Status: FORECLOSED
The Harper family of Lake City, Georgia received one of the most extravagant makeovers in Extreme Makeover: Home Edition history. Their modest home was replaced with a 5,500 square foot mansion that took 1,800 volunteers to build.
The Makeover
Milton and Patricia Harper’s new home was designed to accommodate their large family. The transformation was dramatic – from a struggling property to what appeared to be a dream home that would change their lives forever.
What Went Wrong
The Harpers’ story took a tragic turn when they decided to use their new home as collateral to start a construction business. When the business failed, they lost everything – including the dream home the show had given them.
Their case became one of the most cited examples of how the show’s generosity could backfire when families weren’t prepared for the financial realities of owning such large properties.
Lessons Learned
The Harper family foreclosure highlighted a critical flaw in the show’s approach: giving families expensive homes without financial counseling or protections against using the properties as loan collateral.
Last verified: January 2026
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