The HGTV series “Who’s Afraid of a Cheap Old House?” premieres on May 14, 2024, and will feature Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein, the husband-and-wife duo known for their social media phenomenon, @cheapoldhouses. The eight-episode season will showcase the couple’s expertise in historic preservation and budget-conscious restoration as they guide homebuyers through the process of purchasing and renovating affordable older homes.
The Finkelsteins, who are passionate about saving historic properties, will take viewers on a journey to find hidden gems in the real estate market. Each episode will feature two listings priced under $150,000, including a range of architectural styles such as Tudor, Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, and Craftsman, as well as unique properties like a church and a firehouse. The couple will work alongside interior designer Jennifer Salvemini and architectural designer Scott Reed to help buyers restore these homes while preserving their old-world charm.
The series is a revamp of the Finkelsteins’ previous HGTV show, “Cheap Old Houses“, which aired in 2021. The new format will not only showcase the search for and restoration of these affordable homes but also the emotional journey of the buyers as they navigate the renovation process. Elizabeth, a historic preservationist, and Ethan, a thrifty historic build expert, will combine their skills to help buyers achieve their dream of owning a piece of history.
The Finkelsteins’ journey began with their Instagram account, which now boasts over 2.4 million followers, including A-list celebrities. Their success led to the creation of a book, a subscription newsletter, and ultimately, their first HGTV series. The couple’s passion for restoring old homes and their innovative approach to affordable housing have resonated with audiences, and the new series promises to build on that success by offering practical insights and inspiration to those seeking to own a piece of history.
