chachianddoc We're doing this plus adding an arctic entry (coat closet, boot/shoe storage, nice cabinetry and heated slate floor) to the front of our similar ranch. Going rate in Alaska is $55,000 for porch + entry. Just the porch would have been 20-25K, I'm guessing.
rsharkey We painted a light color brick with white paint approximately 20 yrs ago still looks great, We sprayed it, also just be sure to use a chalking type paint, to avoid peeling.