Idaho Woman Wins HGTV’s 2025 Smart Home and Shares Heartwarming Story About Her Late Husband
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Cathy Everts, a retired small business owner from Idaho, has been announced as the winner of HGTV’s 2025 Smart Home, located in San Antonio. The fully furnished home holds a special significance for Everts, as she revealed during the emotional reveal that her late husband Dan is buried in Texas, making the location deeply meaningful to her.
The reveal, captured exclusively by PEOPLE, showcased the moment when Everts received the keys to her new home from HGTV designer Poonam Moore. The touching moment unfolded as Everts, visibly moved, expressed her gratitude and disbelief at winning the stunning property.
Everts’ son Drew also played a key role in the heartwarming reveal, sharing with Moore how the opportunity came at a crucial time for his mother as she continues to cope with the loss of her husband five years ago. He emphasised the challenging journey his mother has been on since losing her partner of 35 years and expressed his belief that the Smart Home win will be a blessing for her wellbeing.
Along with the fully furnished home, Everts has also been awarded a 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC Plug-In Hybrid SUV and a cash prize of $100,000, making the total prize package valued at over $1.1 million. Everts, known for being a devoted fan of HGTV, was selected at random from over 72 million entries during the sweepstakes period.
The 3,000-square-foot property boasts three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a design that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living spaces. Decorated in an earthy colour palette with contemporary touches, the home offers a luxurious and functional living experience for Everts and her family.
Moore, the designer behind the property, shared her vision for the Smart Home, describing it as a mix of Midcentury modern influences with a playful Texas twist. The property features amenities such as a basketball court, a furnished deck with a smart TV, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.
Everts looks forward to welcoming her three sons and eleven grandchildren to her new home, creating lasting memories in a space that symbolises hope and new beginnings. As she embarks on this new chapter in her life, the Idaho widow is grateful for the chance to honour her late husband’s memory while embracing the future with optimism and joy.
In a world filled with uncertainties, stories like Cathy Everts’ serve as a reminder of the power of hope and resilience in the face of loss. The love and connection she shares with her late husband continue to inspire and uplift, shining a light on the enduring bonds that keep us grounded in moments of triumph and transition.