Picture this: it’s a crisp Utah evening, the mountains are glowing pink in the sunset, and you’re huddled around a fire pit roasting marshmallows. That’s not just a backyard vibe—it’s a lifestyle. And in Utah real estate, lifestyle often translates directly into market value.
So the question is: do fire pits and fireplaces really add value to homes, or are they just a fun place to accidentally burn your s’more? In this article, we’ll explore why Utah buyers love fire features, how they impact value, and what type of fire setups make the biggest impression.
The Lifestyle Appeal of Fire Features
Fire has always been about connection. Whether it’s gathering the family after a long day on the slopes or hosting friends for a summer night BBQ, fire pits and fireplaces create instant atmosphere. In Utah—where outdoor living is a big deal—buyers consistently rank fire features as a top lifestyle upgrade.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 83% of homeowners say an outdoor fire feature improves their enjoyment of the property. That enjoyment factor matters when buyers tour homes—they don’t just see a pit in the backyard, they imagine laughter, late-night conversations, and gooey marshmallows on sticks.
Do Fire Pits Really Add Value?
The short answer: yes… kind of. Fire pits typically don’t skyrocket a home’s appraised value the way an extra bathroom or remodeled kitchen might. But they do increase desirability—and desirability sells homes. A well-staged backyard with a cozy fire pit can tip the scales when a buyer is comparing two similar properties.
Outdoor fire features also tie into Utah’s culture of year-round outdoor living. Buyers expect to see spaces that extend life beyond the walls of the house. A backyard fire pit signals that your home is not just a house, but a gathering place.
Gas vs. Wood: The Eternal Debate
Nothing beats the crackle of a wood fire—but buyers are increasingly leaning toward gas fire pits and fireplaces. Why? Convenience. Gas options light instantly, create less mess, and are easier to maintain. Wood, on the other hand, wins the nostalgia game and feels more authentic, especially for buyers who want that rustic Utah cabin vibe.
The best choice depends on your property and your audience. If your home is in a suburban Salt Lake neighborhood, buyers might appreciate the cleaner, low-maintenance gas option. If it’s a mountain cabin in Big Cottonwood Canyon, a wood-burning fireplace feels right at home.
Inside vs. Outside
Indoor fireplaces remain a classic. In fact, the National Association of Realtors found that 40% of buyers are willing to pay more for a home with at least one fireplace. Add that to Utah winters and you can see why fireplaces are still a hot commodity.
But outdoor fire pits are the rising star. They transform ordinary yards into extensions of the home—spaces where Utah families can spend time together all year long. In today’s market, an outdoor fire feature is just as likely to excite buyers as the traditional living room fireplace.
Seller Perspective: How to Highlight Your Fire Features
If you’re selling your home, a fire feature is something you should absolutely showcase. Here are a few quick ways to make it stand out:
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Stage your fire pit with chairs, blankets, and maybe even a s’mores kit.
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Clean out indoor fireplaces and light them during showings in the colder months.
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If you have both indoor and outdoor fire features, highlight them equally—buyers love options.
Remember: buyers are buying a lifestyle. Make them feel the coziness.
Why Fire Features Matter in Utah Real Estate
In Utah, homes aren’t just about square footage—they’re about how well they fit the outdoorsy, family-centered lifestyle. Fire pits and fireplaces hit both marks. They’re practical in winter, fun in summer, and create the kind of emotional connection that makes buyers say, “This is the one.”
Whether it’s marshmallows in the backyard or a crackling fire in the living room, fire features are about more than heat—they’re about heart. And in real estate, that’s exactly what helps homes sell.
Conclusion
So, from marshmallows to market value, fire pits and fireplaces do matter in Utah real estate. They may not add tens of thousands of dollars in appraised value, but they add something just as important: buyer desire. And when multiple offers come in, desire often makes the difference.
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Utah with fire features, let’s connect. I’d love to help you highlight the lifestyle that makes your property shine—sparks and all.
