Michael James Holmes, born on August 3, 1963, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a renowned builder, contractor, businessman, television host, and philanthropist. With a career spanning over three decades, he has established himself as one of North America’s most trusted contractors. Mike Holmes has built an international brand based on trust, integrity, and quality craftsmanship. His no-nonsense approach to home renovation and construction has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him accolades such as Forbes’ Third Most Trustworthy Celebrity and Reader’s Digest’s Second Most Trusted Canadian.
Table of Contents
Who is Mike Holmes?
- Age: 61 years
- Family: Jim Holmes (father) and Shirley Holmes (mother)
- Wife/ Partner: Ann Zappia
- First Wife: Alexandra Lorex
- Children: Amanda, Sherry, and Mike Jr.
- Grandchildren: Wyatt, Emily, Cali Kay, Oaklyn Summer, and Azura Vie Holmes
- Net Worth: $30 million
- Tattoo: English bulldog
- Height: 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters)
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Mike Holmes Age, Early Life and Education
Mike was born to Jim and Shirley Holmes. His father, Jim, was a skilled plumber and engineer who worked at General Motors but also had a reputation as a “jack of all trades.” He was known for his ability to tackle various tasks around the house and in the neighborhood, often helping neighbors with repairs.
Shirley Holmes, Mike’s mother, was described as intelligent and ahead of her time. She took an active role in her children’s education, including discussing topics like sex education at an age when such conversations were considered taboo. Mike grew up in a modest three-bedroom home alongside his two siblings.
The family faced financial challenges, which Mike later described as being “poor but content.” By the age of six, Mike began learning the fundamentals of building and renovation from his father. By the time he was 19, he had started his first contracting company with a crew of 13 employees.
At 21, Mike founded his own renovation company, which marked the beginning of a successful entrepreneurial journey.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Holmes’ career took off in the construction industry as he honed his skills and built a reputation for quality work. He ran two companies during his 20-year contracting career before transitioning into television. Before becoming a household name, Mike Holmes worked as a stagehand on the HGTV show Just Ask Jon Eakes.
He was earning a modest salary of $400 a week when he caught the eye of a network executive, which eventually led to his television career. This opportunity arose purely by chance, as he had no initial aspirations to be on camera. Initially, Holmes was hesitant to become a television host. He described his entry into the industry as a “happy accident.”
After being persuaded by Michael Quast, the director of studio programming for Alliance Atlantis, he agreed to film a pilot for Holmes on Homes despite his reservations about being in front of the camera. The early days of filming Holmes on Homes were fraught with challenges. The production team faced difficulties in finding homeowners willing to participate in the show. To generate interest, Holmes resorted to handing out flyers in Home Depot parking lots to attract participants.
His breakthrough came with the launch of Holmes on Homes in 2003 on HGTV Canada. The show focused on rescuing homeowners from disastrous renovations and educating viewers about the importance of quality work and adherence to building codes. The program quickly gained popularity due to its engaging format and Holmes’s no-nonsense approach to construction issues.
Television Success and Books
The success of Holmes on Homes paved the way for several other television series that further solidified Holmes’ status as a trusted figure in home renovation:
- Holmes Inspection (2009): This series focused on home inspections gone wrong and highlighted Holmes’ expertise in identifying structural issues.
- Holmes Makes It Right (2012): In this series, Holmes tackled disaster-stricken homes and aimed to restore them to their former glory.
- Holmes Next Generation (2020): This show featured his children, Mike Jr. and Sherry, as they followed in their father’s footsteps in the construction industry.
Holmes has also appeared as a judge on various reality competition shows such as Handyman Superstar Challenge and Home Free, further extending his influence in the media landscape.
In addition to his television work, Holmes has authored several books on home renovation topics. His titles include Home Renovation with Canada’s Most Trusted Contractor and Holmes Inspection: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy or Sell Your Home. These publications further extend his influence beyond television, providing readers with valuable insights into home improvement and maintenance.
Advocacy for Building Standards
Throughout his career, Holmes has been an outspoken advocate for improved building standards. He frequently emphasizes the importance of adhering to building codes and educating homeowners about potential pitfalls in renovations. His shows serve as platforms for raising awareness about these issues.
Holmes’ advocacy has reached governmental levels; he has been recognized in Canada’s House of Commons for his efforts to improve building standards and promote skilled trades. His influence extends beyond television as he actively participates in discussions about industry regulations.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his illustrious career, Mike Holmes has received numerous awards and honors:
- Gemini Award: Won multiple Gemini Awards for his contributions to lifestyle programming.
- Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal: Awarded in recognition of his service to Canada.
- Reader’s Digest Trust Survey: Consistently ranked among the most trusted public figures in Canada.
His commitment to quality craftsmanship and integrity has not only garnered him respect within the industry but has also made him a beloved figure among homeowners.
Mike Holmes First wife, Children, and Grandchildren
Mike Holmes began dating Alexandra Lorex during his teenage years. They married in 1982 when Mike was just 19 years old. The couple had three children together: Amanda, Sherry, and Mike Jr. Mike has five grandchildren, Wyatt, Emily, Cali Kay, Oaklyn Summer, and Azura Vie Holmes.
Their marriage lasted until the early 1990s, with speculation suggesting that financial difficulties during the recession contributed to their divorce.
Mike Holmes Jr Mini Bio
Holmes Jr. is a prominent figure in the construction and television industry, following in the footsteps of his father. Mike Jr. began working with his father at the age of 14, gaining hands-on experience in the construction business. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future career as a contractor and television personality.
Mike Holmes Jr. married Lisa Marie Holmes in 2017. The couple met as teenagers and have since collaborated on various DIY projects, including a video series called Holmes at Home where they share home improvement tips. They welcomed their first child, a daughter named Azura, in 2023 and announced they are expecting their second child in October 2024.
Mike Holmes Jr. shares his father’s commitment to quality construction and healthy living environments. He emphasizes the importance of educating others about building standards and aims to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the trades through various initiatives.
Mike Holmes New Wife/ Partner
Mike began dating Anna Zappia in 2000, shortly after his divorce from Alexandra. Their relationship developed during a challenging period in Mike’s life, where Anna supported him through personal and professional difficulties. Although they are not legally married, Mike often refers to Anna as his “wife” on social media, indicating a deep commitment between the two.
They have been together for over two decades. The couple enjoys a relatively private life but shares moments on social media. In September 2022, they vacationed in Italy, highlighting their enduring bond.
Mike Holmes Net Worth
As of January 2025, Mike Holmes has an estimated net worth of $30 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful career as a contractor and television personality, as well as through various business ventures related to home improvement and real estate. Holmes’ wealth stems from multiple sources like television careers, book publications, business ventures, public speaking, and appearances.
Mike Holmes has diversified his investments across several sectors:
- The Holmes Group: This conglomerate encompasses various businesses related to home improvement and construction services.
- Holmes Approved Homes: A program that partners with builders to ensure higher construction standards.
- Mike Holmes Protection: Launched in 2021, this company offers home services contracts to homeowners.
- Real Estate Ventures: Holmes has been involved in real estate development projects that align with his brand’s focus on quality construction.
In addition to his television career, Mike Holmes is deeply committed to philanthropy and advocacy for skilled trades. In 2006, he founded The Holmes Foundation to encourage young people to enter the building trades and assist those affected by poor renovations. Furthermore, his Holmes Approved Homes program, launched in 2012, partners with industry leaders to promote high-quality building practices across North America.
Mike Holmes Lawsuit
Mike Holmes is currently involved in a significant legal dispute related to a housing development project in Ontario, known as the TerraceWood project. This lawsuit has garnered attention due to the serious allegations regarding the quality of the homes promoted under his brand. The lawsuit, filed by Tarion Warranty Corporation, seeks $8 million in damages.
Tarion is responsible for ensuring that defects in new homes are repaired, even if the builder fails to meet warranty obligations. The lawsuit claims that 14 homes in the TerraceWood development were constructed with numerous defects, including; Improperly installed roofs, Water leakage, and Major structural issues that pose serious safety concerns.
Tarion alleges that Third Line Homes, the builder of these houses, failed to rectify these defects, leading them to cover repair costs themselves. The lawsuit also targets multiple parties involved in the project, including The Holmes Group, which is associated with Mike Holmes. While The Holmes Group has stated that it had no direct involvement with the construction or inspection of the homes, Mike Holmes himself was prominently featured in promotional materials for the development.
He participated in marketing campaigns and even claimed to have purchased one of the homes, giving it a “thumbs-up” endorsement. This endorsement played a significant role in attracting buyers who believed they were investing in quality homes backed by Holmes’ reputation for excellence. Recent reports indicate that some of the homes have been condemned and demolished due to their defects.
Homeowners have expressed disappointment over Holmes’ lack of involvement in addressing these issues, given his public persona and commitment to quality construction.
Mike Holmes Tattoos and Earrings
Furthermore, Mike is well renowned for wearing a stud in his left ear. Holmes revealed that his brother told him to pierce his left year as a permanent memorial for their late father. He has also inked his body with numerous tattoos including an English bulldog tattoo.
FAQs About Mike Holmes
Does Mike Holmes have cancer?
Mike, the Holmes on Homes star does not have any form of cancer as of January 2025.
who was Mike Holmes first wife?
Mike and Alexandra Lorex married in 1982 when Mike was just 19 years old.
how tall is Mike Holmes jr?
Holmes Jr. is approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall, which is about 175 cm.
how old is Mike Holmes wife?
Anna Zappia was born on November 10, 1981, which makes her 43 years old as of January 2025.
how much is Mike Holmes worth?
As of January 2025, Mike Holmes has an estimated net worth of $30 million.
Is Mike Holmes Canadian or American?
Holmes is Canadian. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Where does Mike Holmes live?
Holmes lives with his Canadian model Anna Zappia in Halton Hills, Ontario, Canada.