1. The Homeowners Don’t Actually Decide
While the show dramatizes the homeowners’ decision to “love it” or “list it,” many participants claim that the choice is made long before filming begins. The show often exaggerates the debate for entertainment purposes, but the outcome is usually pre-determined.
2. Staged Arguments for Drama
The tension between designer Hilary Farr and realtor David Visentin is a hallmark of the show, but much of their banter is reportedly scripted. Their “rivalry” adds to the drama but isn’t as authentic as it appears on screen.
3. Unrealistic Renovation Budgets
The renovation budgets shown on the show often don’t reflect real-life costs. Contractors and designers reportedly receive discounts or free services in exchange for being featured, making the budgets seem far more reasonable than they actually are.
4. Homes Are Pre-Selected
The “new homes” David shows the homeowners aren’t always for sale or even suitable for them. Some properties are staged specifically for the show, and the homeowners may have no real intention of moving into them.
5. Overly Simplified Renovation Timelines
The show creates the illusion that massive renovations are completed within a few weeks. In reality, these projects often take months to finish, with delays edited out for a seamless viewing experience.
6. Unrealistic Conflict Over Priorities
The homeowners’ dramatic disagreements over their needs and wants are often exaggerated or entirely fabricated. Producers reportedly encourage participants to overplay their frustrations to heighten the stakes.
7. Contractors Often Work Off-Camera
While the show portrays Hilary as hands-on during renovations, much of the work is carried out by contractors behind the scenes. The designer’s involvement is often limited to decision-making and on-camera appearances.
8. The “Surprise Issues” Are Pre-Planned
The unexpected structural or plumbing issues that derail renovations are a staple of the show. However, many of these problems are discovered during pre-filming inspections and are only revealed on-screen to add drama.
9. The Homes Don’t Always Stay Renovated
Some homeowners have reported that their homes weren’t fully completed by the end of filming. Repairs and finishing touches may be rushed or left undone, requiring additional work after the cameras stop rolling.
10. The Designers Don’t Work Within the Budget
Hilary’s designs often exceed the given budget, but the additional costs are rarely addressed on the show. This creates a false impression that homeowners are getting more for their money than they actually are.
11. Realtors Aren’t Always Local Experts
While David is portrayed as an expert on the local housing market, in some cases, the show has used stand-in realtors who have little knowledge of the area. Their primary role is to appear knowledgeable on camera.
12. Homeowners Aren’t Always Happy
Not all participants are thrilled with their experience. Some have shared that the renovations didn’t meet their expectations or that they felt misled about the process.
13. The “Winners” Aren’t Always Final
Even when homeowners choose to stay in their renovated home, some later decide to sell and move. The decision to “love it” or “list it” isn’t always as final as the show suggests.
14. The Show Is Edited for Maximum Drama
Every aspect of Love It or List It is meticulously edited to create tension, excitement, and resolution within a single episode. Real-life complexities and nuances are often cut out to fit the narrative.
