What Does Buying Points Mean in Sports Betting?
Ever wanted to adjust the odds to boost your chances? Buying points lets you do just that, trading a bit of payout for better odds of success. In this guide, you’ll discover what buying points means, how it works, and where you can access this strategic option. So, let’s get started!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Understand the pros and cons of buying points in sports betting.
- Learn when to buy points and how to do it.
- Find out what sportsbooks offer you chances to buy points.
Understanding Buying Points
Buying points lets you adjust the spread or totals in your favor for a reduced payout. This strategy increases your chances of winning by improving your bet’s conditions.
Example: The Green Bay Packers are 6-point favorites against the Dallas Cowboys.
Instead of betting at -6, you buy half a point to take the Packers at -5.5. While the payout is slightly lower, your bet wins if the Packers win by exactly six points, avoiding a push.
The same applies to underdogs:
Example: Shifting a team from +5 to +5.5 means you win if they lose by exactly five, at the cost of a smaller payout.
Buying Points: Pros & Cons
Advantages:
- Avoiding a push: Adjusting the line by a half-point (e.g., +4 to +4.5) can turn a potential push into a win if the team loses by exactly 4.
- Improved odds for underdogs or favorites: Moving a line slightly (e.g., +4 to +4.5) can enhance the underdog’s chances or secure a more favorable spread for the favorite.
- More betting flexibility: Adjusting lines opens up additional spreads, offering more options to fit your strategy.
Disadvantages:
- Lower payouts: Buying points reduces the odds, meaning you need to wager more to win the same amount. For example, shifting a spread at -7 from -110 to -120 requires $120 to win $100.
- Risk of backing poor bets: Adjusting lines to favor an undervalued team may lead to emotional decisions. Focus on strategy rather than loyalty to avoid losses.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Avoiding a push | Lower payouts |
| Improved odds for underdogs or favorites | Risk of backing poor bets |
| More betting options |
Now that you know more about the topic, let’s explore when, how, and where to buy points in sports betting.
When to Buy Points
Buying points can be helpful, but it comes at a cost; typically, buying a half-point costs about 10% of your wager. While buying points can offer boosted security, it doesn’t ensure a win. Use this option wisely, opting for it only when the adjustment clearly improves your odds. Trust your instincts and be willing to trade some payout if it feels right!
In NFL betting, games often end with touchdown or field goal differences. If a line falls on a whole number, buying points to adjust the spread can be crucial to avoid a push.
Example: Shifting a Cowboys spread from -7 to -6.5 may slightly reduce your payout but increases your chances of winning.
How to Buy Points
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to purchase points on a sportsbook:
- Click on the sports event.
Once log in, find the event you wish to buy points on. If applicable, the option ‘Buy Points’ should be displayed.
- Select points package.
Select the package between 10 points, 25 points, 40 points, etc.
- Confirm purchase.
Pay, check out your order, and confirm.
- Receive points.
The ordered points will be directly credited into your bookie account.
Where to Buy Points
Let’s compare three reliable licensed sportsbooks in the US that let bettors buying points:
DraftKings Sportsbook: Aside from a wide range of sporting events and markets to bet on, DraftKings has a user-friendly interface. They also offer live betting and streaming options.
Point Buying Costs:
- 1 point: $0.10-$0.15
- 2 points: $0.20-$0.30
- 3 points: $0.30-$0.45
FanDuel Sportsbook: FanDuel has features like same game parlays, extensive prop markets, and a secure platform that readily responds to customer complaints or inquiries.
Point Buying Costs:
- 1 point: $0.10-$0.15
- 2 points: $0.20-$0.35
- 3 points: $0.35-$0.50
BetMGM Sportsbook: Covering many sports events and markets, BetMGM has a rewarding loyalty program, live betting, and streaming options.
Point Buying Costs:
- 1 point: $0.15-$0.20
- 2 points: $0.30-$0.40
- 3 points: $0.45-$0.60
Ready to Enhance Your Bets with Point Buying?
Now you understand how buying points can give you an edge in your betting strategy. Explore the recommended sportsbooks above that offer this feature, and use it wisely when the situation feels right.
Want to sharpen your skills even further? Visit our sports betting 101 section for more expert tips, strategies, and insider guides.