Stafford Spaces & Stories

Hey there, sweet-toothed friends! As a local REALTOR® in the Stafford and Fredericksburg area, I’m not just here to help you find your dream home—I’m also your go-to guide for the tastiest treats in town! And let’s be real, nothing screams “summer vibes” or “treat yo’self” quite like a creamy, dreamy scoop of ice cream. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I’ve got the inside scoop (pun intended!) on the most beloved ice cream shops in our area. So, grab a cone, and let’s dive into the sweetest spots near Stafford and Fredericksburg, VA! 🍦Carl’s Frozen Custard – Fredericksburg’s Nostalgic Gem If you’ve been around Fredericksburg for a while, you already know Carl’s Frozen Custard is practically a local legend. This curbside stand at 2200 Princess Anne St. has been churning out rich, eggy frozen custard since 1947—yep, it’s a Virginia Historic Landmark! They’re the birthplace of the root beer float (how cool is that?), and their vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry custard is pure bl...

 Hi neighbors! Can you believe Memorial Day weekend is almost here? Whether you’re new to the area or have called Stafford County home for years, it’s one of the best times to get outside, enjoy some sunshine, and most importantly—honor those who have served our country. 🗽❤️ I’ve gathered a list of local and nearby Memorial Day events that are perfect for family outings, quiet remembrance, and good old-fashioned community fun. Mark your calendars, grab your lawn chairs, and let’s make the most of the long weekend! ⭐ Stafford County Memorial Day Ceremony 📅 Friday, May 23 at 10:00 AM 📍 Armed Services Memorial, George L. Gordon, Jr. Government Center This powerful ceremony is always a touching tribute. This year’s special guests include The Old Guard (the U.S. Army’s official ceremonial unit) and keynote speaker Lester Evans , a retired Marine Corps Lt. Colonel. It’s also kicking off Stafford’s participation in Virginia’s 250th anniversary celebration! Bring the whole fam...

Hi there! As your local REALTOR® living here in Stafford for 20 years, if you're thinking about buying a home in our area, I wanted to share a quick look at what's really going on in the market — and what you need to know to stay competitive. 1. Interest Rates Are High — But So Is Demand Mortgage rates are still on the higher end, and yes, that means monthly payments are a little steeper. But Stafford continues to attract serious buyers thanks to its great schools, proximity to D.C., and strong community vibe. If you're financing, getting pre-approved before you start house hunting is more important than ever. 2. Low Inventory = Fast-Moving Market We're still seeing low housing inventory, which means good homes are moving quickly — sometimes with multiple offers. If you see something you love, be ready to act fast. Having a solid offer, flexibility on closing, or waiving small contingencies can give you an edge. 3. Prices Are Leveling — But No Crash Ahead You migh...

  As a local realtor here in beautiful Stafford County, Virginia , I spend a lot of time exploring neighborhoods, talking with longtime residents, and diving into our area's rich history. While I usually focus on things like school districts, commute times, and home values—today, I thought I’d share something a little more… mysterious . Stafford is more than just a great place to live—it's also home to centuries of fascinating folklore and ghost stories that give this community a truly unique character. Whether you're a history buff, a fan of the paranormal, or just enjoy a good campfire tale, these local legends might give you a deeper appreciation for the area. Check these out........ 👻 The Ghost of Aquia Church One of Stafford’s most famous haunted landmarks is Aquia Episcopal Church , built in 1751 and still standing strong today. The church's colonial architecture is stunning, but it’s the ghost stories that have captured imaginations for generations. Legend ha...

Hello future neighbors! If you're exploring neighborhoods in Stafford County, chances are you've come across Aquia Harbor . As a local realtor who’s helped many families find their dream home here, I wanted to give you an honest, friendly rundown of the pros and cons of living in this unique and popular gated community. Whether you're relocating to Northern Virginia for work, schools, or lifestyle, this post should help you decide if Aquia Harbor feels like home. 🌟 Pros of Living in Aquia Harbor 1. Gated Community with a Small-Town Feel One of Aquia Harbor’s biggest draws is its sense of security and privacy. The community is gated and monitored 24/7, which gives many residents peace of mind. But don’t let that fool you—it’s anything but stiff. This neighborhood has a warm, welcoming vibe that feels more like a small town than a subdivision. 2. Amenities Galore Aquia Harbor has something for everyone. Love the outdoors? You'll find walking trails, horse stables...

🐾 Top Dog Parks in Stafford County 1. Duff McDuff Green Memorial Park Located at 75 James Ashby Parkway in Falmouth, this expansive 4-acre park is divided into two sections: one for small dogs (30 lbs and under) and another for large dogs (31 lbs and up). The park features open fields suitable for agility training and exercise, with access to the Rappahannock River. It's open to the public during regular business hours and hosts events such as meetups for dog enthusiasts. 2. Mountain View Dog Park Situated at 2125 Mountain View Road, south of Margaret Brent Elementary School, this two-acre dog park serves the northern end of Stafford County. While it was under development as of late 2023, it was expected to open in the summer of 2024.   Stafford is anxiously awaiting the opening of this park which will be available to all dog owners. 3. Prince William Forest Park Although primarily located in Prince William County, this park extends into the southern part of Stafford County...