By Vanessa Saunders, MBA, MIMC , Broker Owner, Global Property Systems Real Estate.

The popular DIY (Do It Yourself) TV shows often seen on the HGTV, DIY Network and TLC channels have inspired more people to complete their own renovations, and have changed the way interested buyers shop for homes. Some of today’s consumers are hyper-aware of evolving home trends, so certain aspects of a house, like an outdated kitchen, can turn off prospective buyers. This is commonly known as the “HGTV effect.” In general, many modern house hunters aim to buy a home with turnkey capability and upgraded features rather than choosing a house that has potential.

But other potential buyers aren’t daunted by making repairs and renovations themselves. It seems that popular DIY TV shows have given these homebuyers the encouragement to take on projects they may have walked away from in the past. Imagining a beautifully finished home when you’re standing in front of a disaster can be hard. DIY programs make it seem manageable, especially when the process only takes a half-hour and ends with a satisfying big reveal.

Home buyers should realize that taking on a fixer-upper property will quickly realize that doing it yourself is not as easy as they make it seem. No project ever goes as planned, especially in older homes where a surprise seems to lurk behind every piece of dry-wall. Swapping out those old faucets for the really cute ones your partner picked out can turn into a nightmare if the faucet supply lines are rusted to the fittings. Remember that the unfinished mess you left last night will be the same mess you’ll wake up to the next morning. And drywall dust gets EVERYWHERE!

As these shows often do reflect, the majority of renovation projects end up having costly surprises. Home owners must plan for unexpected costs in their budget prior to beginning the demolition—or even before buying the house. Beyond adding value, a little sweat equity in a home renovation gives the homeowner an appreciation of the work and pride of place.

The renovations we see on TV often present an unrealistically optimistic picture of a renovation project. But it’s always fun to watch designers modernize an old kitchen or completely revamp a home layout. These shows are a great source for ideas for your own home, and can teach homeowners how to use space, suggest creative money saving tips and design trends. The trick is to have professionals who know the business to guide you through your project.

These three "before and after" photos are of a recent listing we decluttered and staged prior to the listing going live.  Once it went to market we received multiple offers, well above asking price within 48 hours of going on the market.  Realizing far more money for the home-owners than would have been expected without the effort prior to listing.

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