HGTV Dream Home: Do Winners Actually Keep the House?

21 May 2024

do hgtv dream home winners keep the house

The HGTV Dream Home giveaway. It's a spectacle of extravagant design, luxurious living, and the tantalizing possibility of winning a life-altering prize. Each year, millions tune in to witness the unveiling of the meticulously crafted home, envisioning themselves stepping into a world of comfort and style. But amidst the excitement, a question lingers: Do the winners actually keep the house?

The simple answer is: sometimes. While winning a multi-million dollar home might seem like a dream come true, the reality is far more complicated. For many winners, the financial burden associated with owning and maintaining such a property outweighs the allure of the prize.

Taxes are often the biggest hurdle. Winners are responsible for paying income taxes on the estimated value of the home and all its furnishings, which can amount to a hefty sum. In addition to federal taxes, state and local taxes can further inflate the financial burden. For individuals not prepared for such a significant tax liability, the dream can quickly turn into a financial nightmare.

Beyond taxes, the ongoing expenses of upkeep and property taxes can be daunting. Dream homes are often located in desirable areas with high property values, resulting in substantial annual property tax bills. Maintaining the pristine condition of the home, with its high-end appliances and intricate landscaping, can also drain a winner's finances.

These financial realities have led many past winners to make the difficult decision to sell the home. While selling might seem counterintuitive, it often proves to be the most financially sound option, allowing winners to reap some financial benefit without the overwhelming burden of ownership.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Keeping the HGTV Dream Home

Advantages	Disadvantages
Owning a luxurious, custom-designed home Potential for increased property value and investment opportunity Life-changing experience and media attention	Significant tax burden on the home's value and furnishings High property taxes and maintenance costs Potential lifestyle changes and relocation challenges

FAQs About HGTV Dream Home Winners

1. Do HGTV Dream Home winners have to pay taxes if they sell the house?

Yes, winners will owe capital gains taxes on any profit made from the sale of the home.

2. Can HGTV Dream Home winners rent out the house?

While possible, renting out the home might come with restrictions outlined in the contest rules. Winners should carefully review the terms and conditions.

3. Have any HGTV Dream Home winners kept the house long-term?

While some winners have managed to keep their homes for a few years, long-term ownership is less common due to the financial challenges involved.

4. What happens to the HGTV Dream Home if the winner doesn't keep it?

If the winner chooses not to keep the house, it is typically put up for sale on the open market.

5. Can you tour the HGTV Dream Home?

Often, HGTV offers limited public tours of the Dream Home before the winner is announced. Keep an eye out for announcements on their website or social media channels.

6. What are some alternatives to keeping the HGTV Dream Home?

Winners can consider selling the home, renting it out (if permitted), or using it as a vacation property. Each option comes with its own set of financial considerations.

7. How much money do HGTV Dream Home winners usually walk away with?

The actual amount varies depending on the individual winner's financial decisions, but it's important to remember that a significant portion of the winnings might go towards taxes and other expenses.

8. Do HGTV Dream Home winners get to keep the furnishings?

Typically, the furnishings are part of the prize package. However, winners should confirm the specifics outlined in the contest rules.

The HGTV Dream Home giveaway continues to capture the imagination with its opulent displays and life-changing possibilities. However, it's crucial to approach the dream with a healthy dose of reality. The financial implications of winning such a prize can be substantial, often requiring careful planning and potentially difficult decisions. While the dream of owning a luxurious home might be enticing, the true measure of winning lies in making informed choices that align with one's financial well-being and long-term goals.