Home Warranties
What is a Home Warranty?
It is a 1 year service contract that helps protect homeowners
against the cost of unexpected repairs and replacements of
covered major systems and appliances that break from normal
usage. What Does a Home Warranty Cover?
- Water heater - Heating system/Cooling system - Plumbing system
- All major appliances - Electrical system What it Doesn’t Cover
- Roof - Doors & Walls - Items not built-in Optional Warranties
- Roof - Well pumps - Swimming pools, spas
A warranty normally excludes pre-existing conditions, such as
items that are not in working condition when coverage is put in
place. Where can I get One?
Your REALTOR can provide you with the company information. Many
times a seller pays for and provides the coverage to the buyer
as part of the transaction.
Ask for a “seller provided” warranty when making an offer on a
house. Many buyers purchase them for their own protection.
How Much Do They Cost? The cost for a basic one-year home
warranty ranges from $325 to $425. Optional coverage is per
added item, such as pool, spa or well pump. Each contract calls
for a deductible payment or service call fee from the claimant
directly to the repair contractor. This fee is usually $50 to
$100. The warranty company picks up the cost of repair above
that amount. Home warranties have proven to be well worth the
cost of coverage. As a buyer, use it as a negotiation tool in a
purchase contract. Why a Home Warranty
Sellers: A Home Warranty provided by the seller will be viewed
as a benefit to the buyer. Adding a home warranty to your
listing adds confidence and might result in someone purchasing
your home over a newer home. Many people are nervous about old
appliances and fixtures. Buyers are much more comfortable with a
house that includes a one year warranty. The warranty can be
promoted in the advertising as a drawing feature of the home. It
protects you should something go wrong after the buyer moves in.
If a covered system or appliance repair is needed, the Buyer
calls the warranty company, not you!
This after-sale liability protection is well worth the cost of
coverage. Pay at Closing
There is no charge to the Seller until closing. It is typically
paid through escrow.
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