Thanks to new technology and regulations, sports betting has never been easier. If you live in a state where online betting is legal, congratulations! It’s now possible to download an online betting app to your mobile device, sign up, and start placing real money bets. However, before getting started, it’s important that you choose the best possible app. The sportsbook you choose will have an impact on your experience and potentially even the amount of money you can make from the bets you place. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on what to look for when choosing a betting app.
License and Reputation
The single most important feature to look at when choosing a betting app is its license and the overall reputation of the company operating it. Licenses are provided by state gambling commissions and are essential for an online sportsbook to operate legally. For example, if you’re looking to join a Virginia sports betting app, you’ll need to choose an option that’s licensed by the Virginia Lottery.
The license is awarded to sites that follow strict regulations designed to protect users, ensuring that your funds and personal details are safe when you sign up. Using an unlicensed site could put you at risk, so you should always check for the license before joining.
Likewise, a site with a great reputation for fairness and safety is always the best choice.
Odds and Markets
Betting on sports means predicting outcomes based on what you think is most likely to happen. Sportsbooks provide odds on all betting markets, which tell you the implied probability and the amount of money you could win if your bet is successful. Better odds mean bigger potential profits, and it’s always worth checking which sportsbook app has the best odds before you join.
Meanwhile, markets are the actual options you have to bet on. Most major events will have point spread, point totals, and money line markets, while you can also find lots of different options for specific outcomes known as props. In addition, there are futures that let you bet on things like the eventual winner of the NBA Finals. More markets mean more opportunities to find value.
Promotions
The best sports betting apps always provide exciting promotions for new users. These welcome bonuses are available to anyone signing up for the very first time and can include risk-free bets, matched deposit offers, odds boosts, and more.
They’re normally very easy to claim and help you get more value out of your bets.
Be aware that these promotions will come with terms and conditions that limit how you can use the offer. In addition, you should check whether your sportsbook app also offers regular promotions for current users alongside the welcome offer. Ideally, you’ll want to join a sportsbook that values you and your loyalty.
Payments
To begin betting with real money, you’ll need to deposit cash into your account using one of the accepted payment methods. All sportsbook apps will accept money through a variety of different options, including Visa and Mastercard credit cards. The best services will always make this as simple and straightforward as possible. You shouldn’t have to jump through lots of hoops just to start betting.
Depositing money to your sportsbook account should always be instant and free. In addition, it’s good to have a straightforward withdrawal process. Top sportsbooks make fast withdrawals a priority, meaning you can claim your winnings quickly and without any hassle. Once again, you shouldn’t be charged for this, and ideally, you’ll be able to enjoy your winnings within 24 hours of making the request.