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.
