HGTV’s Home Town has captured the hearts of viewers with its charming renovations and small-town appeal. Hosted by Ben and Erin Napier, the show focuses on revitalizing historic homes in Laurel, Mississippi. While many aspects of the show reflect real-life transformations, some details are carefully edited to fit television’s storytelling needs. From hidden costs to behind-the-scenes construction, here are 12 surprising truths about Home Town—what’s real and what’s not.
1. The Homes Really Do Get Stunning Makeovers
One of the most authentic aspects of Home Town is the jaw-dropping home transformations. Each renovation is carefully planned, incorporating both the homeowners’ tastes and the historical character of the property. House Beautiful says that Erin’s eye for design and Ben’s craftsmanship bring unique and thoughtful details to each space, often restoring original features like hardwood floors and fireplaces. The before-and-after reveals are just as dramatic in real life as they appear on TV.
What viewers don’t always see, however, is the extensive work that goes into each project behind the scenes. Contractors, local tradespeople, and designers work tirelessly to complete renovations in a condensed timeline. Some details, like extensive electrical or plumbing work, might not make it into the final episode. While the show highlights the best parts of the transformation, every renovation comes with challenges that are often left on the cutting room floor.
2. Homeowners Do Choose Between Multiple Houses – Sort Of
Like many HGTV shows, Home Town features a house-hunting segment where homeowners tour three potential properties. This creates the illusion of a big decision being made on the spot. The Things points out that, in reality, the buyers have often already selected a home before filming begins. The other two houses are included to add drama and keep the episode engaging.
While this creative editing makes for a more compelling story, the chosen house is still a genuine reflection of what the homeowners want. The process of finding and purchasing a home in Laurel is real, but the TV format simplifies what can be a months-long search. Additionally, budget and renovation feasibility play a big role in the final selection, even if that isn’t shown in the episode.
3. The Budgets Are Real, But There’s Extra Help
The budgets shown on Home Town are accurate, and homeowners are responsible for paying for their renovations. However, they often receive additional support, such as donated materials or discounted labor, notes Country Living. The show’s partnership with local vendors means that some design elements—like custom furniture from Ben’s shop—are provided at a lower cost than they would be in a typical renovation.
What isn’t always clear is that certain features shown in the reveal may not be included in the final budget. For example, some decorative items are staged for TV but do not stay in the home unless the homeowners choose to purchase them separately. While the renovations are genuinely stunning, the final price tag might not reflect every single detail seen on screen.
4. The Timeframe is Condensed for TV
On Home Town, home renovations appear to happen in just a few weeks, making it seem like a whirlwind process. While the show does operate on an accelerated timeline, the reality is that most projects take longer than what is shown, says TV Over Mind. Filming schedules, contractor availability, and supply chain delays can all extend the renovation period.
To keep the show moving, construction often begins before filming starts, and some finishing touches may be completed after the reveal. While the final product is still the result of hard work and expert craftsmanship, the seamless transitions seen on TV don’t always reflect the real-life pacing of a major home renovation.
5. Ben’s Woodworking Shop Plays a Big Role
One of the most beloved aspects of Home Town is Ben’s woodworking, where he crafts custom pieces for each home. His shop, Scotsman Co., provides handmade furniture and unique details that make each renovation feel personal. Many of these pieces are designed specifically for the homeowners, adding sentimental value to the finished space.
However, not every item stays with the homeowners after filming. While some pieces are included in the budget, others may be optional add-ons. Regardless, Ben’s craftsmanship is a real and integral part of the show, showcasing the charm of custom, locally made furniture.
6. The Homeowners Get a Say in the Design Process
Unlike some renovation shows where the designers make all the decisions, Home Town allows homeowners to have real input. Erin works closely with each family to ensure their style and functional needs are reflected in the finished design. Many elements, from color schemes to furniture choices, are based on homeowner preferences.
That said, not every decision is shown on TV, and some creative liberties are taken for storytelling purposes. Some homeowners may request minor changes after filming wraps, which aren’t documented on the show. The final reveal is still a genuine representation of their home, but the full design process is more collaborative than what viewers see on screen.
7. Laurel Really Has Benefited from the Show
One of the biggest successes of Home Town is its impact on Laurel, Mississippi. The show has brought national attention to the town, boosting tourism and encouraging local economic growth. Many small businesses have flourished thanks to the exposure, and the revitalization of historic homes has helped preserve the town’s charm.
However, not all parts of Laurel are showcased on TV. While the show focuses on the most picturesque streets, there are still areas in need of improvement. The town’s real estate market has also changed, with rising home prices making it more challenging for some locals to buy property. Even so, Home Town has played a significant role in revitalizing the community.
8. Some Renovations Are More Cosmetic Than Structural
While Home Town highlights major transformations, not every renovation involves extensive structural changes. Many projects focus on cosmetic updates like fresh paint, new flooring, and updated fixtures. These changes make a big impact but don’t always require a complete overhaul of the home.
Structural renovations do happen, but they are often more time-consuming and expensive than what is shown. In cases where major repairs are needed—like fixing the foundation or replacing plumbing—those details might be downplayed in favor of more visually appealing updates.
9. Erin and Ben Are Just as Friendly Off-Camera
Fans of Home Town often wonder if Ben and Erin are as genuine as they appear on TV. By all accounts, they are! Locals frequently share stories of their kindness, and they remain actively involved in the community. Their love for Laurel is real, and they continue to invest in the town beyond the show.
That said, reality TV is still a production, and certain moments are scripted or edited for entertainment value. While their warmth and enthusiasm are authentic, some scenes may be reshot to ensure the best storytelling for TV.
10. The Staging Isn’t Always Permanent
The beautifully styled homes in Home Town often feature carefully curated decor and furnishings. However, not every item stays after filming wraps. Many pieces are used for staging purposes, and homeowners have the option to purchase them separately.
This is a common practice in home renovation shows, as it ensures that the final reveal is as visually stunning as possible. While the bones of the renovation are real, some of the finishing touches are added purely for the cameras.
11. Not Every Homeowner Stays in Their Home
While Home Town aims to revitalize homes for long-term residents, not every homeowner stays put after the show. Some families sell their homes a few years later, often benefiting from increased property values. The show’s popularity has made Laurel’s housing market more competitive, leading some homeowners to move on to different opportunities.
Though this isn’t unique to Home Town, it’s something viewers don’t always see. The goal is always to create a lasting home for families, but circumstances change, and some renovations become investments rather than forever homes.
12. Some Drama Is Edited In for TV
Like any reality show, Home Town uses creative editing to keep viewers engaged. Challenges, unexpected setbacks, and last-minute design changes add tension to the narrative. While these moments are based on real events, they are sometimes exaggerated or rearranged to fit the episode’s storyline.
In reality, most renovations go smoothly with careful planning and experienced teams. While every project has hurdles, the drama seen on TV is often more about crafting an engaging story than reflecting the full reality of home renovation.
