Does a Fireplace Add Value to a Home in Texas?

Fireplace or no fireplace? Statista reported that the number of new single-family homes which include a fireplace has consistently declined since 2001. In primitive architecture, a small fireplace was centrally located in the home to provide an even distribution of heat and also serve as a heat source for cooking. As heating and cooling technologies advanced, the fireplace took a less centralized role and became more of an aesthetic feature.

Since fireplaces are now more for decorative purposes, the need for one isn’t there. Plus, many people are turning towards open floor plans, which may mean losing the fireplace in exchange for more space. However, homebuyers still appreciate the atmospheric beauty of a fireplace, and there are several more types and location possibilities than ever before. A fireplace can add value to your home, but it’s important to consider your options before giving your Texas home builder the thumb’s up. Read on to explore the ins and outs of fireplaces for your new home.

A corner fireplace can add character to your family room while still maintaining a traditional layout with your furniture parallel to the TV wall

Why Install a Fireplace?

When the word “value” is used, monetary value is often implied. While it’s true that a fireplace does add some value, the real benefits of a fireplace (at least in Texas) are more sentimental in nature. 

The most popular reasons for having a fireplace in new build homes are:

Architectural and Visual Interest 

A fireplace creates a focal point for your home. Although the warmth of a crackling fire is what tends to draw attention, even the brick or stonework can be a charming addition. A unique twist, such as a corner fireplace, can set your house apart and give it “that little extra something.”

Family-feel

Since fireplaces attract the eye almost automatically, you can use this to your advantage. From hanging stockings to putting the family photo above the mantle, a fireplace can be a way to keep your family in mind every day of the year.  

Emotional Comfort

In some cases, those moving to Texas from the Northern states may expect to see a fireplace somewhere in their new home. Fireplaces can make a new home feel warm and welcoming (even for Texans). 

Emergency Use

Realistically, it’s unlikely that you’ll need your new fireplace to warm your house. However, should there be another situation like the freeze in 2021 where the Texas power grid failed, it may be reassuring to know that your fireplace can act as a heating backup plan until things start to warm up again.

The fireplace can be the focal point of your space with the TV hung above and the furniture angled to optimize visibility

Consider Your Options for Fireplaces in New Homes

Fireplaces can be wood, gas, or electric. Although wood burning is the most traditional option, a gas starter can simplify the process and still provide a beautiful — and warming — addition to your home. Electric fireplaces are a convenient option, as they turn on with the push of a button and most are designed to be safe around children and pets. 

To keep the process stress-free, it’s important to decide if a fireplace is right for you before your home builder starts construction. Once you decide to say yes to a fireplace, you may want to consider where you want to put your fireplace before you decide what type is best for your home.    

Fireplace Locations

Traditional Fireplace

A traditional fireplace is one that is built in the center of a large wall of a room, usually the family room or living room. Occasionally, you may also see fireplaces in the master bedroom or in the dining room. In larger houses, it’s not uncommon to find more than one fireplace.  

Corner Fireplace  

A corner fireplace can add character to your family room while still maintaining a traditional layout with your furniture parallel to the TV wall. This is a great option if you appreciate the aesthetic of a fireplace but still want a more flexible living space.

Outdoor Fireplace (or a Grill)

One idea to consider for your new Texas home is whether you would benefit more from having a fireplace outside. Having a fireplace on the patio has become a popular option, allowing you to enjoy it more often throughout the year.

If you’re looking for a functional alternative, a built-in outdoor grill can heat your backyard entertainment space during the colder months of the year and allow you to be the grill master during those summer cookouts. 

Having a fireplace on the patio has become a popular option, allowing you to enjoy it more often throughout the year

Many homebuyers choose to add a built-in grill on the patio rather than a fireplace to allow their purchase to play a more functional role

Does a Fireplace Add Value to a Home?

There are many home builders who continue to build new homes with fireplaces included; however, about fifteen years ago, Omega Builders decided to remove fireplaces from the standard features of our homes and allow customers to decide if they wanted to add one to their homes. 

This is because while it does add some monetary value (around $5,000), a fireplace can be a costly addition that may not be used enough to justify the initial investment. However, some families find that a fireplace is a fun, customizable add-on to complete the vision of their dream home. 

Are Fireplaces Still Popular in Texas?

Winter in Texas isn't usually defined by how many inches of snow there is, but rather by the shorter days and the more bearable temperatures. Texas does still see frost and the occasional snowfall, with the average yearly low temperature for Texas dropping well below 20°F. 

Many homes in Texas do have fireplaces. It would not be surprising to see more interest in fireplaces for new homes in the coming years as families explore the different types and location options available.

Adding a Fireplace to Your New Home

Cooler temperatures might make you miss having a fireplace, but it really comes down to what is most important to you. How often will you use an interior fireplace? Could you use the extra space for a different purpose? What other home features would you add with the money that you save by not having a fireplace?

If you're still not sure whether to include a fireplace in your new home (or add upgrades to the new home), check out New Homes Guide to get started.

What are the must-haves on your list?

Use our New Home Shopping List to get started: