New HGTV Series WHO’S AFRAID OF A CHEAP OLD HOUSE? Will Inspire Bargain Buyers to Take on and Reimagine Dreamy Older Homes

Cheap Old Houses, the addictive social media phenomenon with nearly three million followers, including an impressive roster of A-list celebrities, has inspired a new HGTV series Who’s Afraid of a Cheap Old House?, premiering Tuesday, May 14, at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Led by historic preservationist Elizabeth Finkelstein and her husband Ethan Finkelstein, a budget-conscious historic build expert, the series will appeal to bargain hunters who dream of owning a classic home affordably priced at under $150,000 with features like antique fireplaces, original wood floors, leaded glass windows, vintage appliances and inviting front porches.  

During the eight-episode season, the Finkelsteins will take potential buyers on tours of two listings—from traditional styles such as Colonial Revival, Craftsman, Tudor and Queen Anne to out-of-the-box ones like a church and a firehouse—that are brimming with history and unique architecture. 

“Saving these houses isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s worth it,” said Elizabeth. “Our cheap old house movement caught fire on social media. Now, we’re taking buyers house hunting so they can buy and restore a cheap old house of their own.” 

Ethan and Elizabeth will guide hopeful homebuyers through the emotional highs and lows of not only purchasing but also preserving real estate steals. Once the buyers choose their ideal project, the Finkelsteins, along with interior designer Jennifer Salvemini and architectural designer Scott Reed, will help them overhaul the forgotten places into beautifully restored gems that feature contemporary elements.   

“We use the history of each house to design and restore,” said Ethan. “We love to show homeowners the magic of cheap old houses.”   

The series will kick off in Whitehall, New York, where the Finkelsteins travel in their classic truck, Old Blue, to meet partners Bill and Joe, scenic artists who currently own a centuries-old home but wish to transform a unique building into their new dwelling. Ethan and Elizabeth will show them a former fraternal meeting hall in Italianate style with stunning arched windows and exposed brick and a firehouse with intact metal tin ceilings and walls—both built in the 1800s. 

Until the new series premieres, HGTV fans can stream the original series Cheap Old Houses on discovery+ and get premiere updates on HGTV.com and via @HGTV and #CheapOldHouses on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Threads. Fans also can engage with behind-the-scenes content and check out the Finkelstein’s latest property listings at @cheapoldhouses on Instagram.   

The series is produced by Critical Content in association with Roberts Media. 

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