Inflation and Fireplaces!

[webbie]

I am working on updated all the articles on our Main Info section....and the last one I worked on was an introduction to fireplaces:
https://www.hearth.com/econtent/index.php/articles/intro_fireplaces

The version that I worked on last night was the original one that I wrote in about 1996. One line read:

"many looking for homes costing over $100,000 see the fireplace as the most appealing amenity."

Uh......can't get much of a home anyone for about 100K, let along the luxury buyer looking for a fireplace! One builder I spoke to in CT a few years ago said they only start thinking about installing masonry fireplaces in houses above 750K.

Wow, it makes you look at inflation with a whole new meaning.

 

[Burn-1]

Given the continuing volatility in the economy with a strong downside bias in real estate prices and upside pressure on heating fuel prices I would think this may be set to change soon if not already. I also think it definitely depends on the area. Here in the Lakes Region/White Mountain Region of NH a large masonry fireplace is a high demand item in upper end lake houses and ski lodges with a couple gas fireplaces thrown in for accents.