Buying a home for the first time is a major milestone, and a significant financial investment. That’s why first-time buyers need more than a mortgage. They need practical tools, reliable support, and clear guidance from their real estate agent. One of the most effective ways agents can help is by introducing home warranty coverage.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how real estate professionals can serve their first-time clients more fully by connecting them with helpful first-time buyer tips and by showcasing the benefits of an APHW home warranty. Whether you're helping a young couple close on their first home or assisting a solo buyer navigating the process, you can offer more than a transaction. You can offer peace of mind.

First-Time Buyers Need More Than Just the Keys

The housing market is fast-paced, competitive, and full of complexities. Many first-time buyers enter the process with little understanding of what to expect beyond finding a home and securing a loan. According to NerdWallet, it’s common for new buyers to feel overwhelmed.

But the real work starts after closing. New homeowners often face unexpected expenses, such as repairing a broken water heater, replacing an appliance, or calling in a contractor for a system failure.

This is where real estate agents can step in with helpful tools. One of the most valuable is a new homeowner warranty from a trusted provider like APHW. Rather than leaving buyers to figure out costly repairs alone, agents can help them plan for the responsibilities of homeownership, with a support system already in place.

What Is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service agreement that can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing major home systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers losses from events like fire or natural disasters, home warranties focus on everyday breakdowns.

A typical APHW home warranty can include:

  • Heating and cooling systems
  • Electrical and plumbing systems
  • Water heaters
  • Major appliances such as ovens, dishwashers, washers, and dryers

For first-time buyers adjusting to the costs of homeownership, this type of coverage offers practical help with common repair needs.

Why Warranty Coverage Matters for First-Time Buyers

During their first year in a home, many buyers encounter problems they didn’t see coming. That’s often when appliances begin to show wear, or older systems begin to fail. Without a home warranty, the cost of these repairs can come as an unwelcome surprise.

 

A homeowner, frustrated, after their dishwasher broke down.

 

An APHW home warranty offers a simple process to request service, keep repair costs in check, and ease the pressure of navigating home maintenance alone. For budget-conscious buyers, this means fewer hurdles and fewer surprises.

As an agent, recommending a home warranty isn’t just a bonus. It’s a sign that you’re thinking ahead for your clients’ long-term experience in their new home.

Why Agents Should Lean on Home Warranties

A home warranty doesn’t just help the buyer. It also supports the agent.

A well-timed recommendation can help:

  • Close deals more quickly by increasing buyer confidence
  • Add value to older homes that may otherwise raise concerns
  • Reduce post-sale callbacks by giving buyers a clear service path for home issues

APHW also makes the process easier for agents. When you refer clients to APHW, you’re connecting them with a reputable warranty provider that puts homeowners first—with real service, customizable plans, and the option to choose their own licensed contractor.

How to Help Buyers Choose the Right Warranty Plan

Not every home warranty is the same. That’s why agents play a key role in guiding first-time buyers toward coverage that works for their situation.

1. Understand Their Needs

Some buyers will need broader coverage, especially if they’re purchasing an older home with aging systems. Others may need something more tailored.

Ask questions like:

  • How old are the appliances and systems?
  • Do they have money set aside for home maintenance?
  • Are there upgrades planned in the first year?

The answers can guide you toward a home warranty option that matches their needs.

2. Explain What’s Covered—and What’s Not

Set expectations from the start. Home warranties cover breakdowns from normal use—not cosmetic issues, pre-existing problems, or anything resulting from improper installation.

Encourage your clients to review the service agreement, understand the terms, and ask questions. That clarity now will help avoid confusion later.

3. Recommend a Provider with Flexibility

An APHW home warranty stands out because homeowners can choose their own licensed contractor for repairs. That gives buyers control over the process, something they often appreciate—especially if it’s their first time navigating repairs.

 

A homeowner talking to a contractor that they have chosen for covered repairs.

 

Additional things to consider:

  • Service call fees
  • Response times
  • Online service request process
  • Optional add-on coverage

4. Use It During Negotiation

Sometimes sellers will offer a home warranty as part of the deal. If not, it’s worth discussing with buyers as a possible negotiation tool. It can also be a meaningful gift from agent to client as a way to close the experience on a high note.

Setting Up for a Strong First Year

Homeownership comes with a learning curve, and many new buyers don’t know what to expect during that first year. Even small surprises—like leaky faucets, clogged drains, or aging appliances—can add up quickly.

Agents can help clients stay ahead by encouraging them to:

  • Make a seasonal maintenance checklist
  • Know where shut-off valves and breaker panels are
  • Keep service records in one place
  • Understand what their home warranty includes

Being proactive helps reduce stress and builds confidence as they get used to managing a home.

First-Time Buyer Tips: Beyond the Warranty

To help your clients feel ready, share these first-time buyer tips alongside their home warranty plan:

  • Budget for upkeep: Set aside 1–3% of the home’s value annually for maintenance.
  • Read all documentation: Inspection reports, warranty terms, appliance manuals—details matter.
  • Register appliances: Some require this step to keep manufacturer coverage active.
  • Stay organized: Keep all receipts, service records, and contact information together.

Small habits go a long way in helping new homeowners feel in control.

Final Thoughts: Helping Buyers Start Strong

Helping first-time buyers isn’t just about closing the deal. It’s about giving them the tools to succeed after they move in. An APHW home warranty offers real service with real value, making it easier for buyers to handle the everyday ups and downs of homeownership.

As an agent, recommending the right warranty shows you care about the full journey, not just the sale. When your clients feel confident and well-informed, they’ll remember who helped them get there.

Learn more about how America’s Preferred Home Warranty supports first-time buyers at APHW.com.