Five Key Factors to Consider Long Before You Sign-Up With a US Sportsbook
Unlike those who like to partake in casino action, sports betting isn’t about luck and requires far more research, and some residual knowledge of the respective sports, before you are likely to see a single dime from your deposits.
Those looking to sign-up with a sportsbook may be drawn in by a seemingly attractive promotion but could pay the price for failings that their chosen brand does not so well advertise.
Here are five key factors you should consider prior to giving any sportsbook your business.
Welcome Bonus
This is where a sportsbook has the chance to entice you. Never sign-up with a sportsbook that doesn’t offer a welcome bonus, and yes, there are still some that choose not to do so.
The bonus that is offered has two benefits to a potential user. Firstly it’s a great way to use ‘free’ money to test out a brand’s site and apps; secondly, it could lead to an actual payout (although be aware that most welcome bonuses will only result in a cash payout after a few play-throughs).
A good way to find the best welcome bonuses is to research the brand; for instance, this Borgata Sportsbook review explains how the brand’s welcome bonus works and gives you specific information about their excellent risk-free bet.
Size of Betting Market
A successful sports bettor will usually look to bet on multiple sports, and therefore a strong brand is one that provides a wide sportsbook. Ideally, that would mean a large number of sports and events AND a depth to each.
For instance, if you like betting on soccer, then you’d want a sportsbook that not only offers bets on the English Premier League but also lower leagues across the globe. Some sites are better than others in this regard so do your research.
Effective In-Play Live Betting
In-play betting is fast becoming the most interesting element to sports betting; this is betting that you can enjoy while watching a game live at a venue or from the comfort of your own home.
A brand that offers a good level of ‘in-play betting will have an interface that updates instantly and is easy to use. The last thing you want is to see your bet on an NBA buzzer-beater fail because the system stalls.
Easy to Use Website and App
When it comes to selecting the sportsbook of your choice, you want one that has a modern interface that is intuitive and not too complicated. You want to be able to navigate around simply, and you want all the relevant offers and promotions to be clearly signposted.
This is important for the longevity of your connection to a brand. A plain sailing and simple site is more likely to retain your attention and keep your custom.
Customer Service and Speed of Payouts
You won’t deal with customer service centers often during your time with a sportsbook, but you will expect it to be user-focused when you do so. The one time something doesn’t go right, perhaps your latest deposit didn’t show up in your account, or your payout hasn’t come through.
A brand is only as good as its customer service as it’s pretty much the best way to ascertain if the sportsbook in question values its users highly enough.