Behind-The-Scenes Secrets About The Hit Show ‘Fixer Upper’

After watching Chip and Joanna Gaines renovate around 80 Waco, Texas, properties for their hit show Fixer Upper, viewers want to know: what was it actually like to have your home fixed up? Well, some of the families who appeared on the show revealed all, including how the decorating duo really behave once the cameras are off.

You aren’t allowed to keep the furniture

Sadly, clients didn’t get to hold on to the beautiful furniture that Joanna organized around their houses, as the budget was just reserved for any structural and cosmetic work. Jaime and Kyle Ferguson, who appeared on the show in season three, bought a few tables and chairs, but everything else had to go back.

They give gifts

But HGTV and the Gaineses weren't total sticklers. Joanna gifted homeowner Kyle Ferguson custom-made items for his music room, for instance. And Chris and Lindy Ermoian, also from season three, got a fancy rolling bar (pictured). Swish, eh?

Clients have to pay

It would be nice if HGTV paid for the renovations — you know, as a "thank you" for being on the show. But that wasn't the case. In reality, clients needed more than a little bit of pocket money — at least $30,000 — to put towards renovations. Yikes!

Clients know which home they want

Remember the scenes where Chip and Joanna showed clients three different houses that they may have been interested in buying? Well, those were all staged. Most of the time, show guests had already picked and purchased a home. At least we got to have a little nose around!