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Are You a Real Estate Reality TV Fan?

Do you often imagine how you’d present your home to a prospective buyer? Or perhaps you actually know what “in escrow” means?

Is this Selling Sunset star the hottest real estate agent on the planet? | WATCH

Reality TV: Still Dominating Australian Screens

Reality TV continues to dominate Australian ratings. Nearly 2.5 million viewers tuned in for the season 11 premiere of Married at First Sight. For those not watching MAFS, other reality shows are still hugely popular.

If you’re fascinated by real estate, you’re probably a fan of shows like Selling Sunset. This Netflix hit combines stunning properties with plenty of drama. Since its 2019 debut, it’s followed the Oppenheim Real Estate Group, a Californian brokerage specializing in luxury homes. With season eight on the way and several spin-offs like Selling The OC and Buying London, its success is undeniable.

A group of real estate agents in a glam room smile at the camera

Luxe Listings Sydney has been reported to be one of the biggest hits for Prime Video in Australia. (Amazon Prime Video )

The Real Estate Reality TV Boom

Over the past six years, real estate reality TV has exploded. While the COVID-19 pandemic may have provided the perfect conditions for this genre to thrive, it has maintained its popularity.

A woman in her 30s with dark brown hair and red lip, print top and black blazer, has both hands on hips and looks serious

Rose Callaghan loves judging real estate reality shows from the comfort of her rental. (Instagram @operation_rosie)

For those who aren’t into the romance and scandals of shows like MAFS, real estate reality TV offers something different. Take Luxe Listings Sydney, an Australian show on Prime Video that premiered in 2021. Tyler Bern, head of content for Prime Video AU, NZ, and Canada, called it a “massive success,” stating it’s one of their top performers globally.

A scene from reality tv show Selling Sunset of real estate agent Chrishell Stause sitting at a desk in an office

Selling Sunset premiered in 2019 and became a global reality television hit, making stars out of agents like Chrishell Stause. (Netflix)

Why the Appeal?

Melbourne comedian and reality TV enthusiast Rose Callaghan prefers Luxe Listings Sydney for its focus on high-end properties and big commissions. She finds the real estate agents make the show, describing them as natural-born reality stars.

Dr. Phoebe Macrossan, a lecturer in screen media, explains that reality TV genres reflect their times. The popularity of real estate shows is tied to the global housing crisis, making expensive properties more aspirational. These shows also mirror our workplaces, featuring relatable office politics.

The Fun of Judging from Afar

For many, the appeal lies in the easy escapism and voyeurism. Watching wealthy homes, often owned by celebrities, provides a peek into a world most viewers will never experience. Fan Meg Mackey appreciates the low commitment and relatable aspects of the home-buying process portrayed in these shows.

The Saturation Point?

As with all trends, there may be a saturation point. Dr. Macrossan believes the genre’s longevity will depend on global circumstances. The combination of real estate voyeurism and drama keeps viewers hooked, allowing them to judge and enjoy from the comfort of their homes.

The Future of Real Estate Reality TV

While romance-driven shows like MAFS continue to be popular, real estate reality TV offers a less exploitative escape. Mackey believes that new versions of these shows will continue to surprise viewers, unlike the increasingly controversial MAFS. For now, our fascination with peeking behind closed doors isn’t going anywhere.

SOURCE: ABC