Carmine Sabatella stands out as a dynamic HGTV host, successful real estate agent, and creative interior designer specializing in Southern California homes. Best known for co-hosting Inside Out on HGTV alongside landscape designer Mike Pyle, he focuses on breathtaking interior renovations that blend luxury finishes, smart functionality, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Whether you’re searching for HGTV home renovation ideas, Pasadena real estate agents, or interior design tips for increasing home value, Carmine delivers practical expertise. As of 2026, his career thrives through The Sabatella Delair Group, where he and husband Ryan Delair handle high-end sales, flips, and custom designs, having achieved impressive volumes like over $50 million in recent rankings while continuing to inspire fans with authentic, family-centered approaches to real estate and design.
Early Life and Career Shift: From Restaurants to Real Estate and Design
Carmine grew up in the Los Angeles area in a traditional Italian family deeply involved in the restaurant business. After graduating from USC with degrees in business and public relations, he dove into owning and operating spots like Carmine’s Italian Restaurant and Bar in South Pasadena. The intense demands—endless hours, staff management, and customer expectations—built his strong work ethic and eye for detail. Yet, by his late 30s, burnout set in, prompting a major pivot. He sold assets, cleared debts, and pursued his real estate license while working as a personal shopper and home stager. This phase rekindled his lifelong passion for interior design and landscape architecture, hobbies he had nurtured for over 20 years by redesigning spaces for friends and family.
Transitioning fully into real estate around a decade ago, Carmine combined his design instincts with market knowledge. He founded CS Domains for commercial and residential transformations and built a thriving real estate practice. His unique edge? Treating every listing or flip as a design project, where thoughtful updates dramatically boost appeal and sale prices in competitive Southern California markets.
HGTV Breakthrough: Inside Out and Lasting Impact
Carmine’s television debut came with Inside Out, which premiered on HGTV in 2021. The show featured him and Mike Pyle competing for renovation budgets on Southern California homes—clients chose whether to allocate more funds to interiors (Carmine’s specialty) or exteriors (Mike’s focus). Episodes showcased dramatic makeovers emphasizing indoor-outdoor flow, high-end materials, and budget-smart choices. Season two aired in 2022 with larger projects, modern kitchens, spa bathrooms, and enhanced outdoor spaces like pool areas and fire pits.
Though no new seasons have emerged since 2023 and the show appears quietly shelved amid HGTV’s 2025 programming adjustments, its legacy endures. Carmine also judged on Rock the Block and consulted for a House Hunters reboot. In 2026, he remains a recognizable face through social media and ongoing real estate work, sharing renovation insights that help homeowners maximize value.
For more details, visit his HGTV profile or explore the show’s page at HGTV Inside Out.
Real Estate Success with The Sabatella Delair Group
Today, Carmine partners with husband Ryan Delair at The Sabatella Delair Group under The Agency in Pasadena. Specializing in the LA Basin, they excel in buyer representation, seller strategies, and flipping historic homes from the late 1800s to mid-1960s. Carmine often rehabilitates 10 or more properties yearly, preserving original features like crown molding while adding modern amenities such as open-concept layouts and smart tech.
Recent achievements include ranking on RealTrends lists with volumes like $50,231,000 in a standout year. Active listings range from charming bungalows to luxury spots, reflecting their focus on turnkey, updated homes that sell quickly. In Pasadena’s vibrant market—known for historic charm and cultural energy—their designs emphasize sustainability, natural light, and family-friendly functionality.
Personal Life: Family, Authenticity, and Inspiration
Carmine is openly gay and married to Ryan Delair since 2018. They share life with daughter Gianna, three dogs (Winston, Archie, and Joleen), a bunny named Franklin, and koi fish. His journey to embracing his identity after a previous marriage adds depth to his relatable persona. Social media glimpses show a balanced life—family outings, pet moments, and behind-the-scenes design fun—making him a positive figure in media.
This authenticity shines in his work. Clients appreciate his empathetic approach, understanding how homes reflect personal stories and lifestyles. In interviews, he stresses creating spaces that feel welcoming and true to the owners.
Expert Insights: Design Trends and Renovation Strategies for 2026
In Southern California’s climate, indoor-outdoor living remains key. Carmine advocates bi-fold doors, outdoor kitchens, and durable materials to extend living areas, often increasing resale value by 10-20%. He champions historic preservation—restoring original details while updating for energy efficiency and modern comfort.
One standout flip involved a Pasadena bungalow: an open kitchen with custom cabinetry, sustainable flooring, and integrated lighting sold for well above asking. Such projects highlight how strategic interiors drive faster sales in tight markets. His boutique store in South Pasadena curates artisan pieces, supporting local creators and adding community flair.
For 2026, Carmine notes rising interest in turnkey properties from out-of-state buyers seeking Pasadena’s charm or Palm Desert’s serenity. Staging remains powerful—well-executed efforts can boost offers by 10-15%.
Carmine Sabatella vs. Typical Real Estate Agents: Key Comparisons
| Aspect | Carmine Sabatella’s Approach |
|---|---|
| Design Expertise | 20+ years in interior and landscape design; hands-on renovations |
| Renovation Volume | 10-12 historic flips annually with full transformations |
| Media Presence | HGTV co-host of Inside Out; judge on Rock the Block |
| Budget Strategy | Persuades on interior ROI for maximum value |
| Personal Branding | Authentic family-focused; open LGBTQ+ journey |
| Sales Achievements | High-volume LA Basin deals; recent $50M+ rankings |
| Community Involvement | Owns local design store; supports artisans |
| Historic Focus | Specializes in 1800s-1965 properties with integrity preserved |
| Family Business | Partners with husband Ryan Delair |
| Social Engagement | Active @realdesigncarmine for tips and stories |
| Client Experience | One-stop service: buy, sell, design, renovate |
| Market Insight | Pasadena specialist; tracks buyer trends from East Coast/Westside |
These strengths make Carmine a go-to for clients wanting more than standard transactions.
Why Carmine Sabatella Continues to Inspire in 2026
From restaurant owner to HGTV star and top Pasadena real estate agent, Carmine’s story shows reinvention through passion and hard work. His blend of charisma, expertise, and relatability sets him apart in a crowded field. Whether renovating for personal enjoyment or resale, his tips on flow, materials, and value resonate widely.
Follow Carmine on Instagram at @realdesigncarmine for daily inspiration, check The Agency profile at The Agency, or visit The Sabatella Delair Group. For broader context, explore Wikipedia or HGTV resources.
Carmine creates homes that are functional, beautiful, and deeply personal—proving thoughtful design transforms lives and properties alike.
