Anyone have an outdoor fireplace?

[The Motor Court Company]

probably you don't care, but for the next buyer point of view, spending upgrades in kitchen, counter tops and flooring are worth more than backyards.

Fireplace building started today.  I'll let you know in a couple weeks how it turned out.

Exciting times, hope it turns out great.  If I remember correctly your lot size was about 5,200 sq ft.  What is your total cost for the back yard, shutters etc after move-in? less than 50k, 50 to 75K, >75K?

Lot size is 5950 sq ft. or thereabouts.  I can't comment on the total cost yet, but the yard is by far the largest expense.

So your spending more money on the backyard versus the house upgrades? (Assuming the house you bought is new)

 

[eyephone]

+1 court

probably you don't care, but for the next buyer point of view, spending upgrades in kitchen, counter tops and flooring are worth more than backyards.

Fireplace building started today.  I'll let you know in a couple weeks how it turned out.

Exciting times, hope it turns out great.  If I remember correctly your lot size was about 5,200 sq ft.  What is your total cost for the back yard, shutters etc after move-in? less than 50k, 50 to 75K, >75K?

Lot size is 5950 sq ft. or thereabouts.  I can't comment on the total cost yet, but the yard is by far the largest expense.

So your spending more money on the backyard versus the house upgrades? (Assuming the house you bought is new)

 

[rkp]

+1 court

probably you don't care, but for the next buyer point of view, spending upgrades in kitchen, counter tops and flooring are worth more than backyards.

+1 for studio apt with plastic wrap on everything

 

[eyephone]

+1 court

probably you don't care, but for the next buyer point of view, spending upgrades in kitchen, counter tops and flooring are worth more than backyards.

+1 for studio apt with plastic wrap on everything

rkp - you forgot to add the plastic on the floor, so people wont ruin the carpet. 

 

[irvinehomeowner]

I'm one of those people who would rather spend more indoors than outdoors but I really appreciate my friends who have awesome outdoor spaces.

2 of them have those pools with a huge slide, multiple gazebos, outdoor TVs and huge BBQs.

Neither of them live in Irvine.

 

[The Motor Court Company]

sure. you are enjoying backyard extravaganza  that some one else paid for, for free

I'm one of those people who would rather spend more indoors than outdoors but I really appreciate my friends who have awesome outdoor spaces.

2 of them have those pools with a huge slide, multiple gazebos, outdoor TVs and huge BBQs.

Neither of them live in Irvine.

 

[aquabliss]

So your spending more money on the backyard versus the house upgrades? (Assuming the house you bought is new)

Yes, quite a bit more.  However I purchased the home as "standing inventory" so didn't go through the design center for anything besides flooring.  I think in general  with a such a big lot, the landscaping price is going to be quite high regardless of contractor.

 

[irvinebullhousing]

Same here Aquabliss, I purchase standing inventory, no need for design center and better incentives. Are you in Whistler?

 

[Chairman]

Doesn't it really come down to the buyer's preference? Whoever ends up buying your home may put a premium on your outdoor amenities. Assuming they have similar tastes.

 

[eyephone]

Doesn't it really come down to the buyer's preference? Whoever ends up buying your home may put a premium on your outdoor amenities. Assuming they have similar tastes.

There are upgrades that you will get a good return on. For example same location, same model, (scenario 1) has an upgraded kitchen vs. (scenario 2) not upgraded kitchen, upgraded with fire place outdoors.

I would say scenario 1 is they better choice of an upgrade. Also, I believe the seller for scenario 1 can sell the house for money.

 

[aquabliss]

My fireplace is about 50% done.  It's still a shell but I'm liking it so far.  Contractor decided to put 2 square vents on top in the end which I didn't mind since it gives the heat a place to escape. 

 

[irvinebullhousing]

Nice, if the professional recommend it, I would go for it. Is there a special permit required for fireplace? I am only curious as I really like to have one. But again, money is always an issues.

 

[aquabliss]

Yes you need a city permit - the inspector comes twice.  Once to verify when you run the gas line from the main (or stub in back yard) to the fireplace location.  This is before the line is covered.

Second time he comes out to reverify when everything is completed and you can demonstrate turning on/off the fireplace and the valve at the main.