Zero clearance pellet stove in new construction

I'm not ready to put all my eggs in the pellet basket I guess. Having never owned any pellet burning appliance, I'd rather start with a space heater and then work my way up to a central heater if I see fit.

I also think the convenience of NG can't be beat and the cost is much lower than the oil I am coming from.

A direct vent natural gas unit is almost no maintenance. Some do throw some heat but they are not that efficient since there is almost no restriction on the exhaust venting. You will get more btu from the NG by using the furnace than the fireplace. Current cost of NG in this area is very cheap compared to oil and older electric furnaces. The fire place does give you flame to look at. Make sure it is a quality unit and as for pulling the unit out that is not needed.

As for pellet, you will get more usable BTU but more mess.

Eric