Your title seemed to suggest they were going the other way, having been aware of tha, I didn't read it, sorry, and assumed,but if that's what they are suggesting, I think it's probably folks my son's age, he has a large home in the Dallas area, but not for me.Smaller has nothing to do or at least much to do with value or cost, smaller but better appointed, quality materials, antique details, honed beams, stone fireplace, etc.I'll go check your article, maybe they are going green, super insulated to make up for the $1,000 heating bill.....this is where Warren Buffet and I have things in common....LOL In the spring, summer and fall I'm on the deck the sunroom is for the winter or rainy days.

The fireplace backs up; smoke enters the townhome (rented out) & has since caused smoke stains in the corner ceilings.I met the chimney contractor inspected this morning.

About fireplaces, about sewer lines, maybe even about hand rails. :)

Have finished 1150 sq ft basement that has a fireplace in sitting area and we are adding a bathroom.

Or is it the main fireplace chimney that has a crack or blockage, and the fireplace has a gas line?

With that I mean all the extras like: lots of trim, fire places, high ceilings, big rooms etc.

@Matthew, Thanks for your reply and the information on contracts and further searching the fireplace here on BP.

One has a house in the best part of town there, no where near the flood zone & they are barley getting $300K for a house that would've sold for $500K in 2005, a very nice colonial, extra deep lot, garage, fireplace...

The existing structure will remain but I'm installing new siding, osb plywood, taking out a couple non load bearing walls, and re building the fireplace.

Since I am buying the house as is and with no contingencies.3) if in fact I find major or unexpected damage to foundation, fireplace, or structure.