Mark Worrilow of Fathom Realty is a Licensed Broker/Instructor in Virginia.
Stafford County residents recently received their biannual property tax assessments, revealing a significant increase in property values. On average, residential properties saw a 13% rise, while commercial properties surged by 23%.
Mark Worrilow, a real estate expert with Fathom Realty specializing in Stafford County, weighed in on the implications and offered advice for homeowners.
Worrilow emphasized the importance of understanding that the assessed value determined by the county reflects the worth of one’s property for tax purposes. He urged homeowners not to react to the assessment figures immediately but to evaluate their property’s market value critically. He stated, “Before we say, ‘I can’t believe my house is being assessed so much,’ ask yourself, ‘What’s your house really worth?'”
The expert highlighted the opportunity for homeowners to seek a reassessment if they believe their property’s value is inaccurately assessed. Worrilow stressed the need for homeowners to engage with local authorities and understand the implications of property assessments on their taxes, stating, “All politics is local, and deal with your county supervisor or city or town councilor… If we’re not involved, then we have no one to blame but ourselves.”
In Virginia, localities heavily rely on real estate taxes to fund local government operations, making property assessments a vital aspect of local governance. Worrilow underscored the significance of understanding tax rates and assessments, urging homeowners to educate themselves on where their tax dollars are allocated.
Regarding the increase in property values attributed to supply and demand dynamics, Worrilow concurred with Stafford County Commissioner of the Revenue Scott Mayausky’s assessment. He acknowledged the scarcity of available homes and high demand as key drivers of escalating property prices in Stafford County.
A “dad” to a German Shepherd puppy, or as he calls it, “Shuppy,” and husband to a wonderful wife, Mark likes to read, cook, and use his smoker. He also loses golf balls and fishing lures.
Mark is a retired naval officer and 27+ year career REALTOR®. He is also an instructor for numerous continuing education and REALTOR® professional growth classes.
A Prince William/Stafford resident since 1991, he is well-versed in these areas and markets. A believer in giving back to those who serve our community, Mark has a program to support those buying or selling in Northern Virginia and has numerous agents who work for him who do the same. As a proud member of Rotary, he also extends these benefits to service organization members.
Recent Stories
A mid-air collision near Reagan Washington National Airport Wednesday night claimed the lives of more than 60 individuals, including passengers and crew members from an American Airlines flight and military personnel. T
The crash occurred at 8:48 p.m. as American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was descending into the airport, colliding with a military helicopter on a standard training mission.
Authorities have confirmed that there are no survivors from the accident. The flight, which had 60 passengers and four crew members aboard, was on its final approach to DCA when it collided with the helicopter, which was also in a routine flight pattern along the Potomac River.
A mid-air collision occurred Wednesday evening over the Potomac River involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, operating as American Airlines Flight 5342, and a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter. At least 30 bodies have been recovered so far.
The crash occurred around 9 p.m. local time while the Bombardier CRJ700 approached Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on its flight from Wichita, Kansas. The collision prompted a large-scale rescue operation, with more than 300 first responders deployed.
The crash site, located in the Potomac River, is surrounded by icy and dark waters, complicating efforts to recover survivors. D.C. Fire and EMS, along with local and regional fire departments, police, and the U.S. Coast Guard, have been working tirelessly to locate and retrieve victims from the wreckage. Chief John Donnelly of D.C. Fire and EMS highlighted the dangers of the situation, saying, “The water we’re operating in is about eight feet deep. There is wind and pieces of ice, making it extremely dangerous and difficult to work.”
Mike Berryman vividly recalls freezing nights in his prison cell, where the cold was so intense he could sometimes see his breath. On humid nights, he said, ice would form on the walls. By summer, the opposite was true — his cell became stifling, leaving him drenched in sweat, reports The Virginia Mercury.
Kings Dominion, the popular amusement park near Richmond, has announced that it will not be hosting its annual Winterfest event for 2025, despite earlier assurances to season pass holders. WinterFest, a festive holiday event that traditionally featured a dazzling light show, live performances, a petting zoo, and the opportunity to ride the park’s signature roller coasters, has been a seasonal favorite for years.
The cancellation, confirmed by WWBT-TV, comes after the event mysteriously did not appear on the park’s annual event schedule, which was released on Wednesday, January 29. Initially, Kings Dominion promised that admission to WinterFest would be included with the purchase of a 2025 season pass. The sudden absence of the event raised concerns among fans, prompting the park to address the matter publicly.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
