Channeling home

Shtick: Seven-part series follows a Manhattan couple as they confront unscrupulous contractors, budget-busting costs and endless obstacles to building their modern log cabin in the Catskill Mountains.

Hit: We were hooked after one episode and are rooting for Fred and Natasha Ruckel to get it done.

Miss: Makes building your dream home seem like a nightmare.

When: 7 and 7:30 p.m. Sun., DIY.

Shtick: It's like a backstage version of the popular show "Divine Design." Cameras tag along as interiors diva Candice Olson sketches, shops and frets over fabrics to create her fabulous fusion of color and furnishings in real people's homes.

Hit: Judging from "Divine Design," some of the "afters" should be downright inspiring. Olson also shares design principles that can be executed in any space.

Miss: Candice tells all -- except who's paying for it and how much it costs.

Shtick: Interior designer Anitra Mecadon transforms underutilized basements into warm family caves tricked out with home theaters, gaming rooms, bars and wine cellars.

Hit: Family members and friends are enlisted to help with easy-to-follow DIY jobs, such as installing a tin ceiling. Good resource for custom ideas, such as carving chairs from wine barrels.

Miss: Mecadon is dripping in jewelry as she cuts wood with a table saw. Where's the reality check?

When: 9 p.m. Mon., DIY.

If you're having trouble selling your house, tune into HGTV's "The Unsellables." Watching the host berate homeowners who've failed at staging might just make you feel better. Got stung by a contractor? "Holmes on Homes" may be the show for you. Want to see how the other half lives? Check out the high-buck "Selling New York." Whether you're buying, selling, renovating or just window shopping, there's probably a reality-based, home-related show for you.

We've listed only the regularly scheduled air times. Shows may be repeated and schedules are subject to change, so be sure to check your local listings. And if you want to be a star, many series are looking for families, couples and singles to feature. Check the websites for information.

Lynn Underwood • 612-673-7619