Carter Gaddis is a senior writer at USA TODAY Homefront. He is an experienced journalist who has written about roofing, sunrooms, title insurance and other home service topics. Carter has contributed to the TODAY SHOW parenting section, CBS SPORTS and ESPN, among other publications. He lives with his family in Central Florida, where he spends most weekends at theme parks or watching English soccer on TV.
Gexa Energy is a retail electricity provider (REP) that serves every deregulated energy market in Texas. Since its inception in 2002, Gexa has focused on providing renewable energy options for its customers. Its commitment to renewable energy sources, variety of plan choices and competitive pricing give Gexa Energy a place among the leading REPs in…
Thanks to the deregulated electricity market in Texas, Fort Worth residents can choose their electric company. But with that freedom comes the responsibility to shop for the best electricity rates and plans. Even longtime Fort Worth residents familiar with deregulated energy owe it to themselves to find a plan that keeps their monthly energy bill…
Arlington residents have choices regarding electric companies, thanks to the 2002 switch to deregulated energy in many Texas markets. While the decision-making process might seem complex initially, you have plenty of tools to help you choose the right Arlington electricity plan. Cost is the biggest differentiator among retail electric providers (REPs), but other factors —…
Home warranties aren’t a fit for every homeowner but can be worth it under the right circumstances. What are those circumstances, exactly? A home warranty might be right for you if your appliances are no longer covered by manufacturer’s warranties and you would rather not save money in an emergency fund. It might also be…
In a deregulated energy market, you can choose your retail electricity provider and have more power over the price you pay and even the makeup of electricity sources — renewable or non — that power your home. In a traditional energy market, consumers must use the utility company assigned to them based on their address.…
Maryland homeowners have plenty of choices when it comes to home warranty providers. Our research revealed that one home warranty company stands out for its depth of coverage and budget-friendly premiums: 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. Not only does 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offer one of the lowest-priced appliance coverage plans in the industry, but it…
Homeowners in Louisiana must navigate hot, humid summers and intense rainstorms. Vulnerable plumbing infrastructure and hard-working air conditioners mean a home warranty company in Louisiana should offer reliable, affordable coverage for HVAC, plumbing and septic systems. We recommend Liberty Home Guard in Louisiana for the depth of its HVAC coverage and its reputation for efficient,…
Home warranty coverage offers financial stability and peace of mind by limiting the stress and expense of broken household appliances and home systems. A home warranty plan covers some or all of the cost to replace or repair failing or worn-out items. In addition, a home warranty extends coverage when a manufacturer’s warranty expires. By…
Many municipalities in Texas switched to deregulated energy in 2002, giving residents of those areas a choice among electric companies. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) manages about 90% of the power load for those deregulated regions, accounting for about 26 million Texans. But each Texan can choose their own electric company — also…
The deregulated electricity market in Texas means Dallas residents have choices when it comes to electric companies. You might begin your search by comparing electricity rates, but it’s not only about that monthly bill. You should dig deeper than the cheapest electricity rates to find the best electric company in Dallas. Here are tips and…
The variety of Houston electricity plans reflects the spirit of competition that inspired the move to deregulated energy in Texas. But how are Houston residents to know what energy plan is right for them? Most consumers’ main goal is to find the best electricity rates. After all, a lower electric bill was the advantage Texans…
Plumbing blockages and sewer line backups are potentially pungent problems that often cause major homeowner headaches. A sewer line home warranty can provide financial peace of mind in case of home plumbing failures. American Home Shield is our top choice for sewer line coverage, primarily because its lowest-priced plan includes plumbing coverage, and its septic…
You might need a new roof once or twice during your home’s life. It’s a rare and major purchase, often complicated by unfamiliarity with roofing terminology, roofing materials, financing options and the roofing industry. We research, review and rate roofing companies to help you make informed decisions about buying a new roof or hiring a…
Cold, snowy winters and hot, humid, rainy summers — that’s weather in most of Virginia. A homeowner must stay alert for HVAC breakdowns all year long. For air conditioners and appliances that are no longer under manufacturer warranties, a home warranty can provide you with financial peace of mind. We recommend 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty…
Purchasing home appliance insurance — more accurately referred to as a home appliance warranty — helps you pay for repairing or replacing kitchen and laundry appliances that no longer work. Our in-depth research revealed that Liberty Home Guard is your top option for comprehensive coverage in case one or more of your appliances break down…
The best home warranty companies know that to be successful in Florida they must offer excellent coverage for air conditioners and generous relief for roof leaks. The Sunshine State is a relocation hotspot, but with sweltering temperatures and frequent squalls in the summer, Florida’s homeowners must understand the importance of reliable HVAC coverage and fast,…
Choice Home Warranty (CHW) was founded in 2008 and offers affordable home warranty plans in 49 states. Besides longevity, CHW stands out for its generous $3,000 per-item coverage limit and its coverage of both systems and appliances in its Basic Plan. Although CHW’s premiums and service call fees compare favorably with industry standards, the company…
A home warranty, also known as a home service contract, covers the repair or replacement of your home’s major systems, appliances or both. A home warranty plan provides financial predictability if and when a household system fails or an appliance breaks down. A home service contract supplements or replaces an expired manufacturer’s warranty. You pay…
Homeownership presents its share of challenges, including unexpected repair costs. A home warranty provides a financial cushion for the high expenses associated with appliance and system malfunctions. Before you buy a home warranty plan, you’ll need to conduct rigorous research. Seek to answer the following questions: With careful planning and consideration, buying a home warranty…
If you buy a brand-new home, you might not think you need a home warranty. Home warranties protect against older appliance and system failures related to wear and tear, which wouldn’t apply to new construction. And even if new components — such as refrigerators, dishwashers and HVAC systems — do fail unexpectedly, they are usually…
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