Few home features spark as much debate as fireplaces. They’re emotional. They’re visual.
They feel luxurious. But when homeowners consider installing or upgrading an indoor gas fireplace, the real question often isn’t about comfort — it’s about value.
Does a gas fireplace actually increase home value?
Or is it just a lifestyle upgrade that feels valuable but doesn’t show up on resale?
Realtors, appraisers, and buyers don’t all see fireplaces the same way. The truth sits in the middle: gas fireplaces can add value, but not in the simplistic “add X dollars” way many homeowners expect.
This article breaks down how realtors evaluate gas fireplaces during resale, how buyers emotionally react to them, and where value actually appears in the real estate equation.
Before answering whether gas fireplaces add value, it’s important to understand how real estate professionals define value.
There are three different kinds of value in residential real estate:
Gas fireplaces affect market value and perceived value far more than appraised value. That distinction is critical.
Most residential appraisals do not assign a separate dollar value to a gas fireplace. Why? Because appraisers work from comparable sales.
Unless two otherwise identical homes differ only by a gas fireplace — which is rare — the fireplace becomes part of the overall condition and amenity set, not a line item.
In appraisal reports, gas fireplaces are usually noted as an amenity or included under “condition/quality.”
While a gas fireplace won’t magically add $20,000 to an appraisal, it helps justify a higher quality tier compared to homes without one.
Realtors consistently agree on one thing: Buyers don’t calculate value — they feel it. And gas fireplaces strongly influence buyer emotion.
Across many markets, buyers associate indoor gas fireplaces with comfort, convenience, modern living, and cleanliness.
Unlike wood fireplaces, which some buyers view as a chore, gas units are seen as "turnkey" amenities.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that gas fireplaces always increase the sale price. In reality, they more reliably:
From a realtor’s perspective, a home that sells faster is often more valuable than one priced slightly higher but sitting longer.
Especially in competitive markets, a gas fireplace can tip buyer decisions.
In existing homes, the highest value often comes from converting an outdated, drafty masonry fireplace into a modern, efficient gas unit.
Many homeowners ask, "Can I convert my woodburning fireplace to gas?" The answer is almost always yes, and doing so transforms a "maintenance liability" into a "modern asset."
Not all conversions are equal. When upgrading for resale, understanding the difference matters:
Experts note that there are distinct reasons to choose an insert over a log set, primarily centered on heat performance and safety—factors that savvy buyers notice during inspections.
Furthermore, when comparing gas inserts versus gas logs, inserts typically offer a higher ROI because they fix the draft/efficiency issues inherent in old chimneys.
In colder regions, indoor gas fireplaces are perceived as functional heating support and backup warmth during outages (see our Power Outage Guide).
In these markets, gas fireplaces increase buyer interest and are sometimes expected in higher-end homes.
In warmer regions, the value shifts to lifestyle. Fireplaces become aesthetic focal points.
Here, the visual design (modern linear styles) matters more than the BTU output.
A gas fireplace only adds value if it works and passes inspection. Buyers are terrified of chimney repairs.
During the sale process, inspectors will check the venting. If you are converting or upgrading, ensuring the flue is healthy is critical.
Issues with chimney liner measurements or integrity can tank a sale. A properly installed gas insert with a new liner eliminates this anxiety for buyers.
From a purely financial standpoint, gas fireplaces rarely return 100% of their cost directly.
However, the cost of installation must be weighed against market movement.
The cost to convert a fireplace to gas varies, but in a slow market, that investment might be the differentiator that gets the house sold.
Think of a gas fireplace as part investment, part enjoyment, and part "emotional insurance" during resale.
Realtors repeatedly emphasize this: A poorly executed fireplace can hurt value.
For advice on avoiding layout errors, read our guide on Designing Around a Gas Fireplace.
Yes — but not in a simplistic, dollar-for-dollar way.
Indoor gas fireplaces:
They rarely spike appraisals on their own. But they often influence who buys and how confidently they buy. And in real estate, confidence sells homes.
Need Help Evaluating Whether a Gas Fireplace Makes Sense for Your Home?
If you’re unsure whether adding or upgrading an indoor gas fireplace will benefit your home — or you want to understand how it might affect resale in your specific situation — we’re happy to help.
📧 support@pureflameco.com
📞 +1-833-922-6460
We can talk through layout, usage, expectations, and ownership questions so you can make an informed decision — no pressure.
{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}
Leave a comment