10 Lessons We Learned from the ‘Property Brothers’ About Buying, Renovating & Decorating Our Dream Home

Buying a house isn’t like buying an appliance. Even with Drew’s real estate savvy and resources (and a team of HGTV experts to back him), bids he makes on the show are often counter-offered or rejected entirely. Never lose faith guys; there are other fish (fixer-uppers) in the sea.

Even when working with a tight budget, Jonathan and Drew know the value in refacing and re-outfitting old fireplaces as a first order of business. (Psssst: They usually do so with stone slabs or white casing.) And they most always opt for a modern option with a gas insert and remote control. No mess, no stress, people

The bros are fans of bold kitchen tiling and often opt for cut glass (metallic or multicolored), porcelain in an interesting shape or basic subway tiles jazzed up with a herringbone layout or metal border. And there’s no need to stop at the backsplash, either (take ’em to the ceiling, go crazy). Something extra = extra ROI, folks.

Ever the poster boys for contemporary design, a striking majority of Property Brothers flips are outfitted with gleaming, modern chrome fixtures and range from sconces and chandeliers to bathroom faucets and kitchen drawer pulls. (Perhaps because they’re great for catching one’s reflection?)

You’ll never be faced with a whitewashed farmhouse reno from Jonathan and Drew. Even with neutral-inclined clients, the brothers always find a way to work in a bold, punchy color to give a space dimension—like these creamsicle-upholstered barstools in a cool-toned, open-concept kitchen.

Statement wallpaper is both bold and pricey, and is often a deterrent for many buyers. The Property Brothers’ favored fix? Paper a lone accent wall in a foyer, living or bedroom. This wallet-happy maneuver adds a professional, polished and visually interesting touch on a shoestring budget.

Entertaining without a proper built-in minibar? Blasphemy, the Brothers say. There is always a way (and room in the budget) to work this high-end amenity into a family room or basement rec space. (“Think about what appeals to future buyers” is their modus operandi.)

While their tastes for renovations veer toward masculine, Jonathan and Drew appreciate an additional something fancy and feminine in the toilette and are aware of the added value it brings (bathrooms sell houses, guys). Jewel-like extras, like a pretty tile, antique mirror or mini chandelier will go a long way with the wives' club.

A majority of Jonathan-executed renos feature flowing hardwood flooring in a dark matte stain. The look is versatile, timeless, sophisticated and, yes, a touch masculine, too. (Hey, they can’t help it.)

Above all, when it comes to a renovation wish list, the brothers have taught us that it just isn’t possible to tick off every amenity while sticking to a budget and timeline. “Need” those Carrara marble countertops? Be prepared to skip the back deck rehabilitation in the interim.