House hunting shows are a dime a dozen. They either offer the aspirational fantasy of multi-million dollar mansions or the slightly less fantastical, but still mostly unattainable, charm of fixer-uppers with “good bones.” OWN’s First-Time Buyer’s Club, however, is grounded in a relatable reality for many: the often-frustrating, sometimes-exhilarating pursuit of a first home. In “Greg & Vanessa,” the latest episode of its second season, the series turns its lens on a couple grappling with a familiar conundrum: location versus style.
Realtor Amina Stevens, the show’s anchor, guides Greg and Vanessa through the choppy waters of a competitive housing market. With a growing family and a finite budget, the couple must weigh their priorities. Do they opt for a smaller home in a desirable neighborhood, or a larger house with more features in a less ideal location? It’s a question as old as real estate itself, and one that “Greg & Vanessa” tackles with a practical, no-nonsense approach.
Stevens, more than just a house finder, acts as a guide, translator, and occasional therapist for first-time buyers. She attempts to untangle the complicated jargon of mortgages, inspections, and closing costs, empowering buyers with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Whether “Greg & Vanessa” delivers a fairytale ending or a dose of harsh reality isn’t the only point. First-Time Buyer’s Club continues to offer a valuable service by illuminating the realities of home ownership for those entering the market, a task often more complicated than the average HGTV binge might suggest.
Tune in to OWN this Saturday, November 16, at 9:30 PM ET to witness Greg and Vanessa’s home-buying journey.
