HOME RENOVATIONS: REALITY VS. TELEVISION

Home renovation shows make everything look fast, affordable, and effortless, but real-life renovations require planning, budgeting, and patience. Television is entertainment — not an accurate reflection of timelines or costs.

Here’s what you need to know before starting your own renovation 👇

1️⃣ TV renovations don’t show the full reality

Renovation shows hide the messy details behind editing.

✔️ projects appear fast and easy

✔️ costs shown are often unrealistic

✔️ timelines are heavily compressed

These shows inspire ideas, but they rarely reflect real-world complexity.

2️⃣ Understand what a renovation actually involves

Real-life renovations require structural, financial, and design planning.

✔️ evaluate if your home can support changes

✔️ determine if layout modifications are possible

✔️ assess whether upgrades add value

Not all homes can be modified the way TV makes it seem.

3️⃣ Financing is often overlooked on TV

Shows rarely discuss how renovations are paid for.

✔️ HELOCs and lines of credit carry higher rates

✔️ mortgage refinancing may save interest

✔️ borrowing costs affect long-term budgets

The cheapest payment option isn’t always the smartest one.

4️⃣ HELOC vs. refinancing: which makes more sense?

Financing strategy depends on budget and long-term goals.

✔️ HELOC provides flexible access to funds

✔️ refinancing may lower interest costs

✔️ lump-sum financing helps manage debt

Choosing the right option prevents long-lasting financial strain.

5️⃣ Budget expectations vs. TV illusions

TV budgets rarely include full project costs.

✔️ design fees excluded

✔️ labour discounted or sponsored

✔️ materials donated or promotional

Real budgets are higher because real labour and materials must be paid.

6️⃣ Work with a reputable renovator

Picking the cheapest quote can lead to major problems.

✔️ get multiple quotes

✔️ review scope and timeline

✔️ confirm qualifications and references

Professional planning reduces costly surprises later.

7️⃣ Timeline expectations vs. reality

TV shows finish renovations in weeks — real timelines take months.

✔️ custom cabinetry takes 6–8 weeks

✔️ contractors may be booked in advance

✔️ materials can be out of stock

Even small projects take time when done properly.

8️⃣ Design and planning take longer than TV shows suggest

Real renovations require detailed planning and approvals.

✔️ structural engineers may be needed

✔️ permits required for major changes

✔️ inspections add delays

A planned, step-by-step approach prevents mistakes and rework.

9️⃣ Real-life renovations lack TV drama — and that’s good

The excitement on TV comes from editing, not reality.

✔️ planned projects run smoother

✔️ fewer surprises mean fewer costs

✔️ end results are more predictable

A steady, well-managed renovation leads to the most satisfying outcome.

💬 Final Thought

Renovation shows provide inspiration, but real projects require planning, budgeting, patience, and realistic expectations. The more you prepare, the smoother the process and the happier you’ll be with the final result.

If you want help comparing renovation options and financing approaches, The Frontline Mortgage Group will guide you through the numbers and help you plan with confidence.