On home rehab television shows

I was going to write a post about current events and politics, but I decided that was far too serious. Instead, I'll write about those renovation shows on cable TV.

The quintessential renovation show
HGTV.com

I love those shows. I love seeing the creativity, and seeing how a designing eye far better than mine can envision making a rough space beautiful. But I really must be realistic, nay, cynical--this is television. A lot of those scenarios are just silly. For example:

• The last-minute surprise: Yes, surprises happen, and I realize that some complications can't be seen before demolition starts. But really, in every episode? Even when buying a house without an inspection--or worse, sight unseen--what sort of businessman sets a budget without knowing for sure whether he has to replace a roof or an HVAC system? What sort of flipper doesn't just assume a 100 year old house will need all-new electrical and plumbing systems? Who continues to use a contractor who paints the walls with the trim color and the trim with the wall color, or who installs the master bathroom tile in the hall bathroom and vice versa? Wouldn't a home owner want to see a detailed scope of work, project plan, and budget, including contingencies?
• The budget vs. design debate: Again, the initial plan should include design, budget, and allowance for contingencies. Yes, design changes happen once things start to pan out, and yes, clients often add requests to the scope, but good planning up front and properly managed expectations and boundaries make for a smoother renovation.
• The decision on which property to buy and fix up: We know that on most of these television shows that include a decision between properties, the decision has already been made before production begins on the episode. Often the home is in contract or the "clients" already own the house.  
• The unrealistic budgets and schedules: Complete living room/kitchen/bath renovation for $25,000, in two weeks? Really?  

Another very popular renovation show
HGTV.com

I love these shows anyway. I love it when the home owner cries upon first sight of her new home. I love the supposed follow-up scenes showing the families in the new homes, almost always entertaining friends and talking about how wonderful the new house is. I love the wacky shows like Texas Flip and Move (DIY Network) just as much as the popular hits Fixer Upper and Flip or Flop (both HGTV).

Some shows are more successful than others in my eyes, some "stars" more likable, but I still like most of the shows. I hope renovation and house flipping shows continue to be popular. I hope television people continue to think of clever new ways to portray home renovation.