TV Home Shows Boom During Bust

Home shows are becoming the heavyweights of reality television, even as the housing market continues to plummet, the New York Times reports. HGTV and TLC have million-plus nightly audiences as shows that provide step-by-step guidance to potential homesellers and buyers appeal to viewers weary of past hits that traded on big bucks through real-estate speculation.

HGTV and TLC, loaded with home shows, have seen a steady audience increase even as the market has disintegrated. “People loved comedies during the Depression, too,” said the producer of TLC's Flip That House. Adds a former TLC exec: “The audience has a different attitude toward housing now, but they still care deeply about it.” (More real estate values stories.)