The thought of adding a fireplace to your house often offers idyllic images of sitting in front of a fire on a snowy night. It seems like the perfect way to spend the holiday season and would be sure to add a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to any home. Yet, many homeowners wonder about whether or not this will be a smart investment in the long run. Chimneys require a lot of maintenance, so it is often unclear if adding a fireplace is going to be good for your home’s overall value.
Do Fireplaces Increase Home Value?
Fireplaces do add value to a home and are often desired by people looking to buy houses. Statistics have shown that people tend to be willing to pay more for a home with at least one fireplace. By setting a fireplace in the main room, where more people can enjoy it, a house becomes much more appealing to potential buyers.
Picking the Right Fit
It is important to make your fireplace work for your home and climate. Making a practical purchase will not only increase your home’s value but will make your life more comfortable while you still own the house. Here are the main options to consider when picking out a new fireplace.
- Type of Fireplace: There are multiple varieties of fireplace options out there for any homeowner. Between wood-burning, gas, electric, pellet, and more, deciding on just one can be a big decision. Look into all the options available and see what works best for you. Wood-burning fireplaces are more classic, but also require a lot more maintenance and cleaning. Gas-burning fireplaces are not as traditional but can offer a similar look and feel with a lot less maintenance. As with these two, each option provides different pros and cons, so do your research and consult a professional before purchasing.
- Codes and Installation: Depending on where you live and what type of home you own, different codes are set into place as far as how your fireplace and chimney need to be constructed. Be sure to research these to ensure that your unit it installed properly and safely. The smartest option is to call in a professional who is certified to do this process right.
- Location: When deciding how much to spend on your fireplace, consider where you are located and how much the fireplace will be worth to buyers in that area. While it can easily increase the value of the home, this value will vary based on where the home is located. In some areas, spending ten thousand dollars is a smart investment and will pay off should you ever decide to sell the house. In others, you may not want to spend over one thousand. Look at the market before making any firm decisions.
There’s no doubt that adding a fireplace to your home will increase its value. It makes for a better atmosphere and welcomes decades of enjoyment for any homeowner. Call Home Safe Hearth & Chimney Inc. today and consult with us about your options. We will work hard to find the right fit for your needs.