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Understanding Closing Costs When Buying a Home

7/7/2025

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Buying a home is one of the most exciting—and financially significant—steps many people take in life. While most buyers focus on the down payment and monthly mortgage, it’s crucial to plan for another major expense: closing costs.

What Are Closing Costs?
Closing costs are the fees and expenses you pay to finalize your home purchase. These costs are separate from your down payment and are typically due on the day you close on your new home.

How Much Are Closing Costs?
Closing costs usually range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. So, if you're buying a $300,000 home, your closing costs could be anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000. The exact amount depends on your loan type, location, and the specifics of your transaction.

What Do Closing Costs Include?
Here’s a breakdown of common items included in closing costs:
  • Loan Origination Fee – Charged by the lender to process your loan (typically 0.5%–1% of the loan amount).
  • Appraisal Fee – Pays for a professional assessment of the home’s market value.
  • Home Inspection Fee – Although not always required, it’s highly recommended to identify potential issues.
  • Title Search and Title Insurance – Ensures the seller legally owns the home and protects against future title disputes.
  • Attorney Fees – If a lawyer is involved in reviewing or preparing paperwork (required in some states).
  • Recording Fees – Charged by your local government to record the property sale.
  • Escrow Fees – Covers services provided by the escrow company handling the transaction.
  • Prepaid Costs – Includes property taxes, homeowners insurance, and prepaid interest on your mortgage.

​Who Pays Closing Costs?
In most cases, buyers pay the majority of closing costs, but sellers also have fees, especially if they're covering part of the buyer’s costs as part of the negotiation. In some markets, buyers may be able to ask for a seller concession to help reduce the financial burden.

Can You Reduce Closing Costs?
Yes! Here are a few tips:
  • Shop around for lenders to compare origination and processing fees.
  • Ask for a Loan Estimate early in the process to see a breakdown of fees.
  • Negotiate with the seller to cover part of the costs.
  • Look for first-time buyer programs that offer assistance with closing costs.

Final Thoughts
Closing costs can be a surprise if you're not prepared, but with the right planning and a trusted real estate professional on your side, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect. Understanding these costs in advance ensures there are no last-minute surprises when you get to the closing table—and helps you enjoy your new home with confidence.
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What To Know When House Hunting

7/4/2025

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IS owning a home in an HOA REALLY WORTH THE COST?

7/2/2025

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​Are HOA fees taking a toll on your wallet? In this video, we explore the pros and cons of owning a home in a neighborhood with a Homeowners Association (HOA). From manicured lawns to strict rules, we weigh the benefits against the costs to help you decide if the extra expense is really worth it. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, this video is for anyone considering buying a property in an HOA community. So, is owning a home in an HOA really worth the cost? Watch to find out!
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Smart Strategies for Saving Money for Your First Home

6/30/2025

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Buying a home is one of the biggest financial milestones in life, and it all starts with saving up for that down payment and other associated costs. Whether you're just beginning to think about homeownership or actively planning your purchase, the sooner you start saving, the better. Here are some practical steps to help you build your savings and get closer to the keys of your new home.

1. Set a Clear Savings Goal
Start by understanding how much you need to save. Most lenders recommend putting down at least 5% to 20% of the home's purchase price. For example, on a $250,000 home, a 10% down payment would be $25,000. Don’t forget to factor in closing costs, moving expenses, and a cushion for any initial repairs or furnishings.

2. Create a Budget and Track Expenses
Building a budget is essential. Look at your current income and expenses to see where your money is going. Tracking your spending will help you identify areas where you can cut back. Even small changes like reducing takeout meals or canceling unused subscriptions can free up cash for savings.

3. Open a Dedicated Savings Account
​
Keeping your home savings separate from your everyday spending account can reduce the temptation to dip into your funds. Look for a high-yield savings account to earn more interest while you save.

4. Automate Your Savings
Set up automatic transfers to your savings account on payday. Treat your savings like a monthly bill that must be paid. This ensures consistency and helps build your balance without extra thought.

5. Cut Unnecessary Expenses
Be honest about your spending habits. Can you downsize your car? Cut back on vacations? Shop more strategically? Redirecting those savings can accelerate your path to homeownership.

6. Take on a Side Hustle
Earning extra income can give your savings a big boost. Whether it's freelancing, rideshare driving, or selling unused items online, every dollar you earn can get you closer to your goal.

7. Use Windfalls Wisely
Tax refunds, bonuses, or financial gifts can significantly impact your savings. Instead of spending these extras, deposit them directly into your home fund.

8. Explore First-Time Homebuyer Programs
Many states and communities offer assistance programs that help first-time buyers with down payments, closing costs, or low-interest loans. Research what's available in your area—it could shorten your savings timeline.

Final Thoughts
Saving for a home may feel daunting at first, but with the right plan and discipline, it’s absolutely achievable. The key is to start early, stay focused, and make your savings a priority. Every step you take gets you one step closer to owning a place to call your own.
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How to Build Credit: A Step-by-Step Guide

6/29/2025

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Whether you're planning to buy a home, apply for a car loan, or simply want financial stability, a good credit score is essential. For first-time buyers especially, building and maintaining strong credit can open doors to better loan terms, lower interest rates, and more financial opportunities. Here’s how to start building credit the right way.

1. Understand What Credit Is and Why It Matters
Credit is your financial reputation. It tells lenders how responsible you are with borrowing and repaying money. Your credit score is based on several factors, including:
  • Payment history
  • Amounts owed
  • Length of credit history
  • Types of credit
  • Recent credit inquiries
The higher your score (usually 300–850), the better your chances of getting approved for loans or credit—and at more favorable terms.

2. Start With a Secured Credit Card
If you're new to credit, a secured credit card is a great first step. This type of card requires a cash deposit that acts as your credit limit. Use it responsibly and pay the balance off on time each month to build positive credit history.

Tip: Keep your balance below 30% of the credit limit to show you're using credit wisely.

3. Become an Authorized User
Ask a trusted family member (with good credit) to add you as an authorized user on one of their credit cards. You don’t even have to use the card—just being associated with a well-managed account can help you establish credit.

4. Make Payments On Time—Every Time
Payment history makes up the largest portion of your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders so you never miss a due date. Even one late payment can hurt your score.

5. Use Credit Responsibly
Building credit isn’t about how much you borrow—it's about how you manage it. Avoid maxing out your credit cards and try to pay more than the minimum balance whenever possible.

6. Apply for Credit Sparingly
Too many hard inquiries (like applying for multiple cards or loans in a short period) can lower your score. Only apply when necessary, and do your research beforehand to choose the best option.

7. Monitor Your Credit Regularly
Use free credit monitoring services or request a free credit report once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com. This helps you track your progress and catch errors or signs of identity theft early.

Final Thought
​Building credit takes time, but every smart move you make adds up. Start small, be consistent, and keep your financial goals in focus. If you're planning to buy a home in the future, strong credit will help you qualify for better mortgage rates and more flexible loan options.
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Investing in real estate vs investing in stocks

6/27/2025

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​Are you torn between investing in the stock market or real estate? In this video, we'll weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this video is perfect for anyone looking to build wealth and secure their financial future. From diversification and risk management to cash flow and long-term appreciation, we'll cover it all. So, which is better - stocks or real estate? Let's find out!
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3 Ways To Protect Your Smart Home From Threats

6/20/2025

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The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Home: What Every Buyer Should Know

6/19/2025

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Buying a home is one of the most exciting—and significant—investments you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving into your next home, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. As a real estate professional, my goal is to make sure you feel informed, confident, and prepared every step of the way.

1. Know What You Can Afford
Before you start browsing listings, it’s crucial to know your budget. Speak with a mortgage lender to get pre-approved and understand how much home you can realistically afford. A pre-approval also strengthens your offer once you find the right property.

2. Make a List of Must-Haves
Identify what you need versus what you want. Do you need a certain number of bedrooms? Is a big backyard or walkable neighborhood important to you? Knowing your priorities will help you focus your search and avoid wasting time on homes that don’t fit your lifestyle.

3. Work With a Local Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent is your greatest asset. We have access to the latest listings, understand local market trends, and can negotiate on your behalf. We’ll also guide you through inspections, paperwork, and closing day so nothing gets missed.

4. Be Ready to Act Quickly
In today’s competitive market, the best homes don’t last long. If you find a property you love, be prepared to make a strong, timely offer. Your agent will help craft a competitive offer that gives you the best chance of acceptance.

5. Don’t Skip the Inspection
A home inspection is a crucial step. It uncovers any potential issues with the property—big or small—so you’re not caught off guard after moving in. Depending on the results, you may want to renegotiate the terms or ask the seller to make repairs.

6. Understand the Closing Process
Once your offer is accepted, the home enters escrow. During this time, you’ll finalize your loan, complete inspections, and review documents. Your agent and lender will walk you through each step until it’s time to close and get the keys to your new home.

Thinking About Buying a Home? Let's Talk.
As a dedicated real estate agent in Southeast Michigan, I’m here to simplify the home buying journey and help you find the perfect place to call home. Reach out today to start the conversation—you’re closer to your new home than you think!

Connect with Jason Gelios here
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Why buying a new construction home might be a good fit for you.

6/18/2025

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As a real estate agent, one of the most exciting experiences I get to share with clients is helping them purchase a newly built home. There’s something incredibly special about walking into a home where no one has ever lived before—where every fixture, finish, and feature is brand new and designed to suit your personal tastes.

If you’re considering buying a home, here are a few compelling reasons why a new construction might be the right path for you:

1. Customization Options
Many builders offer the opportunity to personalize your home during the construction phase. From cabinetry and countertops to flooring and paint colors, you can often choose the finishes that reflect your style—something that's not always possible with resale homes.

2. Energy Efficiency
New homes are built with the latest materials and technologies, meaning they’re often far more energy-efficient than older homes. Features like improved insulation, double- or triple-pane windows, and smart home systems help reduce utility bills and create a more comfortable living environment.

3. Lower Maintenance Costs
Because everything is new—from the roof to the HVAC system—your maintenance and repair costs will likely be much lower than with an older home. Most builders also include warranties that cover various systems and structural elements, giving you peace of mind in the first few years.

4. Modern Design and Layouts
Today’s new builds are designed for the way people live now. Open-concept floor plans, larger kitchens, walk-in closets, and flex spaces for home offices or gyms are standard features in many new homes.

5. Community Amenities
Many new developments are master-planned communities that offer shared amenities like parks, walking trails, playgrounds, pools, and clubhouses. These features can enhance your lifestyle and even increase the resale value of your home.

6. Incentives from Builders
Builders frequently offer incentives such as closing cost assistance, upgrades, or financing deals when you use their preferred lender. These can make a big difference in your bottom line.
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Every homeowner NEEDS these 16 tools!

6/17/2025

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​Are you tired of not having the right tools for the job? As a homeowner, it's essential to have the necessary tools to tackle any task that comes your way. In this video, we'll be covering the must-have tools that every homeowner needs to know about. From basic DIY projects to more complex renovations, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned DIY expert or just starting out, this video is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their toolkit. So, what are you waiting for? Watch now and discover the essential tools every homeowner needs to succeed!
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Are Mortgage Rates Going UP Or DOWN?

6/16/2025

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20 Items To Check BEFORE a Home Inspection

6/13/2025

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What Homebuyers Don't Want

6/6/2025

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Spring Home Selling Tips

5/30/2025

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9 Hidden Costs Of Buying a Home

5/23/2025

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Things Every New Homeowner Should Know

5/16/2025

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House Not Getting Clean? Here are 11 reasons why

5/9/2025

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In Closing: How to Seal the Home Buying Deal

5/6/2025

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By: HouseLogic

Sign that paperwork. Write those checks. Get those keys!

The closing. It all comes down to this. The grand finale. Once you have the keys, the house is yours. (Cue: Air horn sound!)
Nice work getting this far. You’re almost a homeowner. Let’s run through some questions you may have as you cross the finish line.

What Does ‘Closing’ Mean?
The close, or settlement, is when you sign the final ownership and insurance paperwork and get the keys to your new home.
The closing process technically begins when you’ve signed a purchase and sale agreement. That agreement should specify a closing date. From the signing date to the closing date typically takes 30 to 45 days. During this time, purchasing funds are held in escrow, where your money is safe until the deal is officially done.

What’s a Closing Disclosure?
Lenders must provide borrowers with a closing disclosure, or CD, at least three business days before settlement. This form is a statement of your final loan terms and closing costs.

You have three days to review the CD to compare it to the loan estimate you received shortly after you applied for the loan. If you need a refresher on loan estimates, you can view a sample version.

The point of this formal review process is to reduce or minimize surprises at the closing table. If there’s a significant discrepancy between the loan estimate and the CD, notify your lender and title company immediately. Depending on what the underlying issue is, the closing has to stop and a new closing disclosure must be sent out with a new three-business-day review period.

The LE includes a couple of items that can’t change by the time you get the CD — namely interest rate and lender fees. Some items can change by only 10%. (Fees paid to local government to record the mortgage might be one.) Others, like prepaid interest, can change without limit, because they can’t be predicted at the start of the loan process.

Prepare for Closing
Buy a Home: Step-by-Step
When Will the Final Walk-Through Happen? Most real estate sale contracts allow the buyer to walk through the home within 24 hours of settlement to check the property’s condition. During this final inspection, which usually takes about an hour, you and your agent will make sure any repair work the seller agreed to make has been completed.

During the walk-through, you’ll also double-check that everything in the house is in good working order. Be sure to: 
  • Run water in all the faucets and check for leaks under sinks
  • Test appliances
  • Check the garage door opener
  • Flush toilets
  • Open and close all doors
  • Run the garbage disposal and exhaust fans

If the home is in good shape — woo-hoo! Your next stop is the closing table.

If anything is amiss, your agent will contact the listing agent and, in most cases, negotiate to get the seller to compensate you at closing for the costs of fixing the problems yourself. 

Worst-case scenario: You have to delay closing to resolve problems. If that unlikely event happens, your agent will help you address the issue.

Who’s Invited to the Closing?
Certain people will be there. Who, exactly, depends on your state. Typically, you’ll be joined by:
  • Your agent
  • The seller
  • The seller’s agent
  • A title company representative
  • Your loan officer
  • Any real estate attorneys involved in the transaction

The closing usually takes place at the title company, attorney’s office, or the real estate office of the buyer’s or seller’s agent. FYI: Some states, like California, don’t require an in-person, sit-down closing, because they’ve enacted legislation that allows for electronic closings with remote notaries.

Nonetheless, as the home buyer, you’ll have to sign what might seem like a mountain of paperwork — including the deed of trust and the promissory note (promising the lender you’ll pay back the loan). That cramp in your wrist will be worth it once everything is done.

How Much Will I Pay for Closing Costs?
If you’ve heard people vent frustration with the home buying process, you’ve likely also heard complaints about unexpected costs at closing. Let’s unpack what you should expect so you’re not surprised, too.

Closing costs can vary widely by location and your home’s purchase price. Costs are split between you and the seller, but as the buyer, you’ll cover the lion’s share. You can generally expect your closing costs to be 3% to 4% of the home’s sales price. So, on a $300,000 home, you can pay anywhere from $9,000 to $12,000 in closing costs. (Meanwhile, the seller typically pays closing costs of 1% to 3% of the sales price.)

You can try to predict closing costs with calculators like Nerdwallet’s, which lets you plug in your mortgage details to get a rough estimate of what your costs will be. 

Closing fees often include (but are not limited to):
  • Commission for the buyer’s agent and seller’s agent
  • A loan application fee
  • An origination fee, which lenders charge for processing your loan
  • The appraisal fee
  • A fee for pulling your credit report
  • An underwriting fee, which covers the lender’s costs of researching whether to approve you for the loan
  • A title search fee
  • Property taxes, which are due within 60 days of the purchase
  • A recording fee for filing a public land record with the courthouse

These fees are a bummer. The bright side: Almost all of them are one-time deals.

What Should I Bring? (Other than Champagne?)

At the closing you should have:
  • A government-issued photo ID
  • A copy of the ratified sales contract
  • A homeowners insurance certificate
  • Proof of flood insurance if you’re buying a home in a flood zone
  • A cashier’s check or proof of wire transfer, to cover the remainder of the down payment and your closing costs

Also, talk to your attorney about anything else you might need to bring depending on your state or personal circumstances (such as a separation or divorce decree, should your relationship status affect the closing).

What Is Title Insurance, and Why Do I Need It?
Every lender requires borrowers to purchase title insurance, a policy that protects you and the lender from outside claims of ownership of the property. Wait, you may be asking, some random person could show up and claim they own the house? Sounds crazy, but it happens.

Let’s say a previous owner didn’t pay all of their property taxes. Because those taxes remain against the property, the taxing entity could potentially take your home if you don’t have a “clean” title. Title insurance also protects you from ownership claims over liens, fraudulent claims from previous owners, clerical problems in courthouse documents, and forged signatures.

The title company will comprehensively search deeds, wills, trusts, and public records to trace the property’s history and verify that you’re becoming the rightful sole owner of the property. 

Typically, lenders have a preferred title company they work with, but ultimately the buyer decides which title company to use. Your agent could offer a few referrals.

Title insurance comes in two forms:
  1. Lender’s title insurance, which (no surprise) protects the lender. It’s required.
  2. Owner’s title insurance, which protects you. It’s optional but recommended because it covers your interest in the property. If the insurance company loses a battle over the title in the future but you purchased owner’s title insurance, you’re fully protected. Owner’s title insurance will also cover your legal fees if you have to defend your ownership rights in court.

Unlike most insurance policies — such as homeowners insurance, car insurance, and life insurance — title insurance is paid as a one-time fee at closing. Costs can vary significantly depending on the home you’re buying, its location, and the amount of legwork the title company has to perform.

What If There are Last-Minute Issues? Should I Panic?
For your loan to be approved, it has to go through underwriting. The underwriter’s job is to validate all of your financials, confirming that your income, credit, and debt haven’t changed since you were pre-approved for the loan. The underwriter will also review the property’s characteristics and appraisal. If everything checks out, your mortgage will be approved.

If something goes wrong during underwriting though, you’ll have to address the problem before you can close on the home. Let’s say your credit score dropped because you recently purchased a car with an auto loan, or maxed out your credit cards. This isn’t necessarily dire, but you may need to delay closing as you work with your lender to take steps to raise your score. (For that reason, it’s a good idea to hold off on big purchases, avoid overusing a credit line, or doing anything that could result in a credit inquiry until after the closing.)

OK — Can I Celebrate Now?
If you’ve made it through close — yes! Once you’ve climbed that mountain of paperwork and you have those keys in hand, you now officially, finally own a home.

Congratulations! You put in a lot of hard work, including building relationships with your agent, your lender, and other experts along the way.

Now it’s time to start investing in other relationships. Like with your new neighbors.
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Roles Of a Realtor: Selling Side

5/2/2025

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4 Outdoor Fireplace Ideas to Warm Up Your Space

4/28/2025

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By: HouseLogic

Check out these captivating outdoor fireplace ideas that will transform your outdoor space into a cozy haven.

There’s nothing like gathering around a fire with your friends and family on a chilly evening. The right outdoor fireplace warms an outdoor area and is a gathering spot to make lasting memories. If you’ve been considering getting an outdoor fireplace, here are some ideas to help you get started.

4 Outdoor Fireplace Ideas
Outdoor fireplaces come in many shapes, sizes, and materials. Most homeowners want one that fits the style of their home and is compatible with their outdoor space. Style compatibility affects your design choice, the materials you choose, and the size and placement of the outdoor fireplace. Here are a few styles to consider.

#1 Traditional Outdoor Fireplaces
A traditional outdoor fireplace made of brick or stone can work well with a home that has exterior brick or stone elements. Matching the elements and tones in your fireplace to your home’s exterior helps create a cohesive look. Traditional materials like brick or stone are also a great option for homeowners seeking a classic wood-burning fireplace. If the masonry is sound, stone or brick fireplaces generally won’t require much maintenance. If you choose this option, consider having a professional check your fireplace once a year to keep it in good shape.

#2 Modern Outdoor Fireplaces
A modern, minimal outdoor fireplace can complement a home with a clean, modern look. Combine materials like stucco, stone, or concrete with a pared-back, sleek design. A gas fireplace is relatively low-maintenance option that suits the look and feel of a contemporary home. It also helps keep your patio warm and inviting well after the summer months. Apart from general masonry checks and regular cleaning, these fireplaces don’t usually require much upkeep.

#3 Sustainable Outdoor Fireplaces
Homeowners seeking sustainability might consider gas or electric fireplaces. If these aren’t for you, other sustainable fuel options, such as ethanol or wood pellets, produce less smoke and ash. As for exterior materials, explore locally sourced stone, sustainably sourced wood, or recycled metal.

#4 Customized Outdoor Fireplaces
If your home incorporates some unique design elements that are difficult to replicate, you might check into an outdoor fireplace built to your specifications. You can choose from many materials, including steel, concrete, stone, and wood. Qualified contractors and designers can help you plan a custom fireplace that suits your needs.

Advantages of Outdoor Fireplaces
Building an outdoor fireplace may be a considerable undertaking, but it offers some excellent benefits.
Outdoor Fireplaces Can Add CharacterAn exterior feature like an outdoor fireplace adds visual interest to your home and helps it stand out. It also helps family and guests enjoy outdoor entertainment more.

Outdoor Fireplaces Increase Joy
Don’t underestimate a fire feature’s role in making your home a fun and joyful place. Homeowners who added an outdoor fire feature reported a joy score of 9.7 out of 10 after finishing the project, according to the National Association of REALTORS® “2023 Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features.”

Outdoor Fireplaces Can Beautify Your Space
An outdoor fireplace can be a great focal point in your outdoor patio, backyard, or deck. If you’ve long thought your patio lacked something special, a well-designed outdoor fireplace may give you the refresh you’ve been looking for.

Before You Build
Before deciding on the project, consider some of the issues and requirements.

Safety Matters
In most cases, outdoor fireplaces are a safe addition to your home. But if you have pets or young children, you’ll need to implement strict fire safety rules about keeping a safe distance from the fire. Make sure your outdoor fireplace is a safe distance from your home and other structures as required by the local code. And, before starting a fire, check with your local forest service office to find out about burn authorizations or fire restrictions.

Budget Concerns
When you compare the costs to other features like fire pits, building a fireplace can be pricey. The average cost to build a firepit is around $850, though the range is $200 to $5,000. By comparison, the average cost to build an outdoor fireplace is roughly $3,000, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $9000. Homeowners on a strict budget may want to consider an outdoor fire pit.

Maintenance Needs
While gas and electric fireplaces require professional attention, traditional wood fireplaces require regular cleaning. Even with a small outdoor fireplace, this can be time-consuming and tedious, especially if you have a busy life.

But what kinds of maintenance does an outdoor fireplace require? Take a look at the Cleaning and Maintenance section.

Placement Consideration
Your outdoor fireplace’s location will vary based on building codes in your area, so look up local requirements before starting work on your project. A good rule of thumb is your fireplace should be at least 10 to 15 feet away from your home, property line, and any other structures or flammable materials. You’ll also want to place your outdoor fireplace so it doesn’t face prevailing winds or obstruct any views.

Fuel Options
Many factors can influence fuel choice including your desire for convenience, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Consider the pros and cons of a few fuel options.
  • Wood: Wood is the natural choice for anyone seeking a warm, traditional fireplace. However, a wood burning fireplace needs frequent cleaning, and some homeowners may not like the smell of woodsmoke.
  • Gas: Natural gas is a clean and cost-efficient option offering a controlled burn. However, some home owners may find a gas flame less comforting and more sterile compared to wood options.
  • Electricity: An electric fireplace often has a built-in heater that operates separately from the flames. This allows you to get the look of a roaring fire with or without the heat. Electric fireplaces are convenient and produce a different aesthetic and ambience than wood burning options.

Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and light care keep your outdoor fireplace neat and ready-for-use. Here are some important tips to bear in mind:
  • Keep the fireplace clean by brushing away dust, ash, and other debris between uses.
  • A wood-burning fireplace may require an annual professional cleaning and chimney inspection to function properly.
  • Regularly check for potential problems like excessive smoke and ash buildup.
  • Check your gas fireplace for fuel leaks and keep the gas valve turned off when the fireplace isn’t in use.
  • Certain materials may need extra care. For instance, an outdoor stone fireplace may require sealant.
Fire safety is also important with outdoor fireplaces. Here are some general guidelines homeowners should follow:
  • Don’t leave fires unattended.
  • Understand your fireplace’s ventilation system and have a professional check it if you suspect any problems.
  • Be aware that any custom work must follow local fire safety codes and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Find Your Perfect Outdoor Fireplace
You can choose from many materials and outdoor fireplace designs. The perfect match can complement your home and landscaping to create a balanced and well-coordinated result. The right outdoor fireplace can transform your deck or patio and make the area more inviting and comfortable, and add character and personality to your outdoor space.

Look for an experienced contractor who uses high-quality materials and can match the outdoor fireplace to your vision while meeting local regulations and requirements.
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    Author

    Jason Gelios is a  Husband and Father. After that, a Top Producing REALTOR®, Author of the books 'Think like a REALTOR®' and 'Beating The Force Of Average', Creator of The AskJasonGelios Real Estate Show and Expert Media Contributor to media outlets across the country.

    Jason is dedicated to providing real estate advice and education to home owners, buyers and sellers with content that is practical and based on real world situations.

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