Tag Archives: orange va

Buying a House in Orange County, Virginia in Winter

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.

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

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

Orange County, Virginia’s Restaurant Week, Last Full Week of January 2022!

Orange County, Virginia’s restaurant week returns during the week of January 21st through 30th. What is restaurant week, anyway? Typically, the local county restaurants will provide a special menu for the week with a selection of their favorite dining options, for a pre-fixed price. Usually, menus will be a 3 or 4-course meal, so you can try a variety of options from their menu, including an appetizer, an entrée, and a dessert. The restaurants will announce on their websites if they are participating and show off their special menus, as well as on the Orange County Chamber of Commerce website. This is our favorite time of the year because it’s a great way to try those locally owned eateries we’ve been driving by and seeing around town! For the complete and updated list of restaurants participating, please check here. Support our local Orange County businesses and communities and grab your friends and family and start planning your restaurant week itinerary! Where will you start first?

ALL ORANGE COUNTY RESTAURANTS are encouraged to participate!!! Call 540-672-5316 or email occcexec@gmail.com if you’re a restaurant owner and would like to participate. This event is brought to our community by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce!

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

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

Fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, Virginia

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

Are you moving to Orange County, VA?

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

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

A body of water with trees around it

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

Things to know about Orange County

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

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

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

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

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

Check out Holiday Open House at James Madison’s Montpelier

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

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

Take Orange County Tacky Lights Tour

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

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

Visit the Market at Grelen Holiday Headquarters 

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

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

Holiday Feasts at Barboursville Vineyard 

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

Annual Gingerbread House Contest

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

A gingerbread house on a table

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

The bottom line

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

Meta description:

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

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

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

2021 Gingerbread Walk in Orange, Virginia!

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

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

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

How to Organize a Last-Minute Move to Orange County, Virginia

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.

Beautiful greenery with an abundance of trees in Virginia, something that awaits after your last-minute move to Orange County.
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.

a fine-looking living room with plenty of belongings.
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.

An empty room with a huge clean window.
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.

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

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

The Differences between City, Suburban, and Rural Living

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.

Countryside in Virginia
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.

A house in a suburban neighborhood
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.

Busy streets of Richmond, VA
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.

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

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

James Madison’s Montpelier Upcoming FALL Events!

The Five Freedoms
FREE, 7 pm
October 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th
The Five Freedom Lecture Series will help Americans better understand the freedoms guaranteed to them under the First Amendment, and encourage them to exercise these rights.
To learn more and register, visit our website.

Fall Woods Walk
October 16, 10 am-12 pm
$25/Adult, $13/Child (6-12), Under 6 Free
Join Montpelier’s Horticulturist and the Virginia Master Naturalists on a walk through James Madison’s beloved woodlands. Enjoy the fall foliage and learn about the ecological and economic contributions a well-managed forest provides to our society.
Learn more and register here.

Constitution 101: Jay Wexler – The Odd Clauses
October 17, 5 pm
Free/Members; $5/Nonmembers
Join us for a virtual conversation with Professor Jay Wexler, as he demonstrates how the “odd clauses” have incredible relevance to our lives, our government’s structure, and the integrity of our democracy.
Learn more and register here.

Artifacts Tell a Story
October 23, 1:30 pm
$25/Adult, $13/Child (6-12), Under 6 Free
Join Montpelier archaeologists to learn the stories artifacts hold, see objects that are being uncovered, and learn about the people who used them.
Learn more and register here.

Montpelier Hunt Races
November 6th
Join us for the 86th running of the Montpelier Steeplechase.
Learn more and purchase your tickets here.

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

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

FALLAPALOOZA 2021 Virtual Fall Festival: Exploring the Beauty of Orange County, VA

Photo/Video Contest from October 1st – November 19th

The Orange County Chamber of Commerce is happy to be hosting a photo/video contest that will consist of a person’s favorite photo of an Orange County destination, location, or business.
The photo/video entry should include two sentences explaining your photo/video.

A winner will be announced on Friday, October 22nd, and Friday, November 19th

Grand Prize Winner

Will receive four tickets to the Orange Uncorked Wine Festival May 7th & 8th, 2022, LOVE Orange Canvas Tote Bag
Under the age of 21 will receive a $50 gift card.
The grand prize winner will receive accolades in the Orange County Review, on www.orangevachamber.com and all social media pages.
All content received will be the property of the Chamber and be used in marketing materials online and printed collateral materials.

Contestants may submit their photo/video entries to:occcexec@gmail.com
Thank You to our Fallapalooza Sponsors!
Prizes:
The Arts Center in Orange offering one free class
Paint It Orange, offering a free session
LOVE Orange canvas tote bag courtesy of Orange, VA Tourism

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.

All you need to know about the lifestyle in Orange County, VA

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.

Vineyard in Orange County, VA
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.

Family on a kayaking tour, representing lifestyle in Orange County, VA
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.

Woman with a child in nature
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. 

Montpelier horse race
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.

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

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

Orange County, Virginia Restaurant Week is August 20 – 29th!

Have you been waiting to try a certain restaurant in Orange County, Virginia? Maybe the timing wasn’t right, or you weren’t sure where to start- we’ll now is the perfect time to start planning!

Orange County Chamber of Commerce, Orange County Tourism, and LoveOrangeVirginia are celebrating their 2nd annual restaurant week. There are so many amazing local restaurants and culinary talent in Orange County, it’s their time to show them off, so everyone can give them a try! Participating restaurants will have a pre-fixed menu to select dishes from (typically an appetizer, entrée, and dessert) so you may truly try a bit of everything on their menu. What a wonderful opportunity to try something new from one of your favorite restaurants or find another new favorite!

Participating restaurants include, but are NOT limited to Bella Cusina, Vintage, Provisions, La Naranja, El Vaquero West, Clearwater, Krecek Kakes! There are more being added each week, check out the most up-to-date and complete list here. If you are a restaurant owner and would like to participate, learn more here.

Orange County, VA Economic Development wants to encourage people to support our local restaurants and is offering a chance to win a $25 gift card to an Orange County eatery of your choice for participating! Visit here for more details on how to win the gift card!

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.