Should I Get a Home Warranty? Big Peace of Mind, Small Cost

Buying a house is exciting—but also a little scary. You’ve made a big investment, and now you want to protect it. One question many homeowners ask is: Should I get a home warranty?

Let’s talk about what a home warranty is, how it works, what it covers, and if it’s really worth it—especially if you're buying in Southern NH or checking out South Hudson houses for sale.

What Is a Home Warranty, Anyway?

A home warranty is a service contract. It helps cover the cost to fix or replace certain systems and appliances in your home.

Think of it like this: Your fridge stops working out of the blue. If you have a home warranty, you call the company. They send someone out to repair or replace it. You pay a small fee (usually $75–$125). That’s it.

It’s different from homeowners insurance. Insurance covers big things like fire or water damage. A home warranty covers everyday wear and tear.

Should I Get a Home Warranty If I'm Buying a Home?

That’s a smart question—and a common one.

When you buy a home, you don’t always know how old the systems are or how long things will last. Even if the seller gives you records, things can break unexpectedly.

If you’re buying South Hudson houses for sale or older Southern NH homes, a home warranty can give you peace of mind during that first year. It’s like a safety net.

Plus, it saves you from unexpected costs—like a $500 oven repair or a $3,000 furnace replacement.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Every company is a little different, but most home warranties cover:

• Heating and cooling systems (like your furnace and A/C)

• Kitchen appliances (fridge, oven, dishwasher)

• Electrical and plumbing systems

• Water heater

• Washer and dryer

Some plans let you add extras like:

• Pool and spa equipment

• Septic systems

• Well pumps

• Roof leaks

Just remember: warranties don’t cover everything. If your appliance has been poorly maintained or the issue is cosmetic (like a scratch), it probably won’t be covered.

What’s Not Covered by a Home Warranty?

It’s just as important to know what’s not included. Most warranties won’t pay for:

• Pre-existing issues

• Improper installations

• Upgrades to meet current building codes

• Structural issues

• Windows or walls

Always read the fine print. Some companies have caps on how much they’ll pay per repair or per year.

How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost?

On average, you’ll pay between $400–$700 per year. Some basic plans are cheaper, and premium ones cost more.

You’ll also pay a service fee each time someone comes out—kind of like a co-pay at the doctor.

That might sound like a lot, but if one major system breaks, it could save you thousands.

Who Should Really Consider a Home Warranty?

While every homeowner can benefit, a warranty makes the most sense for:

• First-time buyers who aren’t used to maintaining a home

• Buyers of older homes with aging systems

• Budget-conscious folks who want to avoid big repair bills

• Sellers who want to offer it as a bonus to buyers

If you’re checking out Southern NH houses for sale or just moved into a home in South Hudson, you may feel unsure about the condition of your systems. That’s a great time to consider one.

Pros of Getting a Home Warranty

There are quite a few benefits to consider:

1. Peace of Mind

If something breaks, help is just a phone call away. That’s comforting—especially in the first year after buying.

1. Saves You Money

Repairing or replacing appliances and systems is expensive. A warranty can help keep surprise costs low.

1. Simple and Stress-Free

You don’t have to find a repair person or guess who’s trustworthy. The warranty company handles it.

1. Good for Resale

If you’re selling, offering a home warranty can attract more buyers. It shows you care and gives them comfort.

Cons to Keep in Mind

Of course, there are a few downsides:

1. Not Everything Is Covered

You may still have to pay out of pocket for things that aren’t included.

1. Claim Denials

Some claims get denied. If they think the issue was pre-existing or due to poor maintenance, you may be stuck.

1. Delays in Service

Sometimes the repair company takes a few days to come out, which can be frustrating—especially if your heat isn’t working!

1. Yearly Cost

If nothing breaks that year, it may feel like you spent money for nothing.

How to Pick the Right Home Warranty Company

Choosing the right company makes a big difference. Here’s what to look for:

• Good reviews – Check online feedback from real customers

• Clear contracts – Avoid fine print traps

• Coverage that fits – Don’t overpay for things you don’t need

• Reasonable fees – Make sure service fees and limits are fair

Ask your REALTOR for suggestions—they often know which local companies treat customers well.

Is a Home Warranty Worth It in New Hampshire?

That depends on your situation. In places like South Hudson and across Southern NH, we see all kinds of homes—some brand-new, others built decades ago.

If you’re buying a newer home, you may have manufacturer warranties already. But for older homes, or if you want extra protection, a home warranty is often worth it.

Our weather can be tough on systems too. A furnace breakdown in the middle of a snowy NH winter? Yikes. That’s when a warranty really pays off.

Should I Get a Home Warranty for a New Build?

Maybe not right away. Many builders offer their own limited warranties for the first year or more.

Still, when that builder warranty runs out, you may want to pick up a third-party one.

If your new home has extras like smart systems or high-end appliances, see if the warranty company covers those too.

Real Talk: What Buyers Say About Home Warranties

We’ve talked with dozens of buyers across Southern NH. Here’s what they say:

“We moved in and our hot water heater failed two weeks later. The warranty saved us $900!”

“We never used it in the first year, but it gave us peace of mind.”

“They sent someone fast when our fridge stopped cooling. Totally worth it.”

It’s not perfect for everyone, but most homeowners are glad they had it when something broke.

Should I Get a Home Warranty?

If you’re still wondering, should I get a home warranty—here’s a simple way to decide:

Ask yourself:

• Can I afford a surprise $2,000 repair?

• Do I know the age and condition of the systems?

• Am I handy, or do I need help with repairs?

• Is this my first home?

If you said no, no, no, and yes… then yes, a home warranty might be a great move.

It doesn’t cover everything, but it can take the edge off the stress of homeownership—especially in your first year.

Whether you’re searching South Hudson houses for sale or getting ready to list a property in Southern NH, a home warranty is something worth thinking about.

Want More Local Home Advice?

Working with a REALTOR who knows New Hampshire makes a huge difference. We’re here to help you find the perfect home—and protect it too.

Thinking about buying or selling? Let's talk real estate, home warranties, or anything in between.

If you’re still wondering, should I get a home warranty, or are ready to sell your house give us a call at (603) 883-8840. You can also sign up for your dream home search or reach out to Our Agents for more information. We’d love to help you with your real estate needs..