One of the true joys of the winter season is to be snuggled up next to a warm fire with a loved one, unfortunately not every home is lucky enough to be built with a fireplace in the living room. But is the installation of a fireplace really a good idea?
A wood-burning or gas fireplace is a “must have” for many home buyers. A 2012 survey ranked fireplaces as one of the top three amenities in a new home search. As many as 60 percent of all new construction homes are built with a fireplace and that number continues to increase year after year. Although in the past, the installation and maintenance of a fireplace has been expensive, recent advances in fireplace technology have brought those cost down quite a bit.
A beautiful stone veneer fireplace will no doubt add some significant value to your home even though they are not specifically taken into account during home appraisals. A 2007 National Association of Realtors survey, estimated that 46 percent of home buyers were willing to spend an average of $1,220 more for a home with a fireplace and in some locations, boost the value of the home by as much as $12,000. Of course, the location, home value and inclusion of other amenities will ultimately determine the value that a new fireplace will add to your home. There is little doubt that fireplaces are more desirable, especially in colder climates.
A quality stone fireplace truly can be added to just about any home, although the cost can vary quite a bit. A factory-built, professionally installed natural gas or propane fireplace set-up can cost between $2,000-$7,000. Although, your local building code may outline additional requirements that could affect the installation cost substantially. If you are looking for stone veneer to complete your commercial or residential project, look no further than Mason’s Mark Stone. You can learn more about how to fully customize your stone and realize your vision by calling 724.635.0082 or fill out the form in the sidebar, today.
