It’s widely acknowledged that reality television often veers far from reality itself. HGTV, a prominent purveyor of such programming, airs numerous home renovation and DIY shows tailored to diverse audiences of home improvement enthusiasts.
While HGTV invites you to immerse yourself in the latest episode of House Hunters, it might come as a surprise to learn that these episodes are at least partly scripted.
Indulging in a good home improvement show is perfectly fine, particularly the captivating home-flipping series like Fixer Upper. However, it’s worth noting that HGTV occasionally presents certain aspects in a less-than-accurate light. Here are five such aspects you, or your clients, may want to consider before embarking on the journey of homeownership yourself.
1. Realtors work a lot harder/longer than people think
Regrettably, HGTV often presents real estate agents in a light that suggests they merely do the bare minimum for their clients, whereas the reality is quite different: most Realtors® consistently go above and beyond to serve their clients.
According to CheatSheet, Sissy Lapin, author and co-founder of ListingDoor, remarked that shows like House Hunters tend to “portray the agent as if they’re just these lazy individuals who show two houses and negotiate $1,000 off the asking price,” overlooking the myriad responsibilities a diligent agent fulfills for their clients.
Exceptional agents navigate the entire home buying process, providing crucial insights on factors to consider when selecting a home, skillfully negotiating favorable terms, and diligently overseeing every aspect to ensure a smooth journey from start to close.
However, this comprehensive role is often overshadowed by HGTV’s portrayal. Realtors are indispensable allies when buying or selling a home, offering far more value than HGTV lets on.
2. Over-emphasizing the importance of new features
HGTV programs often dramatize homeowners’ frantic quests for the “perfect home,” complete with all the “must-have” features. It’s worth noting that a portion of their revenue stems from sponsorships by the latest and greatest in-home innovations. While it’s natural for homeowners to have preferences when searching for a new residence, instilling fear in sellers that their home won’t sell without these highly coveted features is a different matter altogether.
Lapin remarked, “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a house and the owners ask, ‘Do you think installing granite countertops would add more value or help sell faster?'” Interestingly, like many other trends in home design, consumers are transitioning away from granite toward more sustainable materials. However, this insight might elude viewers who take everything HGTV promotes at face value. Once again, conducting your own research is key. Consult professionals to determine what improvements truly enhance your home’s value.
3. Downplaying the expense of renovations
If one were to take HGTV shows to heart, they might believe that major home renovations can be completed within mere hours and on a shoestring budget. Shows like Property Brothers, known for their lightning-fast renovation schedules and minimal budgets, contribute to this perception. However, the reality of renovating your own home or a project home is likely far different. Even contractors have voiced concerns that such shows provide an unrealistic portrayal of renovation expectations.
“Remodelers say that shows such as Love It or List It and Property Brothers, which often attempt whole-house remodeling projects within constrained budgets, mislead clients regarding pricing and timeframes,” highlights Tim Regan, a writer for Remodeling.com. Additionally, as reported by CheatSheet, some renovations may not even meet building code standards.
One couple who participated in Love It or List It is currently suing the show’s production company, alleging that their home was “irreparably damaged” and that a licensed architect was not consulted.
To ensure the success of your next project, the wisest course of action is to seek guidance from a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor. They can provide a more realistic timetable and price range than what is typically showcased on HGTV.
4. Location, location, location
Although not as pivotal as other considerations on this list, in my view, it’s certainly worth pondering. HGTV shows like House Hunters often overlook the significance of location for homebuyers.
In one episode, Lapin observed a couple selecting a home primarily for its stylish features, disregarding the fact that it would entail a 45-minute commute to work. While individual choices vary, Lapin makes a valid point by suggesting that she would have had her client endure that commute for three consecutive days to gauge their satisfaction with the location of their new home.
This underscores one of the many advantages of having a Realtor® by your side: they possess expertise in home values, locations, and more. Relying on a Realtor® for information will likely yield better results (and potentially save you money) compared to relying solely on HGTV programming.
5. Buyers know more than some may think
Contrary to the impression HGTV might convey, buyers are far from naive. In today’s digital age, most buyers are digitally savvy and have a solid understanding of their needs and budget constraints before embarking on a purchase. With the wealth of information available online, particularly through platforms like Zillow, buyers can explore available properties and even virtually tour homes without leaving their screens.
While HGTV often portrays buyers as indecisive or uninformed to showcase the expertise of their professionals, the reality, as Lapin points out, is that buyers are quite savvy and confident in their decisions. While they may still seek guidance from professionals, they typically have a clear idea of what they’re looking for and what they can afford.
Instead of viewing HGTV as a realistic depiction of the market, it should be regarded primarily as entertainment. While some aspects of the shows, such as tips on window replacement or flooring selection, may offer useful insights, they shouldn’t be taken as the definitive standard for service or the home buying experience.
For a more accurate picture of costs and timelines, consumers are best advised to consult industry professionals who can provide tailored guidance and expertise.