You need more than clever gimmicks to sell a home these days. To clinch a sale, many savvy home sellers offer home warranties. Buyers love them because warranties pay for certain home repairs for a year after the sale. Many sellers love them, too, because warranties help get the home sold -- and may bring in offers closer to the asking price.

Typically, home warranties cover the repair or replacement of a home's heating, plumbing, and electrical systems and major built-in appliances. The cost often runs $350-$450, typically with a small deductible for each repair or replacement.

When shopping for home warranty coverage, compare the following:

• Required pre-warranty inspections.
• Coverage for appliances and systems.
• Deductibles and service fees.
• Dollar caps on total or individual replacement/repair costs.
• Limits on number of repair calls.
• Costs, including any initial or inspection charges.