The exploitation is a throwback to the days of "Queen for a Day". Just to get that new refrigerator or stove.
I was thinking that "Makeover" needs a variety format to draw the viewers and then simply give or repair the house without the intrusions. Something that draws the viewers and provides the money. But I believe the reason why that show used the family stories was as a device to visit in a manner like "This Old House", as a fixer show for homeowners to plan on. Not entirely that of course, but just the exploration of the homes and their repairs.
I do appreciate the idea of a show helping people, but without the exploitation. There is so much rot on t.v. that does only that, to make the rich richer at the expense of everyone else.