Tag Archives: locust grove virginia

In February, 13 homes were SOLD in Lake of the Woods.

1 sold below $250,000.00

1 sold between $250,000-299,999;

3 sold between $300,000-349,999;

 2 sold between $350,000-399,999;

4 sold between $400,000-499,999;

1 sold between $500,000-$999,999;

1 sold above $1,000,000

17 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale

21 Homes Under Contract

28 Homes Sold from January 1, 2024, to February 28, 2024. 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.

Corn Beef Hash Egg Crescent Ring

Ingredients
1 (8-ounce) package of refrigerated crescent rolls
4 eggs
¼ cup milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup chopped red bell pepper
1 jalapeno pepper seeded and chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil1 
(15 ounce) can HORMEL® Mary Kitchen® Corned Beef Hash
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
Salsa for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Separate crescent rolls and arrange them on the parchment paper in a circle with the short sides of triangles forming a 4-inch circle; overlap the edges of the pieces. Press dough where it overlaps to flatten.
3. Whisk eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl.
4. Melt butter on medium-low heat in a nonstick pan. Add chopped red peppers and jalapeno peppers. Cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes. Pour in eggs. Gently scramble, pushing, and lifting eggs until just set about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Heat vegetable oil on medium heat in a nonstick pan. Add Hormel Corned Beef Hash. Cook and stir until heated through and beginning to brown 8 to 10 minutes.
6. Spoon corned beef hash around the crescent roll ring. Top with 1/2 cup shredded cheese and scrambled eggs. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
7. Pull the points of each triangle over the hash, eggs, and cheese and carefully tuck them under the center to form a ring. Some areas will have exposed filling.
8. Bake in preheated oven until browned, about 20 to 25 minutes.
9. Let cool for 3 minutes before serving. Serve with salsa. 
Source: allrecipes.com

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

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

Honoring Leadership: Celebrating Presidents’ Day

Presidents’ Day, celebrated annually on the third Monday in February, is a time to honor and reflect on the leadership and legacy of the past and present presidents of the United States. Originally established to commemorate the birthday of George Washington, the holiday has since evolved into a day to recognize all U.S. presidents and their contributions to the nation. In this blog, let’s delve into the significance of Presidents’ Day and explore ways to celebrate this important national holiday.

1. The History of Presidents’ Day:

Presidents’ Day traces its origins back to the 18th century when Americans began celebrating George Washington’s birthday on February 22nd. In 1879, Washington’s birthday became a federal holiday, and in 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act shifted the observance to the third Monday in February, combining the celebrations of Washington and Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday falls on February 12th. Today, Presidents’ Day serves as a tribute to all U.S. presidents, past and present.

2. Honoring Presidential Leadership:

Presidents’ Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the leadership qualities and achievements of the individuals who have held the highest office in the land. From guiding the nation through times of crisis to enacting landmark legislation, each president has left their mark on American history. Take time to study and appreciate the contributions of notable presidents and their impact on shaping the country.

3. Educational Activities:

Presidents’ Day provides a valuable opportunity for educational activities that teach children and adults alike about the presidency and the history of the United States. Visit museums, historical sites, and presidential libraries to learn more about the lives and legacies of past presidents. Engage in discussions about presidential history, civics, and the democratic process with friends, family, and community members. Click HERE to learn more about our Virginia Presidents.

4. Community Service and Volunteerism:

In the spirit of presidents who value public service, consider participating in community service projects or volunteer activities on Presidents’ Day. Whether it’s serving meals at a local shelter, cleaning up parks and public spaces, or assisting with literacy programs, giving back to your community is a meaningful way to honor the ideals of leadership and service exemplified by past presidents.

5. Presidential Traditions and Symbols:

Explore the rich traditions and symbols associated with the presidency, such as the presidential seal, the White House, and the Oval Office. Learn about presidential inaugurations, State of the Union addresses, and other ceremonial duties that symbolize the transfer of power and the continuity of American democracy.

6. Reflecting on the Presidency Today:

As we celebrate Presidents’ Day, it’s also important to reflect on the challenges facing the nation and the qualities we value in our leaders. Consider the qualities of integrity, courage, empathy, and vision that are essential for effective presidential leadership, and contemplate how we can work together to uphold these values in our society.

Presidents’ Day is more than just a day off from work or school—it’s a time to honor the legacy of the presidency and the individuals who have held the office throughout history. Whether you’re engaging in educational activities, serving your community, or simply reflecting on the qualities of leadership, take time on Presidents’ Day to celebrate the ideals and principles that unite us as Americans.

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

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

Embracing the Extra Day: Celebrating Leap Year

Every four years, we’re granted an extraordinary gift – an additional day on our calendars known as Leap Day. While it may seem like just another date, Leap Day holds a special significance, offering us a unique opportunity to reflect, reset, and leap into new adventures. Join us as we delve into the fascinating history and traditions of Leap Year and discover how to make the most of this rare occurrence.

Exploring the History:

Leap Year, with its extra day added to February, is a phenomenon that has captured the imagination of civilizations for centuries. Dating back to ancient times, various cultures have developed their own ways of reckoning with the complexities of the solar calendar. From the Julian to the Gregorian calendar reforms, the concept of Leap Year has evolved, yet its essence remains the same – a day that doesn’t quite fit neatly into our standard measurement of time.

Leap Year Traditions:

Across the globe, Leap Year is celebrated with a myriad of customs and superstitions. One of the most well-known traditions is the idea that Leap Day is an opportunity for women to propose marriage to their partners, a reversal of the usual gender roles. This playful twist on traditional courtship has inspired countless romantic gestures and memorable proposals. Additionally, Leap Day babies – those born on February 29th – often celebrate their “official” birthdays in unique ways, embracing their status as members of an exclusive club.

Making the Most of Leap Year:

As we mark this rare occurrence, let’s embrace the spirit of Leap Year by seizing the day and daring to take bold leaps in our lives. Whether it’s pursuing a long-held dream, embarking on a spontaneous adventure, or simply savoring the joy of an extra 24 hours, Leap Year invites us to step outside our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.

As the clock strikes midnight on February 28th, let’s raise a toast to Leap Year – a day that reminds us to embrace the unexpected, cherish the fleeting moments, and leap into the future with courage and conviction. Here’s to making every moment count and celebrating the extraordinary in the everyday.

Share your thoughts: How do you plan to celebrate Leap Year? Have you ever taken a leap of faith on Leap Day? We’d love to hear your stories and traditions!

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

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

Exploring the Charm of Our Newest Listing: 605 Harrison Circle Offered at $334,900


Welcome to this delightful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home featuring a two-car garage tucked away in amenity-rich Lake of the Woods! As you step inside, the cathedral ceilings and skylights create an inviting ambiance, cascading the space with natural light. The open layout seamlessly connects the dining area, kitchen, and living room, ideal for hosting gatherings. The kitchen’s wooden tray ceiling and pass-through window add a touch of character. Relax in the cozy living room by the floor-to-ceiling fireplace or step out onto the back deck for some outdoor serenity. The primary suite features its own screened-in porch, dual closets, and a convenient Jack-and-Jill bath with easy access to the laundry room. Two additional bedrooms and another full bath ensure privacy for guests. Enjoy the convenience of Greensprings Park just a short stroll away, providing a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this charming home yours!

Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a paradise of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, an equestrian center, fire and rescue services, and even a church within its bounds, this community offers a diverse range of activities. From boating, water skiing, kayaking, and golfing to the simple joy of soaking in mesmerizing views from the clubhouse, deck, yard, or beaches, there’s something for everyone. Engage your interests by joining over 60 clubs and organizations, or perhaps indulge in a game of bridge or contribute your talents as a volunteer. Lake of the Woods truly caters to your lifestyle. Located in Orange County, enjoy the added advantage of low real estate taxes. With home prices spanning from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the ideal haven for both full-time residents and weekenders. Don’t just take my word for it – come and see for yourself! Allow me to guide you through a captivating tour of Lake of the Woods, showcasing the very essence of what makes this community so special. Experience firsthand the captivating charm of Lake of the Woods by a car and boat tour!

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

The word welcome in multiple languages

Warm Welcomes and Happy Send Offs!

Licata Group would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new homeowners! We often have really fun events hosted throughout the year, do frequent giveaways (think lotto scratchers, pies, FredNats tickets, just to name a few!), and also provide real estate market updates as well as local upcoming community events. We would like to take this opportunity to invite you to join our newsletter so you can never be without it! Sign up here. Or call our office at 540-388-2541.

  • Warren M Lee and Barbara E Lee
  • Jason Quattlebaum, Amy Quattlebaum
  • Rose M. Maruschak
  • Abraham C. Sifakis
  • Sarah Murphy
  • Jose miguel torres valle
  • Keishla Krystal Rodriguez Rodriguez
  • Irma Barker
  • Rebecca Molina
  • Bryanna Anderson

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

In January, 15 homes were SOLD in Lake of the Woods.

0 sold below $250,000.00

0 sold between $250,000-299,999;

6 sold between $300,000-349,999;

 2 sold between $350,000-399,999;

5 sold between $400,000-499,999;

2 sold between $500,000-$999,999;

0 sold above $1,000,000

21 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale

17 Homes Under Contract

15 Homes Sold from January 1, 2024, to January 31, 2024. 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.

A Quick Look at Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air pollutants in your home can have an impact on your health, with symptoms ranging from eye, ear, and nose irritation to headaches and dizziness. If you spend more time indoors over the winter, now might be a good time to have a quick look at the air quality in your home.

Potential Air Quality Issues

You can look around yourself and identify many of the potential sources of air pollution. If you’re concerned that you may have an air quality issue, both at-home and professional testing are available. Sources that release gasses or particles into the air cause most home air quality issues.

  • Paints, thinners, glues, cleaning products, newly installed flooring, and some pressed wood products can release VOCs (volatile organic compounds – gasses) into the air that can be harmful over time.
  • Excess moisture – leaks, wet spots, and high humidity – can cause mold and bacteria to grow.
  • Pets, dust, tobacco products, deteriorated asbestos insulation, and your ventilation system can release irritating particles into the air.
  • Combustion of oil, gas, kerosene, coal, wood, or tobacco releases gasses and particles.
  • Outdoor sources like outdoor air pollution, pesticides, and radon can infiltrate your home as well.


Simple Ways to Improve the Air Quality in Your Home

There’s a lot you can do to improve the air quality in your home with just a little thought and care.

  • Move VOC- VOC-containing items like paints, thinners, and glues from the house to the garage or an area with good ventilation.
  • Consider safer, non-toxic cleaning products, paints, and glues. Limit the scented items in your home.
  • DIY outdoors if you can. Always ensure you’re in a well-ventilated area when using products with warning labels that indicate ventilation is needed.
  • Use exhaust fans for bathrooms, kitchens, and any other high-moisture areas.
  • Eliminate leaking pipes or roofs and areas with pooling water.
  • Inspect air ducts for proper installation and to keep them clean.
  • Change air conditioning and furnace filters regularly, as well as vacuum filters and air cleaner filters. Keep vents for clothes dryers and kitchen fans clean.
  • Clean moldy surfaces with a bleach cleaner and remove moldy carpeting, drywall, and items that can’t be cleaned. Get professional help if needed.
  • If fighting allergies, vacuum, and dust regularly, use HEPA filters and replace those regularly, choose hypoallergenic pillows and impermeable mattress covers, and brush and bathe your pet regularly

And always, consult a professional if you have concerns you need help addressing.

Sources: petro.com realsimple.com

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

Garlic Parmesan Perfection: A Crispy Wing Delight!

Ingredients
Seasonings
  • 12 pieces of chicken wings
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

For Frying

  • Canola oil

Breading

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon creole seasoning
  • A pinch of salt

Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Directions
  1. Place chicken wings in a bowl. Sprinkle salt, cayenne powder, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder over the chicken. Toss until evenly coated.
  2. In a separate container, mix flour, black pepper, garlic powder, creole seasoning, and salt.
  3. Lightly coat the wings in the breading mixture. Shake it off to get rid of excess breading.
  4.  In a large pot, pour 1.5 inches of canola oil and heat over medium heat until the temperature reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Fry the wings for 7 minutes. Place cooked wings on a plate lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb the excess oil from the chicken.
  6. Bake the wings at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
  7. While baking, make the garlic parmesan sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the garlic powder and minced garlic.
  8. Add the parmesan cheese and mix. Turn off the heat as soon as the cheese is incorporated into the mixture.
  9.  Place the baked wings in a bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
  10. Garnish the wings with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Source: insanelygoodrecipers.com

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

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

The LOWdown on Real Estate at the Lake 2023

The continued inventory shortage experienced by most regions of the country was clearly evident in Lake of the Woods again in 2023. This inventory shortage, along with rising interest rates and inflation concerns beginning in the second half of 2022, definitely defined the 2023 real estate market. Closed sales decreased approximately 19% from 271 to 220. New construction accounted for 24 of the 220 sales, and the median sold price increased 6.8% year over year from $375,950 to $401,500 in 2023.

Now let’s look at the past five years:

In 2019, 301 homes sold, which was a 28.63% increase over 2018, and the median sales price rose to $270,000. In 2020, we realized a 4% gain in home sales over 2019, with a total of 313 sales. 2021 showed a gain in sales at 358, and the median sold price increased almost 16% to $337,500, up from $291,250 in 2020. And then came the mixed bag 2022 market: closed sales fell by more than 24%, while the median sold price rose by 11.39%. 2023 also showed an almost 19% decline in closed sales at 220, yet the median sold price continued to rise, ending the year at $401,500, a 6.8% increase over 2022.

Average days on the market (DOM), the number of days it takes from the time a property is listed until it goes under contract had steadily decreased from 57 in 2019 to 16 in 2021…yet in 2022, it rose to 23, showing more evidence of a changing market. 2023 showed another rise to 32.

It’s also telling to note that a significant number of lots have sold in the past five years. From January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2023, a total of 140 lots were sold: 41 in 2019; 49 in 2020; 24 in 2021; and only 13 in both 2022 and 2023. There simply are very few lots left in LOW.

Of the MLS sales reported in 2019-2023, new construction numbers have varied. 2019 realized 31; 2020 sales jumped to 41; 2021 ended at 37; and 2022 saw new construction sales dip to only 13 and rise again to 37 in 2023. 

Again, there aren’t many lots left in LOW, which, of course, will impact new construction sales in the future.

Another notable statistic is the rise in the average sold price to original list price ratio from 2018-2021. 2022 showed a slight decrease to 100.3%, followed by another decrease in 2023 to 98%.

The financial experts’ forecast for 2023 called for rates to stabilize and then begin a slow decline. The decline in rates didn’t occur as quickly as anticipated. 

The 2024 forecast calls for more buyer confidence and a reduction in interest rates that should bring buyers back into the market who “paused” due to all of the uncertainty of 2023. Yet those reductions may come more slowly than anticipated, as during the Federal Reserve’s news conference on January 31, 2024, Chair Jerome Powell noted that a March rate cut is unlikely.

“Home prices keep marching higher,” says National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yuns. “Only a dramatic rise in supply will dampen price appreciation.” And Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather predicts that mortgage rates will fall to about 6.6% by the end of 2024.

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