Hope for Your Home

Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that although this show is about families, its real estate focus means that it probably won't be too interesting to younger kids. And it's possible that some of the families' struggles might be stressful for kids whose own parents are dealing with financial challenges. There's some mild language, including the word "ass." In at least one case, traditional gender roles seem to be reinforced, with a man doing all the work and his wife barely participating.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
With real estate expert Kirsten Kemp Becker leading the way, families that are facing potential foreclosure on their homes due to the current mortgage crisis get help with improvements that should increase their home's value. The show provides them with a modest amount of money, and they're left to do the work -- and make the big decisions -- themselves. When the work is done, they're given the option of selling or re-financing.
Is It Any Good?
While it lacks the tear-jerking potential of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, HOPE FOR YOUR HOME does offer good information about what features will add value to a house, even in today's declining real estate market. And it does so in a way that's mostly engaging. It also presents the homeowners' mistakes and challenges honestly, albeit with mostly happy endings.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether this show presents a realistic way of dealing with serious financial problems. Do you think it offers practical help for people who aren't on television? If kids are upset by the idea of people potentially losing their homes -- a very real fear in today's world -- reassure them about your home's security. Or, if foreclosure is a possibility for your family, ask your kids about their worries and talk them through.
TV Details
- Premiere date: August 9, 2008
- Cast: Kirsten Kemp
- Network: TLC
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate