Emily Flores
HGTV’s “Home Town” is known for heartfelt stories and Southern charm, but not every tip from the show translates well off-screen. Television makeovers often prioritize speed, aesthetics, or storytelling over long-term practicality. If you’re thinking about applying those ideas to your own home, it’s worth taking a closer look. Not everything shown is as functional—or sensible—as it seems.
Ignoring Local Climate In Material Choices
The rustic tongue-and-groove pine door on the “Home Town” dream home looks great; still, it is vulnerable to local humidity. Wood like pine can expand, swell, or warp when exposed to moisture. To avoid those issues, choose materials carefully by considering climate conditions, since certain “durable” options require more upkeep than expected.
Overemphasizing Curb Appeal Over Functionality
Eye-catching exteriors usually steal the spotlight on “Home Town,” but focusing first on core updates like insulation or floor plan fixes could be a smarter move. When looks take priority too soon, basic needs inside often get sidelined. The house may sparkle outside, but comfort and practicality still lag behind.
Overusing Open-Concept Floor Plans
“Home Town” usually encourages tearing down walls to create open-concept layouts, but this advice can cause harm. That kind of layout makes temperature control difficult, leading to higher energy use. Without walls, it’s harder to find quiet or personal space, and everyday sounds carry much farther than they should.
Using Trendy Paint Colors That Date Quickly
Before reaching for bold colors such as those suggested in “Home Town,” consider how quickly trends shift. Bright, trendy shades usually go out of style within a year, making what once looked stylish feel outdated, and turning it into a repaint project. Neutral tones simplify upkeep and attract more buyers when resale value matters.
Underestimating Renovation Costs
Start any renovation with more money and time than you think you’ll need. “Home Town” presents tidy budgets, but real projects regularly reveal hidden costs, particularly with older homes. Outdated pipes and faulty wiring add up quickly. Also, delays are common. A flexible budget helps avoid stress once work begins.
Promoting DIY Projects Without Highlighting Risks
“Home Town” includes plenty of DIY upgrades; however, the risks don’t always make it to the screen. Structural, electrical, and plumbing work done incorrectly can lead to major safety issues. Skipping permits is another common problem and can void home insurance. When DIY projects go beyond what someone can realistically handle, expensive repairs usually follow.
Overloading Small Spaces With Too Much Furniture
Several small rooms featured on “Home Town” focus heavily on visual appeal, regularly filling tight spaces with oversized furniture. This approach tends to limit comfort and functionality, even if the final photo looks great. Swapping in smaller, well-fitted pieces opens up the room and makes daily movement more comfortable and stress-free.
Ignoring Neighborhood Architectural Style
Nothing clashes more than a home that doesn’t match its surroundings. On “Home Town,” a few redesigns aim to stand out but end up feeling out of place. That can frustrate neighbors, confuse buyers, and even break local codes in historic areas. It’s smarter to renovate with respect for the neighborhood’s original character.
Overlooking Practical Kitchen Layouts
“Home Town” kitchens usually prioritize stylish designs, sometimes ignoring workflow basics like the work triangle or countertop space. These layout mistakes make meal prep slower and more stressful. A better option is to prioritize function when arranging sinks and refrigerators to save time and frustration.
Overusing Hardwood For Every Room
Hardwood floors are beautiful, no doubt. Still, placing them in every room doesn’t always work out. “Home Town” shows wood in bathrooms and kitchens, where spills happen regularly. That invites stains and warping. Want less hassle? Choose vinyl or tile in splash zones. The look stays stylish, and the upkeep stays simple.