Is Buying a Half Point a Smart Move?
The normal answer to the question is a resounding "no." It's difficult enough to win when laying 11-to-10 on a routine bet.
The only times a bettor should even consider buying a half point are when they like a 6.5-point underdog or when they like a 7.5-point favorite. There is an advantage to moving the point spread to seven points, provided you are only laying 12-to-10. Some sportsbooks are now charging extra when the move affects the number seven, just as they do with three.
One mistake many bettors make is to buy off of three or seven points, so that they can win instead of getting a push. In the long run, the extra juice bettors are forced to lay will erode any profits gained on those occasions where a team does win by three or seven, and then some. Buying half points should only be done to save potential losers, not create potential winners from ties.
