A real estate home warranty plan can help with budget protection for covered system and appliance breakdowns, and give homeowners a single point of contact when something breaks — but unfortunately, not all providers are created equal.
According to a survey from Clever Real Estate, 82 percent of recent homebuyers report some level of buyer’s remorse, and 28 percent of those with regrets say they underestimated the cost and time needed to maintain their home.
This is where real estate agents play an important role, helping clients set realistic expectations and connecting them with trusted resources, including reputable home warranty providers.
Criteria every agent should use when evaluating a home warranty company
Home warranties can be an important confidence builder for buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction. However, not all home warranty companies deliver the same level of service, transparency, or reliability. As a real estate professional, the provider you recommend can reflect directly on you. Below are some of the factors agents should prioritize when determining which home warranty company and product is the right fit for their clients.
Coverage that evolves with real homeownership needs
Reliable home warranty providers offer clear, plain-language terms that make it easy for clients to understand exactly what is covered and flexible plan options that work for different homes and budgets. Strong providers also support homeowners with modern tools, like the ability to video chat with home repair experts, which can help assess issues before a service request is made. Providers that invest in tools and transparency empower you to set expectations and reduce post-closing surprises.
A vetted, reliable contractor network
Look for multi-regional coverage, contractors with licenses for all major systems and appliances, and quality controls that ensure consistent, timely service. Strong contractor networks translate to smoother experiences and fewer post-closing calls to you.
Responsive, predictable claims service
When something breaks, your clients don’t want guesswork; they want a solution. So look for key features that include 24/7 service request intake, app-based status tracking so homeowners know where their request stands, reasonable service windows and clear communication throughout the process. Transparent service requests reduce stress and build confidence in you and the home warranty provider.
Agent tools and support
Look for companies that provide a dedicated home warranty ordering platform, digital brochures, clean comparison materials and other tools. These types of resources will help you walk your clients through their options and set clear expectations.
Reputation and proven track record
Longevity and trust matter. Years in business, customer satisfaction and consistent service signal a company capable of supporting clients long after closing.
How to help your clients choose the best home warranty
A simple, structured approach works best as a real estate agent explaining home warranties:
- Give a quick overview of what a home warranty does and doesn’t cover. Clarify that home warranties differ from homeowners’ insurance. Encourage clients to compare providers’ coverage, availability and responsiveness before making a decision.
- Ask what repair costs your clients are most worried about and what their budget for unexpected expenses looks like.
- Ground the conversation in real repair costs. Share typical repair prices to help clients understand the cost landscape.
A reliable home warranty provider helps you deliver confidence well beyond closing day and can help facilitate smoother sales. To explore American Home Shield’s real estate coverage — or learn how to join our community of real estate pros — visit AHS and discover home system and appliance protection your clients can count on.
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