This page is a compilation of blog sections we have around this keyword. Each header is linked to the original blog. Each link in Italic is a link to another keyword. Since our content corner has now more than 4,500,000 articles, readers were asking for a feature that allows them to read/discover blogs that revolve around certain keywords.
The keyword american shield has 3 sections. Narrow your search by selecting any of the keywords below:
- warranty provider (4)
- major systems (3)
- warranty providers (3)
- service contract (3)
- warranty insurance (2)
- inspection report (2)
- buyer protection (2)
- buyer protection hbp program (2)
- american warranty (2)
- customer service (2)
- service fee (2)
- normal wear (2)
- real estate agent (2)
1.The Role of the Home Buyer Protection (HBP) Program[Original Blog]
One of the most important steps in buying a home is getting a home inspection. A home inspection can reveal potential problems with the property, such as structural defects, plumbing issues, electrical hazards, and more. A home inspection can also help you negotiate a fair price for the home, or even back out of the deal if the problems are too severe. However, a home inspection is not a guarantee that the home is free of defects or that the seller will fix everything that is wrong. That's why you may want to consider the Home Buyer Protection (HBP) Program, which can provide you with some benefits and safeguards in case of unexpected repairs or disputes.
The Home Buyer Protection (HBP) Program is a service that offers:
1. Home warranty insurance: This is a type of insurance that covers certain defects or damages to your home for a specified period of time, usually from one to 10 years. Home warranty insurance can cover major systems and components, such as plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), as well as structural defects and building envelope failures. Home warranty insurance can also cover appliances and fixtures, depending on the policy. Home warranty insurance is mandatory for new homes in some states and provinces, such as British Columbia, but optional for existing homes. You can purchase home warranty insurance from a licensed provider, such as American Home Shield, or get it as part of your mortgage protection insurance.
2. Legal assistance: This is a service that provides you with access to a lawyer or a qualified housing counselor who can help you with any legal issues or disputes related to your home purchase. Legal assistance can help you with matters such as applying for a loan modification, negotiating with the seller or the builder, filing a complaint or a lawsuit, or defending yourself in court. Legal assistance can also help you understand your rights and obligations as a home buyer and advise you on the best course of action. Legal assistance is available for free or at a low cost through some programs, such as the Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP) in New York, or as part of your mortgage protection insurance.
3. Home inspection report: This is a document that summarizes the findings and recommendations of your home inspector after they have inspected your property. A home inspection report can include information such as the condition and age of the systems and appliances, the presence and extent of any defects or damages, the estimated cost and urgency of any repairs or replacements, and any safety or health hazards. A home inspection report can also include photos, diagrams, and videos to illustrate the issues. A home inspection report can help you make an informed decision about whether to buy the home, how much to offer, what to negotiate with the seller, and what to budget for future maintenance. You can get a home inspection report from a certified professional inspector who follows the standards of practice and code of ethics of their association, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).
The Home Buyer Protection (HBP) Program can give you peace of mind and confidence when buying a home. By taking advantage of these services, you can protect yourself from unexpected costs and complications, and ensure that you get the best value for your money.
The Role of the Home Buyer Protection \(HBP\) Program - Home inspection: Making Informed Decisions with the HBP
2.Choosing the Right Home Warranty Provider for Your Property[Original Blog]
One of the most important decisions you will make when selling your property with a home warranty is choosing the right provider for your needs. A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. It can provide peace of mind to both buyers and sellers, as it can reduce the risk of unexpected expenses and disputes after the sale. However, not all home warranty providers are created equal. There are many factors to consider when comparing different options, such as the coverage, cost, customer service, reputation, and reviews of each provider. In this section, we will discuss some of the key aspects to look for when choosing the best home warranty provider for your property. We will also provide some examples of popular and reputable providers in the market.
Here are some of the things you should consider when choosing a home warranty provider:
1. Coverage: The coverage of a home warranty provider refers to the types and number of home systems and appliances that are included in the plan. Some providers may offer more comprehensive coverage than others, while some may have exclusions or limitations for certain items. You should look for a provider that offers the coverage that matches your property's needs and condition. For example, if you have an older home with outdated systems, you may want a provider that covers more items and has fewer exclusions. On the other hand, if you have a newer home with energy-efficient appliances, you may not need as much coverage and can opt for a more basic plan. Some examples of common home systems and appliances that are covered by most home warranty providers are:
- Heating and cooling systems
- Plumbing and electrical systems
- Water heaters and sump pumps
- Kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and garbage disposals
- Laundry appliances such as washers and dryers
- Garage door openers and ceiling fans
Some examples of home systems and appliances that may not be covered by some providers or may require additional fees are:
- Roof leaks and structural defects
- Pools and spas
- Septic systems and wells
- Solar panels and generators
- Lawn sprinklers and landscaping
2. Cost: The cost of a home warranty provider refers to the amount of money you will pay for the service contract. It usually consists of two components: the annual or monthly premium and the service call fee. The premium is the fixed amount you pay for the plan, while the service call fee is the amount you pay each time you request a repair or replacement from the provider. The cost of a home warranty provider can vary depending on the coverage, location, and size of your property. You should look for a provider that offers the best value for your money, meaning that the cost is reasonable and affordable for the coverage and service you receive. You should also compare the cost of different providers and plans, and look for any discounts or promotions that may be available. Some examples of the average cost of home warranty providers in the US are:
- American Home Shield: $600-$1200 per year for the premium and $75-$125 per service call
- Choice Home Warranty: $500-$600 per year for the premium and $85 per service call
- First American Home Warranty: $300-$500 per year for the premium and $75-$100 per service call
3. customer service: The customer service of a home warranty provider refers to the quality and availability of the support and assistance you receive from the provider. It includes the ease and convenience of filing a claim, the responsiveness and professionalism of the representatives, the timeliness and efficiency of the repairs, and the satisfaction and resolution of the issues. You should look for a provider that offers excellent customer service, meaning that they are reliable, courteous, and helpful. You should also check the reviews and ratings of other customers who have used the provider, and look for any complaints or praises that may indicate their level of service. Some examples of the customer service ratings of home warranty providers from Consumer Affairs are:
- American Home Shield: 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 14,000 reviews
- Choice Home Warranty: 4 out of 5 stars based on 11,000 reviews
- First American Home Warranty: 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 6,000 reviews
4. Reputation: The reputation of a home warranty provider refers to the trustworthiness and credibility of the provider in the market. It includes the history and experience of the provider, the accreditation and recognition from industry associations, the awards and honors from reputable organizations, and the testimonials and referrals from satisfied customers. You should look for a provider that has a good reputation, meaning that they are established, reputable, and respected. You should also verify the legitimacy and authenticity of the provider, and look for any signs of fraud or scam that may jeopardize your security and privacy. Some examples of the reputation indicators of home warranty providers are:
- American Home Shield: Founded in 1971, accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) with an A+ rating, recognized by the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA), awarded by Women's Choice Award and HomeWarrantyReviews.com
- Choice Home Warranty: Founded in 2008, accredited by the BBB with a B rating, recognized by the NHSCA, awarded by HomeWarrantyReviews.com and BestCompany.com
- First American Home Warranty: Founded in 1984, accredited by the BBB with a B+ rating, recognized by the NHSCA, awarded by HomeWarrantyReviews.com and TopTenReviews.com
Choosing the right home warranty provider for your property is a crucial step in selling your property with a home warranty. It can make a difference in the success and satisfaction of your sale, as well as the peace of mind of both you and your buyer. By considering the coverage, cost, customer service, and reputation of different providers, you can find the best option that suits your needs and expectations. You can also consult with your real estate agent or a home warranty expert for more guidance and recommendations.
Choosing the Right Home Warranty Provider for Your Property - Sell my property with a home warranty: How to Provide Peace of Mind to Buyers and Sellers
3.The Benefits of Selling Your Property with a Home Warranty[Original Blog]
One of the most effective ways to sell your property faster and for a higher price is to offer a home warranty to your potential buyers. A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. By providing a home warranty, you can increase your buyer's confidence and satisfaction in several ways. In this section, we will explore some of the benefits of selling your property with a home warranty from different perspectives.
- For the seller: A home warranty can help you avoid costly disputes or lawsuits after the sale. If something goes wrong with the home after the closing, the buyer can simply contact the home warranty company and get it fixed without involving you. This can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. A home warranty can also make your property more attractive and competitive in the market. Buyers will appreciate the peace of mind and security that a home warranty offers. They will be more likely to make an offer and pay a premium price for your property. A home warranty can also reduce the time your property stays on the market, as buyers will be more eager to close the deal and move in. For example, according to a study by the National Home Warranty Association, homes with warranties sold 11 days faster and for $2,300 more on average than homes without warranties.
- For the buyer: A home warranty can protect you from unexpected and expensive repairs or replacements after you purchase a new home. You never know what might go wrong with a home, especially if it is older or has not been well maintained. A home warranty can cover things like plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, water heater, refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer, dryer, and more. If any of these items break down due to normal use, you can simply call the home warranty company and they will send a qualified technician to fix it or replace it for a small service fee. This can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of hassle. A home warranty can also give you more confidence and satisfaction in your purchase. You will not have to worry about hidden defects or problems that might arise after you move in. You will be able to enjoy your new home without any regrets or doubts. A home warranty can also help you budget better and plan for the future. You will not have to set aside a large amount of money for emergency repairs or replacements. You will be able to use your savings for other things, such as home improvement, furniture, or vacation. For example, according to a survey by Home Warranty Reviews, 63% of home buyers who purchased a home warranty said they were satisfied with their purchase, compared to 51% of those who did not purchase a home warranty.
- For the real estate agent: A home warranty can help you sell your listings faster and for a higher commission. A home warranty can make your listings stand out from the crowd and attract more buyers. Buyers will be more interested and motivated to view and make an offer on your listings if they see that they come with a home warranty. A home warranty can also help you close the deal faster and smoother. A home warranty can reduce the chances of inspection issues, negotiation delays, or contract cancellations. Buyers will be more willing to accept the home as-is and waive some of the contingencies if they know that they have a home warranty to cover any potential problems. A home warranty can also help you build a positive reputation and relationship with your clients. Buyers and sellers will appreciate your professionalism and expertise in providing them with a valuable service. They will be more likely to refer you to their friends and family, or use your services again in the future. For example, according to a study by the American Home Shield, homes with warranties sold 16% faster and generated 3% more referrals for agents than homes without warranties.