There's a TV show for every home lover nowadays. From the decor fanatic to the avid DIY-er, you're no longer confined to the HGTV channel to get your fix!With so many home-related shows on multiple platforms - Flip or Flop (HGTV), Million Dollar Listing (BRAVO), Selling Sunset (NETFLIX),home reality shows have us wondering.how realistic is this?
Let's debunk some of the biggest misconceptions about home improvement and real estate television.
1. Homeowners and buyers â†' make life decisions on the fly
TV Myth
When it comes to a home, it can be shocking when folks are able to make major life decisions in a matter of minutes. Do we Love it? Do we list it?
Reality
These buyers and sellers have had months to think about their decision before joining a show. Typically, in a 'buying show' setting, the family has already purchased the home before filming.
The moral of the story - don't feel pressuredto make a snap decision because you've seen others do it on your favorite home shows!
2. Single Open House = Under Contract
TV Myth
Think of the latest luxury real estate shows. Imagine the show opens with an agent announcing their McMansion listing in Beverly Hills.
Fifteen minutes into the show, the agent hosts a glamorous broker open with over-the-top catering, a celebrity DJ, and guest goodies. Then, 5 minutes into the party, the agent isalready juggling multiple offers before the champagne has even popped.
Reality
The reality? Agents don't have crazy production budgets to throw lavish open houses. It's more common to see agents set up multiple individual showings along with smaller open houses to accommodate their client's schedules and budget.
3. Cosmetic Issues = Deal Breaker
TV Myth
On some of the higher-end shows, where the price points start in the millions, buyers can seem extremely picky when it comes to cosmetic finishes. For some, it's even a deal-breaker.
Reality
Cosmetic details can typically be easily changed. If the house achieves your primary goals, don't lose out on your dream home because you don't like the light fixtures or paint colors.
4. Homes Look TV Ready at All Times
TV Myth
When TV showproperties make the big screen, they have been vacant, professionally cleaned and staged.
Reality
It is very rare to attend an open house in a vacant home. It's more common to find personal photos, kids' toys, and a slightly stocked fridge, but use that to your advantage!
What can those clues tell you about the area and home!
Kids toys all around - Great home to create memories!
Bikes in the garage - Easy to remain active in this area.
Recycling bins - Clear effort by the town to be more environmentally friendly.
Sidewalk chalk / group of kid's bikes - A close-knit neighborhood where the kids all play together!
5. Home - Listed, Sold, Occupied, ALL in 30 min or Less
TV Myth
As the show's about to wrap up, you see the family cozying up in their new home, a perfect shot of candid laughter.. and it looks like everything worked out.
Reality
Typically you will be ready to move into your new home in about a month. But, sometimes it cantake several months from when the buyer's offer is initially accepted until unpacking boxes. From the time cameras stop rolling to the move-in date, many factors can slow the sale from being finalized, like inspection or financing issues.
Moral of the Story
Reality TV has a habit of glamorizing many day-to-day activities and careers. While it may look intriguing, the market's already competitive enough, don't let these external examples influence your selling/buying process.
Patience will be your best friend during the home buying process. Let your Corcoran Perry & Co. agent alleviate the stress for you by offering multiple options to meet your real estate needs.
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