Recently, I began watching HGTV’s “The Property Brothers” upon the recommendation of a friend. As a Licensed Psychotherapist, I was fascinated by the theme of “dreams fulfilled” that threads through every episode.

There is always a happy ending. Usually, a couple sets out on a journey to find the house of their dreams, to find that they cannot afford it. Lo and behold, “The Property Brothers” are able to negotiate the sale of a fixer-upper, and then embark on a renovation. Often, the predictable drama that unfolds ranges from unexpected mold, to termites, to a threatened budget crunch issue or some other disaster.

Yes, always a happy ending, as “The Property Brothers” are able to overcome all odds, and give the couple the house of their dreams. On a psychological level, what is the reason that this show is so magnetic to viewers?

There are likely multiple reasons: The education that is provided about home renovation, design ideas, real estate negotiation, and learning about different parts of the world are just a few reasons.  However, I think that a major reason that the show is so successful is that the viewers always get to see happy endings every hour!  Like a Norah Ephron film, the couple walks into the metaphoric sunset, delighted with their new home and their romantic new life.  Like “Sleepless in Seattle” and “You’ve Got Mail”, viewers of “The Property Brothers” get to see couples with happy endings every episode!

I think that in this stressful world, people are craving stories of happy endings. News reports are mostly about bad news rather than “feel good” stories of philanthropy and kindness.

I wonder if  some day, there will be a show on how to deal with unscrupulous contractors, cheating handymen, home-makeover disasters, and the trauma of real life home remodeling. For now, however,  viewers can delight into the comforting world of “Happily Ever After”, and hope that their own home renovation projects go as smoothly.