
Our REALTORS® know how important it is for you to save money during and after your home purchase. After all, it's crucial to budget for home maintenance, repairs, and renovations. The average buyers of Mansfield homes for sale strive to save about 1% of the purchase price per year for these expenses.
Saving is a valuable habit to get into, but it's not the only approach that can help you keep your ownership costs down. Many clients have asked us about home warranties lately. If you are concerned about those unexpected costs that can pile up around the home, this might be a good option.
- What Is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a contract to cover the cost of various repairs and replacements around the home. The average home warranty covers a variety of appliances and lasts for a year. You can extend your home warranty at the end of each year or go with another company.
- What Is the Difference Between a Home Warranty and Homeowner's Insurance?
A home warranty and homeowner's insurance are very different. Their lender requires virtually everyone who has taken out a mortgage loan to hold homeowner's insurance. This insurance helps cover the cost of repair and replacement caused by a disaster (fire, weather) or crime (theft, vandalism).
Typical homeowner's insurance covers your heating and cooling (HVAC) system, kitchen appliances, furniture, clothing, and personal possessions. A standard policy also covers certain outdoor items like garages, grills, sheds, and pools. Homeowner's insurance most frequently kicks in after a disaster.
Some homeowner's insurance even reimburses you if you need to live elsewhere while repairs are done.
By contrast, a home warranty is used for common breakdowns of covered appliances and equipment. A repair becomes necessary through normal use, not because of a disaster or crime. If you do not have a home warranty, you'll usually need to pay the full cost of a certified repair professional out of pocket.
- How Do I Choose a Home Warranty Company?
If you're interested in a home warranty company, do your research before making a final decision. It's essential to choose a company with an established reputation and strong reviews, such as Home Warranty of the Midwest, Inc. Always double-check to verify the company covers your area.
- What Are the Advantages of a Home Warranty?
Provided by a reputable firm you can trust, a home warranty makes your life easier in so many ways:
- Peace of Mind
One of the biggest advantages of any home warranty is peace of mind. You no longer have to worry that repair bills will stack up and wreak havoc on your budget. You'll know you'll never have to wait long to get a critical system or appliance fixed or replaced with a brand-new alternative.
- Priority Service
Home warranty companies contract with experienced repair companies throughout their service area. They often get incentives to make sure warranty holders receive prompt, courteous service faster. By comparison, it can be tough to get an appliance brand's certified repair people to schedule you quickly.
- Lower Costs
As with any form of insurance, there may be months when you don't think about your home warranty. When you need it, however, you'll certainly be glad you have it! You could save hundreds of dollars—or even thousands—on a single visit about a large appliance, such as a faulty refrigerator.
Contact us to find out more about local real estate opportunities in Mansfield.