Should I offer a home warranty to the buyer?
In competitive markets like Palm Coast and Flagler County, offering a home warranty can sometimes help your home sell faster — but it isn’t always necessary.
Here’s what Florida sellers need to know before deciding.
🔍 What Is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances if they fail due to normal wear and tear.
Typical coverage includes:
- HVAC systems
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing
- Water heaters
- Kitchen appliances
It’s different from homeowners’ insurance, which covers damage from storms, fire, or accidents.
💰 Who Pays for a Home Warranty in Florida?
In most Florida real estate transactions:
- The seller may offer to pay for a one-year home warranty
- Cost typically ranges from $400 to $700
- Coverage begins at closing and lasts 12 months
Sometimes sellers also purchase a listing period warranty, which protects them while the home is actively on the market.
📈 Benefits of Offering a Home Warranty When Selling
1️⃣ Adds Buyer Confidence
Buyers feel more comfortable purchasing a home when they know repairs may be covered.
2️⃣ Reduces Inspection Anxiety
If a buyer is worried about older systems (HVAC, appliances), a warranty can ease concerns.
3️⃣ Helps Homes Stand Out
In a balanced or buyer’s market, offering a home warranty can give your listing a competitive edge.
4️⃣ Protects You from Post-Closing Complaints
If something breaks after closing, the buyer contacts the warranty company — not you.
⚠️ When a Home Warranty May Not Be Necessary
You may not need to offer one if:
- Your home is newly built
- Major systems are recently replaced
- You're in a strong seller’s market with multiple offers
- Buyers are waiving contingencies
In high-demand Palm Coast neighborhoods, warranties are sometimes unnecessary because demand outweighs hesitation.
🏡 Is a Home Warranty Worth It in Palm Coast?
In today’s Florida market, the answer depends on:
- Your home’s age
- Condition of major systems
- Buyer demand in your neighborhood
- Your pricing strategy
At The Goellner Team, we evaluate whether offering a warranty will:
✔️ Help justify your asking price
✔️ Reduce negotiation pressure
✔️ Increase buyer confidence
Sometimes a small investment leads to a smoother closing.
🎯 Smart Strategy Beats Automatic Decisions
Offering a home warranty shouldn’t be automatic — it should be strategic.
We help every seller in Palm Coast, Flagler Beach, and Flagler County build a plan designed to maximize profit and minimize risk.
📞 Thinking About Selling?
Let’s talk about:
- Your home’s value
- Current buyer demand
- Whether a home warranty makes sense for your situation
The Goellner Team The Father-Daughter Duo
📧 [email protected]
📧 [email protected]
📱 Richard Goellner: 314-853-8906
📱 Heidi Epperson: 636-312-1913
🌐 flaglercountyhomesandland.com
Coastal Gateway Real Estate Group | Palm Coast, Florida
🔜 Coming Next:
How to Price Your Florida Home to Attract Multiple Offers