Five homeowners planning to sell their Marin County properties had this in common: fireplaces that were were 40-60 years old and needed an update. Fireplaces are often a focal point of a room, so their appearance counts. Madeline Schaider Real Estate and her design team transformed these fireplaces as part of their strategy to maximize the sale price of the homes. See the dramatic results below.
Replaced complicated granite with modern gray tile and new handles on the glass doors.
Paint in a soft white provided a simple but dramatic fireplace transformation. Brass surround was coated with fire resistant paint.
Painting out the black flue pipe “hid” the pipe and modernized this fireplace.
Low sheen black paint turned the dated stone facing and hearth into interesting textures surrounding a newer gas insert.
Facing the brick with stone and sheetrock, plus a new rustic wood mantle, transformed this fireplace. Removing the brick extension to the left opened the living room to the family room.
Transforming out-of-date fireplaces is a relatively inexpensive way to modernize a room. This helps make a good first impression, which is critical in presenting a home for sale.
Most buyers like fireplaces. A survey by the National Association of Realtors in 2021 found that just under half of all home buyers would be willing to pay significantly more for a home with at least one fireplace. Buyers can choose to convert the fireplace to gas or electric. Gas burning fireplaces are mandated in some new construction to reduce pollution and related global warming. This requirement may soon become widespread.
Madeline Schaider can advise home sellers on how to make the BEST first impression on potential buyers. We have consistently helped our clients make important enhancements at the lowest cost, to bring them the highest sale prices. Contact Madeline to discuss improvements to your home, whether you are planning to sell soon or in the future. It is not too soon to get started.
