I just have to jump in. A few weeks ago, I was "with you." Critters in the house???
I know that alot of BYC folks are enthusiastic, to put it mildly, and love to have a brooder on the diningroom table and a couple of ducks in the bathtub. I was not thinking that it was my thing at all. In fact, the guy at my local feed store helped my DD guilt me into having my chicks in the house. (For the record, they are in the basement).
I AM GLAD I DID IT. When I hear a noise outside, I don't have to run out to check on them. I peek in when I am near. I am spending time with them on my terms; changing paper towels & feeding them in my bathrobe, if I want. They are not so much trouble and alot of fun. I have noticed very little smell, as I freshen up the brooder 3X daily.
Do you HAVE TO have chicks in the house? No, I suppose not. If they are to be pets, I would very much recommend it.