Tag Archives: orange virginia

Deep Roots’ Fall Festival Just Around the Corner!

Deep Roots Home and Garden Center is a family-owned and operated business right in Orange County, Virginia. Located at: 28284 Constitution Hwy, Rhoadesville VA 22542 they are a full-line garden center and Purina feed dealer. Each year, they host a Fall Festival featuring local Vendors and Artists. There will be food and fun for the entire family, be sure to save the date for Saturday, September 24th from 8 am – 4 pm. Visit their Facebook here for more information!

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

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

9th Annual Playin’ in the Park 4th of July Celebration in Orange, Virginia

A local celebration of our freedom in Orange, Virginia for local residents and visitors! This event features live music, a Touch-A-Truck, kid’s activities, and of course FIREWORKS!
This event is absolutely FREE and the gates will open at 6pm sharp. There will be donations accepted for parking by OCHS Football. Parking is limited, please arrive early. Fireworks are scheduled to start once it gets dark. Bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Alcohol is prohibited and pets must be on a leash at all times. Come hungry! Featured food vendors for your stomach’s pleasure will be Barbara’s Soulfood, Buffalo Wild Wings, B-Radd & Honey, R U Freak’n Hungry, and Kona Ice of Culpeper.
Don’t miss this event on Friday, July 1st at Booster Park, 1177 Bloomsbury Rd, Orange VA 22960 (behind the Orange County Airport). For more info visit their website or call 540-672-5435.
This event is brought to you thanks to the support of the following businesses and organizations: the County of Orange, the Town of Orange, the Town of Gordonsville, Somerset Sod Farms, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, 103.1 WJMA, Mason Insurance Agency Inc, Reynolds GM Subaru, Piedmont Power, Skydive Orange, Altman Tire & Auto Sales, Mr. & Mrs. V. Rea Jones, Cowan Realty, and Orange Tire Inc.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your professionals for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia, we are your proven Real Estate professionals. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, that’s the #1 question asked by home sellers. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. The question is how much is it worth? 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.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Orange Uncorked Wine Festival Returns Mother’s Day Weekend!

The Annual Orange Uncorked Wine Festival is celebrating it’s 31st annual year!! Sponsored by the Market at Grelen, the Orange Uncorked Wine Festival is due to take place this year on Mother’s Day weekend, on both Saturday May 7th and Sunday, May 8th! It will take place at: 10325 Jacksontown Rd, Somerset Virginia 22972 from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday. Be sure to mark your calendars and buy your tickets! Tickets range from $30-$50 per person while designated driver tickets and ages 13-20 are $10 per ticket and under 12 years old are free! Tickets purchased at the gate are $40 per person. What’s happening at the festival? There will be multiple wineries participating and sharing their vineyard wine tastings, live music and the 2nd annual mustache-beard competition. Must enter online to participate on the competition. There will be a variety of food vendors ready to provide you a tasty treat with your wine pairings. Both days will host live music and a hat contest! To buy tickets online, register for the beard/mustache contest or just to learn more about the event visit their website 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.

moving to orange county va with your dog

Moving to Orange County, VA with Your Dog

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. 

 a dog sitting in a chair
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.

a woman practicing yoga with her dog
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.

a girl using a laptop to find out more about moving with her dog
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. 

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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.

Why Orange County, VA is Perfect for Families

It takes a lot of responsibility to pick a perfect destination for your family. Even if you and your partner have just gotten married and plan to relocate, choosing a family-friendly location might be on your mind. A new home should be suitable for your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. And when a move involves more family members, these criteria seem to expand. The State of Virginia is becoming more and more popular these days, with one of its counties standing out. Orange County, VA is perfect for families – and this guide will tell you all the reasons why. Let’s see if this is where you start looking for a new home with your loved ones.

Orange County, VA basic information 

Firstly, let’s get to know this county better before we point out all its family-friendly features. Orange County is located in the Central Piedmont region of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its seat is located in Orange, a small town of about 5,000 residents. The county itself has a population of about 36,000, which seems to be just enough for a family-friendly lifestyle many parents are looking for. But, what’s so special about this country and why it’s perfect for those moving with a family?

Reasons Orange County, VA is family-friendly 

Choosing a place where your family can thrive and enjoy life and be safe and peaceful is challenging these days. Orange Country seems to fit that description, and it’s often chosen by families to be their new home. And both first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors consider this area to be the perfect family-friendly zone. 

You can have all the peace you want 

The peaceful, laid-back lifestyle their residents lead is the main thing people notice about towns in Orange County. Those who currently live in a big city probably want to get away from all the hustle and bustle, and Orange County may just be the place to go. The small-town atmosphere brings the feeling of safety and belonging, making it easy to raise kids. People know each other in these small communities, which can be very beneficial in these challenging years of being a parent of young kids.

Access to nature 

Spending time close to nature and away from all the technologies seems to be a luxury in today’s world. Well, it’s a common thing in Orange County, which is such a benefit when it comes to raising kids. To enjoy the natural scenery and fresh air whenever you want often feels precious. Visit the Lake of the Woods and find a place to have a picnic with your loved ones, and you’ll understand why this is the right place to be.

Reminder: spending a day in nature is not the only thing you can do here. There are different activities you can try out and have fun after moving to Orange County. 

a deer in grass
Kids love nature and animals – let them be close as much as possible.

Less traffic 

Orange County communities are relatively small, which results in fewer cars and less traffic. This makes the place a lot safer for kids and ensures parents spend less time in traffic. It’s easier to go to work, go shopping and reach the main airports in the area. People here use cars for longer commutes but like to get around on foot and practice a healthy lifestyle.

parents teaching a girl to ride a bike and showing that Orange County, VA is perfect for families
Being able to ride a bike without running away from traffic makes Orange County, VA perfect for families.

Where to move – top places in Orange County, VA

After you’re sure that Orange County, VA is perfect for your family, it’s time to research the best places to move. Some of the popular locations include: 

  • Orange – located close to Charlottesville, the area is filled with small businesses, and most of the residents are people with kids or retirees. Good-quality schools attract more and more parents every year;
  • Lake of the Woods – many parks, two pools, and great schools make this place one of the perfect options for those moving with kids;
  • Gordonsville is the best place for those looking for a small American town charm and real suburban feel. Moreover, if you are thinking about buying a vacation home in Virginia, this area might be the perfect place for doing so. 

Moving to Orange County, VA with your family – how to do it stress-free?

Packing and moving an entire household along with your kids may seem too big of a challenge for parents. That’s why you need to be ahead of it and plan this move in a way that predicts all the potential issues so you can have the smoothest relocation ever. Undoubtedly, the focus of this move should be safety. Unfortunately, many things can go wrong during relocation. Thus, it’s easy to understand that children are your primary concern as you won’t have a task that’s more important than keeping your kids safe on moving day.

Do as much as you can in advance 

Moving house is a process that consists of so many steps related to packing, cleaning, documentation, etc. The easiest way to have a stress-free moving day is to plan everything ahead of time and do as many tasks as possible long before the big day comes. Make a list to keep track of all the tasks that await and tick them off as you finish.

Have a team you can trust 

The moving business has grown a lot, which led to an increased number of unprofessional and even fraudulent companies. Experienced movers such as Excalibur Moving and Storage have experience with customers who have learned a thing or two about moving scams the hard way, so they recommend you research the companies in detail before making the final choice. Compare their services and fees, explore their website and read the reviews. Finally, see if you can get a recommendation from someone you trust and hire a team that will help you relocate easily.

Include your kids 

Depending on the age of your children, this move can be more or less complicated. However, try to include them in the process by talking about the move, asking them to help with the packing, and having a vote in making certain decisions. Appreciating their opinion will help them feel important, valued, and more willing to help you out as a result.

a family playing in moving boxe
Moving doesn’t need to be stressful and overwhelming – include the kids and make it fun.

So, do you agree that Orange County, VA is perfect for families? We believe you do – start exploring this area and look for an ideal home where you can make new memories with your loved ones.

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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.

A mother and father packing and moving with kids to Orange County, VA

Mistakes to Avoid When Moving with Kids to Orange County, VA

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.

Mother with two kids sitting on a large bed and packing for a move
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. 

Mother sitting at a table and talking to her daughter
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. 
Parents playing with their son
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.


Photos used:

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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 restaurant week

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.

xmas decor

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.

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

The bottom line

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

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

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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.

How to organize a last-minute move to Orange County

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.

Pictures:

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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.