Joseph Pettinella's blog

Nurture Your Artistic Side in October

Looking to get some hands-on experience with artistic crafting, but don't know how to get started? Check out the community art days that happen on the third weekend of each month at Art Centro and PUF Studios in Poughkeepsie! You can learn about pottery and printmaking when the next series of community days happen on October 20 & 21.

Median Down Payment Percentage Reaches 15-Year High

The amount of money that buyers are paying up front on their mortgages is way up, but still might not be as high as you think. Although many people believe in the myth of the 20% down payment, the typical buyer actually puts down far less; in fact, even though the median down payment percentage reached a nearly 15-year high last quarter, it was still just 7.6% of the median sales price! Keep reading to learn more about the changing trends in home financing.

When Did You Last Clean Your Chimney?

As winter approaches, many of us are dreaming of cozy nights spent next to the fire. Although it's easy to ignore throughout the year, your fireplace could be the source of major disaster if not properly maintained. Before you light your first burn of the season, be sure to take the proper precautions by having your chimney inspected!

11th Annual Fine Home Source Show in Millbrook

On September 22, head over to beautiful Millbrook and check out the 11th annual Fine Home Source Show! This amazing event is committed to presenting quality designs, craftsmanship, products, and services that can make your home reach new levels of comfort, elegance, and efficiency! Over 50 exhibitors will showcase items ranging from fencing to home appliances and everything in between.

Scratched Wood Floor? There's a Simple Fix

No matter how careful you are with your hardwood floors, eventually life will find a way to scratch them. In an instant, that beautiful surface can be marred from something as simple as moving furniture, knocking something off a table, or a rock stuck in the bottom of your shoe. Luckily, there are a number of surprisingly easy methods for removing or repairing even deep scratches from hardwood floors! Keep reading to find the one that will work for your scratches.

Have a Movie Night on Bannerman Island

Have you ever been to Bannerman Castle? This fanciful structure sits on Pollepel Island, a small piece of land on the Hudson River which is often referred to by the castle's name. If you enjoy a bit of adventure, then take an evening to explore the island and see a classic film by signing up for Movie Night on Bannerman Island! Any evening featuring a cruise to an island castle is bound to be one you'll never forget!