A Georgia grandma was left speechless after being named as the winner of HGTV’s 2026 dream home, procuring both an “ultimate lakeside retreat” in North Carolina and a check for $100,000 that she can use to finance her move to her palatial new abode.
Retired accountant Eileen Reimer was revealed as the winner of the sprawling $2.3 million property this week, having spent years entering the network’s famed sweepstakes.
As first reported by People magazine, Reimer was both bewildered and thrilled when she was given the keys to the home, which is a newly-built dwelling is situated on Lake Wylie and comes complete with panoramic waterfront views from every corner.
Located on the outskirts of Charlotte, NC, and designed by HGTV star Brian Patrick Flynn, the picture-perfect home comes fully furnished and sits on a private peninsula.
An emotional Reimer revealed that she extremely excited to call the estate hers, because it means she can move closer to her son, daughter-in-law and two young grandchildren.
Flynn revealed that Reimer had been crowned the 2026 Dream Home winner in an adorable clip, which saw the grandmother celebrating with her family.
“Our winner is Eileen Reimer, a retired accountant, wife, mother and grandmother from Atlanta, Georgia. In order to surprise her we came up with a very elaborate plan,” Flynn said in the video.
He then revealed that he was able to get in touch with the winner’s sister-in-law, Margaret, to help orchestrate a family gathering, where he shared the exciting news, adding that the restaurant where the party was held even hid cameras so the happy moment caught be captured.
Flynn explained that part of their plan to surprise her was by him walking into the restaurant and acting like he found someone’s keys on the ground.
“Is there somebody here named Eileen? I believe I have your keys. I just found them and want to make sure I have the right person. Is that you? What does it say on there?” Flynn said as he walked into the venue.
Reimer then took the keychain, which read, “It says Eileen’s lake house.”
“A lake house? Do you have any idea why it says Eileen’s lake house?” Flynn questioned, as a confused Reimer simply answered: “No.”
Flynn then said, “You are officially the winner of the HGTV Dream Home 2026 on Lake Wiley, North Carolina.”
Remier then covered her mouth with her hand, before adding, “Oh my god. I’m going to be closer to my family!”
She then revealed that her husband of over 45 years, Charles, had entered the contest more than she did—crediting her spouse for securing her historic win.
“It’s a good thing I had a couple of beers. Yeah, I am shaking. This just hasn’t sunk in yet,” she teased.
Flynn then told the winner that she would be getting the keys to the home as well as a check for $100,000.
“Unbelievable. How do you cash this?” Reimer joked, while holding up the oversized check.
“Spanning more than 3,000 square feet, this three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home is thoughtfully designed to capture panoramic views of Lake Wylie from nearly every angle,” the press release revealing the property read.
The home, which was built by Knotts Builders, is a mere 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte.
The beauty of the home’s natural surroundings played an integral role in its design, according to HGTV, which called attention to the abundance of outdoor spaces that a future owner will be able to enjoy—and the natural finishes inside the dwelling that bring the outdoors in.
“Outdoor living takes center stage with relaxed furnishings, natural landscaping, and a pebbled pathway that leads to a spectacular two-story dock that is perfect for sunrise coffees, sunset watching, and endless days on the water,” the press release adds.
The facade of the property perfectly marries blue paint with brick, and it is surrounded in lush greenery.
Upon entering the property, guests are greeted with an open floor plan that leads into an expansive living area, which features dark wood flooring, a cozy fireplace on a large wood mantel, high ceilings, and large glass doors that lead to the exterior and allow natural light to flood inside.
Adjacent to the living area is the chef’s kitchen, which boasts modern overhead lighting, a large island with bar seating, plenty of cabinet space, and state-of-the-art appliances.
Moving into the bedrooms, there’s enough space for a queen-sized bed and ceilings covered in wooden beams.
“Inside, the home showcases a harmonious fusion of indoor comfort with outdoor beauty. Inspired by the natural surroundings, the home is filled with a warm earth-toned palette, hand-laid stone, custom millwork, organic materials, classic furnishings, and vintage collectibles—bringing the lakeside vibe to life.
“At the heart of the home is a great room with a reclaimed-wood mantle, an inviting dining room with a charming cafe door, and a chef-style kitchen with an over-grouted stone backsplash. Additional thoughtful spaces include a morning room and a garage with pantry access and a dedicated pet wash.
“The main bedroom suite offers sweeping lake views and a spa-like bathroom with a closet featuring an all-in-one washer and dryer,” the press release adds.
The garage has been transformed into an activity center and comes complete with plenty of games.
Lake Wylie is known for its “natural beauty” and offers more than 300 miles of shoreline, making it the perfect location for those who love water activities.
“It’s a prime location just 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte and a short drive to charming towns like Belmont and Fort Mill, offering the perfect blend of peaceful retreat and city convenience,” the press release adds.
Fans can began entering the sweepstakes at 9 a.m. EST on Dec. 16 but eager fans had the opportunity to sign up for entry reminders on the HGTV Dream Home website ahead of that date. The entry period closed at 5 p.m. EST on Feb. 13, 2026.
The HGTV Dream Home 2026 special hit TV screens Thursday Jan. 1, 2026, at 8 p.m. EST on HGTV.
Even those who are not on the lookout for a new abode may well be interested in entering the competition, which has seen multiple past winners opting to list their Dream Home almost immediately after taking ownership of the property.
In 2024, the HGTV Dream Home in St. Augustine, FL, was put on the market for just a hair under $2 million a mere three months after it was given away to teacher Marie Fratta.
Entrants also had the option of accepting a cash prize instead of the house—which is exactly what 2021 winner Jeff Yanes opted to do, resulting in the Rhode Island property being put on the market for $2.39 million soon after the contest drew to a close.
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