Tom Kraeutler, host of the Money Pit radio show and a well-known home improvement expert, has passed away. The veteran radio personality died on February 2 following surgical complications, according to Radioink. Kraeutler was 65.
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For over 26 years, Kraeutler brought his expertise to audiences across 462 radio stations nationwide, turning daunting home maintenance tasks into simple weekend projects. He made a lasting impact beyond radio, creating one of the top home improvement podcasts and turning MoneyPit.com into a trusted resource for DIY enthusiasts.
RIP @moneypit host, author, and my longtime client and dear friend Tom Kraeutler, just 65.https://t.co/Gl1vRtJ103 pic.twitter.com/bWPch2yaac
— Holland Cooke (@HollandCooke) February 4, 2025
Leslie Segrete, his co-host for over 20 years, shared a heartfelt tribute to their bond, which went beyond just work.
“When my kids were born, Tom was there in the hospital. When my husband died, he held my hand and got me back to work,” she recalled per Talkers. “He was way more than just a friend and coworker. He was family.”
How Tom Kraeutler Became a Household Name in the DIY World
Kraeutler built his expertise through years of experience, completing over 6,000 home inspections during his career. Recognized for his authority in the field, he became a sought-after guest on prominent networks like Fox News Channel, CNN, MSNBC, The History Channel, HGTV, and DIY Network, as reported by Talkers. His DIY pointers were also regularly published in well-known magazines like House Beautiful, Smart Money and Reader’s Digest.
Kraeutler also had a strong record of public service, from chairing New Jersey’s first home inspector licensing authority to leading key committees for Scouting America and contributing to major Scout Jamborees.
He also co-authored My Home My Money Pit: Your Guide to Every Home Improvement Adventure with Segrete and published his final book, Home Maintenance for Dummies, with Wiley in 2024. These books established him as a reliable expert in home improvement, offering practical advice that’s easy for homeowners of all skill levels to understand.
The Money Pit, which airs in major markets such as Los Angeles, Houston, New York, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Boston, will continue under Segrete’s leadership as Squeaky Door Productions, the show’s producer, evaluates succession plans. With Kraeutler’s guidance, the show became a weekend favorite, helping listeners tackle everything from minor repairs to major renovations with confidence and skill.
Kraeutler is survived by his wife, Susan, and their three children: Thomas, Sara, and Trevor.