The father of three and Keller Williams real estate agent will be hosting a new reality series called "All for Nothing," a show that's one part design transformation series and one part real estate drama produced by Ottawa-based company Mountain Road Productions.
Here's how it works: two Ottawa home sellers face off to see who can increase the value of their home the most in two weeks with the help of Rushforth and his designer co-host Penny Southam. The home seller who increases their value the most without spending any of their money wins the free listing services of Rushforth's team.
'The most interesting part is that the homeowners have to hold garage sales, barter for services and get the community involved in fixing up their house because they can't spend any money," Rushforth explained.
For the show, he will follow the credo he created in his own business: if he doesn't sell the house, he will buy it himself.
"It's a win-win situation because even if they don't win the competition they are still improving their home in order to sell it, and it's free advice from me and Penny."
The show is a time-consuming project – with ten hour shooting days and maintaining his busy real estate practice, "I'm not going to lie, it's a bit crazy."
Paul married his high school sweetheart Rhonda in 2000, after meeting when they were 16 years old. The couple have three children: Taylor, 8, Hunter, 6 and Chase, 17 months.
A hockey player originally hailing from west end of Ottawa, he moved to Orléans after meeting his "east end girl."
In 2003, he retired from professional hockey and ventured into real estate. In less than seven years, Paul's Keller Williams team has moved up the ranks to become the number one real estate group in Ottawa.
Rushforth said at first he was hesitant to do the show. "I wasn't entirely interested, to be honest, but they called me and wanted me to audition."
Producer Lisa Nault said they chose him for the role because of his familiarity with the media – he hosts a radio show on CFRA – as well as for his expertise. "Through his experience in radio, he has a great on air personality and an outgoing nature," Nault said. "Plus, he adds air of authority to the show."
Rushforth said the experience has been rewarding. They are currently shooting the third episode out of 13. He said he is "dying" to showcase some Orléans homes.
"The homeowners we’ve met have been truly amazing people," he said. "I love helping them transform their houses and I've already listed two homes for free."
"This is easy for me because it's something I'm passionate about," Rushforth said. He attributes the homeowners' achievements to his no-nonsense attitude. "I won't tell people what they want to hear and I won't sugar coat things. The homeowners who listen to my and Penny's advice are going to be successful."
Nault said the show will be a good way to highlight and showcase Ottawa talent. "So many of the shows we watch are based out of Toronto, so it's nice to show what Ottawa is capable of," she said.
The show is set to air this fall on the W Network. Casting for the show is ongoing - if you would like to participate, visit www.mountainroad.ca.
