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HOLMES Makes It Right story | Contractor Scam

By Guest Post

Mike’s Advice / TV Show Behind The Scenes

Tuesday, September 30th, 2025 @ 12:50pm

A $300,000 Lesson in Trust: “Investment Gate”

 

Imagine investing your hard-earned life savings into a dream home renovation — and a business venture — with someone you trusted. Now imagine watching that dream turn into a nightmare. That’s exactly what happened to Janice and George in one of the most heartbreaking episodes of Holmes Makes It Right — titled “Investment Gate.” What a huge contractor scam!

Janice and George thought they were making a smart move by investing $300,000 — $100K for renovations, and $200K into a friend’s contracting business. But instead of a modern, finished basement and a promising financial return, they were left with a gutted mess, empty bank accounts, and shattered trust.

Turns out, they were just one couple among over 40 families caught in a massive $15 million contractor scam. The man they trusted wasn’t just cutting corners — he was running a full-blown fraud operation.

The emotional weight of this episode is heavy. You can see the heartbreak on their faces. Not just from the financial loss, but from the betrayal — by a friend, by the system, and by the dream of building a better future.

They wrote to us for help. We stepped in, not just to repair the structural damage, but to help restore hope. No family should ever have to face this situation.

I’ve seen too many good people lose everything because they trusted the wrong contractor. If a contractor is asking for big money up front, cutting corners, or dodging permits — that’s a red flag. Homeowners need to protect themselves. Do your homework, check licenses, get everything in writing, and NEVER pay the full amount before the job is done right. Because if you don’t do it right the first time… you’ll be paying twice.

 

RELATED: Biggest Home Disasters Revealed on Holmes on Homes Podcast

 

You can watch full episodes of Mike Holmes’ shows for free on Homeful TV’s YouTube channel. Simply visit the channel, browse the playlist, and enjoy episodes featuring Mike’s expert home renovation advice and tips. It’s an easy and cost-free way to access all your favorite episodes!

Catch up on all the Classic Holmes shows on Homeful TV!

 

 

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