Frequently Asked Questions
ABC-TV’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Fact Sheet
- Each episode is self-contained and features a race against time on a project that would ordinarily take at least four months, involving a team of designers, contractors and several hundred workers who have just seven days (106 hours for the actual construction) to rebuild an entire house — every room, the exterior and landscaping.
- The lives of the lucky families are forever changed when they learn that they have been selected to have their home walls moved, their floors replaced and their facades radically changed... or even have their home demolished and rebuilt from scratch.
- Each episode begins with team leader/carpenter Ty Pennington’s “Good morning!” wake-up call, when he and the design team — including Paul DiMeo, Paige Hemmis, Michael Moloney, Ed Sanders, Tanya McQueen, Didi Snyder and Eduardo Xol — surprise the unsuspecting family that their home has been chosen to receive a makeover.
- Viewers witness the unbelievable transformation of the house and, during the final and emotional reveal, they also see how it has impacted the lives of the deserving families.
- The show earned an Emmy for Outstanding Reality Program in 2006 and the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Reality Show/Makeover; is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding; David Goldberg is president of Endemol USA; the series is executive-produced by Anthony Dominici.
- David Goldberg has had an extensive career in television, working on hit shows such as “Extra,” the dating game show “Change of Heart,” and the game show “Street Smarts.”. He currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, but was born and raised in New Canaan, CT.
- The show airs on Sundays 8/7c on the ABC Television Network; the series premiered December 3, 2003. Visit the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition website for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the house being built?
Yes of course, and we encourage spectators and people to come help cheer on our team. As the day gets closer we will post new information including directions to the site, as well as under this question and under our location page.
Will there be free parking?
Yes, where and when will be disclosed as the dates get closer so please keep checking back!
Will there be handicap-accessible parking?
The construction site and the shuttle service are not handicap-accessible. There will be a handicap drop-off area at the construction site. We will disclose this information as the dates get closer so please keep checking back!
How do I become a volunteer?
First of all, thank you for wanting to volunteer. This project couldn't succeed without people like you. To sign up as a volunteer, visit the volunteer page and you'll find the sign-up form. We will be working on construction around the clock, so we need as much help as we can get! If we don’t currently have any openings that fit your abilities, we may have something soon. So check the site often and we thank you in advance for your support.
May I bring my children?
Children are welcome as spectators. Please keep the weather in mind and take note that the spectator area has no seats, so children will have to stand for long periods. Because this is a construction site, children under the age of 18 are not permitted to join our volunteers.
My grandmother is a huge fan of the show. Can she come down and see all the excitement?
Fans of all ages are welcome to stop by. Please note that the spectator area is standing room only and the weather may be inclement. We are unable to allow for coolers, blankets or lawn chairs, but you are invited to pack water and a light snack. There are no concession stands on-site.
Is it possible to get Ty’s autograph?
Everyone on-site, including Ty, will be working very hard for long hours to make sure the family’s home is completed in time. There may be a chance for autographs, but we cannot promise Ty or any of his team will be available while you’re here.
Can I bring a sign?
Not only can you bring a sign, we encourage it! Our volunteers and construction workers deserve all the support they can get and your sign can help keep everyone energized. Just keep them positive, short and visible from a distance.
Will I be allowed to smoke?
No. In order to keep the construction site as safe as possible, we cannot permit smoking by anyone in the area.
Will cameras and video cameras be allowed?
Of course. Bring your camera and take as many pictures as you like. You can also check out the photos we’ll be posting throughout the week on this website.
If I come by on my lunch hour, can I bring food?
We do not have any concessions on-site but you are free to bring your own lunch or snack. We don’t allow blankets, chairs or coolers, so be aware that you’ll likely have to eat standing up. Also, we are guests in this neighborhood, so please be sure to dispose of your trash properly.
If the weather gets bad, will spectators still be allowed?
The construction will continue, no matter the weather, and the spectator area will stay open. However, please make sure you dress appropriately and use good judgment when deciding to come by. Umbrellas are allowed, but we do not have any enclosed or covered areas for spectators.
Will there be bathrooms?
Yes, nearby portables will be available to spectators. There will also be portables for all workers and volunteers.
What happens if I lose something while I’m there?
If you misplace anything, you may check with the “lost and found” at the check-in tent. However, you are fully responsible for all lost, stolen or damaged personal items.
Will there be paramedics for emergencies?
Yes, we will have paramedics on-site in case of emergency. Hopefully you will not need them, but should you experience an emergency, look for the paramedics or a staff volunteer and ask for assistance. If it is a life-threatening matter, please do not wait for assistance - call 911.
If I’m not able to volunteer or visit, are there other ways I can participate?
Absolutely! If you want to feel a part of everything that’s going on, you can check out the regular updates on our daily blog and photo gallery here on this website. We have also established an “Build a Dream” to help the family. To learn more about donations, visit the donations page. Every little bit counts and your contributions will be greatly appreciated.
