Like many people, I get a kick out of the home remodeling shows on HGTV. They’re full of laughs, drama, and who doesn’t like seeing a space transform from who-chose-that-heinous-carpet to a design masterpiece? Count me in.
However, when it comes to your home remodeling project — or any renovation not being filmed for television — be wary.
Having been on both sides of the camera and comparing that to decorating and remodeling without an “audience” for the last 15 years, I can say: it’s not like you see on TV. And you should know what you’re getting yourself into…
Today, I’m sharing the top 4 most common misconceptions, known as the “HGTV effect.” Can you guess what they are?
Myth 1: DIY is Possible
What it looks like on HGTV: The happy couple dons protective goggles and takes a sledgehammer to the walls. They have “homework” that night to paint a cabinet. With the magic of editing, fatigue and frustration disappear!
What it looks like in real life: I would estimate that less than 5% of homeowners have enough hands-on experience to DIY a major renovation. And most who try end up reaching out to professionals after an unsuccessful attempt. (Yes, we’ve gotten those calls.)
In actuality, to complete a remodel in a timeline exceeding glacial speed, you’ll need help from various trades, like an electrician, plumber, interior designer/architect, etc. These professionals ensure performance, quality, and safety in your remodel.
Our advice: If you are working out of your wheelhouse, hiring knowledgeable, experienced professionals before your project starts will save you headaches and money — now and way down the road.
Image Source: Transitional Chicago Kitchen by Design Inside
Myth 2: Decisions are Easy
What it looks like on HGTV: There is only one kitchen layout and cabinet style presented; the only real decision the family needs to make is deciding between three tiles for the perfect backsplash. Eenie meenie miney mo...
What it looks like in real life: Decisions aren’t made in isolation; rather, they build upon and reference each other. In my practice, we often have 3-6 different kitchen layouts and get bids from different cabinet-makers (each with their own sizing limitations).
This means that the design of the kitchen layout can take a month or more to refine with fine-toothed decisions, like comparing a bank of drawers to a single door cabinet. Waiting a month for a kitchen design to be finalized before construction begins? That doesn’t make for good TV — but it does ensure your long-term happiness.
Our advice: We highly recommend working with an interior designer before you even start construction. Your layout and design selections will impact the space you’re constructing, and your budget, too. If you bring us in too late, it could mean sacrificing the design you really want or adding costs that could have been avoided.
Myth 3: Fast Pace of Completion
What it looks like on HGTV: The host breezily mentions the electrical inspection; a kitchen renovation is complete in just four weeks!
What it looks like in real life: Entertainment presents the renovation process as fast and fluid, but in reality, there will be many starts and stops. You can also assume that any timeline you see quoted on TV should be tripled, even quadrupled. (For example, a kitchen renovation will take no less than 3 months; more, depending on the availability of trades and materials.)
The other truth to know is that permitting and inspections play a big part in the speed of a project’s completion. Likewise, budgets, project scope changes, weather, material shortages, damaged products, and staff changes can have cascading effects for a project. There is no such thing as a smooth-sailing renovation — which is why having professionals manage it for you is a smart investment.
Our advice: Because so many factors go into a renovation, we suggest working with your design and renovation team to map out your project’s unique timeline. Another tip… if you want your project completed by the holidays, start contacting your favorite professionals no later than summer!
Myth 4: Budgets Seem Easily within Reach
What it looks like on HGTV: The entire remodel was $50K for the new basement and the kitchen. What a steal!
What it looks like in real life: When it comes to fact-based budgeting, you have to consider the costs of labor and materials. TV shows have advantages over regular folk in both realms…
For labor, many of these shows are in lower-cost markets without seasonal limitations. For materials, many manufacturers will heavily discount or even donate their items to be featured promotionally. This lowers costs significantly, putting real-life renovation budgets in a different ballpark entirely.
Our advice: Download our free Kitchen Budget Planning Guide at the end of this post to get a realistic estimate for your renovation. Or, check out this blog post about budgeting.
The good news? The HGTV effect isn’t all bad — it opens your eyes to possibilities! Just be sure to adjust your glasses. You also have something that these shows don’t… the freedom to make your home look and feel exactly how you want it to.
Ready to start a renovation that brings ease and beauty to your everyday life? Let’s talk.
— Kathyrn
P.s. If you’re local, check out the latest edition of La Grange Living, Western Spring Neighbors, or Neighbors of Glen Ellyn for home-related guest articles by yours truly!