"UNDER THE HAMMER" - Review by Mark Hadley

RATING:                    PG

DISTRIBUTOR:          Seven Network

RELEASE DATE:          Mondays, 8:00 PM

Viewers would be forgiven for thinking they are watching Hot Property. 
Not only does Seven's new real estate program seem to draw all of its 
action from watching auctions take place, Michael Caton even stars as 
the host. Nice to see that The Castle is still bringing him work...

The half-hour series focuses on that topic of conversation that is 
likely to raise its head at most BBQs: the cost of housing. In 
particular, the program focuses on properties that will go 'under the 
hammer' at auctions. Each week it follows the progress of a small 
number of clients and their agents aiming to buy or sell a broad range 
of properties. Under the Hammer delivers a greater focus on the 
characters of the various auctioneers involved than Hot Property used 
to, which is probably for the best given that their moments in front 
of the lens provide all the drama.

Kids, traffic and housing prices are such easy topics to fall into 
that this series is bound to have a fairly dedicated audience, at 
least in Sydney. That said, I couldn't say that Under the Hammer 
really impresses me. The rule of thumb for participants seems to be 
sellers who have an unreasonable view of the value of their homes, and 
buyers who can't believe something is worth the asking price. 
Basically thirty minutes of greed and dissatisfaction each week. In my 
opinion fitness shows stand a good chance of making you feel fat, and 
cooking shows encourage gluttony. So what do you think Under the 
Hammer is likely to do for your contentment?