Online Sports Book vs. Sports Betting with a Live Bookmaker
For most of the 20th Century, online sports books did not exist. If you were interested in betting on a sporting event, you needed to find a bookmaker. While live bookmakers are still around, most sports players agree that online sports books are the way to go, for a number of reasons.
Online Sports Book vs. Live Bookmaker: Diversity
Most online sports books offer poker and casino games as well. This gives you the opportunity to get a nice casino bonus, and then transfer the profit to your sports betting account.
Online Sports Book vs. Live Bookmaker: Legal Issues
In many states, betting with a live bookmaker is illegal. While the legality of online sports betting may vary from state-to-state and country-to-country, since the online sports book is headquartered in a legal betting location, bettors who use the online service are usually not exposed to legal problems. You should consult your local gambling ordinances to be sure.
Online Sports Book vs. Live Bookmaker: Safety Issues
When you bet with an online sports betting service, you have a measure of protection. A watchdog agency or other licensing board verifies most reputable sports books. You can be fairly confident that your transactions will go safely and smoothly. What you get when dealing with a live bookmaker is anybody’s guess. He may refuse to pay, change the rules or harass you about untimely payment.
Online Sports Book vs. Live Bookmaker: Convenience
Of course, in some states there are sanctioned live bookmakers you can go to that are safe and legal. However, you may still have to wait in a line, struggle to find the exact line you are looking for and you’ll have to make a trip back to the sports book if you want to collect. Online, simply peruse the online charts for the line you want, make your bet instantly and watch as the money is added to your online account when you win.