When selling a home in Columbus, GA, including or offering a home warranty plan can be a powerful tool. It protects you from surprise repair costs during the listing period and gives prospective buyers peace of mind, one less objection to overcome. But not all home warranties are created equal. In this post, we’ll walk you through the key features sellers should look for in a warranty, compare some of the best providers active in Columbus, GA, and share tips for using a home warranty as a strategic selling tool.
Why Sellers Should Consider a Home Warranty
A home warranty is a service contract (not insurance) that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances when they fail from normal wear and tear.
For sellers, a warranty can:
For sellers, a warranty can:
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Reduce buyer hesitation: Buyers may feel more comfortable purchasing knowing that if something fails right after closing, there’s coverage in place.
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Speed up offers and negotiations: Rather than haggling over potential “what-ifs,” both sides know there’s a first-year safety net.
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Limit your liability mid-transaction: If a covered component breaks while your home is on the market, the warranty can absorb the cost instead of you footing it directly.
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Differentiate your listing: Marketing your home as “warranty-protected” can stand out among competing listings.
But the effectiveness of a home warranty depends heavily on which provider you choose and which coverage you secure.
What Sellers in Columbus, GA Should Look for in a Home Warranty
When evaluating home warranty plans, particularly in Columbus, GA, here are the key criteria to use:
1. Coverage of vital systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
Given Georgia’s climate, AC and cooling systems are under heavy use. Make sure your warranty plan covers the core mechanicals (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) as well as essential plumbing and electrical work.
2. Appliance coverage (kitchen, laundry, etc.)
Many buyers expect kitchen and laundry appliances, including the dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer/dryer, to be covered. The more inclusive your plan, the better your buyer appeal.
3. Service fees and caps
Every claim typically involves a service call fee (sometimes called a trade service call or deductible). You’ll want that to be reasonable (often $75–$125) and also check the maximum payout caps on each covered item (for example, how much the warranty will pay per component or per year).
4. Add-on and optional coverage
Good warranties often offer optional coverage for extras, such as roof leak repair, pool equipment, septic systems, and well pumps. Sellers in Georgia should check whether those add-ons are available in their area.
5. Response time, contractor network, and reputation
Fast turnarounds, a reliable contractor network, and solid reviews (especially locally in Columbus and the surrounding counties) can make or break your experience. Look up BBB ratings or local complaints.
6. Duration and transferability
A 12-month warranty is standard. Check if you can transfer it to the buyer upon closing; this is a selling advantage. Also, determine the terms of cancellation or refunds.
Top Home Warranty Providers for Sellers in Georgia
Here are several home warranty companies that are active in Columbus, GA, along with their strengths and considerations.
Liberty Home Guard
Liberty has a good presence in the Columbus, GA area and offers customizable plans (systems, appliances, or total coverage).
Pros: Flexible plan structure; strong reputation for customer service.
Considerations: Check for local contractor availability and response times in your ZIP code.
Pros: Flexible plan structure; strong reputation for customer service.
Considerations: Check for local contractor availability and response times in your ZIP code.
Select Home Warranty
Select advertises a specific service for Columbus, GA.
Pros: Fast service, affordable basic and platinum plans.
Considerations: Confirm which systems are covered (especially HVAC) and review coverage caps and service fees for your area.
Pros: Fast service, affordable basic and platinum plans.
Considerations: Confirm which systems are covered (especially HVAC) and review coverage caps and service fees for your area.
American Home Shield (AHS)
AHS is one of the most well-known national warranty providers and offers plans tailored to Georgia homeowners.
Pros: Multiple plan tiers (ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, ShieldPlatinum), strong HVAC coverage critical for Georgia’s hot summers.
Considerations: Premiums and service fees can be higher; review exclusions and limits carefully.
Pros: Multiple plan tiers (ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, ShieldPlatinum), strong HVAC coverage critical for Georgia’s hot summers.
Considerations: Premiums and service fees can be higher; review exclusions and limits carefully.
Complete Home Warranty / Complete Appliance Protection
This company offers coverage for Columbus homes and has some plans with no service call charges.
Pros: Straightforward structure, ideal for sellers who want appliance-heavy coverage.
Considerations: Some coverage caps may be lower; verify system coverage.
Pros: Straightforward structure, ideal for sellers who want appliance-heavy coverage.
Considerations: Some coverage caps may be lower; verify system coverage.
Other Strong Georgia Providers
Other reputable companies with solid Georgia coverage include Choice Home Warranty and First American Home Warranty.
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Choice Home Warranty: Often praised for affordability and value.
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First American: Known for strong system coverage and dependable service response.
How to Use a Home Warranty Strategically as a Seller
A home warranty isn’t just about repairs; it can help you market and sell your home more effectively. Here’s how to make it work for you:
1. Purchase early in your listing process
This allows coverage while your home is on the market. If your HVAC or water heater fails during that period, you’ll be protected.
2. Transfer it to the buyer
Ensure your plan is transferable and market your home by stating it “includes a home warranty.” Buyers often see this as added value, especially in older homes.
3. Include the cost in your pricing strategy
The average home warranty costs between $550 and $800 for a year of coverage. Build this into your listing price or use it strategically during negotiations.
4. Use it as a negotiation incentive
In a competitive market, offering a home warranty can be the small edge that makes your home more appealing. It may even help close the gap during price negotiations.
5. Be transparent about limitations
Set expectations by explaining what’s covered and what’s not. This builds buyer trust and avoids post-closing misunderstandings.
6. Work with an experienced local agent (like me)
I can recommend reputable providers and help you present your warranty as a marketing asset rather than an afterthought.
Final Thoughts
Selling a home in Columbus, GA, means navigating a mix of warm weather, older housing stock in some neighborhoods, and buyers who value reassurance. A home warranty can provide reassurance by protecting you and the buyer from unexpected repair costs, speeding up negotiations, and giving your listing a professional edge.
The key is choosing the right provider, getting the right level of coverage, and strategically timing your purchase. It’s not about spending more, it’s about spending smart to make your sale smoother and more profitable.
The key is choosing the right provider, getting the right level of coverage, and strategically timing your purchase. It’s not about spending more, it’s about spending smart to make your sale smoother and more profitable.
Work with Mia Manns for Expert Guidance
If you’re planning to sell your home in Columbus, GA, partner with Mia Manns—your trusted local real estate expert. Mia knows which home warranty providers deliver real value in the Columbus area and how to use one to strengthen your listing, attract more offers, and negotiate confidently.
With Mia’s market knowledge, personalized guidance, and proven selling strategies, you can protect your home investment while maximizing your return.
Get started today by visiting MoveWithMiaRealty.com to schedule a consultation and learn how Mia can help you prepare, list, and sell your home with confidence.
With Mia’s market knowledge, personalized guidance, and proven selling strategies, you can protect your home investment while maximizing your return.
Get started today by visiting MoveWithMiaRealty.com to schedule a consultation and learn how Mia can help you prepare, list, and sell your home with confidence.