Love It Or List It

Love It or List It is a popular reality television series that airs on HGTV, where a team of designers and real estate experts help homeowners decide whether to renovate their current home or sell it and move to a new one. The show, which premiered in 2008, has become a favorite among audiences who enjoy watching the transformation of homes and the emotional journey of the families who inhabit them.
The Concept of Love It or List It

The show’s concept is simple yet engaging. Each episode features a family who is struggling with their current living situation, whether it’s due to a lack of space, outdated decor, or a variety of other issues. The family is then introduced to two experts: a designer, typically Hilary Farr, who specializes in renovating homes, and a real estate agent, usually David Visentin, who is tasked with finding the family a new home that meets their needs and budget.
The Renovation Process
The renovation process on Love It or List It is a key aspect of the show. Hilary Farr and her team work tirelessly to transform the family’s home into a beautiful and functional space that meets their needs. The process typically involves a series of challenges, from demolition to construction, and the team must work within a tight budget and timeline to complete the project. The family is often kept in the dark about the progress of the renovation, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the final reveal.
Episode | Renovation Budget | Square Footage |
---|---|---|
Season 1, Episode 1 | $50,000 | 1,200 sqft |
Season 5, Episode 10 | $100,000 | 2,500 sqft |
Season 10, Episode 5 | $75,000 | 1,800 sqft |

The Real Estate Aspect

While the renovation is underway, David Visentin is busy searching for a new home that meets the family’s needs and budget. He typically presents the family with three potential homes, each with its own unique features and benefits. The family must then decide which home they prefer, taking into account factors such as location, size, and amenities.
The Decision-Making Process
The final decision on Love It or List It is often a difficult one. The family must weigh the pros and cons of staying in their renovated home versus moving to a new one. The decision is typically influenced by a variety of factors, including the success of the renovation, the appeal of the new homes presented by David, and the family’s overall priorities and preferences.
- Renovation success: 70% of families choose to stay in their renovated home
- New home appeal: 30% of families choose to move to a new home
- Family priorities: location, size, and amenities are the top factors influencing the decision
What is the typical renovation budget on Love It or List It?
+The typical renovation budget on Love It or List It ranges from 50,000 to 200,000, depending on the scope of the project and the family’s needs.
How long does the renovation process typically take on the show?
+The renovation process on Love It or List It typically takes around 6-8 weeks, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the availability of materials and labor.
Do the families on the show get to keep the furniture and decor after the renovation?
+Yes, the families on Love It or List It typically get to keep the furniture and decor after the renovation, although some items may be donated or sold to help offset the costs of the project.