Popular home improvement star Carter Oosterhouse has built a successful career in television, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. With carpentry skills and a passion for sustainability, Oosterhouse has become a household name in home improvement and green living. He is thought to be worth about $8 million as of 2024.
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Early Years and Career Beginnings
Born on September 19, 1976, in Traverse City, Michigan, Carter Oosterhouse was very early into building and construction. He learned carpentry while working in his hometown before moving to Los Angeles to work in television and entertainment. His background in carpentry and his eye for design made him a natural fit for home improvement shows, and it wasn’t long before he got his first major break.
Breakthrough on Television
In 2003, Carter Oosterhouse joined the cast of Trading Spaces, a TLC home improvement show. He was a carpenter on the show and grew to be a fan favorite for his approachable personality and good looks. The success of the show helped make Oosterhouse one of the most popular faces in home renovation television.
Oosterhouse later hosted and appeared on other home-related TV shows, including Carter Can, Red Hot & Green, and Million Dollar Room. His ability to combine creativity with practical, hands-on skills helped him build a following and a lasting career in television.
Major Sources of Income
Television Hosting and Appearances: Oosterhouse’s income stems mainly from television. He has appeared on many home renovation shows as a host and guest expert. His run on hit shows like Trading Spaces and Carter Can netted him fame and a steady income.
His popularity in the home improvement space also saw him appear on talk shows, design segments, and other media.
Entrepreneurship and Business Ventures: Carter Oosterhouse has also ventured into entrepreneurship. He runs a wine brand called Bonobo Winery with his brother in Traverse City, Michigan. The winery has become popular for its quality wines and eco-friendly practices, making it a profitable venture in the region’s thriving wine industry.
Oosterhouse’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond his winery. He has promoted green building practices and even started ventures in green construction and environmentally conscious design.
Endorsements and Public Speaking: As a TV personality and home improvement expert, Oosterhouse has also landed endorsement deals with brands. These kinds of partnerships, especially those focused on home improvement products and green materials, have provided another source of income for him. Oosterhouse also speaks about sustainability and design frequently.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Carter Oosterhouse married actress Amy Smart in 2011. Together they have helped create sustainable living initiatives like the Carter’s Kids foundation that builds and improves playgrounds in low-income communities in the United States. Oosterhouse and Smart have given children safe, healthy play spaces through their charity work.
