first flip: should I put in an electric fireplace

[Susan Lisman]

Hi Everyone -

I am in the middle of my first flip and I am trying to determine what to do with the fireplace area - if getting an electric fireplace is worth the investment

Right now, it is a non-functioning wood burning fire place.  In order to make it fully functional, it would cost me too much in masonry cost - so I have a few options.  I am framing out the fireplace with new drywall and will tile - but I am not sure if I should put in an electric fireplace.  I am not fireproofing the area to the standard of a working wood burning fireplace - because as I said it is not functioning.

Purchase Price - 180k

Rehab Cost $60k

ARV $340-350K

So basically - do you see a good return for installing an electric fireplace - I believe it would cost 500-600 to purchase the appropriate piece.