Baltimore First Time Home Buyers: Baltimore Local Utilities and Services

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Baltimore Local Utilities and Services | Baltimore Real Estate

by Helene Kelbaugh of Keller Williams Legacy Metropolitan in Baltimore

Welcome to Baltimore!

Whether you are just beginning your home search or have just closed on a home part of the process is getting your Baltimore Local Utilities and Service scheduled for installation and service. Today services like internet and television are a necessity versus the extra "perk" expense they used to be in years past. Stay connected and minimize your down time by scheduling your transfer or installation of services in sufficient time.

Tips for the best deal

1. Make a list of services you and your family will need. Sometimes there are different packages and promotions available. For example if you are a sports fan, you may want a package geared towards more sports channels vs movie promotions.

2. Many of the Cable providers may offer a "bundle" package that may on the surface appear to be cheaper, however keep asking about other bundles. For example if you don't have a house phone or a need for one due to having a cell phone, it may be better to get a package with fewer products bundled.

3. New customer? You may just be in luck! Whether you are switching services or brand new to all, you may be able to get a even sweeter deal for being a new customer. The deal could even trump the promotions. Keep asking questions! It's worth the wait and conversation with the Customer Service Rep.

4. If there are two in a household, you may even be able to put service in the other persons name to get even more savings.

5. Always check availability while searching for your home to be sure the provider your are going to use is in the area your are moving to. The good news is Cable providers are growing and in more areas. Also check with the Home Owners Associations and Condo Associations. They may or may not allow certain providers in the community. For example, a condo building association may not a Dish on the side of the building or they may allow a dish but not allow drilling inside. Always good to find this info out ahead of time.

And as always, especially during holiday time, watch for the commercials, and ads. In addition to the great pricing on packages these providers may be giving even more incentives to set up service. For example, I recently saw a promotional commercial where a new subscriber would receive a $400 gift card and another commercial for a brand new tablet! It pays to shop!