possible. This is a little hidden nugget that the holiday season offers.

Take Advantage of the Pretty

There is an almost indirect effect of the holidays on the real estate market. Just think about your interior. We tend to tidy up, put up beautiful decorations, and make a cozy atmosphere. One that is warm and welcoming. Almost as if you had purposefully prepared your home for an open house showing. How fortunate.

Furthermore, you can take steps to make your home even more enticing. With the interior taken care of, if you planned a little ahead, the exterior could be attractive as well. After all, this is the first thing buyers see, and first impressions are essential. If you improve the curb appeal of your Virginia home through the applications of affordable projects, there is no way any buyer will be able to resist!

White concrete building with red roof
Do the holidays affect real estate? If you use the charm of the holidays to make your home as inviting and cozy as possible, they do!

Happy Holidays and Happy House Hunting!

To summarize, do the holidays affect real estate? Yes, yes, they do. Nothing has changed there. It’s just about a few nuances and understanding why this is so that you can utilize this to your advantage. After all, skipping one holiday really is worth it if it ensures you can celebrate the next twenty in your dream home. So put down that eggnog and search for the ideal home – you’ll be glad you did it!

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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.

Fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, Virginia

No matter what the season is, there are many things to do in Orange County, VA. However, there is something truly special and magical about the winter holidays. If you are looking for fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, VA, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll let you know what Orange County has to offer this holiday season, and we guarantee you’ll have a blast!

Are you moving to Orange County, VA?

Even though living in a big city comes with many advantages, moving to the countryside is becoming increasingly popular. If you are looking to settle in a more relaxed, friendlier, and healthier environment and escape the stress big city life brings, moving to Orange County, VA, might be the best decision you make in your entire life.

However, no matter where you’re relocating from, you will want to have a smooth and easy move to Orange County, VA. So, we consulted a team from Po’s Moving & Storage, who advised that the key to a successful and stress-free move is to start planning as soon as you know your move date. Further in this article, we’ll help you prepare by letting you know more about the lifestyle in Orange County, VA.

A body of water with trees around it

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Located in neighboring Spotsylvania County, Lake Anna State Park is only 40 minutes drive from Orange County.

Things to know about Orange County

To help you prepare and know what to expect, here’s what you should know before packing your bags and heading to Virginia:

  • With pleasantly hot summers and relatively mild winters, you’ll be able to experience all four seasons.
  • The overall cost of living in Virginia is higher than the national average. However, Orange County is one of the most affordable parts of the state to live in.
  • If you enjoy spending time in nature, the scenery around Orange County will leave you speechless. So if you are looking for an excuse to buy a holiday home in Virginia, Lake Ana State Park might be a perfect location to choose.
  • There are historical sites all over Virginia. Orange County is famous for Montpelier, an estate that belonged to ‘the father of the constitution, James Madison.
  • Virginia is known for great universities and renowned educational institutions. The University of Virginia is less than an hour’s drive from Orange County.
  • Don’t be surprised by the extensive military presence all over Virginia. This state is home to 27 military bases!
  • The Old Dominion is the first wine-growing area in the country. In Orange County alone, there are many fantastic wineries to visit.

We hope our Orange County facts made you even more excited about your move! So start planning your move and hire experienced residential movers to have your whole household relocated to your new home. We’re confident you’ll fall in love with Orange County and never wish to leave.  

What Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, VA?

The holiday season is one thing that makes life in Orange County, VA that more special. Every year towns of Gordonsville and Orange turn to old-fashioned holiday villages and offer plenty of fun Christmas holiday activities. Further in this article, find out the best and most fun things to do in Orange County, VA, during the festive season.

Check out Holiday Open House at James Madison’s Montpelier

Every year during holidays, in the home of the Father of the Constitution and Architect of the Bill of Rights, a free community event is held. It’s a great way to take a break from the holiday rush to relax and enjoy the season by diving into history and tradition. On top of that, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to try.

If you have never been to James Madison’s Montpelier, we recommend taking either a guided tour called ‘Highlights of Montpelier’ or a private house tour. In the historical core of this location, you’ll be able to visit and experience significant outdoor sites. Also, you’ll be able to take a peek at several selected rooms in the Madisons’ home.

Take Orange County Tacky Lights Tour

Another fun holiday activity to try in Orange County is the Tacky Lights Tour. You’ll enjoy driving through picturesque streets and checking out lovely lit-up houses. However, have in mind that this is not a contest. It’s a tour organized just for fun.

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What can be more fun but driving through decorated streets and looking at a stunning collection of Christmas lights and ornaments?

Visit the Market at Grelen Holiday Headquarters 

The day after Thanksgiving, Santa starts coming to Orange County, VA. He makes sure to visit every Saturday through the entire holiday season. After you take your kids to tell their Christmas wishes to Santa, there is still plenty more to do at this fun place!

For instance, Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees is one of the favorite events for Orange County locals. You can also participate in wreath and gift workshops and learn new skills. And make sure not to miss out on Enchanted Extravaganza.

Holiday Feasts at Barboursville Vineyard 

Why not treat yourself to a spectacular holiday feast of four courses while sipping on exquisite and rare wines of Orange County? Orange County’s Barboursville Vineyard has exactly that to offer during the entire holiday season. You can even join Christmas Lunch Celebration or the New Year’s Eve Dinner and Celebration.

Annual Gingerbread House Contest

Don’t be sad you’ve missed out on the Gingerbread walk this year because you’ll have as much fun at the Annual Gingerbread House Contest. From the first week of December, you’ll be able to see lovely gingerbread houses displayed for viewing and voting in the windows of different businesses along Main Street in Orange. You can decide whom to vote for while checking out diverse local businesses.

A gingerbread house on a table

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Gingerbread House Contest is one of the most favorite holiday events in Orange County.

The bottom line

We hope you enjoyed reading about Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, VA. More importantly, we hope we inspired you to dress warm, go out and choose an event you’re going to check out first.

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There is nothing as magical as the holiday season, so we’ve prepared suggestions for fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County.

Photos used:

https://unsplash.com/photos/uFfN-6_DFW4

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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.

Santa Claus is Coming to… Lake of the Woods, Virginia 22508!

The Lake of the Woods Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company Inc posted their Santa Tracker schedule on their website. Santa will begin driving around on the Fire Truck, starting Friday, December 17th around 5pm the ride will be from the Front Gate to Confederate Cir on the marina side of the Lake; then to Sheetz, Food Lion, and Walmart parking lots. The next day, Saturday, December 18th starting about 5pm, Santa will start at Confederate Drive to the Front Gate on the golf course side; then to Sheetz, Food Lion, and Walmart parking lots. Finally, Santa will make his final debut on Sunday, December 19th about 5pm, one trip around Lakeview Pkwy then to Rapidan Rd, Wilderness Shores, and Somerset subdivisions, then to Sheetz, Food Lion, and Walmart parking lots. So wherever you will be during Santa’s visit, plan accordingly so you can wave hello to the jolly-old man in the red suit!

Lake of the Woods Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company loves to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!

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.

FXBG Drive-In Holiday Movie Series is Almost Over!

The final 2 nights are coming up quickly for the Holiday Movie Series event hosted by the Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events Center. Come out to Old Mill Park (location subject to change) for a FREE family movie night in the park. There will be food trucks available for dinner and the movie will be played through your car radio. Gates open at 5pm and the movie starts at dark. The final nights are Saturday, December 11th with a double-feature showing: Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas and The Year without Santa Claus and Friday, December 17th showcasing National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Check out their website here for the most up-to-date information!

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.

Candy Cane Lane Christmas Market in Bowling Green

Visit 116 Chase St, Bowling Green, VA 22427, Saturday, December 10th between 10am – 2pm for the final Candy Cane Lane Christmas Market event hosted by Dainty Chic Roadside Stand. There will be 27 vendors of makers, creators, and bakers, a gingerbread contest will be held, shopping, a toy drive, a food truck on-site, and even Santa will make an appearance! Check out this market for something unique and different that can’t be found at big box retail stores, while also supporting your local community members and residents! There will also be a Season of Giving Shoppe where children can come shop for their family and friends. Please contact: Daintychic1@gmail.com to set up an appointment! Visit their Facebook page here for more information!

The Bowling Green Christmas parade will be held at 5pm that day, for you to join after completing your final Christmas shopping list.

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.

Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show

Take a trip and visit Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show. Get all of your holiday shopping done here with a variety of gifts to choose from including, arts and crafts to jewelry and baked goods and hair care. Your family will thank you for visiting this Market & Craft show. This free Christmas Market is scheduled for December 11th from 11am to 4pm at the John Carlyle Square (300 John Carlyle St, Alexandria, VA 22314).

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.

Concert in Lights, All Season Long at Spotsylvania Towne Center

Concert in Lights has begun at the Spotsylvania Town Center in Fredericksburg, Virginia. After you’re done holiday shopping at the mall, go to the Village to enjoy their special light and music show. Get into the holiday spirit, every night as shows are every night at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm. For the most up-to-date, visit 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 contact Pat Licata.

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

2021 Gingerbread Walk in Orange, Virginia!

Orange’s Annual Gingerbread Walk will be held this Saturday, December 4th from 10am – 4pm. There will be plenty of family fun to be had here with music, holiday crafts, food, great shopping, SANTA, and of course, gingerbread, too! A Gingerbread house-making contest will be coordinated by Orange County Parks and Recreations and the Arts Center in Orange. Expect special family photo backdrops to take your own personal photographs to make into a lifetime memory. Walkthrough Children’s Toyland, featuring an array of holidays crafts and displays presented by Paint it Orange in the Train Station. You and your family are invited to tour the historic Orange County Courthouse and Santa and his Orange Holiday Elves will be there too! The best part is this event is, completely, FREE! So come out and spend a Saturday in the beautiful, historic Town of Orange. For more info, visit 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 contact Pat Licata.

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

Downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia Christmas Parade 2021 Scheduled

Christmas was a little strange last year with covid rapid and keeping us all indoors in our homes. This year the Christmas parade is back in Fredericksburg, Virginia and is scheduled to start Saturday, December 4th at 5:30PM ending at approximately 8:30PM. Rain, shine or snow the parade will go on! The route is scheduled to go down Caroline St, Amelia St and end on Princess Anne St. See this map for more details and to be aware of street closures as there will be many. There are a variety of places to park, some free and some at a cost. You can visit here for a list of available nearby parking. Plan your day now as this event is very popular, and many spectators are expected!!

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.

Bull Run Festival of Lights Happening Until January 10th, 2021

The Bull Run Festival of Lights is here! Enjoy a 2.5 mile drive as you view thousands of beautiful lights! The show is open nightly Monday-Thursday from 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM and Friday, Saturday, Sunday nights from 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Ticket prices range from $25 per car to $50 per day depending on the day and time. Timed entry tickets are available on Monday-Thursday nights from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM and 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM, and Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holiday nights from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM and 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Be sure to come out and enjoy this beautiful festival of lights! For more information including where to purchase tickets, 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