Thinking about upgrading your kitchen? Before you swing that first sledgehammer or start picking out tile samples, there are a few essential things every homeowner should know. A kitchen renovation can increase your home’s value, improve daily functionality, and even inspire your inner chef—but only if you plan it right.

Here are the five key things to consider before you begin your kitchen renovation journey:

1. Know Your Budget—and Add 20%

Before you do anything, determine how much you’re comfortable spending. Kitchen renovations can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more depending on the size and scope. It’s smart to add an extra 20% cushion for unexpected expenses—because surprises (like outdated wiring or hidden water damage) do happen.

2. Decide on Your Kitchen’s “Why”

What’s the purpose of your renovation? Are you trying to increase resale value, entertain more, improve storage, or create a space that better suits your family’s needs? Clearly defining your “why” will help you make smarter decisions throughout the process—from layout to finishes.

3. Layout First, Aesthetics Second

It’s tempting to start with Pinterest boards and backsplash samples, but the layout should always come first. Consider how you move in the space: the path from sink to stove to fridge (known as the kitchen triangle), the placement of garbage and recycling bins, and even where you’ll plug in your coffee maker. A beautiful kitchen is great—a functional one is better.

4. Choose the Right Contractor or Designer

Not all contractors are created equal. Ask for referrals, read reviews, and interview multiple professionals. A good contractor will listen to your needs, help keep you on budget, and bring your vision to life—while handling the permits and red tape behind the scenes.

5. Prepare for the Disruption

A kitchen renovation can take weeks or even months. Prepare to live without a full kitchen: set up a temporary kitchenette, plan for more takeout, and be ready for some dust and noise. Managing expectations ahead of time will help you keep your cool during the process.

Start Your Dream Kitchen with Ace Cabinet and Granite

Ready to turn your kitchen into a stunning, functional space? The experts at Ace Cabinet and Granite offer high-quality cabinets, countertops, and design expertise to help bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for a sleek modern look or timeless traditional style, they’ve got you covered from start to finish.

Visit acecabinetgranite.com to explore their showroom, get inspired, and schedule your free consultation today.

Your dream kitchen starts here—with Ace Cabinet and Granite.

You’ve heard it before: Location, Location, Location.

But according to seasoned Realtor Mark Worrilow, that old real estate rule just doesn’t cover it anymore.

“In today’s market, location is just one piece of the puzzle,” says Worrilow, who works with Fathom Realty and has helped hundreds of families buy and sell homes in Prince William, Stafford, and Spotsylvania counties. “Buyers are more concerned about how they’re going to live — and how they’re going to afford it — than they are about a specific zip code.”

Financing is Now Front and Center

Worrilow tracks local financing trends closely and recently shared insights about what’s really happening in our region.

In Spotsylvania, VA loans and conventional financing dominate the market. “FHA is still part of the mix, but it’s significantly lower than VA — by more than a third,” he says. “The type of loan people use tells you a lot about affordability and buyer demographics.”

Stafford follows a similar pattern. “VA and conventional loans are neck and neck there — only about 150 apart in number — while FHA trails behind,” Worrilow explains.

Why does this matter? Because today’s buyers are making decisions based not just on where they want to live, but also on what types of financing they can qualify for and what makes the most sense for their financial future.

Real Estate is Personal — More Than Ever

“The pandemic reshaped what people value in a home,” Worrilow says. “Working from home, needing more space, choosing to stay in a community longer — all of these factors have changed what people are looking for.”

He helps buyers think beyond square footage and school zones and instead focus on things like:

• How flexible is the home’s layout?
• Is there space to work remotely?
• Can you grow into it, or will you outgrow it quickly?
• Are you financially comfortable with your monthly payment?

Sellers Need to Think Strategically

On the seller side, Worrilow uses his knowledge of financing trends and buyer priorities to help homes stand out. “If your property fits the needs of VA buyers — which many do in this region — we position it accordingly,” he says.

And timing is everything. “We look at current data, not just seasonal trends, to decide when to list and how to price your home.”

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re buying or selling in 2025, one thing is clear: The old rules no longer apply. The market is more nuanced, data-driven, and personal than ever — and Mark Worrilow is here to help you navigate it all.

• Call Mark at 703-244-8702 
• Visit markworrilow.com
• Licensed Broker in VA
• Licensed Instructor in VA

Bradley Marshall, Esq. | Criminal Defense Attorney | VFN Law

If you’re stopped or arrested, the way you respond can affect your entire case. Staying calm and knowing your rights is critical—but having the right attorney is just as important. That’s where Bradley Marshall, Esq. comes in.

Stay Silent
You have the right to remain silent. Don’t explain. Don’t argue. Just say, “I’m invoking my right to remain silent.” Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s best to say nothing at all.

Ask for a Lawyer
If you’re being questioned, arrested, or charged, ask for legal counsel immediately. Bradley Marshall has years of experience defending clients in Virginia’s criminal courts. Don’t try to handle law enforcement on your own—let him protect your rights from the start.

Refuse Unlawful Searches
Unless police have a warrant, probable cause, or your consent, they cannot legally search your property. Politely say, “I do not consent to a search.” Know your rights—assert them respectfully.

Bradley Marshall, Esq. is a trusted advocate who understands Virginia law and how the system works in Prince William County. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor, DUI, or felony charge, you need someone who will fight for your future.

 Call today for a free consultation: 703-369-4738
9200 Church Street, Suite 400, Manassas, VA
 vfnlaw.com |  [email protected]

Bradley Marshall, Esq. – Protecting your rights. Defending your future.

Easter is almost here, and Manassas Park Community Center is making it extra special with three exciting Easter Egg Hunts for all ages.

Flashlight Egg Hunt (Ages 8-11)

• Friday, April 11 | 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.Kids bring their flashlights, baskets, and search for eggs under the stars.
• Plus, enjoy games and activities before the big hunt.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 1-7)

• Saturday, April 12 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Three age-specific hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny, crafts, and games.

Teen Flashlight Egg Hunt (Teens 12-17)

• Thursday, April 17 | 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• A cool, nighttime twist on a classic tradition designed specifically for teens.

“We actually have kids who, as they grow through the younger egg hunts, get excited when they’re finally old enough to do the flashlight egg hunt. It’s like a rite of passage.” — Kaitlyn Hall, Event Specialist

“The golden egg is always a fun surprise—kids don’t always know about it, but when they find it, they’re thrilled to win a special basket tailored to their age group.” — Kaitlyn Hall

“Our Easter egg hunts are a tradition. I’ve watched some kids go from being in the one-year-old group to now being old enough for the flashlight hunt. It’s special to see them come back every year.” — Kaitlyn Hall

Location: Manassas Park Community Center

Register online: ManassasParkCommunityCenter.com

Don’t miss out on the fun. Join us for a family-friendly Easter celebration.

Just Listed: 402 Cabin Ct, Stafford, VA 22554
Open House: Saturday, April 5, 12 to 3 p.m.
Price: $435,000
MLS#: VAST2036384
Listing Agent: Lindsey Schmidt – Fathom Realty | Licensed in VA | Call now! 205-223-1732

This beautifully updated townhome in the Cabin Creekwood subdivision offers comfort, convenience, and style—all in one. Now available at a new price, this home is centrally located just minutes from Quantico, I-95, Route 1, and the VRE, providing easy access for commuters.

Inside, you’ll find a bright, inviting space with neutral paint throughout. The updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances, modern countertops, and a functional center island with storage. The open-concept main level includes a spacious living and dining area, perfect for entertaining, along with a refreshed powder room.

Step outside to a fully fenced backyard with a deck—ideal for relaxing or hosting guests.

Upstairs, the home offers two large bedrooms with ample closet space and a renovated full bathroom that includes a wide vanity and a stylish, floor-to-ceiling tiled tub surround.

The finished lower level includes a third bedroom (not to code) with a fireplace, luxury vinyl flooring, a full bathroom with a walk-in shower, a dedicated laundry area, and additional storage. Whether you need extra space for guests, a home office, or a workout area, this level delivers versatility.

Additional highlights:

One-car garage with storage
HVAC replaced in 2024
Lot size: 0.04 acres
Located within Stafford County Public Schools
The property is just a short drive to shopping, dining, entertainment, schools, parks, and medical facilities. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate proximity to the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, while those who enjoy historic charm can explore nearby Downtown Fredericksburg.

Sellers request rent-back through May 24.

Don’t miss your chance to tour this updated and move-in-ready home. Visit the open house on Saturday, April 5, from 12 to 3 p.m.

For more information or to schedule a private showing, contact:

Lindsey Schmidt
Licensed in VA
205-223-1732

At Freedom Property Management, it’s not just about homes — it’s about heart. We recently sat down with Tracy, a lifelong Prince William County resident and seasoned property manager with more than four decades of experience. Her journey, passion, and deep industry knowledge are just a few reasons Freedom Property Management continues to earn the trust of property owners and tenants across Northern Virginia.

1. What inspired your career in property management?
   “I’m a native of Prince William County and the daughter of a carpenter,” Tracy said. “Growing up, we learned to use power tools, help with home repairs, and understand how buildings work. One of my high school friends had a mom who ran a property management division and offered me a job. I started right after high school and worked nearly every position in that department — except for her job!”

After 34 years with a large firm, Tracy joined Freedom Property Management for a more personal, boutique-style experience. “It felt like I had my voice back,” she added. “At Freedom, my ideas and experience matter again.”

2. How does working at Freedom differ from a larger firm?
   “With a big company, you risk losing that personal touch,” she explained. “Owners and tenants can get passed around between departments. At Freedom, we’re small enough to give everyone the attention they deserve. Even if Tiffany or I aren’t handling something directly, we’re still aware of what’s going on and can step in quickly.”
3. What’s the key to keeping clients happy?
   “Communication,” Tracy said without hesitation. “No one wants to be surprised with a $2,500 bill. We keep owners and tenants informed in real time — not bombarded, but updated. They know who’s coming to their property and what’s happening. That transparency builds trust.”
4. What’s a moment that really stands out in your career?
   Tracy recounted a water emergency that could’ve been a disaster:
   “A picture fell off a wall, hit a shutoff valve, and water started pouring through the house — all the way to the basement. The ceiling almost collapsed onto the owner’s built-in speakers and projector. I had a contractor out that day, and a plumber the next morning. The whole restoration took about three to four weeks, but we handled everything — fast.”
5. When you’re not managing properties, what do you enjoy?
   “I love to cook, garden, do arts and crafts, and spend time with my seven grandkids,” she said with a smile. “People think this job would get boring, but every day is a new story, a new challenge. I always say we don’t just manage properties — we manage problems. For tenants, owners, contractors, and HOAs — we’re here to help.”

Freedom Property Management provides full-service residential property management throughout Northern Virginia. Whether you’re an investor looking to maximize your rental property’s value or a tenant seeking responsive service, the Freedom team offers local expertise and personalized attention every step of the way.

Learn more at FreedomPM.com

At ACE Cabinet & Granite, we know your home is unique—so why settle for cabinets and countertops that come from a warehouse shelf? Unlike big-box stores where you’re left to figure things out on your own, our Haymarket team provides hands-on guidance from design to installation.

Here’s what makes us different:

• Bespoke Kitchen & Bath Designs – No off-the-rack options; we tailor everything to your
  home.
• Premium Quality Materials – Granite, marble, quartz, and more, sourced from trusted
  brands.
• Expert Installation – Skilled professionals ensure a flawless finish.

The result? A kitchen or bathroom that feels as luxurious and custom as a fine-diningexperience. Visit ACE Cabinet & Granite in Haymarket and let’s bring your vision to life.

ACE Cabinet & Granite – Haymarket Showroom
6719 Leaberry Way, Haymarket, VA
(571) 240-0700
acecabinetgranite.com

Classes, Financial Coaching and Experts for Would-Be Renters and First-Time Buyers

If you’re planning to buy or rent a place in Northern Virginia anytime soon, you’ll want to make this housing expo your first stop!

The regional housing fair and all its free resources are coming to Meridian High School, next to West Falls Church Metro, on April 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can speak with experts in the exhibit hall, attend informational workshops and benefit from individual financial coaching from certified volunteers.

The Northern Virginia Housing Expo also features vast online resources, with its online exhibit hall drawing more than 200,000 visits in 2024. Visitors to novahousingexpo.org can also view a variety of helpful webinars and sign up for virtual financial coaching anytime throughout the year.

This year’s workshops and exhibits will educate attendees about: being creditworthy; getting ready to buy or rent; first-time buyer programs in each local jurisdiction; senior housing options; the tax implications of owning a home; the current local real estate market; working with a Realtor; and a Spanish language overview of buying, renting and credit scores.

The expo is free to the public thanks to a variety of sponsorships, including funding and planning support from: Virginia Housing; the Prince William Office of Housing and Community Development; the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors®; the Falls Church Department of Housing and Human Services; Loudoun County’s Department of Housing and Community Development; Arlington County Housing Division; Alexandria Office of Housing; Manassas Park Department of Community Services; and the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority.

You’ve heard it before: Location, Location, Location.

But according to seasoned Realtor Mark Worrilow, that old real estate rule just doesn’t cover it anymore.

“In today’s market, location is just one piece of the puzzle,” says Worrilow, who works with Fathom Realty and has helped hundreds of families buy and sell homes in Prince William, Stafford, and Spotsylvania counties. “Buyers are more concerned about how they’re going to live — and how they’re going to afford it — than they are about a specific zip code.”

Financing is Now Front and Center

Worrilow tracks local financing trends closely and recently shared insights about what’s really happening in our region.

In Spotsylvania, VA loans and conventional financing dominate the market. “FHA is still part of the mix, but it’s significantly lower than VA — by more than a third,” he says. “The type of loan people use tells you a lot about affordability and buyer demographics.”

Stafford follows a similar pattern. “VA and conventional loans are neck and neck there — only about 150 apart in number — while FHA trails behind,” Worrilow explains.

Why does this matter? Because today’s buyers are making decisions based not just on where they want to live, but also on what types of financing they can qualify for and what makes the most sense for their financial future.

Real Estate is Personal — More Than Ever

“The pandemic reshaped what people value in a home,” Worrilow says. “Working from home, needing more space, choosing to stay in a community longer — all of these factors have changed what people are looking for.”

He helps buyers think beyond square footage and school zones and instead focus on things like:

• How flexible is the home’s layout?
• Is there space to work remotely?
• Can you grow into it, or will you outgrow it quickly?
• Are you financially comfortable with your monthly payment?

Sellers Need to Think Strategically

On the seller side, Worrilow uses his knowledge of financing trends and buyer priorities to help homes stand out. “If your property fits the needs of VA buyers — which many do in this region — we position it accordingly,” he says.

And timing is everything. “We look at current data, not just seasonal trends, to decide when to list and how to price your home.”

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re buying or selling in 2025, one thing is clear: The old rules no longer apply. The market is more nuanced, data-driven, and personal than ever — and Mark Worrilow is here to help you navigate it all.

• Call Mark at 703-244-8702 
• Visit markworrilow.com
• Licensed Broker in VA
• Licensed Instructor in VA

Price: $3,100/month

4 Bedrooms | 2 Full Baths
1,885 sq. ft. | Villa Style

Welcome to low-maintenance luxury living in the sought-after Belmont Bay community. This beautifully maintained villa offers main-level living with scenic wooded views and a layout designed for both comfort and function.

Step inside to an open floor plan with soaring cathedral ceilings, an electric fireplace, and a bright eat-in kitchen with modern appliances and ample cabinet space. With four spacious bedrooms all on the main level, this home is perfect for those seeking convenience without sacrificing space.

The primary suite includes a large en-suite bath and generous closet space, while the additional bedrooms are ideal for guests, a home office, or hobbies. The main-level laundry room, attached garage, and private balcony add to the convenience.

Community amenities include an outdoor pool, tennis courts, jogging paths, tot lots, and a community center. Rent includes HOA/Condo fees, lawn service, trash removal, snow removal, parking, and fiber optic internet access, so you can enjoy the lifestyle without the extra hassle.

Located just minutes from Route 1, VRE, marinas, and major commuter routes, this home offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience in one of Woodbridge’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Available: Now
12–24 month lease
No pets, no smoking
Application Fee: $50
Security Deposit: $3,100

Call Today to Schedule Your Showing

Listing Agent: Nara Rakhmetova
Fathom Realty (Licensed in Virginia)
Phone: 202-491-5629
Email: [email protected]