Reasons Homebuyers Should Get a Home Warrantee
There are a number of good reasons homebuyers should get a home warrantee. That’s one of the many steps and decisions to make when purchasing a resale home. There are also various companies and options to chose from. The Realtors here at Jean Scott Homes are experts at this. We’re happy to help answer your questions and guide you to the best decision for your family.
What is a Home Warranty?
We’ll be focusing on home warranties, but it’s important to distinguish what exactly a home warranty is, what it could cover and what it couldn’t. Journalist and frequent contributor, Amy Fontinelle, often discusses home warranties and home insurances. She defines a home warranty as “a contract between a homeowner and a home warranty company that provides for discounted repair and replacement service on a home’s major components, such as the furnace, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.” It’s important to note at this point that home warranties are entirely different than home insurance. Comparatively, home insurance encompasses “major perils such as fires, hail, property crimes, and certain types of water damage that could affect the entire structure and/or the homeowner’s personal possessions.” Different warranties and insurances will cover different repairs and scenarios. Before any decision is made, it’s important to understand what you want and what you’re looking to have covered.
The cost of a home warranty can differ, depending on your payment plan, or the type of home you purchase (single-family, townhouse, etc.). Some have customers pay in installments, whereas others can choose to have payments submitted up front. There are also basic or premium plans to choose from, depending on what’s necessary.
Any questions you have about home warranties during the time of your home purchase can also be brought up to your Realtor® to discuss during negotiations with the seller(s).
Fontinelle notes that there are factors to consider when discussing whether or not to purchase a home warranty.
The Pros of Purchasing a Home Warranty
Obtaining a home warranty offers a variety of benefits for not just the home buyer, but also the home seller.
- A home warranty can be a safety net for any unpredictable problems that could happen, especially when buying a new home.
- There’s less work on your end in finding trained and insured contractors to help repair and fix any issues you have.
- As a seller, offering a one-year home warranty can protect them from any issues that are found after the buyers purchase the home.
The Cons of Purchasing a Home Warranty
While having a package that helps you with certain issues, it may not be the best route for you.
- Alongside basic payments, most companies require you pay for a service call fee, a charge for every time you call in to request service.
- There’s no guarantee that a home warranty will cover everything you need repaired at that moment. This means you may have to pay out of pocket on top of paying for your plan and the service fees.
- Companies can deny your claim; having a home warranty doesn’t promise that everything will fall under their protection.
Source: RetirementLiving.com
Where Should I Get My Home Warranty?
If you’ve decided to go with a home warranty for your purchase, it’s time to decide where you’d like to get your coverage. What companies have the best coverage? The best value? Consider looking for companies that have:
- Nationwide-coverage for a variety of contractors
- Free roof coverage
- Positive rating from the BBB as an accredited business company
- Customization coverage options
- Positive reviews to give you perspective from the consumer end
For a list of companies that offer home warranties, Consumer Advocate has made a list that offers different plans and options to fit your specific needs.