Drew and Jonathan Scott, better known as the “Property Brothers” from HGTV, have become huge names in the home renovation world. With multiple TV shows, brand deals, and a vast following, they’re practically celebrities in their own right. However, despite their fame, not everyone is a fan of their show. In fact, there’s a significant portion of HGTV viewers who are critical of the “Property Brothers” franchise.
One common criticism is that the show feels scripted. While the series showcases a “house hunt,” it turns out the homes have already been chosen by the participants before filming even starts. This makes the house-searching process seem less spontaneous and more like a set-up for the cameras. Additionally, while the brothers give the impression of handling the renovations themselves, much of the actual work is done by local contractors hired for each project, which undermines the hands-on image they project on TV.
The show also isn’t as accessible as it may seem. To participate, homeowners need at least $90,000 to cover unexpected costs during the renovations, which makes it clear that the show caters primarily to wealthier individuals. This can be disappointing for viewers who were hoping for a more down-to-earth, relatable home makeover experience. With the brothers juggling multiple projects and separate shows at the same time, it’s rare for them to give any one renovation their full, undivided attention.
Another reason some viewers find the Scott brothers off-putting is their initial motivation for entering real estate. Before their HGTV fame, Drew and Jonathan pursued acting careers. In fact, real estate was more of a backup plan to make ends meet while they worked to break into Hollywood. They even tried their hand at music. This background makes the brothers seem more like entertainers with a knack for real estate, rather than passionate home renovators. Some fans have expressed frustration with the brothers bringing celebrities onto their shows, which they believe has inflated their egos.
While Drew and Jonathan’s personalities and business skills have undoubtedly helped their TV careers, it also creates a sense of inauthenticity. To those looking for real home renovators who are deeply invested in every project, the brothers’ Hollywood roots can make it hard to take them seriously. Their TV presence often feels more like a carefully constructed performance than a genuine home improvement show. It even leads viewers to wonder if they would have taken any TV gig, as long as it put them in the spotlight—could you imagine one of them on The Bachelor? That almost happened! Despite presenting themselves as experts in real estate, some people still see “The Property Brothers” more as savvy business performers than authentic home renovation pros.