Selling a Home Fit for TV: My Journey With HGTV

How I helped consult on and sell a beautiful house for HGTV.

Today, I want to share the story of how I sold a home that was featured on HGTV. I love HGTV, as I’m sure you all do. This was a great experience, and it was pretty different from what normally happens in our area. 

In our area, we have a mix of historic homes dating back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries which are beautifully renovated. We also have modern construction, like the HGTV house. Life here is closely tied to the waterfront, so this HGTV property was a perfect fit.

My journey with this HGTV home began with the search for the perfect location, helping them acquire the land, finding a contractor, and overseeing the entire process. If you’re an HGTV enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with the behind-the-scenes action. Then came the sweepstakes. Surprisingly, the winner of this dream house decided not to claim it. You see, when you inherit a $2.5 million property, you also inherit a hefty tax liability, as it’s considered taxable income. That’s when they reached out to me, asking if I wanted to sell it. My response? Absolutely.

I had been involved in this project from its inception, and it was an incredible opportunity to sell a house created and furnished entirely by HGTV. Every piece of furniture, every detail, was HGTV-inspired. While the original plan was to showcase the home with a grand soiree, the pandemic altered those plans, and the property was sold quietly.

We had a lot of interested buyers, and it went under contract swiftly. What made it so appealing? It was a new-build home, exquisitely furnished, and boasted stunning water views. Water is a defining feature here in Rhode Island, and in the luxury market, water views are highly sought after.

'"Interestingly, the buyers who eventually fell in love with the house weren't initially aware that it was the HGTV house."

Witnessing the construction of the HGTV house, I gained an invaluable perspective on quality and craftsmanship. It has a way of raising your expectations. When you enter other properties, you pay closer attention to details–from molding to paintwork, and even the alignment of ceilings. It’s a lasting effect that enhances the way you view and present properties.

Interestingly, the buyers who eventually fell in love with the house weren’t initially aware that it was the HGTV house. They discovered it online and decided to visit. It wasn’t until their home inspection that they realized its fame. Their reaction? Delightful surprise. They simply adored the house and were unfazed by its celebrity status.

In the end, another agent brought these buyers in, there were multiple offers, and they secured the property. The buyers, who were a young couple with children, were very happy with their new home. I was truly thrilled for them.

I’d like to take this moment to express my gratitude during this Thanksgiving season. I appreciate your trust and support in my real estate services. Whenever you need assistance in the future, please don’t hesitate to call or email me. Happy Thanksgiving!