Let’s get your lake life started! Bring your water toys and begin making memories! Whether you are looking for a primary waterfront residence, a weekend retreat, or to become a vacation rental host, 103 Pleasant Grove Rd., is the one! Boasting 75 feet of waterfrontage and high-speed internet, this 6 bedroom, 4 bath home has it all! You’ll love the fine features and recent updates that provide an immediate move-in or rental-ready experience! As you arrive, you will notice ample parking opportunities for family and guests. Stepping onto the front porch providing lake views, the gorgeous front door will catch your eye and is indicative of the quality you will find as you tour the home. Gleaming hardwood floors are found almost everywhere! Two separate living areas (each with fireplaces to warm those chilly nights), eat-in kitchen with quartz and stainless appliances, dining room with deck access, two bedrooms (including an expansive, amazing in-law/owner’s suite with full bath, sink and refrigerator), two bathrooms, laundry room befitting a lake house, and closets galore comprise the main level. As you ascend the stairs, you are presented with the upper level owner’s suite featuring a fireplace, sitting area, en-suite bath with soaking tub and separate shower, three additional bedrooms, and hall bathroom. And now for the waterfront experience…located in a cove with fabulous main lake views from the dock, you can swim to your heart’s content, launch one of your water toys, lounge in one of the seating areas, catch some fish, or sit by the fire pit enjoying your favorite beverage, all while taking in the expansive views! Let your waterfront adventure begin!
A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, water skiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience what’s to love in Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to 400 Liberty Blvd! Located on a picturesque corner lot with beautiful landscaping and a wrap around porch, this is a stunning home with great curb appeal. The front entrance into this traditional style home welcomes you with a formal dining room and formal living room with lovely hardwood floors. You will feel right at home in the spacious family room featuring a beautiful fireplace with pellet stove. The kitchen has all the storage you need with a comfortable eat-in area with access to the side porch. The huge back deck and beautifully landscaped yard are the perfect backdrop for entertaining or just relaxing. Upstairs you have three spacious bedrooms and a hall bathroom as well as the primary bedroom with en-suite bath and jetted soaking tub. Above the garage is a huge bonus room with additional storage. This fabulous space could be used as a game room, office, craft room, or spare bedroom to name a few, the possibilities are endless in this gorgeous home!
A private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550 acre main lake and a 35 acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, water skiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteering your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience why I love Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
You are moving into a new home – it’s exciting but rather challenging. And we’re not thinking only of packing – some ‘hidden’ challenges will undoubtedly come your way if you’re not well-prepared. One of them is surely taking care of your furry friend while moving. Pets, especially dogs, can react nervously to the whole thing, making the process even more difficult. Luckily, there’s a way to avoid issues. Here are the best tips on moving to Orange County, VA with your dog.
Why Orange County, VA is great for people with pets
Not every place is good for pets. However, Orange County is undoubtedly one of the pet-friendly ones. Firstly, you can truly enjoy the outdoors – your dog can run, play and jump as much as it wants. There are several parks and other green spaces in cities such as Orange and Gordonsville. Also, most shops allow well-behaved dogs, allowing you to go shopping with your furry friend. Finally, you’ll be able to find a pet-friendly home as well – just be sure to set this as a priority in your house-hunting process.
How to make moving to Orange County, VA with your dog smooth and stress-free?
Relocations are not only stressful for humans – dogs can feel stressed out as well. The biggest reason for it is the disruption of their living space and adapting to the new environment. Dogs rely on the smells around them, so they can become pretty nervous once they need to move into an unfamiliar place. There are ways you can make moving with pets easier for your little friend and prepare for this task – so be sure to remember these tips when you start planning your move to Orange County, VA.
Let moving supplies be there for a while
Bringing new objects to the house can make your dog upset – especially if you start packing ‘their’ items into boxes. Thus, make sure you bring in moving supplies a bit before you need to start packing. This will allow your pet to get used to these items and have no issues once you start packing your household for the move. After going through all the steps of buying a property, hiring movers, and shopping for packing supplies, sitting in a house filled with packing materials might be the last thing you want. However, it’s what your dog needs, and that’s all that should matter.
Dogs are very sensitive to changes – make sure they don’t feel a thing when moving to a new home.
Figure out the transport details
Depending on where you’re coming from, you and your pet will spend more or less time in your car, or a plane, train, etc. Thus, it helps to figure out the transport details on time. If you’ll need a transport box, and your dog is not used to traveling in it – get one beforehand. Let it sit in your home for a couple of weeks, so your pet can get used to it. Put its favorite toys and snacks in this transport box, so the dog can see it’s a safe place to be.
In case you need to travel by plane, and this is the first time for your dog, it’s good to prepare it for it. Some people recommend going together through a car wash, which simulates the sounds and vibrations to the ones you feel on the plane. But most importantly, it’s essential that you are calm and that you speak to your dog in a calm, optimistic voice.
Stick to a routine
Moving house can disrupt your schedule a lot. However, it’s essential to stick to your dog’s routines as much as possible. This includes feeding and playtime and your routines when going for a walk. The routine will ensure your dog feels safe and calm even with all the changes around.
Always stick to the routines when moving to Orange County, VA with your dog
Bring all of your pet’s old items
It’s often recommended to declutter the old household before you start packing and throw away everything that you can replace with new items. However, when moving to Orange County, VA with your dog, try to keep most of the old things. Keep your dog’s old food and water bowls, bed, and toys. Once you arrive at the new bigger/smaller home, these items will help them feel secure and recognize the new place as their new home.
Visit the vet before moving to Orange County, VA
Pay a visit to your old vet before you relocate. They may be able to recommend a new vet in Orange County, VA. Also, they could write all the necessary prescriptions in case your dog takes therapy. Finally, make sure your pet is microchipped – with the updated address. This proved to be useful for pet owners whose pets escaped during the move as they were feeling anxious and scared. Finally, take care of all the documentation, especially when moving from another state or relocating internationally.
Schedule a visit to the pet before moving and get all the necessary documentation for a safe journey.
Keep your dog away on the moving day
Once all the boxes are packed and movers are about to arrive, it’s best to leave your dog in trusted hands but away from the house. Experienced moving companies, such as Zippy Shell NV, recommend you find a place where your furry friend will feel calm and safe. Ask a friend or a trusted dog sitter to take care of your pet while movers do their part. Strangers taking away items from your home are what dogs see as a threat, making them extremely nervous and sometimes aggressive.
Adapting to the new space
After the move, it’s time for the last step to introduce the dog to the new living space. Firstly, make sure the new home is safe for a pet – remove any hazards, close all the doors and windows and then let the dog into the house. As everything is new, your dog will explore the space by trying to smell and touch almost everything in the house. That’s why the environment must be safe for this new curious resident. Moving to Orange County, VA with your dog can be a wonderful experience – but you have to make it such.
Meta description: Moving to Orange County, VA with your dog in the days to come? Then read our article and learn how to get ready for 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.
0 sold below $250,000.00 1 sold between $250,000-299,999; 3 sold between $300-349,999; 4 sold between $350,000-399,999; 4 sold between $400-499,999; 1 sold between $500,000-$999,999; 0 sold over $1,000,000!
15 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale 35 Homes Under Contract 31 Homes Sold since January 1, 2022.
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
Relocation is never an easy task to complete, but things tend to get even more complicated and stressful if you are moving with kids to Orange County, VA. No matter your reasons for moving, it’s almost certain your kids will have difficulties accepting and adapting to this change. However, there are still ways to have a smooth and easy relocation. To help you, we’ve prepared the three most common mistakes most parents make when moving with kids. If you avoid them, we can assure you that your family move will be that much simpler and more bearable.
Survive moving with kids to Orange County VA
Moving is a very challenging transition for children, no matter their age. Whether you’re relocating for work or want to have a fresh start with your family in one of the loveliest parts of the US – Orange County, VA – you need to be mindful of your kids’ feelings and help them go through this process easily.
No matter how old your kids are, relocating is a massive change, and it can be quite stressful for them, so you have to help them adjust.
To help you have a smooth family move, we did our research and prepared the three most common mistakes parents make when moving long-distance with kids. By knowing which mistakes to avoid, you’ll prepare them for the journey and ensure they have a good time.
Avoid big surprises
Even though you might think that surprising your kids with a sudden move to a new neighborhood or even state is a good idea, think twice. Kids need time to emotionally prepare for what’s happening, so it’s important not to wait last minute to inform them about the move.
Instead, talk to them even before you get in touch with an experienced Virginia Realtor and start looking for your new family home. Your kids will appreciate this, especially if they’re older. Not only will they feel included, but you’ll also give them enough time to prepare and say goodbye to their old friends.
Even though there’s a big chance your kids won’t be happy to hear about your family move to Orange County, VA, you shouldn’t avoid and delay talking to them about it.
The last thing you want is to bring up moving out of the blue. This will make your kids feel helpless and frustrated, and the fact they had no say in the matter can only make things worse and give them a sense of powerlessness. Thus, make sure to communicate properly and let your kids know you’re there to address all of their questions and concerns.
Excluding your kids from the process
Another very common mistake you should do your best to avoid is excluding your kids from the process. Having them help you with packing and other moving-related tasks is a great way to teach them responsibility. Of course, this doesn’t apply if your kids are too young.
Also, involving your kids will make them feel important and wanted. If you feel confident enough, you can even allow them to pack their toys, books, and similar. And if you make an extra effort and research different packing and moving games, you’ll turn the entire process into a fun and exciting adventure.
Or assuming they can help with the process
On the other hand, many parents overestimate their kids’ abilities and assume they can do most of the packing independently. However, it’s imperative to know how much your kids can handle and not ask too much of them.
If you’re not sure your kids can handle a task on their own, make sure to supervise them and offer help. Getting frustrated with them will only make this worse. Being patient and helpful will make them want to participate and learn even more.
Letting them take too many things
As moving is very stressful for kids, most parents want to find ways to make it easier for them and tend to be more indulgent than usual. Many parents end up allowing their kids to take too many things to their new home. However, this is another mistake you should try your best to avoid.
Instead, find ways to teach your kids the importance of decluttering. The best way to approach this is to go through your kids’ things with them and sort them into three piles:
Let them keep only things they truly need and regularly use. Of course, you can’t be too strict regarding items your children are emotionally attached to. However, make sure to communicate your boundaries clearly.
You should teach them to toss things that are broken or can’t be used anymore.
Lastly, the third pile should be reserved for things that are still usable but your kids no longer need. As they’ll have the hardest time letting go of these types of things, you can motivate them by suggesting donating their old clothes and toys to less fortunate children. They’ll surely love the idea and won’t feel as sad when letting go of their old things.
Try to think of ways to make moving more fun and exciting for your kids.
Even if you end up bringing more things than you can fit into your new home in Orange County, VA, there is no reason to worry. There are simple and affordable ways to store your extra belongings safely. The experienced team from Helix Transfer & Storage suggests renting a storage unit as the best way for safely storing all the things you have no room for in your home.
Good luck moving with kids to Orange County VA!
As you can see, if you prepare well and make sure to avoid mistakes we’ve listed, moving with kids to Orange County, VA, will be that much simpler and less stressful. Even though they’ll surely need some time to adjust to the new area and get used to their new schools, it will all be worth it in the end. And in case you’re still looking for your perfect Virginia home, make sure to get in touch with an experienced local realtor. They’ll find a home that suits your family’s wants and needs.
Meta description: If you are moving with kids to Orange County, VA, make sure to avoid most common mistakes parents make. We’ve prepared them in this article.
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.
Starting your life together as a young couple is highly exciting and romantic. Going house-hunting, choosing a place to live, and decorating your new home are all the steps to building your new life. One of the sweetest tasks here is selecting a location for your new home. Virginia attracts many new residents each year, so you won’t go wrong if you choose to call it home, too. Here are the most romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia.
Top reasons for moving to Orange County, VA
For those who are still hesitant about their location choice, we’ve got some helpful info that might convince you to move to Virginia. Orange County is one of many counties in this state, but it’s undoubtedly one of the favorites among new residents. People move here for different reasons:
A family-friendly lifestyle is encouraged in Orange County, which is why many young couples decide to start their families here;
Nature – beautiful scenery ensures there’s always something to do, so people regularly engage in different outdoor activities;
Education – Virginia belongs to the top 10 most educated states. Education has a high priority here, so if you’re moving with kids, you can be sure they will have the opportunity to learn;
Four seasons – in Virginia, you can experience four distinct seasons and enjoy each of them to the fullest. Summers are hot and humid, and summer months are pretty busy with tourists. On the other hand, winters can be pretty cold and harsh, but they offer various winter activities.
If this was enough to convince you to move to Orange County, just make sure you do everything it takes to have the relocation that goes according to plan. Even when moving locally, a reliable moving team, safe packing, and on-time preparations are a must.
Virginia has a lot to offer – explore your options carefully.
New home in Virginia – the most romantic towns to live in Orange County
We’ve got some excellent news for young couples looking for a new home. There are several romantic towns you can choose from!
Orange
Let’s start with the seat of Orange County, the place where most people start their search. Historical buildings surrounded by beautiful nature make this place one of the most romantic towns to live in Orange County. Orange is also one of the most popular places in the state, as its natural resources support various industries and create many job opportunities.
Gordonsville
This place is a perfect example of a romantic small town that’s most suitable for those looking for a place to raise a family. Most residents own their homes here, and you can enjoy an authentic suburban feel. The charming streets of Gordonsville make the town quite romantic – red-brick buildings with colorful details, many flowers, and old-style street lights are everywhere. You will enjoy taking a walk and visiting some of the galleries and quaint shops, finishing the night at one of the super romantic restaurants. Also, there are a couple of wineries nearby, which can be a perfect way to spend a romantic weekend. The place is popular among tourists, but many also decide to move here and call Gordonsville home.
Lake of the Woods
Located at the east of Orange County, Lake of the Woods is a census-designated place that has become quite popular in recent years. The fact that it’s located on the lake makes the place genuinely romantic. But, locals love it for its rural feel, safe and family-friendly environment, and excellent public schools. The population is just above 8,000, making it easy to make friends and feel at home. There’s so much to do here – golfing, beach activities, fishing, kayaking, etc.
Imagine living near a lake. Romantic sunsets could become your everyday reality.
Moving to Orange County, VA
Once you choose a new home, you will need to start planning your move. Begin by creating a unique timeline. It will help you keep track of your progress and prevent you from forgetting or missing something. You’ll be more organized and therefore more successful.
Picking a suitable moving team is never easy. You will trust your household to strangers, so they need to be professional, reliable, and experienced. The pros at A2B Moving and Storage recommend hiring someone who already has a lot of experience with relocations in Virginia. Local pros usually have more affordable rates and know the fastest and safest ways to deliver your items.
It’s essential to take packing seriously. If you are organized, you’ll have a much faster and more efficient move. Firstly, remove all the things that are just eating up the space: all the clutter, unused items, broken and outdated pieces. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of what you need to pack and how many moving supplies you need.
Label your items according to the room they belong in. This is particularly important for those moving in to a big home. Write on each box what’s inside it and where it should go. Your movers will then put them in the fitting room, making the unpacking process easier for you.
Finally, pack the essentials separately. You probably won’t have the energy and time to unpack everything on your first night in your new home. Make sure you’ve got everything you need in one separate box—pack basic toiletries, sheets and pajamas, chargers, etc.
Building a family in one of the most romantic towns to live in Orange County is a dream come true for many people.
Romance in Virginia
Choosing one of the romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia, is an excellent idea. However, the romance and spark of your relationship don’t depend on it. Choose a place where you can start building new memories together and watch your new life unfold!
Meta description: Couples looking for a place to start a family – explore the most romantic towns to live in Orange County, Virginia for your new home.
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.
0 sold below $250,000.00 1 sold between $250,000-299,999; 3 sold between $300-349,999; 2 sold between $350,000-399,999; 6 sold between $400-499,999; 1 sold between $500,000-$999,999; 2 sold over $1,000,000!
13 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale 25 Homes Under Contract 15 Homes Sold since January 1, 2022.
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
2021 proved to be a great year for Lake of the Woods real estate! Year-over-year, homes sales were up, median sold price was up, days on the market were down, and average sold to original list price ratio was above 100%!
In 2018, 234 homes sold, which was an 8% decrease from 2017. The median sales price rose to $249,900. In 2019, we realized a 28.63% gain in homes over 2018, with a total of 301 selling. 2020 showed a slight gain in sales at 313, yet the median sold price increased 7.87% to $291,250, up from $270,000 in 2019. And then came the 2021 market: a whopping 14.7% increase in the number of homes sold and a median sold price increase of 15.9 percent over 2020.
Average days on the market (DOM), which is the number of days it takes from the time a property is listed until it goes under contract, has steadily declined from 93 in 2017 to 16 in 2021.
It’s also telling to note that a significant number of lots have sold in the past five years. From January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2021, a total of 196 lots sold: 24 in 2016; 37 in 2017; 45 in 2018, 41 in 2019; 49 in 2020; and only 24 in 20201. Coincidentally, 2016 and 2021 realized the identical number of lot sales (reported in the MLS). There simply are very few lots left in LOW.
Of the MLS sales reported in 2017-2021, new construction numbers have varied. 2017 saw 20 new construction homes sales; 2018 dipped to only 11; 2019 realized 31; 2020 sales jumped to 41, while 2021 ended at 37.
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 dramatic rise in average sold price to original list price ratio. It has steadily risen from 95.5% in 2017 to 100.9% in 2021.
According to Freddie Mac and the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage rates are expected to rise and end 2022 in the 3.75-4% range for a 30-year fixed. Today, it is possible to obtain a 15-year fixed rate just under 3%.
The prognosis for 2022 is excellent! In LOW, there are 15 homes active on the market as of 1/26/2022. Low rates and hopefully more inventory should propel us to experience another year of healthy sales and appreciation, although appreciation is expected to slow from what we’ve experienced the past two years.
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.
There are many concerns that might discourage you from purchasing property during winter. You might be worried about what the weather conditions would mean for your move. You might want to wait for the peak house selling season. After all, if most people buy during that period, there must be something to it, right? Or you might want to take advantage of the sleepy season to rest. However, to truly know whether or not you should go for buying a house in Orange County, VA, in winter, you need to be aware of the advantages and drawbacks of the process.
Much less competition vs. fewer houses on the market
When buying a house during winter in Virginia, it is essential to know you are doing so at the peak of the off-season. This means that the housing market will be much less vibrant than it otherwise would be. Now, looking to buy a home, this can certainly be an advantage! Fewer competitors mean you will not have to deal with an exhausting rush to get at the best properties before someone else snatches them up. Unfortunately, not everything is ideal. The sellers know that the peak season is the best time to offload their property, so most will choose not to put up their homes for sale during winter, which results in a smaller selection of available homes.
It is easier to find excellent movers vs. it is harder to move
Of course, an important part of the process is moving into your new home. Here, too, you are in luck regarding the available resources. Even if you are moving long-distance, hiring movers with ample experience won’t be a problem, and you will organize your entire relocation quickly and easily. Due to the housing market being in a lull, movers will generally be more relaxed and have far more open schedules. Yet, it does mean having to tackle the wintry conditions to get your move done. Winters in Virginia might not be as severe as they can get elsewhere, but the temperatures and snow are still nothing to sneeze at. You will need to be extra careful to ensure all of your belongings arrive at your new home in perfect condition.
You will have to deal with hazardous road conditions when buying a house in Orange County, VA, in winter.
More time to get things done vs. moving at an awkward time
Winter typically means winter holidays and having plenty of time off work to get everything done. This means that you can get tons done during this period, especially if you take the time to make a plan of action in advance. And at a leisurely pace, too! You wouldn’t need to rush from work to realtor to home, where you’d be making tons of last-minute calls. On the other hand, this can be a somewhat awkward time of year to move. Work and school are only starting to get into the swing of things. Finding a job can be more difficult if you are moving long-distance. And your kids would have to jump into a new school just as things are getting serious.
If buying a house in Orange County, VA, in winter, you will be able to take time off the purchase to distress and have fun with the family.
Realtors are more available vs. things tend to go slowly
Finding a good real estate agent is a nightmare during the peak seasons for the housing market, whether you are looking to sell your old home or buy a new one. So, being able to have your pick of the best realtors can be a serious boon for your house-hunting efforts. Unfortunately, if you are hoping your top-of-the-line real estate agent will help you get the whole ordeal done within an instant, you would be disappointed. The housing market in the off-season tends to make everything go much more slowly, which can be a good thing! Still, if you are in a rush, you might find yourself feeling frustrated.
Prices of real estate are lower vs. less likely to find homes with newer amenities
Due to less competition and things going more slowly, the prices of real estate during this period are typically much lower. After all, prices can be artificially inflated when multiple people compete over a single property. If someone wants it badly enough, they might be willing to pay well over what is reasonable. So, the prices during winter can make you feel like you are getting away with a steal. The moving experts from Fairfax Transfer and Storage note that moving prices are also lower during this season! And yet, sellers know this fact as well. This means that those in possession of particularly valuable pieces of real estate, or those whose homes boast top amenities, tend to hold off on selling until the peak season comes around.
Ascertaining the condition of houses is easier vs. the weather makes viewing more difficult
A tricky part of going house hunting during peak housing market seasons is that good weather makes it hard to tell whether houses are actually in good condition. After all, both mold and water damage can be covered up with relatively low expenses without treating the root cause. On the other hand, doing your viewing during the peak of the winter season makes it much more likely for you to detect problems with the homes you like. It is hard to cover up issues if the roof is leaking right in front of prospective buyers! Still, the cold weather and the way holidays affect real estate can make it more challenging to schedule and attend viewings. It is harder to feel motivated to snoop around when you feel like you are freezing.
Knowing how well the property can withstand the cold is one of the best things about buying a house in Orange County, VA, in winter.
Final word
Now that you know more about buying a house in Orange County, VA, in winter, it is up to you to decide whether this would be the right time for you to make a move. Just remember to carefully balance the pros and cons before deciding, and you will be just fine!
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Join us today as we discuss buying a house in Orange County, VA, in winter so you can decide whether you want to take advantage of the season or wait.
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.
Usually, moving is not something we do impulsively. We like to take time, prepare everything, and plan it to the smallest detail. Still, sometimes the circumstances tend to surprise us. Maybe it’s a new job offer or an opportunity to buy a property at an extraordinary price. Or even some personal issues that force us into it. Regardless of the reasons, it requires us to urgently take action. If you need to organize a last-minute move to Orange County by chance, its beautiful and outstanding locations will make it worth it. It has many historically rich locations, plenty of activities to do, and most of the places are the true hidden gems of Virginia. People here appreciate the quiet way of life, friendly hometown feel, and great outdoor activities.
Organizing a last-minute move to Orange County
The diversity in Orange County is great. From young professionals and families with kids to retirees, everyone enjoys its peaceful surroundings. With an annual average temperature of 55.75°(F) and four distinctly beautiful seasons, everyone gets the chance to enjoy their preferred activities. As for the houses, there are a plethora of aspects people love about the housing options. Those who consider moving to Orange County can find plenty of affordable offers on the real estate market.
Orange County, VA, offers plenty of beautiful landscapes you will enjoy.
However, considering you’ve already found a place you need to move to on short notice, let’s have a look at the last-minute moving tips gathered to help you go through this experience without much trouble:
Start planning without panic
Sort your belongings
Get rid of the items you don’t need
Pack everything compactly
Manage your old and new utilities
Clean your place before leaving
Start planning without panic
No one will say that moving at the last minute is easy. It’s going to be difficult because a tight schedule limits everything you need to do. But, it doesn’t mean you should panic about it. Even with a week or two, you still have time to prepare. That little time you have at your disposal should be used to properly plan your Orange County relocation. It’s important to start preparations as soon as you know you are going to move. Think about the first steps you need to take and consider adequate assistance. While a DIY move might be an option in some other situations, you are better off with professional service for moving last-minute. For example, you can easily arrange your relocation with Helix Transfer & Storage or other reliable movers to help you move to Orange County. Get informed about your options and think about what you are going to take with you.
Sort your belongings
Just because you lack time, it doesn’t mean you should skip essential planning steps. Without exceptions, your moving checklist with a list of your belongings and all the necessary tasks is a must. You will have to go through all your belongings and consider if there is anything you don’t want to take with you. Make those decisions with the Orange County lifestyle in mind. For example, if you love outdoor activities, leaving your hiking gear behind doesn’t make much sense. On the other side, depending on the location you are going to, maybe your swimming gear will not be so necessary. While these are situational decisions, sorting is essential so you can think about a way to get rid of unnecessary items.
Make sure you group similar items together.
Get rid of the items you don’t need
Speaking of which, you don’t have much time to get rid of your extra belongings. However, you won’t just throw them away, of course. Everything that you don’t need or is replaceable you should:
Sell
Donate
Give away
Don’t forget, moving rates depend on the number of your belongings, so at least you can cover some expenses with selling. And since you will have fewer items that need transporting, your relocation costs will decrease. You can use the internet to sell the most expensive articles. The second option is to donate clothes, food, and other items to charity. Your third option is giving things you don’t need to friends, family, or neighbors.
Pack everything compactly
When you are short of time, you don’t have much time to search for supplies nor pack on your own. You should see if your professional movers can do it for you. Even for a local relocation, you still need to ensure the simplest transfer possible and maximum protection for your items. Not to mention if you are moving from DC or other more distant places. Truck transporting and long drives require proper supplies and compact packing. Fortunately, most companies that do local and long-distance relocation also provide packing services. But, to reduce the costs, you can pack a part of your belongings with items you already possess. Plastic bags, drawers, luggage, everything can be used to pack your clothes and other non-delicate items. However, make sure you properly label everything to avoid confusion later on.
Manage your old and new utilities
People often forget to deal with utilities when in a rush. Before you leave, make sure all the necessary utilities in a new place are all set up, including gas, water, electricity, and even the internet, TV, and other subscriptions you will need. The same goes with your old place: make sure to cancel, shut off, or pause certain services, so you don’t continue to pay for them after relocation.
Clean your places before leaving
If everything goes according to your plans, you should have time to deal with cleaning. Before moving into your new Orange County home, make sure your current place is clean. But, ensure you get all your belongings out first. With all the chaos, cleaning in the middle of the moving process is not a good idea. On the other side, your new place has to be clean before you bring everything in. That’s why you should make it a priority. If your budget allows, hiring professional cleaners will be a good idea, especially considering you are in a hurry.
It’s way easier to clean a place when it’s empty.
As you can see, you can organize a last-minute move to Orange County without much trouble. Of course, the added stress and pressure while running against the clock can be overwhelming. But, considering you are moving to the slower and more relaxing part of the states, this is probably the last time you will experience it. Places in Orange County, VA, are wonderful, with a slow pace of life and numerous opportunities to relax and enjoy after a long day working. Or, in this case, moving at the last minute.
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.
