Matters of the hearth

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A fireplace can add enjoyment year-round and, in many homes, it is a must-have. Gone are the days where wood-burning fireplaces are the only option; depending on your desire, a gas fireplace may best suit your needs.

If you're not sure which direction to go, here are some pluses and minuses for each fireplace option:

Wood-burning fireplaces

Pluses

Can accommodate a wide variety of mantels.

Are more common and may be more desirable to potential buyers when it comes to selling your home.

Provide cozy warmth.

Minuses Messy to maintain.

Require having a constant supply of wood.

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Costly to install.

Gas fireplaces

Pluses Easy to install.

Fairly approachable in price.

Provide instant heat.

Minuses Often not as warm as wood burning fireplaces.

Carry fuel costs.

Pose potential carbon monoxide risk.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is a nationally recognized real estate stager, celebrity interior designer and owner of home-staging firm Cathy Hobbs Design Recipes. More information at cathyhobbs.com.

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