Whether you’re looking to buy a house for aging in place or to accommodate your current accessibility needs, there are so many things to consider as the owner of a home-based business. In addition to looking for a house with wide hallways and doorways, zero-step entrances, and other accessible features, you’ll need plenty of open space for your home office.
The Licata Group can help you with your search. Here are more tips to buy an accessible home that accommodates you and your home-based business.
What to Look for in Your New Home
As you prepare to buy an accessible home for living and doing business, an experienced real estate agent will be an incredible asset. Your agent can help you to search for homes that meet your budget, location preferences, and accessibility needs — while also keeping the needs of your business, clients, and employees in mind as well.
Depending on your personal and professional needs, several types of home features to look for include the following:
A spacious room with an open floor plan, wide door, lower light switches, and good lighting that can be used for your home office
A fully accessible bathroom that’s located near the office
Single-story floor plans
Non-slip flooring
Doors with lever-style handles
Ample parking for guests and employees
Space for a waiting room that can be used by your guests
If you can’t find a fully accessible home that accommodates the needs of you and your business, you could modify the property later on. MoneyGeek offers some tips on modifying a home for accessibility purposes and paying for the renovations with loans and grants.
Accessible Home Office Essentials
After buying a home that accommodates you and your business, you’ll need to create an accessible office space. Wheel Chic Home shares some tips on choosing an accessible space for an office and furnishing it with an adjustable desk and chair, shelves, and multiple lighting sources. Some other accessible office essentials may include:
If buying a new house isn’t the right choice for you and your business, you could modify your existing home for accessibility purposes — or build an accessible office addition. But if you’re just now getting your business up and running, you’ll need to take a few things into consideration before deciding whether to renovate your existing home.
For starters, you’ll need to check local zoning ordinances to determine whether home-based businesses are permitted in your city or county of residence. And to qualify for the home office deduction at tax time, you’ll need to ensure that your new workspace meets the requirements of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
In addition, you’ll need to choose a business structure for your home-based business. A limited liability company (LLC) is one type of business entity to consider when forming a home-based business as this type of structure offers tax advantages, limited liability, a simple filing process, and greater flexibility in how the business is managed.
Moreover, there are a few ways to form a limited liability company, including online, by yourself, or with help from an attorney. However, attorney’s fees can be costly, and you’ll need to review local LLC rules and regulations if you plan on filing yourself. For many, filing online with a business formation service can be the simplest, quickest, and cheapest option.
In Conclusion
As a home-based business owner with accessibility needs, there are so many things to consider when buying a house to accommodate you and your business. But even if you can’t find an accessible home that has everything you want or need, try not to be discouraged. You can always make a few accessible home modifications in the future!
Are you looking to buy an accessible home that meets your personal and professional needs? Contact The Licata Group to begin your search for the perfect home! 540-388-2541
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
After contacting The Licata Group, you’ve probably realized the number of options buyers have in today’s market. The most obvious choice you’ll need to make is the one between new home vs resale home. Being able to choose the floor plan and design options has its perks. On the other hand, comfortable neighborhoods and historic houses with wide front porches appeal to some home buyers. To help you decide which type of home is right for you, here are some of the important factors you need to consider.
New home vs resale- it’s not only about your preferences
Owning a house where other people have lived is something many people want to avoid. However, new constructions might lack the charm of resale homes and stories that they tell. However, you need to remember that buying a home is not only about preferences. As both options have their advantages and disadvantages, let’s explore the practical aspects of buying and owning either of them.
Reselling or living in a resale home
The question here is whether buying a resale home is a wise investment or not. First of all, you’ll spend less money on a resale property than on a new house. As a result, don’t expect to get a large profit when you decide to sell your resale house. So hold onto it for some time, and then resell it. But, if you plan to buy and live in a resale home, it’s probably an excellent investment decision, provided that it meets other factors as well.
The price of your house
New houses come with a high price, compared to pre-owned homes. And resale homes don’t need to be that old; they can be less than 7 or 8 years old. If you find a relatively young home at a decent price, then you might be getting the best value for your money. And with the rest of your budget, you can have your belongings transferred from one of the surrounding states. Maybe it’s time to provide yourself and your items with a moving experience you know you deserve.
However, keep in mind that while new homes usually cost more than 20 percent more than resale homes, the latter might come with a potential downside. While they are initially less expensive, they might be more costly in terms of utilities and maintenance.
Are resale homes sustainable?
If you’re buying a newly-constructed house, you can expect it to match the modern-day sustainable construction standards. While pre-owned houses might not have been built by these standards. Insulation, the quality of bricks, natural lightning, and other factors affect the price of utilities and maintenance costs. That’s not to say that you can’t use modifications and fixtures to bring an older home up to the mentioned standards. However, you’ll need to determine the budget and set aside the extra amount of money for this purpose.
Appliances
Some building companies include refrigerators, dishwashers, and similar new appliances when building a new house. In case these are not already included in the price of your new home, you might still be able to roll this cost into your mortgage. Alternately, pre-owned homes might come with outdated appliances that you’ll need to replace.
Design and floorplan choices
If you’re building a new home, you get to choose not only the colors but also floorplans and design. While you can deal with the intense colors in the pre-owned homes by repainting, floorplans and other design changes require extensive renovations. Also, changing flooring, cabinetry, or even carpeting, can be expensive. Unless your budget can support this kind of work, you’ll have to accept your resale home as it is.
Storage space
New homes usually come with floor plans designed to fit all of your belongings. Some of the convenient features include cabinets with pull-out shelves, garage space options, and walk-in closets. Older models of resale homes might have limited storage space. One way to solve this problem is to contact Excalibur Moving and Storage and inquire about the storage options. Another way to deal with this is to renovate the house and remodel it to suit your needs.
Pre-owned homes are eligible for home loans
You shouldn’t forget that banks also offer loans for resale houses. However, the bank will need to conduct the technical verification of the property to ascertain the condition of the home. Know that bank will not lend more than the property value stated in the sale deed. And the loan component will depend on the policy of the bank and the age of the house.
Verifying pending payments
First-home buyers might forget to do all the necessary verifications. It’s essential to check for pending payments and taxes for the pre-owned property. Ensuring that there are no dues or unpaid bills on the property will save you from a lot of potential trouble in the future.
Legal documents
You’ll need to thoroughly verify the legal documents when buying a pre-owned home that’s older than 20 years. Also, the property must have clear titles. You need to obtain the sale deed, purchase agreement, a copy of the builder buyer agreement, as well as no objection certificate. Documents that prove the ownership of previous owners are also required.When choosing between new homes vs resale homes, it’s not hard to notice the pros and cons to both. Important aspects to keep in mind, for starters, are the costs of your home. However, think about the big picture, benefits or expenses you’ll have to face both in the future and now. That’s how you’ll be able to make an informed decision. If you have found the right home for you, it’ll be much easier to settle down in a new city. Good luck with your search!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
“Accessible” and “dream home” aren’t two words that typically go together, but as home builders embrace universal design, it’s becoming easier to find homes that are both accessible and beautiful. If you’re a home buyer with a disability or are simply looking for a “forever home” that you can live in through every stage of life, read this guide to learn how you can buy an accessible home.
Buying an Accessible Home
There are lots of reasons why you might want an accessible home. Accessible homes enable independence for seniors and people with disabilities. Many accessible features also make daily life easier for people from all walks of life, whether it’s a parent pushing a stroller or carrying arm loads of groceries into the house.
Even if you don’t need an accessible home today, it’s smart to consider accessibility in your home purchase. Needs change over time, and buying for accessibility today ensures you can live in your home for years to come.
Along with accessibility needs, you’ll also need to consider your budget (Lake of the Woods home sales average $285,000) and which type of mortgage fits your finances best. If you have a spotty credit history, an FHA loan may be your best option. For example, PennyMac FHA loans have broader credit requirements, and you may be able to pay as little as 3.5 percent down.
Accessible Homes: The Basics
A lot goes into making a home fully accessible. However, the average homeowner doesn’t need every accessibility feature available. If you’re in search of a forever home or shopping for an age-friendly home for your senior years, pay attention to major details like these:
Single-story living.
Step-free entrances.
Flush thresholds.
Wide doorways and hallways.
Ample lighting.
Raised power outlets.
Blocking for grab bars.
Thankfully, these home features are popular in new construction, making it relatively easy for buyers to find a house that offers basic accessibility. However, while these are the building blocks of accessible housing, they may not be all you need to enjoy full independence at home.
3 Ways to Increase Home Accessibility
Even when buying new construction, you may need to make changes to achieve full accessibility at home. Since remodeling can be costly, it’s important to factor these costs into your home-buying budget. You may even be able to roll remodeling expenses into your mortgage!
Replacing Carpet
One popular change for wheelchair and mobility device users is replacing carpet with wood floors. Mobility devices can’t move easily on plush carpet, and seniors are more prone to fall with high-pile carpeting underfoot. While there are a variety of alternatives to carpet, wood flooring offers the best return on investment because it’s both durable and in high demand by home buyers. Homeowners can save money by choosing inexpensive woods, removing old flooring themselves, and scheduling installation while the home is empty.
Adapting Counters and Cabinets
Most homes come with standard-height countertops and cabinets, but these can be inaccessible for wheelchair users and people with other disabilities. However, with counters and cabinetry accounting for as much as 60 percent of kitchen remodeling costs — which run nearly $30,000 on average — creating an accessible kitchen is costly. If you can’t afford to completely replace counters and cabinets or are worried about impacting your home’s resale value, talk to your contractor about working with what you have. For example, you may be able to add storage solutions that maximize lower cabinets or install a two-tier kitchen island to match your existing space.
Designing an Accessible Bathroom
Due to the high cost of bathroom remodeling, it’s best to buy a home that already suits your accessibility needs. But if you can’t find the right home in your budget, you may have no choice but to invest in bathroom updates. While minor changes like installing an accessible shower head and grab bars are affordable, replacing a bathtub with a walk-in tub or barrier-free shower costs as much as $5,000 or $15,000, respectively. However, for people who need them, the independence an accessible bathroom provides is priceless.
Finding a home that checks every box is difficult in the best of circumstances. When you have a disability or need an age-friendly home, finding the right home can seem impossible. But the truth is that there are lots of homes out there just waiting to be turned into your accessible dream home. Rather than giving up on your house hunt, reach out to an experienced agent who knows how to find the right home for you.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
The days are getting longer, temperatures are starting to climb, and the trees are finally starting to turn green again. As spring approaches, it’s a great time to freshen up your decor and add a splash of color to your space. Looking for some quick, easy, and affordable design tips? Here are a few ways to welcome spring into your home…especially if you’re thinking about selling in the next few months!
Our Top Spring Decor Tips
Do Some Spring Cleaning
Before you make any decor updates, it’s crucial to get every inch of your home looking pristine. Spring cleaning involves more than just a little scrubbing—you should take some time to reorganize, too!
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, just start by working room by room and removing any clutter. It may also be beneficial to make “keep,” “donate,” and “throw away” piles to ensure that everything stays in order. After you’ve freed up some space, break out the cleaning supplies and banish any dust, cobwebs, and grime. Don’t have time to do it all yourself? Consider hiring a professional cleaner or organizer.
Incorporate a Little Greenery
Want to breathe new life into your home? Take some inspiration from nature! Adding freshly-cut or potted flowers and greenery can turn your house into a home—and if you’re selling, your buyers might appreciate the extra pop of color.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider picking up a ready-made bouquet or some low-maintenance houseplants for your living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Placing them in trendy planters and decorative vases can create an added level of style. For a final splash of spring, try hanging a wreath of seasonal blossoms or greenery on your front door to welcome guests inside.
Add New Accessories
Take some time to get rid of your winter accessories and usher in a brand-new season. Light and bright colors, linens, textured pottery, and raw wood accents are all on-trend this spring, and adding these small details can really elevate your home’s style.
Start by incorporating some new accent pillows and paring down your current accessories in favor of a more curated collection. This is particularly important if you’re getting ready to sell; you’ll want to depersonalize your space, but it should still feel like a home. Hanging some different art on your walls can also help you transition to spring—we recommend floral prints or paintings.
Freshen Up with Inviting Scents
Is your home smelling a little musty after a long winter? Throw open the windows and freshen up with some invigorating scents…especially if you’ll be inviting buyers into your home.
Before you integrate spring fragrances, however, be sure to eliminate any unpleasant odors first. Once you’ve deodorized, swap out those holiday candles in favor of some fresher aromas. Lavender, fresh cotton, and lemongrass are all great choices, and they won’t be too overpowering.
Don’t Neglect Your Outdoor Space!
As you prep for the warmer months ahead, the outside of your home matters just as much as the inside. Your outdoor space can really make or break a sale during the spring, as buyers are probably ready to spend some time outside. Even if you aren’t selling soon, your yard, porch, deck, or patio could probably use a little extra attention.
Brush off the winter blues by sweeping away any debris, addressing brown spots on your lawn, and getting rid of any dead or wilting plants. You might also want to incorporate some new outdoor furniture on your deck or patio to show off its potential.
Ready To Sell Your Home This Spring?
If you’re looking for spring decorating tips because you’re planning on selling your home soon, we’d love to help you navigate every step of the process. Feel free to reach out to us for more staging strategies and seller tips—we can even help you list your home with just a few clicks!
Orange County Virginia is a very nice place to live, judging
by the opinion of a vast number of people. It has a lot to offer and yet it has
succeeded in keeping a slow, stress-free, and peaceful lifestyle. If you and
your significant other are looking for a place to settle down and make a
future, we can help you choose among the best neighborhoods in Orange County VA
for young couples. You will enjoy immensely and have an opportunity to do
some fun things once your move to Orange County is complete.
What makes a neighborhood a good choice for young couples?
When choosing a place to live, young couples should follow
certain criteria that will rule their final decision. Their needs and
preferences are, understandably, significantly different from those of
retirees, college students or graduates, for example. To be perceived as one of
the best neighborhoods in Orange County VA for young couples, here are the
features a neighborhood has to possess:
To be affordable. – Although there are, of course, young couples who can afford a considerably high standard of living, it is much more probable for them to prefer affordable neighborhoods where the costs of living are lower.
To have a strong job market. – Numerous job opportunities are an important factor for everybody, not only young couples. If they cannot find a job easily or earn an income they would like to, they opt for relocation and settling down in another city.
To be safe. – Safety is one of the most critical features you can expect from a neighborhood. Since young couples mostly consider starting a family in the near future, this is also yet another reason why safety is important.
To have a lot of amenities. – We all know very well that all work and no play make Jack a dull boy, right? Hence, young couples like engaging in various activities once they find some free time after work. Luckily, Orange County VA has it all. Whether they are nature lovers, thrill-seekers, or even partygoers, they will find something to enjoy in this area.
Our choice of the best neighborhoods in Orange County VA for young couples
Once we have defined what young couples value most when
choosing a place to live, we can suggest a few neighborhoods in this area they
might like. Even organizing
a long-distance relocation is the sacrifice worth making if you find
exactly what you are looking for right here. You will soon realize that Orange
County VA has the reputation of one of the most livable and pleasant places to
live in the USA for a very good reason.
Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods is a perfect choice for everybody regardless of their age or marital status. Its home to two very beautiful lakes that give plenty of options for recreational activity, and make a nice alternative than driving to the beach. The unemployment rate here is low since there are numerous job opportunities. As safety is one of the key features to look for, we will stress that the gated community prides itself on keeping all the residents safe with the help of their own security that patrol the streets on a regular basis.
There are a lot of things to see and do here, enjoying the
various amenities to spending time in nature. If you have a dog, Lake of the
Woods should be your first choice, since the place is genuinely dog-friendly. Here
you’ll find substantially sized dog park within the neighborhood that is properly
secured for both you and your pet to enjoy.
Young couples who are looking for a place to settle down
permanently and start a family soon should seriously consider Lake of the Woods.
It is a community that’s centered around each other, as well as in a wonderful
school district.
Lastly, there are no short supply of activities to keep you
entertained, as community driven clubs and events are constantly occurring with
new ones sprouting up on a regular basis. At Lake of the Woods, you’re sure to
find a place that truly feels like a forever home.
The Town of Gordonsville
Gordonsville is a small charming town with a lot of small
shops and cafes. Although it is usually preferred by those who decide to buy
a home in Virginia after retirement, the situation has recently started to change.
A very low crime rate and a lot of outdoor amenities attract all those nature
lovers and people who live a healthy lifestyle.
The unemployment rate here tends to be on the higher side when compared to the national average, but the vicinity of some bigger towns increases the number of job opportunities due to short commute time. Also, the cost of living is around the national average, so we can say that living in Gordonsville is a good option for young couples.
The Town of Orange
As you might assume, Orange is the seat of Orange County. It
has scored an increase in population in recent years as more and more people,
young couples included, are desperately trying to run away from the hustle and
bustle of urban areas. The cost of living here is a bit on the pricey side. On
the other hand, safety, numerous amenities, and excellent educational
facilities are a big plus.
What young couples also like here are nice cafes and
restaurants with a warm, friendly atmosphere. They can enjoy a night out,
entertain themselves, and still avoid the turbulence of big cities.
Final words on the best neighborhoods in Orange County VA for young couples
Living in Orange County VA is appealing for a great number
of people. The County offers all a person needs – to earn a substantial income,
have a nice, spacious home, get a good education, and enjoy various leisure
activities. While some neighborhoods are a better choice than othres, whatever
neighborhood you choose, you will not make a mistake. They are very similar and
each and one of them has a distinctive charm that young couples will like.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
If you ask a homeowner what it was like to buy their first home, they’ll probably mention a few things they’d change if they could do it all again. While it’s impossible to know everything about the home-buying process beforehand, you can still prepare yourself for what lies ahead—and figure out how to avoid some potential pitfalls. Not sure where to begin? Here are some key pointers to keep in mind before starting your search.
You’re Buying More Than a House
We all know the phrase “love at first sight,” and it can certainly apply to homes, too! Even if you step inside a home and instantly fall in love, it’s crucial to step back and consider the whole picture before making a purchase.
When you buy your first property, you’re investing in more than just four walls. It’s worth paying attention to things like a home’s location, neighborhood, and physical condition, too. Even if you find that open concept kitchen you’ve been dreaming of, it might not be the right fit if it’s in the wrong community or if the rest of the house requires out-of-budget repairs. It’s best to stay realistic and listen to your agent’s (and home inspector’s) advice. Remember, this is likely one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so spend your money wisely!
Down Payments Are Different for Everyone
So many would-be buyers are scared of homeownership for one reason: the down payment. Traditionally, you’d put down around 20% on a home and spend anywhere from 10 to 30 years paying your lender back. However, you actually have more flexibility than you might expect.
Depending on your credit history, location, and occupation, you could be eligible for loans that require as little as 0% down. However, making a larger down payment means you’ll pay less interest to your lender in the long run. Be sure to shop around for the right fit and reach out to your agent with any questions—they’re always available to help you out.
Prepare for Extra Expenses
Homeownership often comes with unexpected expenses, especially right after you move in. When you’re setting a budget for your big purchase, consider adding some wiggle room to allow for any additional and long term costs. You don’t want to realize that you can’t afford your home after you’ve purchased it!
Wondering what kinds of expenses can come up? Inspections, homeowner’s insurance, prepaid taxes and other various closing costs, HOA dues, and repairs are just a few possibilities. You’ll pay for some of these before or at the closing, but certain recurring costs will have to be factored into your monthly budget.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Searching
Once you’ve made the decision to buy, it’s tempting to start looking at listings right away. However, you might want to press pause and complete an essential step before you start scheduling showings. Getting pre-approved for your loan will show sellers and agents that you’re serious about buying—and it can tell you exactly how much you can afford to spend.
Ready to start the pre-approval process? First, you’ll want to get your finances in order and shop around for the right lender. Be sure to have all of your important documents on hand, such as your W-2 tax form, paystubs, and social security card. Most lenders allow you to apply online, and within a few business days, you’ll know whether you’ve been approved or not, as well as the conditions of the loan.
Are You a First-Time Buyer?
Buying your first home is a big deal, and it’s important to have the right agent by your side throughout the process. If you’re ready to start your search, feel free to reach out to us with any questions. We can’t wait to help jumpstart your journey to homeownership!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Research is essential before renovation, as it will help you scope your options and choose quality.
When you plan to renovate your house, the
renovation is an investment in your home. When doing so, you are not only
fixing it and redecorating for yourself. You are also adding value to it
should you ever choose to sell it in the future. Furthermore, as renovating
your house is a form of investment, it should
definitely be well planned and thought out. In addition, as we continue
discussing this topic, we are also going to delve deeper. We will discover the 10 essential and beneficial things one should do before renovating a house.
Renovating a House 101
A written plan and a mood board will be so
helpful throughout the renovation.
Renovating a house can be a small project or a very big
one. Whether you are fixing a bathroom or redesigning the entire interior look
of your home, there are multiple elements to be
considered beforehand. Why is a renovation something you should not rush into?
The answer to this is because a single renovation should withstand time and
have the quality to it. This takes good research, a solid plan and professional
help, amongst many other details.
Tips 1 and 2
Meanwhile, what do you think the number one thing on the
list is? When renovating your house, our number one tip to do first is creating
a mood board. Gather images, samples of textures, materials and more and place
it all on a board to visually create a concept and style. Placing everything in
one spot will help you view what your renovation could possibly look like. A
mood board is also a great idea because sometimes it is difficult to imagine
patterns and textures and colors in your head at once. Having them one beside
the other will help you make decoration ideas as well.
Make sure you set a budget before your renovation so that you don’t exceed your financial limits.
While we are on this topic, the mood board also ties into
our second tip. Placing everything on the board helps you create a visual plan,
which can also help you figure out your budget and the limits of it. Entering a
renovation without conceptualizing your finances and having a budget is a bad
idea altogether. You can get carried away and not even realize how much you are
actually spending. Moreover, adding the cost of all your ideas will help you
understand where you stand and how much you would like to spend on renovating
your house.
Tip 3
Now that you have an idea of what your renovation could
become visually, sit down and create a plan. This plan should consist of all the
changes you plan to implement within your home. Any necessary fixes and
additions you would like to see, along with the timeline of all of this. A
solid list with a good schedule will help you down the road and keep this
renovation organized.
Tip 4
A team of professionals will help guide you
through this process with beneficial advisement.
Consult with a team of professionals. If renovating your
house becomes a big project and you are unsure as to how to proceed, hire a
reliable contractor and decorator to help you. A team of professionals will
know and understand the standards and laws they must adhere to, taking that
stressful aspect away from your to-do-list. Additionally, a team of
professionals will also help you visualize your renovation and help you
understand the possibilities of your house. Sometimes the layout of the house
might not allow you to break down a wall, or add something, and it is good to
know ahead of time what you can do and what you cannot.
Tip 5
Renovating your house is easier if you move your
furniture out and have an empty space to work with. Whether you are renovating
a home you plan to stay in, or are renovating a house in another city, take
care of your furniture and belongings ahead of time. Meanwhile, if you are
moving away, we advise on getting your household belongings to another state before you start renovating. Place your belongings in
storage and keep them there until you complete and finish your new house.
Tip 6
Once your house is furniture free, our next tip is to
scope out space. Once you can evaluate the empty space, it will enable you to
visualize all the possibilities of your renovation. You could also check back
with your mood board and written plan to see if all of that can be done within
the dimensions your space allows you.
Tip 7
When it comes to the fun shopping part, don’t purchase
the first option you come by. If you are going to the hardware store on your
own, talk to the department associate there as they can advise you on the best
options. That way you won’t buy the wrong thing or spend more money than you
should have.
Tip 8
Don’t forget to prep your house for renovating. Details
such as priming the walls before painting them are crucial for the wall color.
Priming the walls creates a better canvas for wall paint and helps the paint
look fresher and stay on for longer.
Tip 9
Check your renovation timeline once again to ensure that
most things will run on schedule. Once you have your belongings in storage,
it’s also beneficial to know that your renovations will be timely so that it
all works out.
Tip 10
Our last but not least tip of this topic is good
communication. This is important before renovating your house but also just as
important throughout the renovation. Good and open communication with your
contractor or whomever you are renovating your house with is very important so
things would run smoothly and successfully.
In Progress
Simply being on top of everything, communicating and
being guided by your plan will be more than enough for a successful renovation.
Stay on schedule, and enjoy this investment into your new home.
Author’s Bio
Troy Thompson is a 35-year-old teacher, with experience in renovations and decorating homes. Not only is he a fan of HGTV, where he has learned a lot about renovating a home from various TV shows, but he has also moved a few times and renovated a few homes with his girlfriend. Troy loves sharing his advice for unexperienced renovators and hopes that his tips will help someone get started and learn more.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Buying a new home and moving for retirement is something that is pretty common in the United States. It also seems that it is something that almost everybody is doing nowadays. However, this process is something that will take some time and consideration. Buying a home, moving and starting over is exciting. However, it is also a task that you should take seriously. Think about your life now, and how it will change once you retire. What are the pros and cons of relocating? And starting fresh? Yes, starting fresh is possible even at the golden age. You’ve probably never had more money and time at your disposal. Now, you can finally enjoy life to the fullest. And you deserve it. Let us guide you through buying a home in Virginia after retirement process, and help you handle it the best way possible. You don’t only need it, you really do deserve it.
Reasons for buying a new home after retirement
We all have different reasons, however, we all have the main
goal in common – we want to make our lives better, every aspect of it. And that
is the main reason behind every home buying process. In Virginia, Japan or
anywhere else in the world. We just want what’s best for ourselves and our
loved ones. Retiring and enjoying your mature age comes with many benefits, and
one of them – you will have much more time on your hands. Time to take charge
of your life. And that sometimes means changing your surroundings and starting
over.
Your family home might have served you for many years, but
it’s probably not the right fit for you anymore. It might feel like an empty
nest, or it might be too big now when the kids have moved out. Maybe you want
to be closer to your grandchildren. We all have our reasons, however, investing
in real estate comes with a great deal of work that needs to be done. Our
number one advice for you would be to really think through your reasons. Make
sure that they are good and reasonable ones.
Gathering the money
Yes, we need to mention and talk about this aspect when
having a conversation about buying a home in Virginia after retirement. Your
budget. It is real estate, and such investments don’t come cheap. That is why
you need to really consider your budget, as well as your wants and needs. What
are you looking for? And can you afford it? These two things can also be very
different, so make sure you know your budget as well as your limits.
Calculate your budget. Look into your savings. Talk to your
loaning manager and ask for some advice. Try to get all the information and
advice that you can use to your advantage along the way. And also – don’t
depend, but rely on professional assistance. Having someone who knows the real
estate business to its core on your team is of crucial importance. Why? You
will want to get the most value for your money’s worth. We all do.
Yes, you will want to hire a professional
As we have mentioned before, having a seasoned professional
when buying a home in Virginia after retirement is your best option. It will
save you some precious time, energy and even money. Hiring realtors or real
estate agents sounds more expensive than it is. And their service, on the other
hand, is much needed. Even though you might be buying your 10th
house this time around, if you are not a real estate professional yourself, you
will need some help for sure.
This market changes, without us even noticing. And in order
to get as much value for your money, you will definitely need some advice and
someone who can lead this whole process. Especially if you are coming from
another state. Relocating from one place to another is stressful enough as it
is, and moving interstate, well – let’s just say, there will be many things to consider when moving to another state.
Let professionals assist you. It is the best thing you can do.
Decide what you’ll do with your current house
You will have to make this call, sooner or later. And even
though leaving our old lives behind sounds fun and exciting, leaving all these
memories behind as well can be harder than you might have originally expected.
That is why you need to think about this move. And we mean – really think. Will
you leave your old house to your kids? Or are you going to sell it?
Whatever you choose to do, make sure you do it fast. Letting
time pass by won’t help you, and especially if you tend to get nostalgic. Allow
yourself to enjoy your new beginning, and say goodbye to your old life. Leaving
your old family house behind doesn’t mean you’ll leave all the people you love
(or the memories you share with them) behind. It is just a property. And the
sooner you start thinking this way, the sooner this process will become enjoyable.
And you really want things to go smoothly, trust us on this one.
Set up your criteria
Your new home in Virginia needs to be perfect. It needs to
meet your expectations and everything you have dreamt of all these years. Make
a list of things that are a must and a list of things that are a no-no. You
will have to make a compromise here and there, but there are still some things
that are and should stay deal breakers. You deserve the best. And now, you can
finally be picky.
Enjoy the process
Your real estate agent will lead the way, and all you have to do is to follow his or her lead. Of course, it is your house and you make all the calls, however, your real estate agent (or realtor) is there to do all the hard work. Buying a home in Virginia after retirement is something that you have waited for for so long. Make sure you enjoy it!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Whether you’re heading down the street or to a new town, moving is always a tough transition. However, relocating across the country presents a whole new set of challenges you might not have considered. Picking up your life can be an exciting change, but it’s also a bit overwhelming.
Need some help navigating the process? Take a deep breath and get ready—we’ve got some quick tips for you!
Stay on Top of Your Schedule
Sometimes a cross-country move can come out of nowhere, especially if it’s due to a job or major life change. Even if you’ve been planning your relocation for a while, it can still be exhausting. Before you start tearing your hair out, it’s crucial to start planning ahead of time.
Once you’ve figured out your moving date, be sure to stay on top of your calendar. It’s easy for your schedule to fill up with appointments, going-away parties, and other obligations. It might help to create to-do lists or invest in a good planner (digital or paper!). However, as you get busier, be sure to plan some time for yourself, too. Tackling a move is impossible without some self-care!
Declutter & Organize
Let’s face it—organizing everything you own and moving it thousands of miles is no easy feat. Start lightening the load right away, and get rid of things you won’t need once you move. You might even want to have a garage sale or donate your gently used objects to charity. Remember, if you don’t use it regularly, you should probably lose it.
Looking for a simple way to tackle the decluttering process? Try going room by room and sorting things as you go. It’s easy to get overwhelmed as you pare down your possessions, so having a system will help ease the burden.
Pack Everything Up
When it comes to packing, it’s essential that all of your belongings are secure. Check that all boxes are reinforced, and invest in some heavy duty tape and wrapping materials. Moving supplies don’t have to be expensive, though—check social media or local stores to find a bargain on some good quality boxes.
Your stuff is in for a long haul if you’re moving across the country, so you might want to take extra steps to prevent any damage. If you’re looking for some good padding, old t-shirts and socks will do the trick in a pinch! Don’t be afraid to get creative—jewelry boxes, small containers, and extra suitcases can help you save some space.
Make Travel Arrangements
When you’re making a move across the country, getting to your new home is one of the most difficult parts of the process. Be sure to make travel arrangements in advance—this means you should research hotels, book rentals, and reserve plane tickets ahead of time. As you’re packing, be sure to set aside any essentials that you might need as you travel to your new place.
Wondering what you should keep on hand? Think of it like packing for a vacation—you’ll want toiletries, extra clothing, medication, and all your other “must-haves.” Don’t forget to keep important paperwork, such as birth certificates and passports, with you in case you need them.
Connect with a Local Agent
Unless you have a friend or family member in your new city, it can be tough to scope out the area. Nobody will know your future home quite as well as a local, and connecting with the right real estate agent can help.
Aside from helping you find a home, your agent can also help you navigate your new surroundings with ease. Working with an area expert comes with a lot of perks, including relocation packages, personalized guidance, and specialized tools…not to mention the local knowledge to recommend anything from the top school district to the best pizza joint! When you’re choosing a real estate agent, be sure to do your research and reach out to a few before making your decision. You want to make sure you gel with whomever you choose!
Ready to Conquer Your Move?
Although relocating can be stressful, it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might think. Remember, staying organized and prepared will make the entire process that much easier! If you’re new to the area or are looking for some long-distance buying resources, feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to ease the burden of your cross-country move!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
With a new year comes new trends, and you can expect a number of home design shake-ups both big and small.
Here are the top home features that are sure to be priorities for buyers in 2021!
Separate Laundry Rooms
It might be a little unexpected, but laundry rooms were one of the most highly sought-after home features of the year, with a whopping 91% of buyers saying they’re essential. Many people also prefer the laundry room to be on the ground floor and sectioned off from the rest of the home.
In 2021, you can expect to see buyers continue to gravitate toward homes with designated laundry rooms—try brainstorming ways to bring more focus to yours!
Industrial Designs
The rustic farmhouse motif was certainly popular in 2019, but it doesn’t quite have the staying power of an industrial design. Next year, you’ll continue to see buyer’s seek out interior design elements like artisanal light fixtures, copper and metal hardware, concrete accents, and exposed brick.
Homes that already have these components incorporated will be a major plus—and while it’s a little tough to add brick walls and concrete accents if you don’t have them, there are other simple ways to industrialize your space!
Storage Space
As more and more buyers start moving towards smaller homes, efficient storage solutions become a high priority. In 2021, you can expect buyers to be on the hunt for homes that showcase their storage potential.
Built-in shelves along the wall, storage under the stairs, walk-in pantries—no matter your square footage, every inch counts. If you’re a seller, you can also use this to your advantage, staging your home in a way that emphasizes its efficient use of space. Think: a few extra storage cubes in your laundry room, a new shelving unit on an underused wall, or roll-out cubbies under your bed.
Green Features
According to a survey from the National Association of Home Builders, green features have shot up to become one of the most sought-after features in a new home. In particular, over half of the survey respondents would invest nearly $10,000 for green features that would save them money, such as ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and windows, improved insulation, and efficient lighting. Other priorities included bettering the air quality in the home with things like dehumidification systems and electronic air cleaners.
If you’re planning to sell next year and have a little extra money to work with, consider making upgrades that’ll appeal to your buyers’ wallet.
Natural Finishes
Next year, we’ll start seeing a move toward more unique homes, and nothing sets your space apart from the rest like natural features, including river rock, reclaimed wood, exposed brick, and steel accents. These elements don’t necessarily have to come with the home even—staging your space with a rustic wood bookcase or a contemporary geode end table will do the trick.
If you’re preparing your place for a showing or just need a few cohesive decorating tips, sprinkling plants and greenery can help balance out the heaviness of these natural elements.
Pastel Colors
While 2019 may have been a year of bold colors, 2021 will usher in a muted era. Pastel shades like the popular Millennial Pink, Neo Mint, and Buxton Blue will be giving interiors a softer aura, reminiscent of 1970s-era home trends.
Additionally, accent walls have started slipping in favor, replaced instead by more strategic splashes of color, like painted doors and cabinets, two-tone walls, and accent furniture pieces.
Don’t Fall Behind in the Latest Real Estate Trends
Each year brings new fads to the real estate world, and keeping up with them plays a major role in impressing buyers. Need a little help staying in the know? We’ve got you covered! Follow along with our blog for the latest updates, and check out our specialized resources for all of your buying and selling needs.
Have a few more questions? We’re just a phone call away.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
