Joseph Pettinella's blog

These Are the Features That Home Buyers Really Want

What do buyers really want? It's a question that perpetually buzzes inside the heads of sellers, real estate professionals, and, of course, home builders, which is why each year the National Association of Home Builders creates their “What Home Buyers Really Want” report. The information in the report comes directly from recent and prospective home buyers, who were asked to rank their most-desired features in a home. The results of the 2019 survey revealed a clear winner, as 91% of buyers prioritized a laundry room as a key feature in their new home. Keep reading to learn about some of the other findings from the report.

Don't Disregard a House Based on Cosmetic Faults

Are you searching for a new place to call home? It might sound obvious, but in considering listings you should always remember to focus on things that you can't change (at least not easily), such as the location, price, size, and serious repairs. While items like these correctly fall into the category of "potential deal breakers", it's also unfortunately common for buyers to get hung up on easily-fixable, cosmetic issues. You might think you're immune to this, but things like unpleasant colors or outdated fixtures can be hard to ignore since they are integral to your subconscious impression of the house. Luckily, as a reader of this blog, you know better than to dive into real estate unprepared! Here are some of the minor issues that are most difficult for buyers to overlook, along with a reality check about their actual importance.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Paddy on the River

It's always fun to show a little Irish spirit for St. Patrick's Day, but first you'll need to find a great party to do it at! Luckily, Poughkeepsie has got you covered with Paddy on the River, an amazing event happening Saturday, March 9th at Waryas Park. Featuring Irish food, vendors, music, beer, and more, this event is sure to be a hit. It might be a week early, but that just means you get an extra weekend to celebrate!

Buyers Should Have an Easier Time in 2019

For the last several years, prospective home buyers in most areas of the country have had to face conditions that aren't exactly ideal. Rapid price growth, low housing inventory, and fierce competition among buyers have resulted in conditions that can only be described as a strong seller's market. However, if you have been holding out on buying a home, then there is some evidence that the winds could be shifting in your favor. Keep reading to learn why 2019 might offer some relief for home buyers.

Buying an Older Home? Be Aware of These Potential Issues

Are you considering buying an older home? Don't let the title dissuade you! Older homes often contain craftsmanship, architecture, and character that simply cannot be matched by a newer build. However, before you make your final decision, you should be particularly vigilant for certain issues that are more common among homes built many decades ago. Real estate news and information website RISMedia recently wrote about the specific items on which you should focus extra attention during the inspection process. Performing your due diligence before you sign off on the sale ensures that there are no (or at least not as many) costly surprises waiting for you after you move in!

Celebrate Valentine's Day in Poughkeepsie!

Valentine's Day will be here in just a couple of weeks, so now's the time to make romantic plans with your loved one! Of course, there's no better place to spend an evening than Poughkeepsie, which will be loaded with special Valentine's Day events both on and before the big day. Keep reading to learn about a few of the lovely options available for you and your special someone. 

As you probably know, Valentine's Day is on a Thursday this year, which means that many people will want to celebrate on the weekend before February 14th. Luckily, there are some great events happening Saturday, February 9th and Sunday, February 10th for you!