“I saw it on HGTV…” If you’re a real estate agent, you’ve probably heard this more times than you can count. In this episode of Hustle Humbly, Katy and Alissa unpack how real estate television — from dream home makeovers to drama-filled open houses — distorts the client perspective.

They share personal experiences, industry frustrations, and strategies for resetting expectations with humor and grace.

How Real Estate TV Affects Buyers and Sellers

TV makes real estate look fast, easy, and drama-free — and that can cause real-world problems. Katy and Alissa dive into the misconceptions:

• “Let’s see three homes and pick one!”
• “We can fully renovate for $5,000 in a weekend.”
• “Every agent is always smiling, stylish, and stress-free.”

These shows rarely show paperwork, waiting, inspections, or reality.

What HGTV Skips (But You Deal With Daily)

Let’s be honest — most of the job isn’t camera-ready. Real agents:

• Manage expectations daily
• Navigate delays, financing, and paperwork
• Handle emotional clients and awkward conversations

The ladies highlight the invisible, exhausting, and incredibly valuable work that doesn’t make the final cut on TV.

How to Talk to Clients About HGTV Expectations

Instead of eye rolls, use education. Katy and Alissa offer ways to gently course-correct clients who’ve been influenced by unrealistic shows:

• Use humor and compassion to make your point
• Walk through the timeline and actual steps
• Use buyer packets and seller guides
• Set boundaries around scope and communication

Every agent has their “HGTV moment” — it’s how you handle it that counts.

But Also… We Love Real Estate Shows

It’s okay to enjoy them! Katy and Alissa share their favorite guilty pleasure shows — and what they wish producers would add.

HGTV has its place, but so does truth-telling, context, and education.

Toast of the Episode: Cheers to the Real Work

Here’s to all the REALTORS® doing the actual behind-the-scenes work — without a camera crew or glam squad. 🥂