I have been watching HGTV pretty much since its launch in 1994. Unfortunately, the HGTV that we once knew in the 90s is gone and should really be known as the real estate channel. Honestly, what were they thinking when they decided to go the route they have taken? They have had to lose a lot of viewers. What happened to all the decorating shows like Decorating Cents and Design On A Dime? Also, where is Color Splash? These days, 98% of HGTV is real estate, 2% is high-end remodeling after the real estate purchase.
And what happened to the “G” (Garden) in HGTV? I’m sorry, but Yard Crashers is not gardening. They show up at some average little home and the next thing you know they build some kind of volcano waterfall and Bali-inspired “oasis” in somebody’s yard. It’s crazy!
HGTV used to give me ideas about decorating on a budget and gardening. Not anymore. Unfortunately, HGTV has morphed into makeover shows where average homeowners have a budget of $50,000-$100,000 for remodels.
As fake as they seem, during my adventure in the buying of my first home, I watched many episodes of House Hunters where the formula is to have homeowners choose between just three homes.
It was kinda fun, but not helpful.
According to homebuyers on HGTV:
- Granite countertops are a must for EVERY homebuyer (the absence of this stone sends EVERY buyer on HGTV back out the door).
- An outdated light fixture can be a deal breaker.
- An open floor plan is also a must for EVERY homebuyer.
- Trees in the backyard are not much appreciated.
- Brass doorknobs can also be a deal breaker.
- Laundry room is not allowed anywhere near the kitchen.
All I know is that I would NOT be a good candidate for this show since location and size of a house matter most to me.
Well, in 2012, representatives for HGTV admitted that scenes featured on House Hunters are mostly re-creations of prior events. In many cases, the final decision and purchase were made prior to filming. In some cases, homes visited were not even on the market, but were homes of friends. Further proof that there is no reality in reality TV! But I still enjoy learning about the different U.S. cities and house prices.
Anyhow, here is the reason for this blog post. Each year, HGTV sponsors the Dream Home (Smart Home) giveaway. It just so happens, this year’s Smart Home is located in Nashville. The house is described as an “English country home” with plenty of fancy futuristic tech wizardry. The house is situated in Green Hills which is a popular neighborhood in Nashville.
I didn’t get a tour of the Smart House (I would have liked to), but I did drive by and took this pic. The street itself was packed with cars from construction workers and what I believe was a camera crew. To me, the house looked smaller than on TV, but the design -inside & outside – is lovely.
Check it out ! Here is the video tour of the house and if you want to win it, go to HGTV.com.
HGTV logo image credit: Wikipedia