About Us
HouseSmarts with Lou Manfredini
What is HouseSmarts? Your one-stop resource for home improvement information and guidance.
HouseSmarts is your one-stop resource for all things home improvement-related. For over 15 years, we have accurately and plainly answered the questions homeowners most want to know on a variety of channels — TV, radio and digital. And we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
HouseSmarts launched in Chicago in 2004, then expanded nationally the following year. Initially a weekly television show, our half-hour program combined the best of both worlds: useful DIY tips and entertaining stories on the projects of real homeowners. The HouseSmarts footprint has continued to grow – from an expanded presence on radio to live events and the creation of digital-first content. However, our purpose remains unchanged.
Since the beginning, HouseSmarts has empowered homeowners to tackle projects themselves. Whether you are a veteran hand person or a burgeoning DIYer, we want to help you work smarter and, ultimately, live better. While media formats evolve with the times, that guiding mission will never change. Our host, Lou Manfredini, believes all homeowners should be able to do more than swing a hammer. And he has dedicated his career to helping make it happen.
Who is Lou Manfredini?
Mr. Fix It is the right guy to ask.
While it has never been easier to access information, it is often difficult to determine which sources you can trust. That’s why our host, Lou Manfredini, dedicated his career to setting the record straight. A former contractor and custom homebuilder, Lou has developed a loyal following with his entertaining mix of practical and valuable home improvement tips. A regular contributor on NBC’s TODAY Show, he is the handyman you can trust.
Lou grew up outside Chicago, where he worked at a hardware store during his teenage years and, eventually, as a carpenter’s apprentice. He learned tricks of the trade from his early gigs. Then, in 1987, he founded a construction company. Lou built and renovated dozens of homes throughout the Chicago area. Along the way, he helped people better understand the work. His ability to teach became the driving force of his career — and remains so today.
Radio was the first media Lou set out to conquer. In 1995, he launched a call-in program — Mr. Fix It — on WGN-AM Radio 720 Chicago. The show’s signature blend of expert knowledge and empathetic banter proved to be a winning formula. So, he steadily evolved his presence to reach a larger audience. Today, Lou hosts our nationally syndicated TV show, as well as our live call-in radio shows in New York, Chicago, West Palm Beach, and Modesto. In addition to his media engagements, he lives in Chicago, with his wife, and has four children.
HISTORY OF OUR BRAND
1995
Lou launches Mr. Fix it Show on WGN-720am Radio
2004
HouseSmarts Television and Properties is formed
2005
HouseSmarts Television goes National
2010
HouseSmarts airs episode #100
2016
HouseSmarts Radio is Born
2017
NY, CA Radio Expansion
2018
HouseSmarts airs episode #200
2021
HouseSmarts National Radio Rollout
HISTORY OF OUR BRAND
1995
Lou launches Mr. Fix it Show on WGN-720am Radio
2004
HouseSmarts Television and Properties is formed
2005
HouseSmarts Television goes National
2010
HouseSmarts airs episode #100
2016
HouseSmarts Radio is Born
2017
NY, CA Radio Expansion
2018
HouseSmarts airs episode #200
2021
HouseSmarts National Radio Rollout
