It’s less than a week until Christmas, and we have a timely post for you today! In fact, one might say we are on fire here…

Fireplaces. Do they increase your home value? Is there a real difference in heating costs? And, most importantly, how does Santa get in to deliver presents if you don’t have one?

See what we mean about timing? If you have kids, this is a big deal.

Do they increase your home value?

There are a lot of different kinds of fireplaces out there these days. Wood burning, gas, electric, ones that are fueled by a special (magical) gel. People associate warm cozy feelings with fireplaces and potential buyers often picture themselves around the hearth, sipping hot chocolate on a snowy winter eve. You want buyers to picture themselves in your home. However, please don’t go out to your closest big box store, buy an electric fireplace and stick it to the wall. It looks awkward and will detract from your home. Fireplaces will have a positive effect on your home’s value if they are integrated, built-in and part of the room. The trend to just mount one on the wall as you would a TV is not going to increase your sale value. Please don’t do it (it’s not required by Santa either).

Is there a real difference in heating costs?

Yes and no – there are a lot of factors to consider. A traditional wood burning fireplace creates a cozy-looking space. They are also energy sucks. Literally. The damper is one source, the cold air that’s pulled in as the hot air rises and escapes from the house is another. Some studies show a 30% increase in home heating costs with a wood burning fireplace and somewhere between 5% and 12% for a gas fireplace. Yikes. However, with a fireplace insert and a systematic review of the house’s heating system to shore up draughts and leaks, your energy bills can show a decrease. Food for thought if you are thinking of making s’mores indoors any time soon.

How does Santa get in to deliver presents if you don’t have one?

Really, this is the most important question here. We remembered Santa’s address (best postal code ever, right?) and sent a letter to find out but we know he’s a busy man right now and if he’s going to answer any letters, better the ones from little Suzy and Johnny. Instead we did some investigating and it seems like no one has a definitive answer. Here are the most popular theories:

• He can come in through your ductwork/exterior vents (he’s mastered chimneys so this makes sense)
• Santa’s a magical guy, he conjures up a chimney, places the gifts and then off he goes back from whence he came.
• Live in a condo? The elevator shaft seems the way to go!

And, our vote for the most likely? He has a magic key that will work in your front door. Every Realtor’s dream.