The popularity of HGTV’s House Hunters has led to a number of spinoffs, most notably House Hunters International, the most popular of them.

Some contractors hired on the show have even donated time, materials, and labor to help homeowners in need. The remainder of the work is funded by the TV production company, but in some cases, Mike Holmes personally contributes funds towards the repairs.

But before you get too excited, be aware that the renovations are completely funded by the homeowners and not “This Old House,” though the show coordinates product discounts and donations where possible. All donated items are considered gifts, on which the homeowners pay taxes.

Best Renovation Shows Worth Streaming Right Now

1. 01 of 17. Renovation, Inc. (HGTV)
2. 02 of 17. Renovation Island (HGTV)
3. 03 of 17. Home Town (HGTV)
4. 04 of 17. Murder Flip House (Quibi)
5. 05 of 17. Big Texas Fix (HGTV)
6. 06 of 17. Stay Here (Netflix)
7. 07 of 17. Martha Knows Best (HGTV)
8. 08 of 17. Life Uncontained (YouTube)

The process for House Hunters is no different. Cast members have already picked and bought the house they will later “choose” on TV. In fact, the show will not cast anyone who hasn’t already closed on a home. This means the back and forth viewers witness during the final minutes of the show are all scripted.

They have the money from an inheritance. They have the money from stock options at a successful start-up. They have the money because they’ve traded up houses, buying and selling maybe every year or two.

To afford a house that costs $600,000 with a down payment of $120,000, you’d need to earn $89,528 per year before tax. The monthly mortgage payment would be $2,089. This page will calculate how much you need to earn to buy a house that costs $600,000. It assumes a fixed-rate mortgage.