Back in 2012, the immensely popular HGTV show House Hunters faced accusations of being fake in many aspects. In a candid interview with people who appeared on the show, some major revelations were uncovered, as reported by Hookedonhouses.net. Fast forward to today, the show is bigger than ever, with its spinoff House Hunters International closely following in the ratings. Recently, House Hunters released a spoof video addressing the fake rumors. So, let’s revisit the reasons why the show was deemed “fake” according to the interview:
Unsold Houses May Not Even Be for Sale
One participant revealed that the other houses featured on the show that didn’t get sold were actually just their friends’ houses, who had cleaned them up for the cameras. Considering how people often criticize and nitpick the houses that go unpurchased, this has likely caused issues among friends who volunteered their homes as decoys.
Buyers May Have Already Closed on the Property
While previous House Hunters exposés claimed the selected properties were in escrow, one homeowner stated, “They didn’t even ‘accept’ us being a subject for the show until we closed on the house we were buying.”
Backstories May Not Be Entirely True
For an episode featuring a family’s already-completed property search, the producers decided that the true story – moving into a bigger house and turning their current home into a rental property – was “boring and overdone.”
Despite these revelations, House Hunters remains a fan favorite. Here are five reasons why viewers, including myself, continue to watch and enjoy the show:
1. It’s All About Real Estate and People Love Houses
Think about the numerous shows out there that revolve around real estate. From shows about agents and fixer-uppers to high-end properties and real estate speculation, there’s been a boom in this genre. However, people remain loyal to one of the first – House Hunters.
2. The Houses Are Actually Purchased, So Who Cares About Staging?
As a viewer, my attitude is, “who cares?” I’m not watching the show to find out if properties were staged or not. It doesn’t make a difference. I’m watching because the premise is simple: three homes, three choices, and one purchase. Whether or not those houses were actually for sale doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things.
3. It’s Good Drama, and the Editing Works
Every episode features a new couple with new problems. It’s fun to watch them argue and interact with the agents. We get a new set of participants each time, and people love drama in all shapes and sizes. Plus, the show is laid out very simply: three tours, one choice, one purchase. Done.
4. You Can Never Run Out of Real Estate
This show can go on forever if it wants to. There are always houses for sale, and people never get tired of looking.
5. It’s the American Dream
House Hunters sparks so much conversation. “If only I had a house down there, I wouldn’t be broke!” At least that’s what I’m always thinking when I realize I live in New York. It keeps the American Dream of homeownership alive. Watching the show gets you motivated.
So, will these clips!
The most epic eyeroll I have ever seen on @hgtv #HouseHunters. Husband of the year! #Baltimore pic.twitter.com/YSA5cU68Rj
– Michelle Kinney (@MichelleKinney) January 30, 2016
And have you seen the House Hunters spoof yet? They finally address the staging issues with this hilarious video. You can view it on HGTV.
Catch new episodes of House Hunters Tuesdays at 8pmEST on HGTV
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