Do you know about @CheapOldHouses — the addictive social media phenomenon with nearly 3 million followers? Well, it has inspired a new HGTV series called Who’s Afraid of a Cheap Old House?,which will showcase what it’s like to actually renovate stunning historic homes.
Who’s Afraid of a Cheap Old House? premieres Tuesday, May 14, at 10|9c on HGTV. Led by historic preservationist Elizabeth Finkelstein and her husband Ethan Finkelstein, a budget-conscious historic build expert, the show will appeal to bargain hunters who dream of owning a classic home (affordably priced at under $150,000) with features like antique fireplaces, original wood floors, leaded glass windows, vintage appliances and inviting front porches.
“Saving these houses isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s worth it,” says Elizabeth. “Our cheap old house movement caught fire on social media. Now, we’re taking buyers house hunting so they can buy and restore a cheap old house of their own.”
What To Expect from the Series
During each of the eight episodes, the Finkelsteins will take potential buyers on tours of two listings — including homes of both traditional and out-of-the-box styles — brimming with history and unique architecture.
Ethan and Elizabeth will guide hopeful homebuyers through the emotional highs and lows of not only purchasing, but also preserving, real estate steals. Once the buyers choose their ideal project, the Finkelsteins, along with interior designer Jennifer Salvemini and architectural designer Scott Reed, will help them overhaul the forgotten places into beautifully restored gems that feature contemporary elements. “We use the history of each house to design and restore,” says Ethan. “We love to show homeowners the magic of cheap old houses.”
Until the series premieres, stream the original series Cheap Old Houses on discovery+. Get premiere updates on HGTV.com via @HGTV. Check out the Finkelstein’s latest property listings at @cheapoldhouses on Instagram.
You can also find #CheapOldHouses on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and Threads.
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