Should You Offer a Home Warranty When You Sell?

In Woodforest, buyers can often choose between your home and a new one that comes with a builder warranty. Offering a home warranty can help level that field. Here's when it makes sense.

When it can help

• Older HVAC, water heater or appliances. A warranty eases buyers' worry about near-term repairs.

• Competing with new construction. It gives buyers some of the peace of mind a builder warranty offers.

• Out-of-town buyers who feel less certain about a home they've only seen briefly.

When it matters less

• Newer homes still under the builder's warranty

• Recently replaced systems with their own manufacturer warranties

Compare with other concessions

A home warranty is one option. Others include help with closing costs or a price adjustment. Think about what your buyer values most.

Not a substitute for repairs

A home warranty doesn't replace fixing known issues. Buyers will still expect real problems to be addressed or reflected in price.

Read the plan

Coverage and service fees vary. Choose a plan with clear terms, and share them with buyers.

Should I offer a home warranty when selling? It can help, especially for homes with older systems or when buyers are comparing your home to new construction with builder warranties.

Is a home warranty a substitute for repairs? No. Buyers still expect known problems to be addressed or reflected in price.