How a Home Warranty Can Save You Money…And Time

Most of us are all-too-familiar with Murphy’s Law:  “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.” If you are a homeowner or a real estate agent selling a home, you’ve probably used this phrase more often than you’d like! When the dishwasher breaks, the typical repair could cost $200, or even $600 to replace.  The refrigerator conks out –$500 to repair or $1,000 to replace. And don’t even think about the costs involved when it comes to your heating system — get ready to fork out upwards of $2,500 for a typical replacement.

But with a home warranty, if the repair or replacement is covered in your contract, then the low tradecall fee, which averages $60 but varies by state and contract, would be your only cost to repair or replace the item.  How’s that for peace of mind?

Having a home buyers warranty not only saves you money, but it also saves you time.  Now, you never have to worry about taking the time and energy to search directories for service contractors or repair technicians or wonder whether you can trust an unfamiliar one.  Usually, when a covered item breaks down due to normal use, you simply dial a toll-free number 24/7/365 and an authorized service technician will be dispatched to handle your needs.

Costs and coverage vary by state but often include a far-reaching range of appliances and systems from ranges/cooktops and built-in microwaves to door bells, heating/AC systems, plumbing, permanent sump pumps and even whirlpool tubs.

If you or your clients are ready to find a home warranty plan, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Look for a company with longevity.  Make sure the company you select has been around for many years and has a solid track record.  
• Read their Better Business Bureau rating. Companies with very high BBB ratings tend to be more reliable and responsive to consumers.  Choose a company with an A+ BBB rating.
• Seek “green” options.  Want to save on energy and help the environment?  Look for a green home warranty option, which uses ENERGY STAR qualified products to replace your dishwasher, water heater (to a tankless), kitchen refrigerator, clothes washer and furnace (to 90% efficiency).

 

• Ask for – and expect – knowledgeable help.  Make sure a customer service representative helps you understand your contract and that you know exactly what appliances and systems are protected under your home warranty.

So, next time you’re ready to host a party and that little voice inside your head is repeating Murphy’s Law, relax: a home warranty can help solve your problems without breaking the bank.

Guest contributor:Home Warranty of America, Inc. (HWA) of Buffalo Grove, IL, was founded in 1996 to provide home warranty coverage for houses, town homes, and condominiums. HWA offers a 30-day, money back guarantee on every home warranty. More information is available at www.hwahomewarranty.com.

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