HGTV Myths: How TV is NOT Reality!

The star of the show goes to the county auction, or negotiates a killer deal on the distressed property. We are shown the planned timeline, costs and projected sales price. Great so far.

Then the drama begins. The house is in worse shape than originally thought. Hoarders left their life behind; insect infestation from Hell; the undetected plumbing leak under the concrete floor; the list can go on and on.

The Earth and sky are falling! What ever shall we do?

Melodrama aside, our intrepid investors jump in with both feet and somehow, they find a solution that still allows them a sizeable profit based on the PROJECTED sales price – fade to black.

In reality, things often do not work out so conveniently. And most people are not nearly as dramatic as the ‘reality’ stars appear. Keeping in mind that these programs stay on TV because they are entertaining. There is no attempt to promote these as educational. Yes there are elements of style, construction processes and timeline, but the Devil is in the details that are rarely if ever shown.

Flipping houses for profit is a great business, as long as you have the experience to understand the risks, rewards, costs and hidden costs. Most new ‘flippers’ have no professional handyman experience and even less experience in real estate.

If you lack in any of these areas, you would do well to begin your journey by partnering with another experienced investor or a contractor/investor who can guide you through the learning process. When you find the right professionals for your team and use them to increase your success, it will save you time, money and heartache.