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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
At the beginning of each year, interior designers strive to predict the décor trends that homeowners will gravitate towards in the coming months—and if your home is on the market, incorporating some of these trends may be a great way to appeal to buyers.
Currently, many recent and emerging design trends have been shaped by world events, such as the ongoing supply chain issues. For example, here are a few of the top trends that experts predict will be popular in 2022:
– Multifunctional spaces. Over the past several months, many people’s homes have served numerous roles: shelters, offices, classrooms, leisure spaces, and more. As working from home remains common, buyers may want to see that your rooms can comfortably be used for multiple purposes. For instance, even if you don’t have a full home office, consider setting up a workstation or showcasing multifunctional furniture.
– Neutral colors. Another trend that designers attribute to the pandemic is a preference for neutral colors, which help create a calming haven while the world remains in flux. If you’re planning to add new colors to your home—whether through painting, furniture, or accent pieces—opt for earth tones, such as beige, gray, white, and soothing shades of brown and green.
– Natural elements. In keeping with the trend towards earth tones, homeowners are increasingly bringing elements of nature indoors, such as plants, natural light, and ventilation. Consider purchasing a few easy-to-maintain houseplants, such as snake plants or pothos, and ensuring that trees and shrubbery near your windows are properly trimmed so there is nothing obstructing the sunlight.
-Vintage items. There are two main forces driving the affinity for vintage items: a growing focus on sustainability, and supply chain issues that are making it more difficult to purchase new goods. Luckily, quality vintage décor and accessories are generally easy to find at thrift stores, flea markets, and online marketplaces.
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.
Every person in the world has a different opinion when it comes to urban and countryside lifestyles. Some would never give up the city amenities, no matter the financial burden and health threats that kind of life imposes. Others who experienced country life say that getting away from the city where you wake up to the sound of birds instead of traffic noise has no price. Still, there is a third option for those who are a part of both of these worlds – the suburbs. Each of these has many benefits and some downsides. Knowing the differences between city, suburban, and rural living can help you find where you belong if you’re starting to reconsider your living conditions.
Life in rural areas
Life in the countryside is a dream come true for anyone who wants to get rid of stress and anxiety induced by big-city survival. Rural living includes life in the open, spread-out areas and small communities. There is a lot of undeveloped lands, usually surrounded by magnificent nature.
This lifestyle is a choice of people who enjoy close-knit communities, where everyone knows each other. You get to enjoy the vast space, lovely views, healing nature. This is the perfect choice for people in search of more sustainable ways of living. With a bit of gardening and farming skills, you can provide for yourself and your family and perhaps even start a small business. In addition, the peace, quiet and clean air makes it perfect for those working remotely.
Since Virginia offers majestic nature, many young families and retirees decide to move to local counties. Besides the obvious health benefits of clean air and a stress-free environment, they provide a lower cost of living and much more affordable housing.
Magnificent woods, lakes, rivers, and trails could be at your disposal if you move to the countryside.
The downsides of living in the countryside
Even though countryside residents have many health and financial benefits, there are some downsides. One of them is the commute issue. If you don’t work close to your home, you’ll need to drive to work in the city. Even though some rural areas such as Orange County are less than 30 miles from Charlottesville, which makes the commute to work bearable, not all places have the same luck.
In addition, local shops and amenities can be found only in the strict village center. Thus, you will need to stock up on food and supplies to avoid driving to town anytime you need something. That means that families usually need more than one car to get around. Also, with fewer amenities, you have fewer available services. Not being used to this occurrence can be hard if you’ve moved from the city to the countryside. However, living in rural areas makes you resilient and craftier. After you get used to such living, you’ll eliminate the need for many things.
Suburban life
There are clear differences between city, suburban, and rural living, including housing costs, development patterns, and population numbers. However, the difference between suburban and city lifestyles was never clearly defined. Finding the perfect home in a suburb is a choice of many growing families, young professionals, and retirees searching for a slower pace and more affordable cost of living. The benefits of such a lifestyle are many since you get to live peacefully and more comfortably. Plus, the commute to work isn’t as daunting as when you live in the countryside.
Suburban lifestyle, no matter how convenient, may often lack green surfaces and have nearly the same living costs as the city does.
The good and bad side of being “in-between”
Life in the suburbs is different from city life due to a slower pace and more affordable housing. Still, a suburb is considered a subset of the city. There is no official definition for it. It’s not a central part of the city, nor is it a town of its own. Some suburbs share some country-like living amenities, but still, they are not the countryside either. The cost of living is very similar to that in cities, and since cities are constantly growing and expanding, places around them are often modified with new buildings construction.
It’s safe to say that cities are slowly swallowing the suburbs, making them closer to the core. This is a good and a bad thing since you will be a homeowner in a competitive market. Still, everything you were trying to avoid while living in the city will eventually catch up with you. However, if you’ve tasted the suburban life and you need more action, maybe the city is something worth considering. Since most moving companies provide their services to wider areas, a transfer to the city from the suburbs is not something you should worry about.
City lifestyle
Needless to say that cities are the centers of happenings. They are densely populated hubs of industries, cultures, and politics. There is no better place for work opportunities, education, social and cultural life, and thousands of other amenities. Often you will hear that cities have a life of their own, that they never sleep, and that is true. They are the places where everything is happening, where progress takes place and dreams come true. Still, achieving those dreams is not always easy.
One of the perks of living in the city is the fact that you can get almost everywhere on foot.
Life in the city takes its toll
Even though life in the city can give a lot, it takes the same. To sustain in such an environment, you have to work very hard and overburden yourself with life’s many stressful factors. Daily traffic jams, rush, ever-emerging bills, limited living space, polluted air, lack of green surfaces, high costs of living, and many other small things add up to a substantial overwhelming worry. For example, for the price of a tiny apartment in NYC, you can get two beautiful homes in the countryside. This change can help you get the home of your dreams and a passive income. Even with the recent fluctuations in the housing markets worldwide, investing in real estate is always a great idea.
City life eats your money, and you can never earn as much as you can spend. No wonder if you feel a sudden rush to run away from it all. You don’t have to make a radical change and move to the countryside, but you can try living in the suburbs for a while. Even though the moving process takes a lot of time and preparation, you can still get everything ready in 7 days if you develop a good strategy.
Conclusion
Leaving the city would certainly make you healthier. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’d be happier. Country life is not for everyone – you have to be ready for it. The urge to get away is becoming more frequent with young Newyorkers who are moving to the countryside looking for sustainable ways of living. Others, however, find it hard to let go of all the city amenities. In addition, for some, the move is a financial necessity or comes with age. Still, it’s essential to know your options when the time comes to change directions. Whether you decide to focus on your career, family, or eco-friendly lifestyle, understanding the differences between city, suburban, and rural living can help you turn your life around.
Meta description: When looking for new living conditions knowing the differences between city, suburban, and rural living can help you turn your life around.
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.
Some sellers have turned to iBuyers for instant cash offers on their properties, but they have consequently sacrificed the personalization of their home sale.
iBuyers use outdated algorithms to value properties, whereas real estate agents use to-the-minute statistics to generate accurate, competitive prices.
Work with our team of local agents to expertly price your property—and we can even start crunching the numbers for your updated home value today!
Here’s What You Need to Know About iBuyers
An iBuyer is a company that makes an offer on your property by using automated value-estimating technology. Rather than partaking in the traditional home sale process, some of today’s sellers are relying on iBuyers to make all-cash offers on their properties. And since iBuyers use automated estimators to price your home, these companies are able to make their offers almost instantly.
Sellers have varying considerations when it comes to their home sales—some prioritize earning top dollar, while others just want to sell as quickly as possible. So depending on your home-selling goals, iBuyers could be a valid option for you. However, no matter what you want out of your home sale, you should always have an expert real estate agent by your side to guide you through the process.
When pricing your home, you want accuracy—not algorithms
As the local market starts showing signs of a shift, there’s never been a more critical time to know your home’s true value. In the real estate industry, agents price your home through a process called a comparative market analysis (CMA). This process compares your property to recently sold listings in the area that share similar features to your own home. Based on the CMA results, our agents are able to generate a competitive price that will have buyers flocking to your door.
On the other hand, iBuyers use a software they refer to as an automation valuation model, which essentially uses an algorithm to quickly process a property’s data and compute an offer price. When setting a list price for your property, you don’t want to rely on automatic estimators that promise instant (but not accurate!) results—entrust a local agent instead! And when you work with us, one of our pricing experts will evaluate your property in-person to pinpoint its value-boosting features and deliver you an accurate price in real-time.
The ideal timeline of your home sale should be top of mind
This is when your home-selling priorities come into play—if selling your home quickly is your absolute top priority, then working with an iBuyer might best fit your needs. Many iBuyers can make you a cash offer within two days of when they receive your property’s information. Then, if you accept the offer and schedule a home assessment immediately, you could close on your house anywhere from two weeks to two months later, depending on any necessary repairs.
Although the extraordinarily quick timeline of selling your home to an iBuyer may seem compelling, you also have to consider our local market—it’s still skewed towards sellers. According to a recent report by the National Association of Realtors, 87% of properties sold in August 2021 were on the market for less than a month. So with the ball still clearly in sellers’ courts, working with an iBuyer might not guarantee moving any sooner.
Need Selling Advice? We’re All Ears!
Ultimately, determining whether you should sell to an iBuyer is a personal decision based on your priorities. And as your local area experts, our agents are here to guide you through the home-selling process no matter which option you choose. Whether you need to sell your home this week or crave a competitive list price that will earn you a profit, you can count on us to accomplish your home-selling goals.
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.
Living in a big city is fantastic. Such a lifestyle brings many benefits when it comes to job opportunities, social life, and entertainment. However, city life also brings high costs of living, limited housing options, and a lot of everyday stress caused by commute and other factors. Not to mention the financial burden, because it’s never enough no matter how much you earn. Being in the center of the happening has a high cost. And as we grow older, we realize that relocation to a healthier and more affordable location is a game-changer. Unlike fast city pace, the lifestyle in Orange County, VA, is a different story. Here, you can slow down, enjoy nature and the people around you without losing essential location amenities. If you’re considering turning your life for the better, here is all you need to know about life in this charming county.
County location amenities
When choosing your future home, it is essential to know what you are looking for in a place. For instance, the location is one of the most critical factors of relocation because it will often dictate the job opportunities and other amenities the town provides. Thus, living near industry hubs and city centers is relevant, especially for working people. That is why many professionals have chosen Orange County as their new home in the past few years. Surrounded by Washington D.C. to the north, Richmond to the south, and Charlottesville to the southeast, this county has some great opportunities in business and educational fields.
Yet, since it is a growing county, some work on providing more gainful employment for the youth could be useful. The primary industries lay in agriculture, manufacture, and commercial services. However, recently a tourist and investors influx has given a boost to the development of this charming community. Thus, we can expect many more entrepreneurs and startup industries to choose Orange County as their base.
Orange County is famous for its vineyards and wine tasting tours
Pace of life
Orange County community is surrounded by farms and rich agriculture, with plenty of wineries where residents can enjoy some of Virginia’s best vines. That, and being the birthplace of James Madison, the founder of the U.S. Constitution, attracts many tourists to these parts. The residents are proud of the rich history of the place, which is incorporated in every part of the town.
Taking a stroll in downtown Orange County, you can see the cutest local shops and venues. And you will be surprised by the culinary mastery of the local chiefs. You can be sure to have some of the best dining experiences visiting town restaurants. Still, unlike in big cities, you won’t have to wait for meal reservations or get annoyed by the crowd and noisy streets. The town is a haven of enjoyment and relaxation, perfect for a retiree and family life. But, according to Virginia’s moving experts at Po’s Moving & Storage, in the past two years, a lot of their clients have been young professionals working remotely. Affordable costs of living, and a healthy lifestyle in Orange County, lately make many city people re-consider their living conditions.
Leisure opportunities in the area
Even for lovers of outdoor recreation, the O.C. has a lot of fun opportunities. Golf lovers can enjoy some of the numerous courses, while Lake Anna, Lake Orange, and Angler’s Landing are known to be a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. For more active nature lovers, especially those in water sports, kayaking tours on the Rapidan waterways will provide an unforgettable experience. And if you’re into more extreme outdoor activities, you can skydive with the help of the local experts. However, wine tasting tours, farm visits, and historical and nature trails are available for those who fancy a slower pace.
The lifestyle of Orange County can provide some of the best outdoor activities for people who are into water sports
What makes people move to Orange County, VA
Due to a slow life pace, the O.C. is a common moving destination for the retiree community. But also, it is popular with people who want to live a quality and peaceful life while growing their family. Unlike high-priced housing markets in Northern Virginia, this place provides more comfortable and bigger homes at affordable costs. Whether it comes to better housing options or the desire to switch to a more eco-friendly way of living, the number of new homeowners in Orange County is growing lately.
Nowadays, we connect to the World Wide Web and often disconnect from the people and the world around us. That could make it hard to meet new people after the move. The quality traits, where people are friendly and traditions matter, are getting harder to find every day. It is the close-knit communities where you can easily make new friends and have a fresh, healthy lifestyle that restore the true values.
Virginia is famous for its stunning nature and agricultural potential. Thus, many young families move when switching to an eco-friendly way of living
Local festivities
Even though a relatively small community, Orange County enjoys celebrating numerous year-round festivals and sporting events. At Downtown Orange Street Festival, you get to challenge your senses with some of the best cuisines, music, art, and beverages. As a community awareness promotion, the festival draws over 5,000 visitors from all over Virginia, especially families with kids. However, that’s not all. People in Orange County love to celebrate and have a good time. Thus, they use it to throw many other festivities, such as Office Costume Contest, Liberty Ride, Fallapalooza, Town Scavenger Hunt, Sunflower Orange Festival, Restaurant Week, and other cultural, music, and social events.
The state-renowned event, the Montpelier horse, and Jack Russell terrier races are making people flock here every November
Conclusion
If you are tired of city hustle and financial burden and want to take a slower pace, the lifestyle in Orange County could be a perfect choice for you. Here, you don’t have to sacrifice visits to your favorite shops and city amenities. The town itself has some of the most charming shops and local businesses in Virginia. From numerous town festivals to exquisite outdoor recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone’s taste. Still, when the nostalgia hits, big cities such as Richmond, Washington DC, and Charlottesville are just a short ride away.
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.
When it comes to selling your home, supporting local businesses is one of the most profitable decisions you can make.
Local businesses love to give back to their communities, which can increase your home’s value over time.
We’ve worked with the most reputable businesses around—contact us today, and we’ll pass along our professional recommendations!
Use Local Businesses as Your Home-Selling Sidekicks
When it comes to selling your home, supporting local businesses can be one of the most profitable decisions you make. Instead of calling upon big-name chains, you can utilize homegrown service providers to save money and make sure the job gets done right. Investing in local businesses has been proven to increase a community’s real estate values—besides, there’s no better return on your investment than a genuine “thank you” from a neighbor!
For every $100 spent at small businesses, this much stays in the community…
Small businesses tend to reinvest in their local economies more than chains do, which is great news for homeowners and potential sellers. Plus, small business owners typically work, play, and live in the same communities as their storefronts—so they care more about seeing their hometowns thrive.
The Business Alliance for Local Living Economies found that communities with successful small businesses see property values increase by 50 percent on average. And with home prices appreciating, neighborhoods can benefit from attracting new business investments to spark economic growth. According to research done by The Alliance, $68 stays in the community for every $100 spent at local businesses.
Shopping small provides hyper-local services
Think of shopping local like a community-wide networking event—you strengthen your connections by spreading the word about your positive experiences at businesses in the area. And if you want to know the best providers around, you can just ask your real estate agent. Your local agent doubles as your go-to reference for the most reputable nearby businesses.
Selling your home is a hyper-local experience, one in which you can benefit from partnering with the most convenient local business of them all: your real estate agent. As a small business ourselves, we understand the importance of supporting local and giving back to the community, which is why we only recommend our best business partners to our clients.
Here’s why hiring local service providers is the strategic choice
When you decide to list your property, there’s most likely going to be some projects that need to be completed—things like renovations and repairs, staging for showings, and general maintenance should all be at the top of your to-do list. Hiring homegrown service providers is the strategic choice when it comes to selling your home. Not only will you be guaranteed great service, but you may even receive discounted rates. When real estate agents repeatedly refer their clients to local businesses, companies sometimes provide lower rates in return.
Invest in small businesses to increase your home value
Wondering which local businesses you should take advantage of when listing your home? Hire a landscaper to spruce up your curb appeal, use a local painter to incorporate a more neutral color palette, or contact a local handyman for repairs. Want to get the inside of your home showing-ready? Your agent can recommend a top-notch florist for a bouquet of local blooms. That’s the thing about shopping small—the owners have local expertise and will go the extra mile to make sure their clients are happy!
Want to Increase Your Home Value?
It’s simple—when you invest in local businesses, those companies turn back around and invest in your community, which increases your home value! It’s hard to fully understand the positive impact of shopping local, but it becomes easier when you see your property value rise over time.
We’ve worked with the best businesses in our community, and we know they would love to play a part in your real estate dreams. Just tell us what services you need, and we’ll send our professional recommendations your way!
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.
Join Nancy Kochli on Saturday, August 21st as she provides instructions on how to weave a FUNCTIONAL market basket. Customize your basket to stand out at the farmers market, your next picnic, or just to showcase in your home. In addition, you will learn how to modify your basket pattern to create other baskets of various sizes and even how to stain it. You will leave with the ability to apply your newly learned skills to future basket-weaving projects! It is recommended that you wear comfortable old clothes, as there will be soaking of the reeds, and you may get wet during this process.
This event will begin at 10AM and be over by 3pm and will take place at the CCPRD Community Room at address 303 N. Main St, Culpeper VA 22701.
This beginner-level class does not require prior weaving experience, although it can be helpful. Materials will be provided, but you will be required to bring some tools with you to class. Tickets are $65 per person, along with the required tool list, can be purchased and found here.
Hurry and RSVP your seat because as of 08/13/21, there were only 5 openings remaining for this class! The last day to register will be August 19th or when tickets are sold out, whichever occurs first.
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.
Buying a property is both a big hassle and excitement, but selling one is too. If you’ve been thinking of selling your home and upgrading to a larger place, it’s essential to make arrangements and have a prepared checklist to follow. Since buying a house is one of the most important steps in one’s life, you should look for ways of getting a higher profit moving forward. After all, the goal of any property investment is to increase its value if you eventually decide to sell. So, if you are wondering how to boost the selling price of your Condo, stay tuned.
What are things that increase the value of homes?
Fortunately, there are a variety of home improvements that help in boosting the value of the property you want to sell. In addition, you can follow simple and low-cost tips and tricks to sell your house for a more significant profit. For example, you can use your social media to attract potential buyers. Engaging and creative social media content is low-cost or free (if you get self-educated), and can bring in many viewers to your property.
On the other hand, some serious investments and upgrades will definitely pay off. Therefore, we covered both areas to help you choose which improvements work best for you and your Condo.
How to boost the selling price of your Condo low-cost
Although the tips you are about to see are low-cost, they will make a massive difference in how your property looks. Therefore, following these tips will increase its value. Some of our top budget-friendly home improvements that increase the value of a home are:
deep cleaning
painting
adding a curb appeal
fixture changing
staging the property
Do a proper cleaning
A clean and tidy home will get you the best possible price. This step counts for both inside and outside.
Firstly, focus on all the commonly used and visible places, but remember to pay attention to the hidden corners you can’t always see. For example, get behind the fridge or stove and move the furniture to clean what lies underneath.
Another thing to count in this step is decluttering, which also goes a long way. Remove your personal possessions and family photos, remove the keys and medicine from the counters and make everything depersonalized and tidy.
Add a fresh coat of paint
Painting your walls is an easy DIY project that you can do on a limited budget. A fresh coat of paint makes any place look modern, fresh, and appealing.
You will be amazed by what difference a fresh coat of paint can make.
In addition, before giving your walls a new look, you should examine them for any visible signs of damage. These small improvements will make your Condo look brand new without many innovations.
Change the fixtures
A simple and sometimes neglected house innovation that definitely counts is the fixtures. You will add a new dimension to the place by replacing the doorknobs and cabinet handles, light switch covers, and light fixtures.
Stage your Condo
This step includes decluttering, which we mentioned earlier, and proper furniture arrangements. Don’t forget the amount of furniture is also crucial since you don’t want the place to feel cramped. Also, remember to make each room functional, which helps potential buyers imagine themselves in their new home.
Moderate and high-cost tips
Since the number of homes for sale is increasing, you want to make sure you make yours stand out. Investing a moderate or high sum of money in some of these renovations will undoubtedly add significant value to your property. So, if you are wondering how to boost the selling price of your Condo, these are the tips:
windows or door change
change of flooring
kitchen or bath updates
property renovation
Change doors or windows
Apart from the stylish looks, new doors and windows can make your home more energy-efficient, eventually leading to affordable household running costs.
Installing new doors or windows can help reduce noise, allow more natural light to come in, and help lower heating and cooling bills.
Replace the flooring
Another thing buyers will look at is the flooring, even if it sounds strange.
More carpets are being replaced with wooden flooring.
Hardwood floors are the all-time favorite. Any potential buyer will expect the flooring to be contemporary, durable, clean, and stylish. Therefore, it would be a good investment if you have the finances and time.
It would also be a good idea to use the renovation period for your own relocation. After all, you don’t want to be living in a home you are trying to sell while having to pack and having repairmen in it. To avoid the chaos every moving season brings, it would be good to plan your relocation process and find the best crew for the job. This way, seasonal movers will ensure everything goes smoothly and nothing is slowing down your relocation.
Kitchen or bath updates
The kitchen and bathrooms are known to leave the biggest impressions on home buyers. After all, these are the most widely used rooms and should create a good impression.
How to boost the selling price of your Condo is by investing in kitchen renovations.
You can change the hardware, the countertops, and the flooring in your kitchen to make it look flawless and brand new. Of course, buying new appliances would also be a good idea.
In the bathroom, you can change the toilet, the sink, or the bathtub. If the place allows, you can consider adding a shower too. Even changing the room layout will spruce up any bathroom.
Complete renovation
The step that requires the most significant investment and will definitely help increase the selling prices is a complete renovation of your Condo. By completely redoing it, it will have a modern design and materials, which will definitely be more appealing to your buyers.
Conclusion on how to boost the selling price of your Condo
When the time comes to sell, these home improvements will definitely answer your question of how to boost the selling price of your Condo. Remember to do your research, get answers to any of your questions, and invest in a way that will ensure you profit.
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.
Orange County is one of Virginia’s most spectacular and desirable places to live, work, and play. This makes it a true hidden gem. Many of its industries are fueled by the abundant and diversified natural resources it possesses. These natural resources also inspire and cultivate many of the recreations and arts. Its illustrious past is widely displayed and cherished all around the county. Overall, there are numerous aspects of Orange County that appeal to residents and people considering relocating to the area. The peaceful way of life and friendly hometown feel – with its combination of modern conveniences, easy accessibility to work, health and public services, education, recreation, holiday destinations, and areas of interest – locally and nationally – is generally what people are drawn to. But before moving here, you should learn what life in Orange County, VA is really like.
The story of OC
Established in 1734, OC’s story is a very authentic American tale. Since it’s so rich in intellectual and agricultural gifts, its natives and immigrants have found a way to sow the seeds of sovereignty and innovation all the way from their niche in the Blue Ridge foothills. Life in Orange County had blossomed. It’s now a cradle of American patriotism. It has been so from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War and the creation of the Constitution.
The sense of belonging in Orange County is incredible. It’s a community where the past is abundantly present, whether you’re strolling down tree-lined boulevards in the downtowns or visiting Montpelier to learn about America’s foundations.
Is Orange County a good place to live?
The question of whether living in Orange County will be a good experience for you or not is an important one. However, it’s a really subjective one as well. You need to be the one to call the shots and see what feels right. Nevertheless, there are always some facts that you can take into consideration. Something that people often wonder about before relocating to OC is whether there are any fun things to do there. Let’s see.
You can stay in period cottages. This isn’t only a great way to spend your time during your life in OC; it’s also an opportunity to get to know it before moving. Staying in one of the many available period cottages is a great way to get a true sense of the country’s rustic spirit.
Try the local brews and wines. Of course, one of the most enjoyable things to do in Orange County, Virginia, is to sample the local drinks.
Historical sights. There are plenty of incredible historical sights you’ll be able to visit once you relocate to OC. To name a few, there are Christ Episcopal Church, Barboursville Ruins, James Madison’s Montpelier, and many more.
Moving here to experience life in Orange County, VA
If you’re making the decision to relocate to Orange County, there’s a lot that you need to think about. Especially if you’re leaving behind a great place like DC, hiring a long-distance moving company and taking the planning process seriously is a must. However, if you really want to leave DC to live here, a bit of hard work shouldn’t stop you. Dive into this process all in, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your new life in Orange County in no time.
Look for the best spot
A great way to make your life in OC interesting, enjoyable, and satisfactory is to choose the perfect neighborhood for you. Luckily, finding the best neighborhood in a place like Orange County is rarely a problem. You have various choices to go through. These are some neighborhoods you must check out!
Gordonsville
Lake of the Woods
Orange
Once you’ve settled on a choice, make sure to do more thorough research and visit the place a couple of times before deciding to live there.
There are some great neighborhoods in Orange County that you can research and move to.
Find suitable movers
Of course, there can’t be a proper relocation without a trustworthy moving company. Before you even start to plan the move, make sure to find movers that will make your move go smoothly and without fuss. Pairing up with A2B Moving and Storage or similarly reputable companies would not only mean having partners that’ll help you relocate and store your items, but you’ll also have trustworthy advisors.
The climate in the OC
Orange County has four different seasons. The residents and visitors enjoy it alike. Orange County is located east of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is part of Virginia’s Piedmont Climate Region. The average January temperature is 27-47 degrees, and the average July temperature is 68-88 degrees. At around 43 inches per year, the average precipitation is the second highest of Virginia’s five climate areas. Mid-late October is when the nice weather is at its greatest. The region’s growing season is long enough, at 182 days, to allow a variety of crops to mature properly.
The weather in Orange County can be pretty multifaceted, so be careful and always check the reports.
Purchasing a house in OC
If life in Orange County, VA sounds exciting, make sure to organize everything that’s supposed to wait for you there before you make the relocation. For example, one of the most important aspects of living somewhere is having a roof over your head. Luckily for you, purchasing a home in Virginia is often a very positive experience. There are many advantages to buying a house here. This makes life in Orange County even more desirable. Because of their popularity, most vacation properties have maintained their value and will most likely continue to do so. The taxes to income ratio is a pretty positive one if compared to surrounding places. Buying a vacation home in Orange County is also a great investment, especially if you’re planning on retiring there.
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.
If you’re thinking about buying a home, it’s important to choose the right neighborhood, especially if you care about resale value.
Certain neighborhood features can increase your home value—and make you feel right at home in your new community.
When it comes to your home search, we have some features to keep in the forefront of your mind to make sure you pick the perfect (and most profitable) community!
Here’s What Affects Your Home Value Every Time
When it comes to your home search, finding a house in the ideal neighborhood is half the battle. Your future community is going to decide how close you are to nearby conveniences, what qualities your home possesses, and the people who are going to be your neighbors.
A home’s value is determined by how much prospective buyers in the market are willing to pay for your property, but we understand that each buyer is unique. While one buyer may prioritize nearby employment opportunities, another might place more weight on local entertainment or neighborhood amenities. However, property values are always impacted by one component—where they’re located.
If you’re on the hunt for your next neighborhood, consider this your step-by-step guide on how to pick the perfect community!
Location, location, location
You’ve probably heard this before, but it’s so important that we have to repeat it—location is everything when it comes to making a good investment in your next home. Think about it: typically, all the homes in a neighborhood, regardless of size or condition, fall within the same price range. Therefore, when it comes to valuing a property, location matters more than even the home’s characteristics.
When an appraiser is assigning a value to a property based on its location, they look at three primary factors—the reputation of local schools, employment opportunities, and proximity to entertainment. In addition to these factors, a home’s distance to everyday necessities, such as highways and public transit systems, play a crucial role in increasing its value.
Neighborhood amenities are must-haves for more value
What could be better than having a host of amenities available right outside your front door? Neighborhood niceties such as community clubhouses, golf courses, and pools are often at the top of buyers’ wishlists when searching for a new home. All these features and more foster a fun, inclusive environment of community involvement. Plus, a spacious clubhouse serves as the prime venue to host events that are sure to bring the neighborhood together!
In addition to a neighborhood’s current conveniences, you can research any future upgrades your community has coming through its digital planning documents. These documents should outline what improvements are planned for your neighborhood—like nearby shopping centers, schools, or parks—and when they’re going to be completed. Plus, it’s always a good idea to check and see if a neighborhood has a homeowners association. Your HOA will have a hand in maintaining and enhancing the community’s value over time.
Other conveniences you should consider…
At this point, you’ve probably considered some basic factors like nearby attractions, commute times, and all the amenities a neighborhood has to offer—but what about the everyday conveniences? To take your home search to the next level, you have to think about the seemingly small details. When evaluating your neighborhood’s location, cover your bases by mapping out the distances to the nearest medical centers, airports, and grocery stores—believe us, you’ll be thankful for this when you forget to buy eggs.
In terms of expenses, everyone has to pay utility bills, so you can save money by looking at who your local providers will be ahead of time. And speaking of planning, we recommend working with your agent to determine how your area’s property taxes will fit into your home-buying budget.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?
All these features are things you should be on the lookout for during your home search—and remember, the surrounding community is equally as important as the individual home when it comes to finding your perfect fit. As your local real estate agents, we’d be happy to help you find your dream home in just the right neighborhood—all you have to do is give us a call!
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.
