The Stars Of Love It Or List It Reveal The One Reality Check Homeowners Don't Expect

HGTV's "Love It or List It" offers some priceless real estate advice and helps homeowners trying to determine if their current home can still work for them or if they would be better off buying something new. In order to do this, they get the help of Realtor David Visentin and designer Page Turner. While Visentin is responsible for finding clients a home that answers their must-have list, Turner has a list of things that need to be fixed for these families to stay and love their home.

Both Visentin and Turner have to try giving the homeowners what they want while also being honest about what they can actually get based on their budget and finances. Knowing all of this, it might come as no surprise that many homeowners find themselves getting a big reality check when it comes to their budget. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Visentin said "when they give us budgets, it's almost like a wish list...it's not really a realistic list." When he takes people to view homes for sale, particularly in their current neighborhoods, they are often shocked to learn what they can (and can't) get for their money.

Not only do the people on the show learn more about what their money can buy them, but anyone watching at home can get a better idea of what to expect in the current market. In many cases location is one of the biggest factors involved when it comes to cost. Are people willing to leave the neighborhood they already live in? Are they willing to compromise on features?

It's also important to consider whether or not your potential new home will need renovations. If you can't find the perfect home for you, can your budget handle a home that needs work to make it the right fit? Not only that, but it's important to consider what's happening behind the walls of a home. While David Visentin understands that there are certain luxuries homebuyers look for in a new home, they also need to consider things like electrical and plumbing. If there are problems with the bones of a home, that can end up costing more in the long run. 

When talking about buying a new home, Visentin shared with Realtor.com that "you don't want to be mortgage-poor." This means that you don't want to spend all your money on a home, leaving nothing for extras like travel, entertainment, or generally living life comfortably. Prevent buyer's remorse by setting a realistic budget. It could dictate how you live for the next 30-odd years.