Tarek El Moussa, the 42-year-old host of the popular HGTV show "Flip or Flop," has unveiled a deeply personal side of his life in his latest book, "Flip Your Life: How to Find Opportunity in Distress - in Real Estate, Business, and Life." Here, El Moussa talks about the hardships and triumphs that shaped his identity as a skilled house flipper, television personality, devoted husband, and father.

Beginnings

Even before stepping into house flipping, El Moussa dreamed of showcasing his skills on a home renovation show. He pitched his idea to a production company, and they requested a video demonstration. With assistance from his investor, Pete de Best, El Moussa secured a foreclosed home through an auction for $115,000.

El Moussa took on most of the work himself to save costs during his first house flip, resulting in amusing and challenging incidents. While installing a bathroom vanity light, he accidentally exposed live wires, leading to him being electrocuted.

Another mishap was during the acid-washing of the shower tile. He felt a burning sensation after scrubbing the walls barefoot. Seeking relief, he hurried to the community pool as he had turned off the water supply in the condo.

Despite these comedic challenges, El Moussa completed the project in just 15 days, selling the property for a $34,000 profit, nearly a 30 percent return in under 60 days. This initial success opened doors to another taping opportunity with the production company, ultimately creating the pilot episode for "Flip or Flop."

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The Gun Incident and Rehab

After nearly seven years since his divorce from his former "Flip or Flop" co-star Christina Hall, El Moussa sheds light on the infamous 2016 gun incident that marked the end of their marriage. Detailing a heated argument with Hall, El Moussa explains his decision to venture into Chino Hills State Park for exercise, carrying a pistol for protection against wildlife. Misunderstandings led to a police intervention, leaving El Moussa handcuffed, reflecting on the disintegration of his family.

Following the separation, El Moussa found himself in an emotionally depressed state exacerbated by the abrupt cessation of testosterone. Drinking heavily and barely eating, a concerned friend connected him with Dr. Drew Pinsky, leading to a two-month stay in a rehab facility. The structured environment proved transformative, offering him the support needed to address mental health issues and reunite with his family.

Arrested and Charged With Attempted Murder

El Moussa was charged with attempted murder after getting involved in a fight when he was a teen. This incident happened in a rough neighborhood in Los Angeles County, where El Moussa's friends were part of gangs. During a fight, an older guy attacked him with a bat, causing El Moussa to defend himself. In the chaos, he ended up breaking his ribs and hitting the attacker in self-defense.

The police arrived at the right time, breaking up the fight and arresting El Moussa. Despite facing serious charges, the police determined it was self-defense. Since he was a juvenile, the records were sealed.

Overcoming Cancer and a Back Injury

After he was diagnosed with thyroid and testicular cancer in 2013, El Moussa faced a new challenge after slipping discs during a golf game. Ignoring the pain, he continued playing until the pain forced him to seek medical treatment. Post-back surgery, he was reliant on painkillers and had a drastic weight loss, marking a low point in his life.

El Moussa felt lonely and sad for about six weeks while recovering in a downstairs room. Thankfully, watching the TV show "Intervention" motivated him to get up and stroll across his neighborhood, improving his health. 

El Moussa and Hall finalized their divorce in 2018. In 2021, El Moussa wed Heather Rae Young, and Hall wed Joshua Hall. Hall was previously married to Ant Anstead from 2018 until 2020; they had a son together before marriage.

"Flip Your Life" will be available in various bookstores in Feb 6.

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