Realtor/fireplace question

[guest1001-opr0]

I don't know if any local realtors visit this site? if so...we just learned due to shoddy previous work on our pre-fab chimney we are left with 2 choices and were wondering the effect on when we sell (not imminently but likely sometime in the coming years):

1. Seal off the chimney to prevent cold/hot air (depending on the season) and animals from getting in but rendering it useless as a fireplace. In this scenario when we go to sell we would have to list the fireplace as decorative only (it's in the family room).

2. Spend $12-15k ripping it all out including the brick and drywall inside our house to make it functional again (and able to pass inspection).

We would be fine with #1 but wondering how big an issue this might be for potential buyers. If we're going to have to do the repair eventually to sell the house then we might as well do it now and enjoy it.