It is a 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
- Plumbing system
- Ceiling fans, central vacuum, ductwork
- Range, oven, cook top, built-in microwave
- Dishwasher, garbage disposal, trash compactor
- Electrical system, telephone & doorbell wiring

What it Doesn't Cover
- Roof
- Doors & Walls
- Items not built-in

Optional Warranties
- Roof
- Well pumps
- Washer & dryer
- Air conditioning
- 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?
In most cases, warranties are available through real estate companies and their agents.
Sometimes 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 $295 to $400.
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 $35 to $50.
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.