1. The Homes Are Already Chosen
The homeowners featured on Love It or List It often already have their decision made before filming begins. Many have already started the process of buying a new home or committing to renovations, making the drama more scripted than spontaneous. The show’s structure simply amplifies the tension for entertainment.
2. Renovation Budgets Are Unrealistically Low
The renovation budgets showcased on the show often seem too good to be true—and they usually are. Production subsidies and partnerships with local contractors help stretch the funds, meaning these prices aren’t reflective of real-world costs. This can leave viewers with unrealistic expectations for their own home projects.
3. Homeowners Don’t Keep All the Upgrades
Some of the stunning upgrades featured in the reveals don’t stay with the homeowners. Staging items, like furniture and decor, are often rented for filming and removed afterward. Only permanent fixtures, such as built-ins and structural changes, remain.
4. The Timeline Is Accelerated
Renovations on the show appear to be completed in just a few weeks, but in reality, they take much longer. Filming schedules are condensed to fit the episode format, often omitting delays caused by inspections, permits, or unforeseen issues. This quick turnaround is more fantasy than fact.
5. The Hosts Aren’t Always Involved
While Hilary Farr and David Visentin appear to personally oversee every aspect of their respective tasks, much of the work is handled by behind-the-scenes teams. Hilary has a team of designers and contractors managing the renovation, while David works with realtors to curate home options.
6. The Fights Are Staged
The dramatic arguments between Hilary and David are scripted to enhance the entertainment value. Their playful banter is part of the show’s charm, but it doesn’t reflect genuine conflict. In reality, the two share a friendly and professional relationship off-screen.
7. Renovation Scope Is Often Limited
The renovations featured on the show typically focus only on a few key areas of the home, rather than addressing every issue. This selective approach allows for more dramatic transformations within the given budget. However, it often leaves other parts of the house untouched.
8. Some Homeowners Don’t Love Either Option
Not every homeowner is thrilled with their choices by the end of the show. In some cases, participants feel their needs weren’t fully met by the renovation or the new home options. These reactions are often edited out to maintain a positive narrative.
9. Participants Don’t Pay Full Price
While homeowners do contribute to the renovation budget, they aren’t paying the full cost. The production team often subsidizes part of the expenses, making the renovations seem more affordable than they actually are. This hidden financial help isn’t disclosed during the episodes.
10. Homes Are Staged for Filming
The homes featured on the show undergo professional staging to make them camera-ready. This means that the cozy, lived-in look seen on TV may not represent the homeowners’ personal style or belongings. Staging helps create a more aspirational aesthetic for viewers.
11. The “List It” Homes Aren’t Always Purchased
Even when homeowners appear to choose to “list it” and move, they don’t always end up buying the featured home. Sometimes, they continue their search off-camera or decide to stay in their renovated space after all. The final decision isn’t always as cut-and-dry as it seems.
12. Renovation Plans Can Change Midway
Hilary’s original renovation plans often shift during the process due to unforeseen structural issues or budget constraints. These changes, while not always shown in detail, reflect the real challenges of remodeling. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to lose features they were excited about.
13. The Show Films in Specific Markets
Love It or List It typically films in areas with high housing market activity, such as Toronto or North Carolina. These locations provide a wealth of options for David’s house hunt while also showcasing diverse architectural styles for Hilary’s designs.
14. Not Every Homeowner Applies for the Show
Some participants are scouted by the production team rather than applying themselves. This ensures the show features homes and families that align with its narrative and visual goals. The selection process prioritizes diversity and drama over random application entries.
15. The Show’s Outcome Is Predetermined
While the reveal creates suspense about whether homeowners will “love it” or “list it,” the decision is often made long before filming concludes. Producers craft the storyline around the chosen outcome, ensuring a balanced mix of both decisions throughout the season. This ensures that each episode delivers the desired drama and resolution.
