Cell phone buying tips
1. Take time to shop around.
* Each cell company has its own advantages and disadvantages. Such as coverage area, minute plans, and data packages (text and pic messaging). Go to a few different carriers and ask questions and tell them what you are looking for and see what each has to offer.
* Also I recommend researching the phones for the company you end up choosing. Each phone has its advantages and disadvantages. A good place to find info on carrier phones is www.phonescoop.com, click on the carrier link and they will have reviews from customers on each make and model of phones.
2. Make sure the service will work where you want to use it.
* Most companies have a 15 or 30 day return policy where you won’t get charged an early termination fee (usually $175 or higher). Take the phone out to areas where you are going to be using the phone and make sure the service is what you need. If the phone doesn’t work where you need it return the phone and you will only have to pay for the time you were on the service.
* Also certain companies have towers in certain areas. Many of these companies have roaming agreements with other companies to get service in areas where they do not own the towers. In some of these areas you will get service but features may not work like Voice Mail, Text Messaging and other data features.
3. Think about buying the insurance.
* The phone you are getting for $50 actually retails for quite a bit more. The companies discount these phones to make it easier for you to get into a service, but along with the discount they want you to sign a contract. If you’re handset should get damaged during this contract you may find out that the carrier will want you to buy a new handset at full retail price. Most retail phones will start at about $150 for a basic model phone all the way up to $400-$500 for the most current model.
* The insurance works just like any other, you will have to pay a deductible to the insurance company (usually $50) and in turn they will send you a replacement phone. Most of the insurance companies limit it to two claims per year.