I don’t know about you but I’ve been less than impressed with the most recent crop of TV design shows – Bang for Your Buck, Inside the Box, Battle on the Block, feh.
For me, the only really bright light in recent seasons has been Love It or List It starring Hilary Farr, left, and David Visentin. For my U.S. readers who haven’t seen the show, ace designer Hilary works her magic in an effort to make the owners love their dysfunctional homes again, while competitor, real estate agent David, scours MLS in order to entice them into listing the property Hilary has just made over and move on to a new dream home.
The show hasn’t yet made it to the U.S. market where folks are trying just to hold on to their homes, never mind worrying about upgrading.
“Homeowners desperate for another bathroom really doesn’t resonate with people surrounded by so much economic pain,” says an empathetic Farr.
I don’t usually consent to telephone interviews for styleNorth but I made an exception in this case because a) Hilary’s son was getting married the day we spoke and b) Love It or List It is nominated for a Gemini Award Saturday night for Best Reality Program or Series and I truly hope they win.
“Our nomination is for the show, which sits very well with all of us,” says Farr, “because as hokey as it sounds, it will be a sincere thank you to everyone on the program; we really are all cogs in the wheel and without any one of them, things start to unravel. We have an incredible design team, incredible production team and producers, the network (W) is spectacular to work with. It really it is a team effort.”
The secret of the show’s success is undoubtedly the chemistry between Visentin and Farr — their rivalry is obviously made for TV but their banter and rapport is always winning.
“David has a weird, quirky sense of humour that’s a perfect foil for my . . . whatever mine is,” says Farr. “And I think it’s only gotten better, genuinely on a personal level and with each new season.”
The show is now in its third season, heading into a fourth and already signed for a fifth: “We’ve got a long happy road ahead of us,” says the designer.
What has ALWAYS amazed me about the program is how absolutely horrible most of the homeowners are to Hilary as she faces unforeseen reno challenges that force her to scale back her design plan. Not once have I seen a homeowner suck it up and apologize for the abuse they hurled in the early stages, even when they end up loving the design and staying in the house.
“They think that by saying I did a wonderful job during the reveal that it takes it all away,” says Farr, audibly shrugging. “But I am an interior designer and have been for years and you take it in your stride, you have to. I’ve had wonderful clients who remain my clients for years who have just lost it on me, I’m the one they vent at when the plumber does something wrong, I’m the one who’s there so I get to hear about it. I try not to take it personally.”
Conversing with Farr on the phone I hear exactly the woman I see on TV — warm, cheeky, straight shooting. I’d love to spend a day with her tearing up Toronto’s Castlefield design district, poking through Elte, which she mentions as one of her go-to sources.
“They’ve really opened up to the fact that they’ve been beyond the reach of the average consumer in terms of their price points by expanding their clearance section,” she says of the retailer. “And I just heard that they’re opening an outlet in Vaughn that will be dedicated exclusively to their clearance and as-is merchandise so there’s a tip for your readers.”
On the fabric front Hilary praises Designer Fabrics on Queen West — “everybody goes there, it’s spectacular,” she raves. “That’s number one when budget is an issue, which is most of the time. On those rare occasions when budget is not an issue I’m off to Lee Jofa in Designers Walk for beautiful, extraordinary fabrics that you won’t find anywhere else.”
Hilary can’t say exactly how far ahead of David she is on the tote board but she has clocked many more Love Its than he has List Its.
“David is resigned to that,” says Farr. “In the end we’re both fine with whichever way it goes because we both sincerely want them to find a home they love.
“When they choose to Love It, they’re in their own home and they now know all the demons that were lurking because we’ve found them all and addressed most of them. It’s the devil you know versus the one you don’t. And we all know how much trouble and expense moving is; I think it’s a tough one for David to convince someone to list and move on.”
November 12th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
Oh I love this show! And yes, surprising how horrible the owners are to Hillary! But then there’s the episode where they redo Hillary’s assistant’s home and even she was pretty upset with what couldn’t be done, despite having been in on x-number of scaled-back renos herself – so how much of that angst is to make a good TV show?
November 12th, 2010 at 5:16 pm
I agree! I also really enjoy this show it’s a new twist for a reality show, and I am always amazed at how mean some of these people are to Hilary and David. Especially Hilary’s own assistant. Remember the old “treat people the way you would like to be treated”. Best of luck to them both for the Gemini’s.
November 12th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Good evening, enjoy this show very much, and some others but like yourself found the new offerings rather bland. I know from experience how frustrating and stressful a reno can be, if you are not used to problems flying at oneself. I’ve learned to TRY and think logically and not stress out as much…Lois of just another thought
November 13th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
I love the Show too!
I say come on Down. We would love to see you in the Castlefield Design area. Please come in and see us @ Theadcount Textile and Design
November 15th, 2010 at 6:23 pm
RJ and Sandra, Hilary and I talked specifically about the episodes where she redid the homes of crew members Eddie and Desta.
“I think we saw a side of Desta that we hadn’t seen before,” she confirmed. “The bossy, pushy, nobody-knows-about-interior-design-but-me and let me tell you how it is Hilary! I mean, excuse me. So it was an eye-opener. And to be honest, I think Desta was surprised at how she reacted to being on the other end of the process. So it was revealing to all of us.”
“With the regular homeowners I don’t have any personal connection; we parachute in and come up with a design plan that will work for them. And then we get air-lifted out at the end, whichever way it goes. But with Desta and Eddie, they’re still here, so with them it was trickier on a personal level because we have a relationship, one I wanted to continue hopefully for a long, long time.”
“On the design side I knew exactly what Eddie would want and I knew how to make it work for Desta, too.”
You go, Hilary!
November 16th, 2010 at 5:12 pm
chris
I am really enjoying the comments of your readers.
thanks!
November 20th, 2010 at 6:53 am
I absolutely love this show too. We have lived in a number of homes in the last 15 years and I wish we had the vision Hilary has to see the end result. I understand that usually a homeowner has saved a fairly long time to get the bundle for the renovation but if you have ever tried to coordinate a number of contractors on your own, you’ll see that she supersedes any expectation on value (much less design!) I think she can informally mark her tally board that even when they do decide to list it, the resale price is always significantly more.
November 23rd, 2010 at 12:43 am
what happens to the furnishings when the owners decide tolist their house.
November 28th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
The furnishings are part of our Design budget. The owners can take them, sell them, give them away. its up to them.
December 1st, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Love love love the show very much………I watch many home transformation design in W NETWORK but your show is the best……. Hilary wish you could do my house to…. That is my Christmas wish…..
December 1st, 2010 at 2:43 pm
Amy,
Sorry I can’t fulfill your Christmas wish. watch the show and maybe you can find one of our ideas that you can do yourself to transform at least one area of your home.
Good luck.- AND, Merry Christmas!
December 5th, 2010 at 6:24 pm
Hilary Love your show. On one of the episodes you designed a laundry room with a new style laundry sink. Please sent me the company name,style number and where you purhcased it. Happy Christmas Jane
December 6th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
i hope you will get the gemini award, is the best reality show. Me and my family enjoyed very much.i hope one day we do the show…
December 9th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
Jane,
all of our sinks and plumbing items are supplied to us by KOHLER. I am sure you will find what you are looking for on their website.
December 27th, 2010 at 2:18 pm
Hilary, just love the love the designs you do and amazed how unrealistic home owners can be at time. Having done many major renos myself I don’t think people realize what a bargain and amount of work they are getting from you and your team.
I am curious, the times the home owners make the wrong decision and decide to list ;-) , is it guaranteed that they always get the home David found and they chose or is there the chance they can be outbid through the normal real estate purchasing process?
December 29th, 2010 at 12:07 pm
Does it really make sense that a property’s value can rise $100,000 (or more) because $50,000 of renovations were done to it? It’s a big part of the reason why home ownership is becoming a pipe dream for working class people. If we had any sense of social justice, we would celebrate decreases in home prices; instead, we look at it as an unmitigated disaster because it means we’re less “wealthy”. In fact, the only real beneficiaries of rising home prices are the already wealthy (e.g.- the banks).
December 30th, 2010 at 12:05 pm
Hi all,
As a former show participant
December 30th, 2010 at 12:07 pm
Whoops – continued from above — We are still so happy with what was done to our place – it will keep us happy for years to come – Good luck to EVERYONE involved. Now I’m going to call the people at W to catch up on that ep. with Desta and Eddie’s place! Cheers all!
January 4th, 2011 at 10:02 pm
Why doesn’t everyone ever ending up loving their house? In all the episodes I’ve watched they always list it.
January 14th, 2011 at 7:54 pm
we love the show and we are glad to hear there are more seasons to come! hilary – where did you source desta’s kitchen – I want something similar to love my house again.
January 17th, 2011 at 2:31 pm
I watch your show faithfully – it is on satellite t.v. almost very day up here in Kincardine, ON.
Hilary; I cringe when the clients you are working with are SO rude to you. It shows their real lack of class; there is no need of foul language by some of them, and they should be ashamed of themselves. I wonder if they are ever concerned what their employers and family are going to think after seeing them act like this on tv? The clients that own houses that are discovered to have knob and tube wiring and even dry-rot and bad foundations should thank you from the bottom of their hearts for discovering these hidden monsters. Indeed, even if they listed their houses in these conditions, it wouldn’t pass a home inspection! You can’t help that they bought a wonky house in the first place. No wonder they are looking to bail out! I think they know they are living on (in) the edge of disaster, but expect you to overlook this and gloss things over with lovely staging and make miracles for them on a small budget no less! Good for you to have a conscience and do the renovation properly and safely.
One other bit of thought though: Don’t fall prey to the drama of having your director make you bicker with David to make the show look more competitive. It looks and sounds petty and you and David are far too professional and classy for that!
Looking forward to watching more great successes with you both!
January 17th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
Maureen.
thanks for your input and kind words.
January 24th, 2011 at 7:50 pm
I love this show David and Hilary are amazing.Hilary works her magic everywhere she goes and David knows his stuff to …pulling some beautiful homes out of his hat.I would love them to come to the maritimes and work some magic for me.I have the same dilema going on here…..I want to list…..hubby wants to love! If you ever come this way please look us up.Keep up the good work.We love your show!!!! Angela Everett
January 30th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
Hilary and her designs are first class!!! She puts a lot of thought and understanding into the wishes and needs of her clients, while implementing her excellent designs into their homes. Her designs are very tasteful, without being too much or too heavy. A first class lady and designer!!! I love your show. Keep up the excellent work, Hilary.
January 31st, 2011 at 12:09 am
Hilary, I really love your work! Even though you run into problems alot, you always handle it with class even when the clients act a little bitter.
February 1st, 2011 at 1:41 am
Hi Hillary,
I love your show. In fact you and Candice Olson are my top designers on TV. Keep up the good work! I was wondering if you could tell me where you shop for beddings. Every bedroom you redesign is more beautiful than the other. I just watched a rerun of Jay and Sherri’s Reno and I love the bind and beige silky look. There was another episode where the colors were silvery grey with a custom headboards. Thanks for your help!
Maha
February 4th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Hi everyone-Happy ( very belated) 2011!
Thanks for all the kind words and encouragement.
I will pass them along to the LOL team.
February 12th, 2011 at 6:31 pm
Hi Hillary,
I really like the show and I’m doing an essay on it for an application for Ryerson. I’d like to know what you think the target audience is for the show. I have my ideas but if you could tell me what the demographic you think your show is reaching that would help a lot.
Thank You,
Ivan
February 12th, 2011 at 6:32 pm
Sorry I meant Hilary haha.
February 21st, 2011 at 1:34 pm
Ivan,
Most importantly- thanks for noticing its Hilary with one L!
Re your question: The Network would know for sure. But, based on the people I run into who love the show we seem to appeal to a wide audience. Very young to quite elderly, both males and females, and across all lines re: education and income.
February 23rd, 2011 at 5:09 pm
Hilary,
Great show! I just started watching it and I am amazed at what you can do with some of the renovations. How long does the process typically take?
February 26th, 2011 at 1:27 am
Hi Hilary
Just started watching the show, and too am amazed at what you can do/come up with some of the homes are a real challenge/at how so many have no idea of the cost/with not a lot to work with you always come through at the end. I feel for you in the end when they end up listing/putting in an offer on another place that turns out being
$100,000 more than what there place is estimated to sell for.
Look forward to seeing you both keep up the awesome show!!!!!!
February 27th, 2011 at 11:22 pm
Hi Hilary,
Love your show! Do you and David actually go for drinks out somewhere after the show. Or is it like a set up kind of thing??
Good designing always!!
February 28th, 2011 at 8:04 pm
When the owners decide to list….how many actually end up with the house David has shown them?
We love the show and watch it daily!
March 1st, 2011 at 1:37 pm
I think Hilary’s designs are very well done and i love the show . My pet peeve is that on every episode Hilary says yes we can do this,this and this and then has to go back to the client later and say we can’t do this because there’s a supporting wall in the way or some other excuse. Why not take Eddie or Fergus through the house BEFORE you tell the client what you can and can’t do.
March 2nd, 2011 at 3:37 pm
I don’t think its fair to Hilary that the clients freak out at her when something comes up and she has to pull something out, because how does Hilary know the furnace is recalled or to old, or that certain beams cant be moved. Its not your fault Hilary!! I’m watching your show as we speak, Thompson family. You look beautiful! Good Job!!!! I want to hear back from you on here!!!!!!!!!! :) LOL
March 4th, 2011 at 3:08 pm
Jess M
Thanks! No, its not possible to know all of the problems before you start no matter how experienced you are, and how carefully you look. Often our experience tells us a wall should be able to come down, only to find that it can’t because of the particular framing of a particular home once we have begun to demolish and go into the walls. Although any wall can come down and any problem can be solved,except when the cost cost is just too hight to deal with, addressing the structure issues, re-routing plumbing, hvac or whatever else may buried within. Its disappointing all round when this happens, and tempers flare- Drama…!! Tears!!! We just have to do our best to move forward and help make the space work as well as possible for the needs of our homeowners in spite of the pitfalls along the way. thanks for watching and I hope you are also learning a bit along the way that you can use in your home.
March 5th, 2011 at 2:59 am
And what abou the drinks question LOL !!! ^^^
March 13th, 2011 at 1:25 am
My sister and I adore this show. We just got into it recently, and now when we turn on the TV we just check the guide to catch the show when it’s on. Frankly, we’ve just fallen in love with Hilary and angrily shout at the TV when anyone gives her a tough time! Haha.
Anyways, Hilary, I think you’re just a wonderful designer with such a great eye and fashion sense. Just adore watching you!
March 14th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
I love your show, although I don’t always agree with the decision of the homeowners. However, where are these homes that you are renovating and/or buying? They seem exorbitantly expensive – out of the range of an ordinary family, i.e. $950,000 the one I watched last night. Could you do something more to the common person’s level, i.e. $250,00 – $300,000 maybe? Anyway, whatever you do, I’ll still be watching. All the best!
March 18th, 2011 at 11:13 pm
Love the show! Hilary and David are wonderful! Very curious though, when the home owner’s decide to “list it” because ultimately they’ve fallen in love with a new house, do they still have to go through the normal procedure of making an offer, having conditions (ie. Selling their home) etc., or does the show help in some way? How many of the home owners actually get the house that made them decide to “list it”? Has the show ever thought of doing follow-ups with some of the home owners, from both the love it and list sides of the coin?
March 21st, 2011 at 7:11 pm
Hilary, I do like the show, however before you design the house shouldn’t you check with the builder/contractor if it is possibe to do your design. As it seems on every episode you come across a problem in the house that doesn’t let you do your design. My other problem with the show is that you also seem to run into the same problem time and time again at the next houses you design. Don’t you think you would learn about these problems and look for them at the next house before you go ahead and promise the home owner a design you can’t complete.
One last thing that also annoys me is the way the home owners react. They whine and complain and tell you their must haves, and yet in the end the “LOVE IT” Then I guess their must haves weren’t really necessary to therefore all the whining and complaining on the show wasn’t necessary.
Just my point of view, as I am still and avid watcher of the show…..for now.
March 23rd, 2011 at 9:49 pm
I love,love,love Hilary! David only gets one love as he is witty but not as talented as my dear Hilary. I am always amazed that she can turn a weird space into something so beautiful…………please come and play at my house!!!
March 26th, 2011 at 4:58 pm
Hi Hilary!
I love this show! I watch it quite often and like many of the viewer comments here, I enjoy the design aspect of the show. It was asked previously but it wasn’t answered – where do you get your bedding?? I just watched episode 51 and loved the bedding you put in the master bedroom. If you could let me know, it would be appreciated :)
Thanks,
~Nichole
March 26th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
The episode I am referring to is ep 3048 – the one with the very cold master and new baby room :)
thanks!
March 27th, 2011 at 11:59 am
I love your show and I’m thinking of applying to be on it. Can you tell me if you shoot and do renovations all year round and what is the average budget that you get to work with?
Also, I often see Hilary tell the homeowners that they can’t have something they asked for because of unexpected developments and they never seem to be willing to cough up a little more to make their dream come true. Why is that? Do they really not enter into the process expecting some unforeseen expenses as anyone would under normal circumstances when undertaking a reno?
March 27th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
Ruth, I’m sure the producers would love to film homes with more modest budgets, but unfortunately there are no homes avail at the $250-300K price range you refer to anywhere near Toronto,where this show is shot. Sad but true. Also I think it is intended to be aspirational, reachable at a point in our lives a bit in the future -sorta like those glossy home magazines that rarely show the basement apartment that I lived in whilst at college.
Secondly, the reno budget would be $20K to keep you within a reasonable % of the house value, would certainly not give much of a wow factor on tv, since labour and material costs are pretty static here thru most of Cda. Unlike those rehab show in the US where they do a full gut of a kitchen and put in granite and cherry cupboards and hardwood for $7k. If only.
In fact I see Hilary’s (beautiful) designs and think how did they finish a basement, new kitchen and knock out first floor walls and lay new hardwood for $50K? I think probably the labour cost and some material is underwritten by the show.
I love this show too. I want Hilary as my designer, and David as my agent if I sell. Wow they are good.
March 28th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
Hi Hilray when you come into major problems are the owners locked to the amount they have commited to the restro or can they increase it it would only seem fair as they usually go over budget on the new home price to get their must haves You do an amazing job with your budget and when you uncover major issues like structure & dry rot why would you want purchase another near by built in the same era
March 29th, 2011 at 7:04 pm
Hilary is genius
April 4th, 2011 at 7:08 pm
Well, I am a DIY renovator. I can do all the build stuff, but Hilary’s
interior design magic is just very exiting to watch. I love the chemistry with David. I find myself grinning all the way through, except when those selfish home owners, who failed to create there own heaven, criticise the team that are trying to make them happy.
My favourite home show. Keep up the good work guys, grat team.
Dave
April 10th, 2011 at 10:42 pm
Love the show and everyone of your designs Hilary !!! I love how you and your crew/team transform every space that you undertake, even when you are given a more modest budget and even when you run into problems, the end result is always beautiful !! If I ever win the lottery, I will come begging you to design my house!!!
Happy to read that there are going to be many more episodes in store for us !!! David’s subtle humour is also great and I love how he deals with, the vast majority of the time, unreasonable people !!!
Thank goodness you both have patience !!!
April 10th, 2011 at 10:59 pm
Also if get a chance to answer, I am wondering typically how long you are at the homes while the renovations are being completed ??? Just curious !!!
April 11th, 2011 at 9:31 pm
I don’t understand what everyone is raving about. The show is SO predictable. The oners are at odds, H and D come in to save the day, the house is more of a wreck than expected, there isn’t enough money, D come up with an apprasial (and the Voice Over says, “surprisingly, it is for their house”. Surprising? Lord. At least Hilary has backed off with the bitchy attitude toward the trades recently.
April 16th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
Hilary, how can I get in touch with you for a “consult” ??
Do you do that ??
April 28th, 2011 at 9:43 am
I absolutely love this show, and the funny thing is my husband, who has turned a blind eye to what the house looks like came in while i was watching it and is now addicted to it! Another plus, he’s actually showing interest in home improvement now! Unfortunately, we live a few hours away from toronto, so we can’t apply to be on the show, but hopefully we can come up with some ideas from the show that we can both agree on one day… I wonder if the show would ever consider expanding the area which they do their shows?
May 11th, 2011 at 10:15 pm
We also live too far from Toronto to apply to be on the show. Hilary’s home transformations are incredible! Are photos of the rooms that you have renovated posted anywhere where we could look at them again for inspiration?
May 28th, 2011 at 11:30 am
I really love this show. I love the way the presenters go about recording the episodes. I would love to be a participant and to be able to share in the awesome advise and assistance given to customers.
I will be contacting the show for assistance. I am so excited I can hardly wait.
May 29th, 2011 at 11:09 pm
Hi there. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy this show. I’m a DYI addict, but I love Hillary’s designs, David’s knowledge of real estate, the dynamics between designer and realtor, and the very real issues of budget and behind the scenes renovation issue that arise out of the houses you work on. I always learn something new when I watch your show, and only wish you’d consider doing some west coast projects.
Cheers,
Sheryl McFarlane
June 13th, 2011 at 6:57 pm
Hi Hilary, David and W Channel,
We enjoy watching “Love or List it”. We are always impressed with Hilary’s designing expertise and Dave’s ability to find the perfect home for his prospective clients.
We would like to know when “Love or List it” renovated Eddie and Desta’s home. May I ask what was the Episode Number? Actually, I find it hard to believe that Designer Desta and Carpenter Eddie would enlist the help of anyone for the renovating of their home, considering their extensive knowledge and expertise. I really have to see that episode. Thanks!
Take care,
Colette
June 16th, 2011 at 10:00 pm
Love the show! Approx how long does it take to renovate each house? Days or Weeks?
June 26th, 2011 at 6:15 pm
Love this show, I have become totally addicted as we are about to relocate to Devon in the UK from Oakville, Ontario and have been watching all sorts of shows to get some ideas. By far “Love it or List it” is my favourite, to see how it can look after is eye opening.
Has there ever been a situation that has gone so horribly wrong that recovery was almost impossible ?
Regards,
Julieann
July 5th, 2011 at 9:34 am
I love this show, and I watch it all the time for ideas in my own home. I was wondering if I could possibly get the green paint colour code/name that was used in the bathroom of the July 4th episode – Chris and Winnie.
Thanks,
Chris
July 21st, 2011 at 3:51 am
Hello Hilary!
I love your show, I try to watch it as much as possible because I am very much into interior design and I love watching shows to give me ideas for my house. I love your sense of style and how you design your rooms, I wish you could design my whole house for me, that’d be awesome, lol. I also agree with Maureen. I find it very rude when your clients are very rude when they find out that there is something wrong with their home. You do the right thing by addressing the problem and wanting to fix it so if anything, they should be thanking you for finding problems that could be harmful and fixing them for them. How long do renovations usually take?
Hope to hear from you! :)
July 26th, 2011 at 12:32 am
I just had to say how much I love your show! I love the way the two of you play off of each other and get a chuckle from the both of you. Just love you guys – designs are absolutely brilliant and David knows how to find the perfect fit for his clients. “A sign of a true professional knows how to ‘roll with the punches’ and still come up winning in the end.”
Cheers!
July 26th, 2011 at 11:48 am
Hi Hilary,
Love your show. Do you do consultations outside the Toronot area and if so how de I get in touch with you!
Thanks
Lisa
July 27th, 2011 at 12:06 pm
I simply love your show and your renos. Is it possible to have you over to check out our place for the much require space issue and reno?
July 29th, 2011 at 6:47 pm
My son lives in a 100 year old semi in the city with his 2 little girls. He is remarrying should he lov it or list. Has a substantial budget. Nosey mother
August 6th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
Hilary – I LOVE your design style!!! You manage to blow me AWAY every time with what wonders you work in these homeowners drab, lack-luster homes!!! I also like David too…You can tell that he genuinely cares about Hilary…
What sincerely bothers me the most is how RUDE the homeowners get with Hilary…They give her a HUGE laundry list of things to do in their house…than they give her only a fraction of what it would normally cost to renovate everything on their list!!! And then when unforeseen problems arise, and Hilary has to cut one their items off their Must-Have list and the homeowners take out their frustrations on Hilary — I feel like telling these people: “COUGH UP more money or SHUT UP”!!
DON’T THESE HOME OWNERS REALIZE that COSTS a LOT more than what measly budget they giver her?? And Hilary is always classy and doesn’t lash out (which is something I’d have a hard time NOT doing)!!! And like Chris mentioned — I’ve never heard even ONE homeowner apologize for their nastiness!!
August 6th, 2011 at 7:32 pm
Oh, by the way…I too, like it better when Hilary & David joke with each other — yet don’t bicker…And also:
Hilary, I LOVE your hair and fashion sense…You are SO pretty!!!
Regards,
Laurie J. in New York (far from Canada!)
August 10th, 2011 at 2:18 am
I always laugh my arse off whenever one of Hillary’s handymen need to speak with her. If we see either of them, it usually means her budget is about to take a big hit. This show is awesome, but I can’t believe how people choose to love it when only half the list is met, when David shows them a home where everything is satisfied. Some people make rash decisions when asked to do so on the spot.
August 14th, 2011 at 1:18 am
Hi Hilary,
As everyone else has said, the show is brilliant and you and David are great to watch(mind you I’m always routing for you to get in a good jab at him lol). Being an Interior Designer myself, it kills me when I hear/ see how nasty some of the homeowners can be to you or David but it comes with the territory I guess. I can completely relate to the contractors always picking away at your designs lol and how frustrating that can be.
Just wanted to let you know that I love the show, find it incredibly entertaining and inspiring as well. It really gives the viewers an opportunity in seeing the various unforeseen issues that can pop up unexpectedly.
Best of luck with everything and I now have my family and friends watching as well.
August 21st, 2011 at 10:58 am
Hilary, I can only echo all the kinds words in previous messages. I too have watched the show forever and love love love every renovation you have ever done. I absolutely envy the seemingly unappreciative recipients as I would so appreciate your time and expertise. Every reno you do is very down to earth, elegant and classy yet comfortable and easy living style. I would love to have you to my big old farmhouse to help with my kitchen renovation that we have underway. I have tried for a long time to contact you for something like that. Although I am not in the GTA area, about an hour out but I think a farmhouse reno could be intriguing to you and perhaps something new? Although we arent really interested in listing….anyway, kudos to you and to David as I enjoy touring the homes he does find. I am not much of a do it yourselfer or designer, I just know what I like when I see it and I always love what you do….I will keep on watching but if there is anyway of a consult pls contact me….thank you Terri
August 31st, 2011 at 6:12 am
I love the way you (Hilary) handle yourself when challenged by some of the home owners when they think you’re not doing enough. You remain calm but assert yourself. You’re stuck between a rock and a hard place and you do a fantastic job. BTW, keep up the barbs between you and the other person, … what’s his name. :-)
September 7th, 2011 at 7:12 pm
my wife and i love your show have to ask what is the score more love its or list its
September 8th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
Hi Hilary,
I love watching your show very much.I have to ask you that the budget $30,000 could remodel the home from top to bottom.
September 14th, 2011 at 3:47 pm
I love your show. Especially the banter back and forth between David and Hilary – the stressful reno. surprises, etc. Hilary you really handle these situations well – especially with small budgets and lots of challenge! David really does a bang up job trying to match prospective buyers with a home for all their needs. To me in the end you’re both winners.
Wish Hilary and David could come to Vancouver. And Hilary – what can I say – wow – wow – wow – you and your team pull off miracles.
September 14th, 2011 at 11:52 pm
“im not an expert, just an observer making comments.”
I really like the show. I complain to my friends and family about it sometimes but if love it or list it is on…i’m watching it.
The things i like about the show is that it’s Canadian. I like the entertaining banter between the owners and hilary with dave. I know the show requires you to make T.V. entertaining, so thats why there is the banter. i like the work that both hilary and dave put into the show. the thing that cannot be controlled is that fact that old houses have problems. owners know the risk but i don’t like the fact that they have a must have list which sometimes doesnt’ mean anything due to the problems. the owners don’t have a choice whether or not they wanna use the money for the must haves, to fix the new problems that were found. hilary just uses the money and brings the owners in after to get the reaction. Theres more to the show than just what meets they eye. I’m only seeing what W wants me to see. But if i had to change somethings about the show. it would be to ask permission from the owners if hilary could use the money for must haves towards the new problem before the problem is tackled. don’t take advantage of the owner. after all, it’s their home. not yours. they didn’t know the problem was there before the show started and neither did the team. so why put unnecessary pressure on the family.
Dave, sometimes the must haves that familys ask for are pretty funny especially when they don’t want to pay for it. you do a great job giving them options without completely dissuading them from staying . ok thats it
Ryan
September 15th, 2011 at 12:02 am
oh also i wanted to add! maybe give the owner another options for another must have, that isn’t as expensive. might give the family more value than not completing the must haves that needed to be crossed out. :D
ryan
September 15th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
Hilary, you are beautiful. Love your show, how about appearing in a bikini sometime? Ratings will go through the roof!
Marty : )
September 17th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
Hilary,
It’s been a while since you’ve commented on this thread, but if you happen to see this I would love to know where you shop for your jewelry, because you have one of the most FABULOUS collections going.
I love, love, love a show stopping necklace. Half the reason I watch the show is to see what you’ll be wearing next! If you have a few tips for a fab find, do tell!
(love you, love David, love the show, tone down the homeowners!)
Paula
October 1st, 2011 at 6:51 am
Hilary,
I there I love your show, and I know things get stressful for both parties. I was hoping you are coming up my way, i live up North Durham on Lake Scugog. I found this beautiful home that i really wanted i looked at it 5 times before we bought it. Been here 13 years its a fix me upper and i am ready to cry someday’s and want to sell and move and he wants to keep it. I was hoping maybe you might have some wonderful ideas on how i could enjoy this house again. We are a family of five and this 3 bedroom home needs remodeling. I hope to hear from you.
Christine
October 6th, 2011 at 9:34 pm
Hello how do people get you to renovate their house ? We need our house renovated ! Hope to hear from you ,
October 11th, 2011 at 12:07 am
What happened to this great program? I have an insomnia problem and
I just loved watching this program. I hope it wasn’t taken off
the OWN. Anybody know what’s going on?
October 13th, 2011 at 8:24 pm
On your Facebook before and after pictures there is a bedding set that is black with white twig like stripes on the bottom. Where was this purchased? I love it!
October 29th, 2011 at 6:16 pm
Hi Hilary, I just love the show and am slightly adicted! Iam trying to find out the resources used on the Shaver Family house. In particular the flooring and coulor as well as the cabinet colour. This is my ideal kitchen but there doesn’t seem to be any resouce lists for this episode on the website. Please help. Thanks in advance.
November 3rd, 2011 at 4:00 pm
Hi Hilary. Would you ever consider other cities for your show? We live in Winnipeg and have a beauty for you to consider.
November 27th, 2011 at 9:02 pm
My wife and I live in Belleville Ontario and we love your work Hilary!Do you ever do work outside Toronto? We are less than 2 hours away.
graham stuart
November 29th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
Dear Hilary
You are brilliant and so interesting. I especially enjoy watching you draw…very classy touch. You and David are the perfect match. I was hooked the first time I watched it. Merry Christmas to you.
November 30th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
Love Love Love this show, but I saw a new episode today and the entire style of the show changed, like suddenly. The narrator spoke sooo slowly throughout the episode that it became difficult to listen without losing interest. Also, it totally took away from the unique style that Hilary and David brought to the show because the narrator took over nearly all of the auditory airtime and we barely hear from the two hosts. Bring the old Love it or List it back…PLEASE! :(
December 14th, 2011 at 5:19 pm
Just wanted to say I love your show, its interesting and funny.altho’ some of the house owners are very rude
December 15th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
Love the show lots of good ideas.Hilary how do you keep from pulling your hair out?
December 20th, 2011 at 3:45 pm
Hey there,
I would like to interview Hilary for one of my school projects. I don’t know where could I reach her. I am currently enrolled in Project Management and this assignment is for my Business class which requires me to interview someone at the managerial level.
I love this show and would be grateful to have the opportunity to interview Hilary for this.
The interview would not take more than 30 -40 minutes. I will do my best to keep it short as I know Hilary is really busy with her work.
Here is a little out line for it :
“You will be required to arrange an interview with a business person who is employed at a managerial level in an active business. You will prepare questions based on the outline below and arrange an interview in advance. The interview should focus on the business concepts discussed in the course. Be sure to conduct the interview in an organized and professional manner. You must take notes in the interview and keep all of your rough notes in case you are asked to produce them. You must include a business card from the person that you interviewed, including a phone number where this person can be reached at work. Plagiarism will not be tolerated and severe penalties according to Seneca’s policy will result ”
I would greatly appreciate this meeting. Please let me know your availability or any further questions that you have. Looking forward to hear from you soon.
Regards
December 30th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
Creative people have always been a rarity. True genius is seeing the same things other people see but visualizing different results. I own a creative company that employs a person with a similar level of genius. It is truly impossible to describe the wonder that such people bring to others by their ability to fully transform a space. It is so far beyond anything I can do and one of the main reasons I watch the show. There are some other creative designers on W that are good, even a couple that are exceptional, but Hilary does have a rare talent.
January 9th, 2012 at 12:10 am
Hi Hilary…love your designs….only question we have is this: where does someone born in toronto and graduating from Ryerson end up with such a lovely British accennt?
January 15th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
hey hilary
i’m 11 and i’m doing a project on interior design.
I have to make up an interview with someone realated to my subject
but I thought maybe I could do a real interview with you, so my subject
is how to make a small room look bigger.
please answer these questions an send the answers to me @ vazenova@gmail.com
1. what color do you paint walls so your room looks smaller?
2. should you paint the selings in a small room?
3. what type of floors should you use?
4. should you use nutreal or color?
5. what type of lighting should you use?
6. what is the most common mistake people make in small rooms?
7. what is a good storage salution for small rooms?
8. is it true not to use dark colors in small rooms?
9.what size furniture sould you use?
10. how much furniture should you use?
thanks=]
Nika
January 16th, 2012 at 4:29 am
hey hilary,
mw and my husband love the work you do bringing the homes to life we think you are an amazing interior designer.
we ourselves want to get remodling of our house done and we would actually love it if you could help. we live in surrey b.c.
hope to hear from you soon.
thanks
Reika
January 18th, 2012 at 1:18 am
Hilary,
I watched your show tonight for the first time and I really liked it. The people are way too mean to you. Keep up the great work :-) I look forward to the next show!
Lastly I think you’re gorgeous, passionate, and smart. I would love to take you out on a date sometime whenever you’re in the Washington, D.C. area.
Your fan,
Sky
February 17th, 2012 at 7:07 am
Our family loves the concept of the show a battle. We love the tours taken by David and the finsihed product of the designs by Hillary.
We are however becoming bored with the flow of the show it is beyond predictable. David shows home all non impressive until the end Then usually out of the families ideal neighbourhood or out of their budget.
Hillary is made to look like a person who has no idea how to maintain a budget. NEVER have we seen an episode where once Hillary is given the reno budget and then she says shes confident that she can do all for the homeowners. NEVER has it happeend and we think its unfair to Hillary and the homeowners. It seems that Hillary always cancel out what the homeowner really wants.
It would be nice to see a fresh concept with still making the focus being a love it or list it. Just make the hosts seem like they do actaully knwo whats their doing. If we were ever doing a reno as much as we love and we truly love Hillary’s designs we never would hire her for the fear of the unknown and with her you know there will be the unknown and cost us thousands.
David You seem to wast the homeowners time until the end. Most of the 1st homes you show arent as nice or compare to the homeowner home in their state. I have actaullyt fired Agents who have shown me properties that were is in worse shape than the home I am in. To us it seems that agents who do this are simply commission hungry agents.
We know you are both tremendous talents at what you do jsut wish the show showed you both as more competent at what you do and make the homeowners less bitter towardsd the both of you. Just be more realistic in what you are able to accomplish with your budgets.
1 question we have is Hillary at the end of any show you always are unable to give the homeownwer something. a closet, uodated mudroom etc. Why do you not cut back on the beautiful furniture finishing let the homeowners do it at a later date as this seems like a cosmetic finish and give them a little more of what would be hard for them to do on their own at a later date.
thx for you time
February 27th, 2012 at 9:44 pm
I love this show but feel the story line is getting a little old including the phrase “it is what it is”. The couples never have enough money to do the remodel, their expections for a new home are unrealistic. Hilary can NEVER come up with what the couples want! The Realtor definitely has the advantage. He seems to be able to squeeze money out of the couple and increase their budget for a new home. Hilary NEVER gets more money.
I think it would be more interesting if the show would focus on how the heck they came up with the amount of money for the remodel. Did they do any research or did they just pull it out of their hat? Can’t Hilary every get anymore money for the remodel when all the problems arise?
March 1st, 2012 at 4:06 pm
Hi Hilary and David,
I too love your show and your talent…and Hilary, your amazing class in handling some of the more ‘difficult’ people. I’m a pretty patient person…but I don’t think I could muster the level of class in dealing with such rudeness. Having reno’d three houses myself in the last few years (I am not a designer)…and sold our house of 25 years and bought another, I understand how emotions become so raw…but there is no excuse for such rudeness. I placate myself, with the thought that at least some of it must be ‘made for TV’. I couldn’t bear it otherwise. =)
Anyways….keep up the great work. Of all the home decor shows, (and there are MANY) I like this one the most.
Thanks for such a great show.
March 20th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
I love the design ideas and the humour from David. The owners in general are always rude and annoying. I put the tv on mute until it is David’s or Hilary’s turn to speak. Would it be possible to have Hilary post the paint colors she chooses for most of the episodes.
March 21st, 2012 at 2:10 pm
No sooner had I posted about Hilary’s class and tact in dealing with rude and difficult home owners…I’ve noticed a pronounced shift.
I hope the producers of this show aren’t encouraging her to be more cutting for the sake of ratings….because this is the only home decor show that doesn’t have the stereotypical snotty, arrogant decorators…which is why this show became my favourite in the first place. Not everybody is lured by the drama associated with lack of class. Please let her be the civil, cool under pressure and harsh criticism person she was in the beginning, that the world needs more of.
March 27th, 2012 at 6:28 pm
Really like this show..wonder if there is a real life romance goin on here?..lol.If you ever come out to the west coast, i have a townhouse that really needs help..lol..Vancouver Island is beautiful, come on out our way..blessings
April 3rd, 2012 at 1:50 am
I agree with Annie.
What I notice most about the show and unfortunately why it is going downhill for me is the constant whining from her two main male renovators of not what they can do but what they can’t. Hilary seems to defend their work(or lack of) and it is becoming tiresome.
April 22nd, 2012 at 10:01 am
Dear Hilary and David, can’t you do your work without fighting which make us so frustrated? I like your program but your fight pinches my nerve.
April 22nd, 2012 at 10:17 am
You are right, today I had to mute the TV.
April 22nd, 2012 at 1:45 pm
I like the show, and have yet to see an episode where someone lists and moves from their current home, but I’m sure it has happened. I think that the rudeness and attitude on the part of everyone on the show is done on purpose, staged to help hang on to viewers, like most other reality TV shows these days.
Unbelievable how overpriced homes are these days!
April 28th, 2012 at 3:19 pm
Thanks everyone who has posted on this site.
A few answers to all of your very thoughtful and insightful comments and questions. 2012
first of all,
I grew up in London,m England and have a ( very) British Mother..hence the accent.
I spend money on furnishings even when I cannot stretch the budget for areas of renovations, because I can get the furnishings for less than fixing the problems cost!.
I try hard to keep cool, and be professional at all times, but sometimes, I am tired, and I snap back at the Homeoweners..I am only human!
Lots of people List, just not as many who Love!
David and I do bicker – we are like that off the show as well. it’s like a couple who have been together for a long,long, loooong time and are polar opposites, but love each other, which we do!
My two “renovators”, Eddie and Fergus are very cool guys…aren’t all men a little bit whiney sometimes?
Nika, sorry I could not get to this in time. I hope your project was a success and you got a huge AAA+!
Rika,
Not able to come to BC. sorry! good luck with the renovations.
May 5th, 2012 at 2:56 pm
I am in love with this show! i just need to rant, i absolutely love the work Hilary does and i think she is so talented. the customers are ever so rude to you and should understand that the things you cannot complete in a home is out of your control. David on the other hand has a budget but almost always goes over it by hundreds of thousands of dollars and obviously finds a house. If only they upped your budget for once like they did for him you would be able to do everything you wanted to! its ridiculous! if david were to find a house in budget for once in this entire show, then they would never list. they obviously list if the house is great (1 million when it should be 700,000) and your amazing design techniques raise the equity of there home and there able to afford the expensive house. David knows that and hes sneaky. hed be awful if it weren’t for the fact of going over budget. Hilary stays in budget and does an amazing job and so should he, why are there double standards?
May 7th, 2012 at 3:10 am
Hi Hilary,
My husband and I really enjoy your show and appreciate the personal responses you have made to the many questions posted on this site. Many people have raised the same questions we have had about the show i.e. how many list/love. We do think that the budgets given are for the most part unreasonably low for the amount of work people want done. For example, the program we watched tonight the folks asked you to add a 2nd story bedroom and expand a bathroom, open up the first floor to an open floor plan and remodel a basement for $25,000. I think it would be more logical for you give them an estimate for each aspect of the remodel and then let them choose what they could afford and where to put their money. I would also be irate if a designer opted to eliminate a bedroom or made major changes in a design without giving me the facts and considering my preferences.
I am also amazed at the number of people who are willing to up their budget for a new purchase but are unwilling to stretch the budget to cover needed repairs discovered during the remodel, list inadequate beams or unsafe heating unit. It doesn’t seem fair that they can increase their buying budget as needed but not the remodel budget.
We are curious as how successful listing is in your area. Here in the states listing could not be equated with selling with the current economy. The program leaves you with the impression that selling is a given if the couple list.
Best wishes and regards
May 21st, 2012 at 10:53 pm
Hi Hilary;
I am addicted to Love It or List It. I loooove David; he makes me laugh. He is so earnest and cute. I like the chemistry that you two have together. This show grew on me over the years, and I’m sure it will grow to do the same down in the States (where Candice Olsen is already widely known). Canadian designers rock!
I’m getting tired of the ungrateful homeowners. Some of them get really aggressive with you, as if you owe them. Ridiculous! They are getting the labor of your experienced crew at cost, which translates into money in their pocket, so I wish they’d be more civil.
Anyway, I just wanted to wish you every success with your show. And pass the message on the David: he’s so funny and cute, watching him on the show makes me happy.
Best regards,
Cathy
May 22nd, 2012 at 12:07 am
This is my new favorite show on HGTV! I love all the banter and seeing the transformations. Hilary is very talented and her crew must be phenomenal! Where do the people who live in the homes live while the reno is going on? Do they get put up at a hotel or do they have to live in the chaos? Hope this show stays on air for a long time!
May 31st, 2012 at 11:35 am
Hilary is thee best designer on Home renos. People should really check to see what they are buying before they purchase a home. If it weren’t for Hilary, alot of these home owners would have more problems then they could imagine. It is not Hilary’s fault that their homes are ready to fall down. Or their floor joices are cut. She is a professional and the people that she tries to help dump on her because they did not do their homework on their home before buying. Shame on you people. She has probably saved alot of lives by doing what she does best. Bottom line ppl, you get what you pay for. Do your your homework, and stop dumping on Hilary. She is Awesome. I would love to have her help anytime.
May 31st, 2012 at 11:47 am
Oh ya, she deseves a medal for the way that ppl talk to her. Wake up people. Do your job and you let Hilary do hers.
June 4th, 2012 at 9:04 pm
I love the show but it seems like everyone always chooses to list it….at least in the last several episodes I have watched. Are there any stats on how often people list versus love it? Would be very interested to know….
June 6th, 2012 at 3:09 pm
I love this show, I really want to know the brand and color of the paint found in the Cullen Family episode #4073, it was the dark, blueish color in the basement. Anyone know?
June 11th, 2012 at 11:11 pm
I watch this show in Argentina! I love it! (And so does my husband now). Great design/renovation ideas. I love the functional approach to design. We are definitely your fans, Hilary!
June 13th, 2012 at 1:13 am
I started to watch your show this past winter. I really enjoy it, except for the bickering. Obviously these home owners get a break on the costs of materials etc. Have you ever had clients who really hate the finished job? Wish you could come to my house!!!!
June 13th, 2012 at 2:44 pm
I watch this all the time. I only have one problem with the show, it appears more often than not, David goes way beyond the budget set out by the homeowners and in these instances has a leg up on Hillary. I think that if the home owners are going to increase the amount of the budget needed to purchase a new home, then Hillary’s renovation budget should also be increased to reflect the disparity between the two. Love the show.
June 18th, 2012 at 5:11 pm
My wife and I both love the show and try to guess which way the home-owners are going to go. Sadly I have been wrong more often than not but perhaps the show tries to fool the audience. Most of the time I think that the home owners SHOULD list but then there’s the pull of the home, their finances and the state of the market. I’ve sold 2 properties and renovated a third since 2008 and I think we’ve learned a lot from watching this show. Congratulations Hilary and David ! The only show where I think you got it wrong was the 2012 one with the guy who loved his wood stove. Perhaps it wasn’t on his list of “must haves” but it seemed fairly obvious that it was a big part of his life. As a rural dweller myself I would have just replaced his aging wood stove with an efficient airtight and forget about the new furnace and all that entailed. Just my 2 cents ! Love you guys though. So when are you going to come out west and do a season in Vancouver ?
June 28th, 2012 at 3:13 pm
I would love to see pictures of how Desta & Mark finished
there house
Also how did Eddie do with his basement
July 3rd, 2012 at 12:46 am
My husband and I love to watch your show! I’m sorry but I love it when David get a List-It at the end. Are the two of you married, you sound like my husband and myself after 25 years! Will continue to watch
July 9th, 2012 at 8:20 pm
This article is two years old. Wow! I doubt anyone will read this. I just started watching the show here in San Antonio, Texas. I have yet to see a “love it” episode and I can’t wait. It does seem unfair to have a very limited budget and expect miracles. I wonder if the sponsors could match the amount of money the home owners put in or give a set amount of funds, so Hilary gets a sporting chance. Thank you Chris for writing this article. What was the outcome? Did they win?
July 9th, 2012 at 8:34 pm
I love this show and I see more Love it than List it results. My family discusses this show more and more and we all love it so much. Hilary you are an inspiration! David is charming, but your designs are amazing.
July 9th, 2012 at 9:07 pm
I think those who list know well in advance that is what they are going to do. If they have the money to move etc….closing costs…why not give it to Hilary and let her complete something else on their list of wants.
I get thoroughly disgusted with those who expect a new home with a budget of $18,000 or $35,000. New plumbing – new wiring – and they don’t understand city code. And how can I forget their hateful tone…gesh!!!!
July 11th, 2012 at 1:21 am
I caught an older episode on HGTV in the US last night (July 9, 2012) with Patrick and Kasia. Unfortunately, the TV shut off unexpectedly right at the moment when Kasia was getting ready to announce what they’d decided. ARGH!!!! Can someone please let me know what happened? I invested an hour watching the show and then missed the final outcome! Thanks!
July 15th, 2012 at 1:07 pm
The show is entertaining, however almost every show depicts Hillary
in budget conflicts. We all learn by mistakes, so you’d think she
would do a better job on the front-end, exposing all of these structure
budget eating problems. Maybe it makes better TV ?
July 21st, 2012 at 6:36 pm
Oh,,,so sick of the same old thing,,,Hilary gets short changed all the timi!!! I would just love to see a episode that Hilary gets extra money or is able to everything she wants to!!!!!!! Come to my house Hilary, I want some yard work and shed work done,,,,and promise prob. no surprises.
July 24th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
are Hilary and David married
July 29th, 2012 at 12:42 am
I really don’t understand why Hillary always has to renege on things that she says she can do because she runs out of budget. ‘m sorry, but if she were my designer, I’d fire her. I haven’t seen even one show where she did all of the renovations she said she would do. It may make for great theater, but it gives designers a bad name.
July 29th, 2012 at 12:53 pm
I really do like this show, but think the balance is unfair. Hillary will get a $50,000 budget on a house worth $600,000. Then the homeowners tell David he can have a $700,000 budget to find a home with all their must haves. Wouldn’t it be more fair then to give Hillary $100,000 for her work so they are both trying to generate a $700,000 home? Plus Hillary is always having to contend with old homes that will inevitably offer challenges. I guess if she ever got to use all her money where she intended it to be used she would probably always win. Perhaps that’s why she never does :-P
July 29th, 2012 at 1:10 pm
Let’s NOT get the issues with the homes fixed, instead let some obnoxious “designer” ignore important issues in order to spend the client’s budget to make a room look different. Vases and paint do not a renovation make, she is constantly running out of the client’s money because she chooses to spend it on decorative items that reflect her bland taste, then shoves it down their throats as a major improvement. Most choose to stay because they have tapped out their budgets with alleged improvements and end up with ugly pictures and knick knacks instead of a more workable space. Get rid of that woman already.
August 2nd, 2012 at 1:39 pm
dear hilary,
for me its like watching football and in the end i alway root for you and scream yeah when tell say “love it”. your designs are inspiring and i love the banner between you and david. thanks for the great design!!!! Cheers
August 5th, 2012 at 1:28 pm
I think the whole premise of the show is a trick. Someone decided to combine two types of TV reality shows and make the ultimate anti-home purchasing, anti-home remodeling show.
Unlike the rest of the home buying reality shows on television, the arrogant real estate agent doesn’t listen to what the home buyers say they are wanting and shows them what he thinks they should have, until the very end. And unlike the rest of the house remodeling shows, the arrogant designer promises them the moon and stars which she knows she can’t possibly deliver on budget and then makes decisions on what projects to complete without asking the homeowners.
In the end the subjects of the show either settle for less than their “must haves” or they spend more than they said they wanted to spend to purchase a house. All in all, Love It or List It shows how shallow people are. Everyone comes out looking bad, the real estate agent, the designer and the homeowners. All show. All drama. Very little reality. Just the way it was planned.
August 5th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
My wife watches this show all the time on HGTV. After all of the episodes I’ve watched I am absolutely convinced that it’s staged. Every episode is exactly the same with the so called “problems” that make a major hit on the reno budget causing friction between the homeowners and Hilary. David always shows a first house that is way over budget and the homeowners hate it. It’s staged or they need to do a better job of casting. I have to agree that the designs turn out really nice. I would really love to see an episode where the so called homeowners actually have a budget that covers everything, that would be really nice, eventhough it’s fake! Lol
August 7th, 2012 at 12:56 pm
This show is 100% staged and the producers ask the homeowners to beef up the drama during interactions with Hilary and David. I only know this because my neighbors were featured on season 2, ep 4 :-)
They even had to redo a scene where Hilary told them they weren’t going to get the kitchen done, because “they didn’t act mad enough”.
Fun show though..
August 18th, 2012 at 6:06 pm
I love your show. Please don’t change it. I was disappointed to find
out you weren’t married to each other. please don’t change your show and your enteraction. Love you both.
August 18th, 2012 at 7:02 pm
So you both win?? That is complete BS. Will never watch again & will tell EVERYONE about your sham.
August 21st, 2012 at 11:55 pm
I sometimes think the show should be called Clients Behaving Badly…although I’m beginning to think some of it is staged.
I personally like watching train wrecks, so all is forgiven.
Hilary…you are such a beautiful example of estrogen’s perfection.
August 21st, 2012 at 11:58 pm
I like the window coverings you tend to use. Can you tell me the brand name?
August 26th, 2012 at 3:43 pm
As a fellow Londoner I really enjoy watching Hllary (and David) not only because she knows her stuff and is a top notch designer but that she handles herself with dignity and class. No matter what the situation — ravine committees, city codes, etc. ugly clients, she is always respectful and it shows. Hilary goes the extra mile to make the houses amazing. Her personality and confidence allow her to involve herself in all types of houses and some very peculiar clients — that’s one of the reasons why she is so successful — I love this show– — it is real — even if there is a script — it is still very real!
August 28th, 2012 at 10:37 pm
Hilary is HOT, and so is her talent in design.
The show? It’s entertainment, and darn good at that. There is also a learning curve that surfaces with the unexpected problems that will crop up in renovation. If you just watch, take in the humor as well as the design genius you’ll gather some good times and appreciation of construction.
Hat’s off to Hilary, in fact I’d love to see more than hats off on Hilary, what a chick!
September 1st, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Hilary- the show needs to come to Texas where we don’t have those pesky basements that you hate!
September 3rd, 2012 at 8:38 pm
Hilary, love the show but HATE all those snide home owners who expect you to give them nearly a full house remodel on something like $18,000! They all seem to have champagne tastes on beer (or bottled water!) budgets. You are one stylish, classy lady with loads of talent and nerves of steel apparently. Keep up the good work and also make David work harder than you!
September 17th, 2012 at 7:52 pm
I’m sorry, but after watching this show, I would let David find me a house but would not let Hillary anywhere near anything I wanted to remodel. I much rather get the property brothers who would do at least twice as much with half the budget. It is so predictable that she will never, ever be able to do anything but barely throw some paint on a wall and use up the entire budget. The property brothers or Scott McGillivray would be able to build a whole apartment for the same money that she would use to rearrange some furniture.
September 23rd, 2012 at 1:21 am
I have watched this show enough times to know that Hilary never seems able to stay within her budget, and David always pulls the perfect house out of nowhere at the last minute. Predictable and annoying…
It appears to me that the couples looking to “love” or “list” have at least one very serious issue with their house that they do not disclose in the beginning, and seem to be looking to Hilary to fix it up a little so they can dump the headache on someone else.
Most of the couples have at least one very annoying spouse, as with Charles and Sherry. According to the very annoying Sherry, Charles is a worthless dolt because he doesn’t share her views on the houses that David has shown them. She gets her way in the end, of course, but good luck getting rid of your house with the water issue in the basement.
Sorry, but I have annoyed myself for the last time with this show.
September 23rd, 2012 at 9:12 pm
Hilary, I cannot get enough of this show. I love what you do to each home, and your rapport with David is fun. :)
Best wishes from a viewer in the Los Angeles area.
September 25th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
Hilary, in addition to your impeccable design ability, I love your style. You are so sharp! You exude total confidence, intelligence, refinement, and skill. I am starting my own business, which requires me to make several cold calls to businesses. I “channel my inner-Hilary” before I get on the phone, so I can approach prospects just like you do when dealing with skeptical homeowners that haven’t seen the light yet. Thanks for all you do and many blessings to you and your career!!
September 26th, 2012 at 5:18 pm
I just begin to see these program as I get my HD signal here in Uruguay. They do a great job…both. Hilary is gorgeous looks vey nice, and also has the same watch as I have. They grey one. Values are among my budget, and in Uruguay values that worth in the show almost a million dollars, would cost here about 60% less. thanks
September 30th, 2012 at 3:56 pm
How sad that this show is so predictably scripted that you don’t need sound to know what’s happening. David always shows two houses that don’t make sense, and the owners always fight with Hillary. Negativity, negativity, negativity. Same script, different people. How on earth do they get so many people to pretend to be so darned nasty and negative??? The, of course, the third house David shows is generally stunning and Hillary always does an amazing job.
It’s time for the writers to get real and just go with the flow of the couples and their real conversations, and try to do something new — and POSITIVE- with the program format. Do they completely lack imagination, or is the really audience this dull! I’m already bored…
October 2nd, 2012 at 9:42 am
looks like people in Canada are messy and dirty I’ve never see so many homes so cluttered
October 22nd, 2012 at 10:33 pm
Hi. Hillery and David. Hope you will ready this email and help me to find a nice house. I live in a town house with my 2 grown up children, but we need more parking space Please I really need your help.I’m a widowed, and I need to relocated my self. here is my phone # 416 880 3251 I need a small bungalow hoping that i will retired there in my old age. Thank you Georgina.
October 24th, 2012 at 1:33 pm
Hello Hilary,
Just wanted to say I really love the show. You probably don’t take any of the less than flattering comments to heart, but I just want to remind you that the majority of us LOVE you, David, Ed, Fergus, Desta, and the whole crew and production staff. Maybe the show is a tiny bit ‘predictable’ as someone mentioned, but it is still very entertaining, in my opinion. Lots of shows are predictable, but one shouldn’t throw out the baby with the bath water. I hope you remain on the air for many years to come. And if you should decide to visit Corpus Christi some day, don’t come to my house…it is a wreck, LOL! We had foundation repairs done in January and our floors are STILL torn up. In order to avoid tearing up our floors, we hired Uretek, a foam injection company to drill through our slab and lift the interior of the house, only to find that after much time and money spent on cosmetic repairs, it was not working. We ended up hiring another company to jackhammer through our floors in order to install concrete pilings which are holding up so far. The sad thing is, we have no money left to replace the flooring, or have the cosmetic repairs performed yet again. So, I totally understand when plans you make don’t always pan out. Take care.
October 24th, 2012 at 1:42 pm
Oops, I forgot to ask. What brought me to this site was that I was trying to find out the name of the person who does the voice-overs for your show. She sounds a little like Suzanne Whang.
October 29th, 2012 at 1:39 am
Haven’t looked at the copyright dates on the shows we are seeing on HGTV here in the US, so don’t know whether these are early in the series or later. But Hilary consistently promises the moon and delivers a pebble. Yes, there are unforeseen circumstances, but after a certain length of time doing this some of these situations should suggest themselves during the reconnaissence of the property. There needs to be warning given up front that certain things might not be done because of certain other things unexpectedly arising. And more contact with the homeowners is needed when code improvements are mandatory, to the detriment of changes. Of course, the conflict makes for good TV, but brings Hilary’s ability into question, I believe. And, the doofusses who want a million-dollar house for a hundred thousand (being generous) give David as much grief, which also constitutes good TV. You have to wonder why David doesn’t just tell them they are completely ignorant, instead of telling us when the clients are off-camera. It’s a fun show, and the work Hilary does is amazing, and the houses David finds are stunning, but the “love it” shows when so much is left undone are just not satisfying. I’ll take The Property Brothers, who maybe do what they do after learning from Hilary’s misfires. Of course, they are not as beautiful as Hilary, which is a big incentive for me to watch “Love It or List It”.
November 4th, 2012 at 3:14 am
Hi, my husband and I love watching the show and we always knew that the homeowners were told to be madder than they are to spice up the show, that was obvious. But who cares? It is still fun to watch Hilary stay calm. What we are surprised about is that if Hilary and David are married to each other, why not say that? I think they are. I’ve read both yes and no. Why the secret if yes? They have the same cute and funny chemistry that my husband and I have, that’s why I think they are married. If not, then should they be having drinks together? :) I wouldn’t like it if my husband went for driks with a coworker…I read that they both have one son, what a coincedence then if they are not married. I have never had more trouble verifying anything in my years of internet use!!! Great show!!!!!
November 4th, 2012 at 2:07 pm
Hi Hilary,
I live in Virginia and have been watching your show anytime I am able. I have read through many of your ‘fans’ comments.
I sometimes wonder at the intelligence of your followers, more than the homeowners. TV is not real time. There is nothing suggesting that David finds the perfect house at the end. The reality is that many of the shoots are done after the fact. It is not realistic to have a camera crew follow a homeowner around for countless hours/days just to have the sequence correct. Drama always saves the best for last, else why watch?
To the comment about Property Brothers and Property Income, I agree to a small degree. But, in both those cases, efforts are cut or budgets are raised. Unless you have seen the ‘uncut’ one hour version of Property Brothers, you might not see the scopes being reduced.
Hilary, personally, I like the banter and eye-rolling between David and you. I recognize it is for the benefit of TV, but nonetheless, it is entertaining. In fact, I ended up on this sight while researching what your personal relationship is (you seem just as a long-time married couple).
I have not seen the newer shows in the US market, so cannot remark on that. I would hope that you and David’s chatter has not been eliminated.
Keep up the great work.
November 10th, 2012 at 2:28 pm
Is it just me or is Hilary Farr a SMOKIN’ HOT MILF!! I just love her & her accent… ;-)
November 18th, 2012 at 9:44 pm
I think Hilary is extremely rude and would never ever let her design my home. She has a big mouth and thinks she knows it all but every time I watch she is always over budget and cannot give the owners what they want. Give her my money, it would be a cold day in hell before she got a dollar from me.
November 20th, 2012 at 2:38 pm
Wow, “strawdog,” show some class. Do you think that by writing that Hilary’s a “MILF” that she’ll drop everything to track you down? I agree she’s attractive, and I also love her accent — I just think you could’ve left it at that instead of being dirty about it. :P
November 21st, 2012 at 4:10 pm
Hi Hilary,
How long does the renovation process typically take? And where do the families stay while the renovations are happening?
Thank you!
November 26th, 2012 at 8:48 pm
Strawdog, you are completely right! SMOKING HOT!!!!
December 7th, 2012 at 1:07 am
Hilary and David. Not married to each other. Correct?
December 23rd, 2012 at 1:16 am
Yes, Hilary is incredibly attractive. I have my wife speaking in a British accent now.
One of our favorite shows. And, the other host (what’s his name?) looks like a friend. So, doubly fun.
December 30th, 2012 at 2:01 am
I like some of your shows but don’t always watch it because of how predictable it is. I know alot of the watches must not like change so they continue watching it since all the shows are the same but it does get boring after awhile.
It especially gets boring since its 100% STAGED [I actually heard from someone who was on the show and she confirmed that], which I wouldn’t mind if it were changed up a bit every so often. It’s no problem is it’s staged, no tv show is reality anymore, not completely [although love it or list is faked quite a bit but again it wouldn't be a problem if it weren't boring].
With that being said, you guys are talented.
December 30th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
My girls and i love this show! I love Hilla
December 30th, 2012 at 1:14 pm
…… Hillary’s hairstyle!!!
December 31st, 2012 at 2:58 am
We must be watching different shows. Hillary is one of the worst renovation administrators I’ve ever seen. Her taste is good .. but her favorite activity seems to be running her renovations into the ditch with her horrible problem solving and budget revision skills.
When Hillary encounters a problem the usual response seems to be throwing tons of cash at only 1 or 2 facets or rooms of the renovation while leaving huge portions undone.. and she usually does this by executive order without consulting the homeowner. I really don’t see how anyone could watch the show and feel comfortable hiring her to do a job or administer a renovation… Give her $40k for a house reno and shelll likely give you a $39k kitchen thats nice while leaving everthing else to the dogs… She is painful to watch.. everhtime she shows the homeowners a plan Im thinking.. worthless paper she’ll throw away and try to just wow people with a nice room.
January 6th, 2013 at 12:52 am
I have just found this show in LA area. I love it, but I wrote because of the homeoner actually took money away from Hlary because of unforeseen basement problems. When the owners give their must-have list, I yell,”Hilary , don’t do the basement! Please!”
January 8th, 2013 at 12:13 am
@Hilary- ok so I really would like to know r u and David married or notiv read so many storries saying u r and ur not so if ur reading this plz tell me what your opinion is on u and David :)
January 8th, 2013 at 3:30 am
Hilary is a beautiful talented woman. Love the show and I always hope they will love it. Hilary …hug for the patience and could use your expert skill in my space….all the best.
January 17th, 2013 at 2:14 am
Just curious… are you, Hilary and David married? Thank you. we love you shows!
January 19th, 2013 at 10:17 pm
Hillary,
First I am relieved you and David aren’t a
Romantic couple!! Whew.
Second, thank you for all the brilliant ideas
That inspire me to do things to my new home.
I would never LIST my home.
Cheers, Sherry McKee
January 27th, 2013 at 6:18 pm
Why does EVERY episode have to have nasty home owners. I know most people can be stressed, but there has to be one or two sets of homeowners out there that are nice and understanding when things come up beyond Hilary’s control. Let’s show some of those and that would make the show much more “believable”. I love this show, but that is my one BIG complaint…
January 27th, 2013 at 7:57 pm
I love soo much Hillary’s design,every shows!!! any idea where I can find before and after photos? Thanks
January 28th, 2013 at 10:34 pm
Hilary and David,
Love the show..You are both so talented!..
Hilary is a beautiful woman, inside and out.
I hope she is happy in her personal life. David is witty and cheeky!
Enjoy the baantor between them!
February 9th, 2013 at 3:13 pm
I love this show but would really love to see one where Hillary can actually do all the things she wants to do, would love to see a completed setup of her design plan for someone. I do wish someone could do mine. I love the house but has some issues and unfortunately we’re too old and illness won’t let us do what we want. Love watching others get what they want though.
Please let there be an episode that Hillary can complete all her plans, I bet it would be amazing.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:56 pm
Hilary is SO HOT !
February 12th, 2013 at 10:21 am
Hilary, I believe your designs are amazing! Please don’t take the nay-sayers comments to heart, I’m sure you know there are plenty of negative people who have no filters. I absolutely love that you fix the costly problems, rather than ignore them to only put lipstick on the home -that should be the way ALL designers/contractors do things!!!! Keep going strong! Tell your team we love them too.
I hope that you are thankful to our Creator for your amazing talent!God bless you.
~Mary
February 14th, 2013 at 11:29 pm
I need help finding a product used on the show. I think it may have been the episode when they re-did Hilary’s assistant’s house. They were short on money and had to use a type of floor that she wasn’t fond of. It looked fabulous…it looked a really glossy grey flooring. Anyone know what it might have been. Getting ready to do my kitchen floor and looking for something different. Thanks!
February 25th, 2013 at 2:28 am
“Love It or List It: Advantage Hilary | styleNorth” was a superb article and also I
really was in fact extremely pleased to read it.
Thanks a lot,Deborah
March 11th, 2013 at 8:34 pm
It wouldn’t be fun without the homeowner drama and angst. I recently watched the new American version and hated it. They tried to copy Hilary and David too much. There is only one Hilary and David.
March 13th, 2013 at 11:40 am
As a retired architect (Houston, Los Angeles), my heart goes out to interior designer Hillary Farr.
She finds herself on the receiving end of a hell of a lot of undeserved abuse. Most of the cost overruns on the show are the result of pre-existing conditions that she did not create, but merely discovered.
In other words, they were already there, lurking behind the drywall. She did not cause them. She merely discovered that they were there all along. Yet many, perhaps most of the clients, instantly fly off the handle and blame her!
Hillary, hang in there. Just know that other design professionals know you’re not to blame.
March 19th, 2013 at 12:34 am
I live in the States as my extended family in Toronto would put it. I watch this show religiously on HGTV from NYC. I appreciate that Hilary & David show is a credible platform that provides options to unhappy homeowners. The fact that they have great chemistry with their constant sibling-like witty banter back & forth is a bonus to the network and audience.
So you can imagine my surprise at Love it or List it too with Gillian (aka new Hilary-smh!) who’s Canadian(btw) from the american show ” the Bachelorette” some years ago. No offense to her but I don’t like the show at all. It seems like there trying to replace Hilary & David. Please we need to protest this, because it’s not right. Hilary & David i hope you stay on as long as possible on W network and HGTV in America. Thank you for this platform.
March 25th, 2013 at 6:07 pm
I have watched this show for quite a while and I always suspected that the love its out numbered the list its. I have always felt it was unfair when the home owners blamed Hillary for unforeseen problems. Like one in with the entire house had to be rewired do to aluminum wiring that was used. They were very rude to her, when they should have been thanking her for finding and fixing a problem that could have burned their house down! I remember another one where the couple got angry with David because the “perfect” house he found was 15 minutes out of their chosen neighborhood. I’ve come to the conclusion that you really can’t please some people. I love the show and never miss it.
March 31st, 2013 at 9:25 pm
I have to agree with the statement made bu Renee. My husband and I have been enjoying David and Hilary since the beginning and LOVE the competitiveness and gentle teasing between them. They are also appear go be good at what they do. We were disappointed sigh ghd younger version we viewed last week……..please don’t try to clone David and Hilary. It simply takes away from the show and is not flattering to the persons placed in that role. Also kudos to Desta(sp?) Hillary’s assistant….and the whole team!! Great Show. Love it and List it!
April 10th, 2013 at 8:11 pm
I absolutely love your show Hilary! I would love to have my house worked on but I have no idea how you would change it. I watch your show all the time. I am always on your side and I would love to have an autograph from you.
April 16th, 2013 at 7:30 pm
Hi I think Hilary doesn’t give what they are promised to even if there is alrge budget of 120,000 on the last episode she was able to do a kitchen, livingroom and bathroom but not even the basemenat or the master bedroom or closets. She did give them muddroom and finshed them aroom and got ride of all there abseteos in the whole house and got the part of the add on roof down but nothing more with that money. It is hard to believe.Hilary nevere does what is promies and for Eddie shouls be fired off the show he wants the easy way out of everything and wants the money for himself and his very dishonest along with his other male worker.David on the other hand works hard to give them what they want. Sometimes he doesn’t hear his clients needts, but he works the hardest to get everything on there list. He found Eddie a better home and Eddie turned it down that should show you that mentally Eddie doesn’t make good psychology decison. Other wise the work nthat you guys do to looks nice even though you make alot of short cuts.love Jody
April 16th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Sorry for some of my errors in my previous letter and in spelling for I have vison problems and I am getting use to my new glasses from Jody.
April 20th, 2013 at 9:29 pm
Hi — love your show. Watch in San Diego. cannot believe how rude most people are when they find they cannot get everything for the small pittance they are giving to Hilary. Keep going!!
April 22nd, 2013 at 1:01 pm
I think the abuse Hilary receives is uncalled for. Please turn off the cameras when this stuff starts happening. It is upsetting to the listener as well as to Hilary. You are only encouraging this ugly behavior by allowing it to be filmed.
Sheila