Do You Want A Home Warranty?

Somewhere during the buying process, someone is probably going to ask:

“Do you want a home warranty?”

And if your immediate response is, “I don't know...do I?” - totally fair. 😂

A home warranty is an optional service contract that may help with the repair or replacement of certain home systems and appliances when they break down from normal use. Depending on your plan, that could include things like your HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater, or kitchen appliances.

It's NOT Homeowners Insurance

Here's the easiest way to remember the difference:

Tree falls through the roof? Homeowners insurance conversation.

Dishwasher suddenly stops dishwashing? Potentially a home warranty conversation.

But a warranty isn't a “fix my house for free” card. Plans have exclusions, coverage limits, and typically a service-call fee. The warranty company will also need to determine whether your particular problem qualifies for coverage.

Translation: read the fine print.

The Company I Often Recommend

One company I frequently work with is Achosa Home Warranty.

One reason I like their model is pretty simple: you can choose your own licensed contractor. If your HVAC stops working and you already have an HVAC company you know and trust, you don't necessarily have to start over with a stranger from a warranty company's network. Achosa can also help you find a contractor if you don't have one.

There is a process, though: you contact Achosa before work begins, your contractor diagnoses the problem, and Achosa determines the approved coverage amount before the repair is completed. You'll still be responsible for the applicable trade-call fee and anything that falls outside your coverage or exceeds the plan's limits.

So, Do You Want One?

Maybe!

A warranty may be worth considering if you're buying a home with older systems or appliances, or if you'd simply appreciate a little extra financial cushion during your first year of homeownership.

If the house has newer systems, you have money set aside for repairs, or you'd rather handle things completely on your own, you may decide to skip it.

And remember: a warranty doesn't replace a home inspection or regular maintenance, and no plan covers absolutely everything.

The Big Picture

A home warranty isn't automatically a good deal or a waste of money. It's another tool.

Look at what's covered, what's excluded, the coverage limits, and the service-call fee, then decide whether that extra protection is worth the cost to you.

I can tell you about the companies I've worked with and help you understand your options, but you are always free to shop around and choose your own warranty company - or skip a warranty altogether.

My job isn't to sell you one.

It's to make sure you understand what you're buying before you decide. 🎉