Tuesday, March 19, 2024
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Is it Time to Ditch Cable?

Are you tired of paying for TV channels you don’t watch? Or, experiencing dissatisfaction from your cable provider, but locked into a contract? Many TV watchers are getting rid of cable.

Leichtman Research Group’s latest data shows cable companies lost 455,263 subscribers in Q2 of 2019, while the entire traditional TV industry lost 1.53 million subscribers. Leichtman also reports this is the fourth consecutive quarter of record losses for the cable TV industry. In 2018, the industry reportedly lost over 3 million subscribers.

Should I Cut the Cord?

“Traditional cable TV used to be the only option for TV entertainment, but not anymore,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent insurance agency.

Viewers are discovering more options available with loads of content from streaming and cable-replacement services. Not only do people have more to select from, but streaming services are cheaper alternatives to cable. Many would rather cut the cord than continue paying over $100 a month for traditional cable services.

How do you know if getting rid of cable is for you? Most of us need internet and possibly a landline or security system, provided by a cable company. So, saying goodbye for good to your cable company is unrealistic.

However, when it comes to entertainment, there are many more options at different price points so you can find the ideal option for you. “This can be a complicated process and some research is required,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent insurance agency. If you cannot be bothered, stick with cable. If you do not mind a little challenge to save money, proceed.

Some of the complexities stem from recent changes in pricing from streaming services (Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime). Also, cable-replacement services such as YouTube TV and Sling TV are providing more channels for subscribers. Adding to the competition, major media companies are ready to launch their streaming services.

Fortunately, most of these streaming services come with a free trial period. Some services might not provide good reception in your area or you may find one service does not fit all your needs. Some viewers are stacking, or streaming more than one service, but you could subscribe to so many you are paying the same as cable.

If you want to really scale back on entertainment, you can get an HD antenna that provides free access to local channels such as, ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, CW and more. However, you may want to check out the signal before switching, especially if you live outside of a major city. The strength of signal can vary from location to location.

Cable and satellite companies will try to tempt you with promo prices, but those offers soon expire, and the price goes right back up while you are still committed to a contract. Being able to choose what you watch can give you more control. For more information on available services check out the following articles from Cord Cutters News and Consumer Reports.

GreatFlorida Insurance makes sure you have adequate homeowners insurance to suit all of your needs. Contact us today.

Dustyn Shroff
Dustyn Shroffhttp://www.greatflorida.com
Vice President at GreatFlorida Insurance

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