After buying a home in New Hampshire last year –and finding a real bargain in a good neighborhood –our house was $104,000 in a neighborhood of homes not less than $139,000–I can tell you that the secret to buying a house is this: Do not go through a regular real estate agent. Get an exclusive buyer’s agent–and NOT a buyer’s agent hooked up with a real estate office.

Make sure your fire pit is placed away from structures and any other combustible structures.

Keep in mind your existing landscaping and architecture when choosing a fire-pit design.

Set up your fire pit so it can also serve as a barbecue, social setting and effective outside light source.

Fire-pit construction should be sturdy and weather resistant, and the design should take into consideration weather and prevailing winds.

Consider mobile fire pits and grills, which cost less and can be moved as needed.

For enjoyment, and safety, locate your fire pit where it can be seen from inside.