white kitchen with wooden ceiling beams

Design Notes

4 REASONS WHY REMODELING IS NOT AS SIMPLE AS SEEN ON TV

They Make It Look So Simple!

We admit it: HGTV’s popular shows like Fixer Upper, Love It or List It, and Property Brothers always give us a significant renovation. A dreary, dated house is suddenly transformed into an amazing, contemporary home all within a neat, one-hour timeline. Here, we share some of the top unrealistic expectations presented in the home remodeling reality TV world and how they can lead to severe disappointments in the real world of renovation.

Unrealistic Expectations

While these shows are fun and relaxing to watch, they have created unrealistic expectations in the real renovation world and untold headaches for both construction and design teams. Even though there have been times when unexpected problems and delays seemed capable of derailing the designated timeline and budget, the renovation reality TV stars always managed to stay on target, much to our relief. They do this by planning every single detail with backup plans and plenty of tradespeople working all over the house when the cameras are not filming.

Unrealistic Timelines

Shows don’t disclose how much time has passed between the planning and completion of a project. While we would like nothing better than to snap our fingers and have your project ready to reveal in four to six weeks, the reality check is that it usually takes longer. Before a project can start, a plan must be in place, which means meeting with the architect, the contractor, and the designer. Once plans have been laid, tradesmen need to be lined up, materials need to be ordered, and sometimes certain items, especially specialty items like cabinetry, need to be procured. Once the design is complete, delivery of cabinets can range from 6 to 12 weeks; often, the scope of work and selected products determine the overall timeline.

This also raises another point: reality TV can hire a large crew of skilled professionals. Though you only see a handful of crew members on the show, you can be sure that there are many more behind the scenes, many of whom may be working around the clock to meet the insane deadline. Often, when you try to push out such a large amount of work in such a short time, quality suffers. Realistic timelines ensure that you never wing it, but a plan is in place for the entire project. We want your project to go as smoothly as possible, which means we plan for every aspect so that the results are a high-quality product and a beautiful project you can enjoy for years to come.

Unrealistic Budgets

This is another huge area in the reality TV industry. We have had clients surprised that we don’t match the numbers given to participants on HGTV shows. One factor is location; things in Waco, Texas, are going to be different in price from Virginia Beach or even Shelby, NC. The condition of the home, the amount of labor required, and the type of products chosen for the project all affect the budget. Good, quality work comes at a premium price; the old saying, “You get what you pay for,” is true.

It is also important to mention that some TV shows will receive discounted rates for specific materials in exchange for brand endorsement or airtime. One last point is products. Those items on your Pinterest board may come with a larger price tag than you realize, and that is where we come in. We walk through all your options so that you can stay within your budget and get the most for your money. Our many years of experience in this industry can ensure you achieve your project goals without exceeding your budget.

Products They Don’t Disclose

Everyone loves the part of the show where the homeowners finally get to see their new house fully decorated and perfect in every way. What HGTV doesn’t tell you is that when the film crew leaves, so does most of the furniture. Often, homeowners receive a cataloged binder listing the price of every item used, in case they wish to buy it; sadly, most don’t have additional cash in their budget. Read a few more facts about how HGTV’s show operates here.

There is also the small myth that you can find everything you need in a one-stop shop, but that is usually not the case, and it rarely ends with just one trip. It can take time to gather all the items on your wishlist, and it may also require some flexibility with options. We never want you to go over budget or compromise on quality, which is why we take the time to work with our clients during the design planning phase to ensure selections are made and pricing is transparent.

HGTV’s Positive Aspects

Though we may have pointed out how HGTV is more fiction than fact, there is something to be said for their shows; they spark ideas and creativity. They also show their audience that you don’t have to buy new; there is a lot you can do with the space you already have. So, with these facts in mind, go ahead and watch the next episode of Fixer Upper. Don’t forget your notepad so you can write down some good, inspirational ideas for your project. Be sure to bring that list to your next design meeting with us!

/onJanuary 21, 2019/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inDesign Notes

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