Certified Home
 

Can anyone explain what is being certified when TV website designates some pre-owned houses as "certified homes"? Thank you.

Sounds like a BS selling tactic. I can unequivocally certify that my house is currently a home.

The seller pays $$ for a home warranty policy--scam

Correct - home warranties are a ripoff. Other things not to buy include extended warranties on anything, time shares, annuities, and any life insurance other than term life.

Would you like me to certify that the home? I would discount this as it is probably a sales tool. The question would be what repairs etc did the home maker have to make to get the home certified. My guess is none and they just paid an insurance type company for the certification.

If they had a building inspection company such as you would hire this could be a plus but I would think you would still hire your own inspector.
Try the web site of the realtor to see if they describe the program. Try for a possible example Certified Pre-Owned Home Sale Program - DLP Realty

I don't think the policies are necessarily a rip off. It's just like any other insurance, it's only good if you need to use it. The air conditioning went out on our newly purchased home and it saved us $$$$$$$.

Your case is an anecdotal incident. However, overall, the profit margin on home warranties and other extended type warranties is huge, and they have an extensive list of things that are not covered by the policy. That is why they are a ripoff.

The key is to investigate, read the policy and exclusions carefully, look at the deductible per claim, length of coverage, and decide if it works for you.