Paint the brick and molding the same color as the walls. I just painted my crappy brick FP. Vacuum well. wash with bleach and water, dry paint with Kilz2 and then wall color in satin finish

Yikes! Is the firebox high enough above the floor that the hearth can be totally removed to add floor space and then cover the brick with wall board?

This are both great ideas!! See this why I asked, I never would have thought of either of those things. Seriously, it is that blinding to look at. I like the idea of tearing out the hearth, and covering the rest. Although, painting may be more my speed, as I have never done a DIY project 😬

Certainly is blinding. Maybe the current owners just got used to it over the years? You don’t want that to happen to you. When you move in, see if any of your neighbors have the skills needed and you might be able to barter..