By Orland Howell, Expert in Lawsuit Settlements
Last Updated: May 27, 2025
The Arkansas HGTV stars settlement made big news in 2025. Dave and Jenny Marrs, stars of “Fixer to Fabulous,” settled a legal fight with homeowners Matthew and Sarah McGrath. This case is important for fans who love their show and people buying homes. It shows what can go wrong when building a house. This guide explains the lawsuit, why it matters, and how to stay safe when hiring builders.
Disclaimer: This article is only for information. It’s not legal or money advice. Talk to an expert before doing anything. Orland Howell and this website are not responsible for what you do after reading.
Who Are Dave and Jenny Marrs?
Dave and Jenny Marrs are the stars of HGTV’s “Fixer to Fabulous.” They also appeared on “Rock the Block,” another HGTV show. They live in Bentonville, Arkansas, and turn old houses into beautiful new homes. Their show, which started in 2019, is now in its sixth season and loved by many fans. Dave owns Jupiter Rentals, which sells homes, and Marrs Construction, which builds them in Northwest Arkansas.
The couple is famous for making homes look special with creative designs. Their TV show shows their happy family life, which fans enjoy watching. They’ve built a strong name for quality work in Arkansas. But this lawsuit made people ask questions about their companies. I’m Orland Howell, and I’ve written about lawsuits for four years to help you understand this case clearly.
What Happened in the Lawsuit?
The Arkansas HGTV stars settlement began with a lawsuit in February 2023. Matthew and Sarah McGrath sued Dave Marrs’ companies, Jupiter Rentals and Marrs Construction, in Benton County court. Court papers, reported by 5newsonline.com, say the companies didn’t finish promised home fixes and broke building rules. The McGraths wanted their home fixed properly. This case shows how important it is for builders to keep their promises.
Timeline of Events
In May 2022, the McGraths bought a $559,000 home from Jupiter Rentals, per 5newsonline.com. They paid $15,000 to start and expected Marrs Construction to add a new kitchen sink, deck stairs, a handrail, garage windows, and wood floors. These changes would make their home better and safer. But by August 2022, court papers say the fixes weren’t done, and experts found problems like a weak deck. The companies didn’t fix anything before the McGraths moved in.
In February 2023, the McGraths went to court, saying the companies broke their promise, per Legalreader.com. They listed 21 building rule problems, like bad roof parts and water drainage, in court filings. The lawsuit said these mistakes made their home unsafe. They wanted money to fix the problems. This step started a long legal fight.
In September 2023, the court tried to help both sides agree through mediation, but it didn’t work. The McGraths’ lawyer, Tim Watson, told 5newsonline.com the mediation failed completely. In March 2024, court papers showed a serious problem: the deck was held by screws, not bolts, which was dangerous. This made the case stronger for the McGraths. The trial was planned for January 27, 2025.
In August 2024, Dave Marrs talked in court and didn’t agree with the experts, per Collider.com. His companies gave no expert proof to fight the claims, which hurt their case. The trial was getting close, so they made a deal. On January 24, 2025, court papers, per 5newsonline.com, said the case was settled and closed forever. This means no one can bring it back to court.
Key Allegations
The McGraths paid over $10,000 for home fixes, per court papers. They wanted a new kitchen sink, deck stairs, a handrail, garage windows, and more wood floors to make their home nice. Court filings say these fixes weren’t done on time, leaving the home unfinished. The McGraths were upset because they paid for work that wasn’t completed. This broke their trust in the companies.
Experts found big problems with the home, per 5newsonline.com. The deck was held by screws, not bolts, which was unsafe, per court filings. The septic system was built wrong, and the McGraths paid another company to fix it. Court papers listed 21 building rule problems, like bad roof parts and water drainage issues. These mistakes made the home less safe and valuable.
The lawsuit said Marrs Construction didn’t have an Arkansas Contractor’s License, per Legalreader.com. It also didn’t get needed permits from Benton County, which is against the rules. These problems led to construction mistakes, says Collider.com. The McGraths wanted the court to make the companies fix the home. This case shows why builders need to follow rules.
Defendants’ Response
Marrs Construction and Jupiter Rentals answered the lawsuit in court. They said the McGraths wouldn’t let them fix the home, per 5newsonline.com. They claimed some problems couldn’t be avoided, like normal building challenges. But they gave no expert proof to support their side, per Collider.com. This made their case weaker and led to the settlement.
The companies didn’t admit they did anything wrong. They settled to avoid a big trial, which could cost more money and time. The McGraths’ lawyer said the companies’ lack of proof helped their case, per Collider.com. The settlement ended the fight quietly. This shows how lawsuits can end without going to trial.
What We Know About the Settlement
The case settled on January 24, 2025, just three days before the trial, per 5newsonline.com. Court papers say, “All claims are settled and done,” and the case is closed forever. The details of the deal are secret, so we don’t know how much money was paid. Neither the McGraths nor the Marrs talked about it, per KNWA on 5newsonline.com. This settlement likely saved both sides from a long, expensive court fight.
This wasn’t the first lawsuit for the Marrs. In 2021, another couple sued Marrs Construction for home problems, per Legalreader.com. That case settled in March 2022, and the court closed it after the couple dropped their claims. The Arkansas HGTV stars settlement follows a similar path, ending quietly. It shows how builders and homeowners can fix fights without a trial.
I’m Orland Howell, and I’ve studied lawsuit settlements for four years. My work helps explain complex cases like this one in simple ways. This guide uses trusted sources to give you clear facts. You can rely on this information to understand the case. It’s designed to help you make smart choices.
Implications for the Marrs and HGTV
The lawsuit affects the Marrs, their show, and the home building world. It makes people think about their work and trust. This case has big lessons for everyone involved. Here’s what it means in detail.
Brand Reputation
“Fixer to Fabulous” is a popular HGTV show with many fans. Dave and Jenny Marrs are loved for their beautiful home designs. The lawsuit made people ask if their companies do good work, per Collider.com. Claims of an unsafe deck and missing licenses are serious problems. Some fans may not trust them as much now.
The Marrs share their projects on TV, reaching many viewers. They’re known for making homes special and safe. But this case shows they need to check their work carefully. Homeowners may worry about hiring them after this. The settlement keeps their show going, but their name might face questions.
HGTV’s Response
HGTV didn’t talk about the case, per 5newsonline.com. “Fixer to Fabulous” is still on TV in its sixth season, airing on Tuesdays. The network wants to keep the show popular with fans. They focus on the Marrs’ designs and family story. This helps keep viewers happy.
Other HGTV stars have had legal fights too. Christina Hall and Tarek El Moussa faced lawsuits on “Flip or Flop,” per Collider.com. Todd Hill from “Flip It to Win It” got in trouble for fraud. These cases show TV stars can have problems. HGTV likely watches its stars more closely now.
Industry Lessons
The case teaches home builders important rules. They need a valid license to work, per Arkansas law. They must get permits for building projects to follow local rules. Breaking these rules can lead to lawsuits and bad news. Companies like Marrs Construction need better ways to check their work.
TV stars like the Marrs are seen by many people. Their mistakes can become big news, hurting their name. This lawsuit shows builders must do quality work every time. Other companies can learn to avoid these problems. Following rules keeps customers happy and safe.
Lessons for Homeowners: Avoiding Similar Problems
The Arkansas HGTV stars settlement helps homeowners stay safe. You can avoid trouble with these simple tips. They’re easy to follow and keep your home project on track. Here’s how to protect yourself when hiring builders.
Research Contractors
Check if a contractor has a license before you hire them. In Arkansas, the state licensing board can tell you if they’re allowed to work. Look at reviews online, like on Yelp, to see what others say. Ask to see pictures of their past homes to check their work. This helps you pick a builder you can trust.
The McGraths didn’t know Marrs lacked a license, per Legalreader.com. Checking this could have saved them trouble. You can call the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board for help. They make sure builders follow the rules. This step stops problems before they start.
Clear Contracts
Write down everything you agree on with your builder. List all home fixes, like new sinks or stairs, and when they’ll be done. Add a promise that the work will be good and safe. This contract protects you if something goes wrong. Keep a copy to show what you agreed on.
The McGraths had a contract but still had problems, per Legalreader.com. A clearer contract could have helped them avoid fights. You can ask a lawyer to check your contract. This makes sure it’s fair and clear. A good contract keeps everyone honest.
Post-Construction Inspections
Get an expert to check your home before you move in. They find problems, like weak decks or bad windows, that could be dangerous. The McGraths found problems after moving, per 5newsonline.com. Checking early could have caught these issues. This saves you money and stress.
Take pictures of any problems you find. Send them to your builder right away so they can fix things. You can hire a home inspector who knows what to look for. Their report shows what needs to be fixed. This keeps your home safe and strong.
Legal Recourse
Know what to do if a builder does wrong. In Arkansas, you can sue for breaking a promise, like not finishing work. Try talking or mediation first, which is cheaper than court. The McGraths tried mediation, per Collider.com, but it didn’t work, so they went to court. You can get a lawyer to help you.
A lawyer knows your rights and can guide you. They help you get a fair fix for your home. The McGraths’ lawyer, Tim Watson, fought for them. This step is important if you need to go to court. It helps you get what you deserve.
Key Facts of the Lawsuit
| Part | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Sued | Matthew and Sarah McGrath |
| Who They Sued | Jupiter Rentals, Marrs Construction (Dave Marrs) |
| When Filed | February 2023 |
| When Settled | January 24, 2025 |
| Problems | Breaking promise, not finishing fixes, building rule problems |
| Main Issues | Unsafe deck, broken windows, missing parts, bad flooring |
| Outcome | Settled, case closed forever |
| Past Lawsuit | 2021, settled in March 2022 |
FAQs About the Legal Fight
Have questions about the case? These answers are simple and clear. They help you understand the lawsuit.
What was the Arkansas HGTV stars settlement about?
Matthew and Sarah McGrath sued Dave Marrs’ companies for home problems. They said the companies didn’t finish fixes, per 5newsonline.com. The case settled in January 2025. It was about making the home right.
What was wrong with the McGraths’ home?
Court papers say the deck was unsafe, held by screws, not bolts. Windows were broken, and floors had problems. There were 21 building rule problems, per Legalreader.com. These made the home less safe.
Why did they settle?
The Marrs had no expert proof to fight back, per Collider.com. The trial was close, so they made a deal. The details are secret. It saved them from a big court fight.
Will this hurt “Fixer to Fabulous”?
The show is still on TV, but some fans may not trust the Marrs, per Legalreader.com. Their work is being watched closely now. The show airs on Tuesdays. Fans still love their designs.
How can I avoid these problems?
Check if builders have a license. Write clear contracts. Get your home checked by an expert. Know your rights if something goes wrong.
Conclusion
The Arkansas HGTV stars settlement ended a big legal fight. Matthew and Sarah McGrath sued Dave Marrs’ companies for home problems. They settled on January 24, 2025, just before the trial. This case shows builders must do good work and follow rules. Homeowners can learn to protect themselves.
I’m Orland Howell, an expert in lawsuit settlements with four years of experience. This guide uses trusted sources to give you clear, true facts. Check licenses, write contracts, and inspect homes to stay safe. Share this guide with friends to help them. Comment below with your questions or ideas!
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Orland Howell is a seasoned content writer with four years of deep expertise in crafting compelling and informative content about lawsuit settlements. With a keen understanding of legal nuances and a talent for translating complex topics into clear, engaging narratives, Orland helps law firms, legal professionals, and clients communicate effectively. His work spans blog posts, articles, whitepapers, and website content, all designed to educate, inform, and drive results. Passionate about empowering audiences with knowledge, Orland combines precision, creativity, and industry insight to deliver content that resonates and builds trust.