For many people who live outside of cities, the crisp fall air is associated with wool sweaters, hearty soups, and roaring fireplaces.
To commit to a property in New York City, however, we must fulfill several requirements before we may curl up by the fire.
Most appraisers agree that a wood-burning fireplace can fetch a premium between $25,000 and $100,000 on Fifth Avenue and Central Park since it is a sought-after luxury with a diminishing supply.
Understanding the benefits, drawbacks, and warnings is crucial before deciding for purchasers and renters looking for a cozy fire on a chilly Gotham night.
We sincerely hope our summary of the dos and don’ts is helpful before purchasing your desired property with a welcoming fireplace.
Why You Should Consider a Fireplace
Almost everyone enjoys using fireplaces. However, you might believe that a classic fireplace is inappropriate for your design if your house has a modern aesthetic.
Or perhaps you think that your busy schedule prevents you from having enough time to enjoy a fireplace to its fullest? The good news is that fireplaces may be incorporated into any décor.
When a fireplace could only be made of wood is long gone. Now anybody may enjoy a fire’s coziness, warmth, and beauty.
Many people opt for the warmth and comfort of a fireplace during family events and holiday gatherings. Families have grown accustomed to spending time together by the fireplace throughout time.
Since so many people enjoy the comfort of a dancing fire, streaming sites even provide channels of fireplaces for people without one. However, nothing beats a genuine article.
A fireplace’s attractiveness is clear to see. It’s a cheap approach to warm up your house while getting a lot of other beautiful advantages. Additionally, fireplaces are safer than ever thanks to modern safety features and technology that have been placed into them.
4 Things Buyers and Renters Should Consider Before Cozying Up
Here are some things buyers and renters should consider before cozying up:
Responsibility for Maintenance Costs Should Be Discussed in Advance
Considering the maintenance fees, you might be taking on is crucial because having a fireplace in the city requires additional upkeep.
Be sure to consult your responsibility for maintenance and what belongs to the landlord as part of your pre-purchase due diligence. Be sure to record the conversation.
1. Implement Precautions for Fireplace Safety
If you are unfamiliar with fireplaces, you might not know the safety risk associated with these extra features.
You must take various steps to guarantee an effective and secure fireplace for you and your loved ones.
Knowing the symptoms of inadequate ventilation is of utmost importance. An obstruction, where smoke may be pushed back into your living space, would illustrate this.
Never place anything flammable close to the fireplace’s entrance, and for convenience’s sake, keep the area around a fireplace empty.
Never leave a fire unattended; be careful about what you choose to burn to prevent a fire.
Also, always keep a fire extinguisher on hand and a functioning carbon monoxide and smoke alarm in an emergency.
2. Wood-Burning Fireplaces Can Lead To Higher Insurance Rates
Typically, normal homeowner’s insurance covers fire and smoke damage; however, the insurer may charge you extra fees.
Most recently, depending on your insurance provider, you can expect a rise of 2 percent or more.
3. Do Not Assume That the Wood-Burning Fireplace Is in Working Condition
In New York City, it’s unusual for a building to block off the chimneys while undergoing restorations or repairs and to give the mantle a decorative accent instead of a heating source.
Make sure you are getting what you want before closing on any property! Less than 10% of the fireplaces in apartments that are listed on Streeteasy these days are functional.
If you are fortunate enough to own a fireplace in New York City, it is advised that you get it professionally cleaned at least twice a year or more frequently, depending on how often you use it.