Line Shopping 101: How to Get the Best Odds Every Time
The simplest way to improve your betting results — and most people don't do it.
Why Line Shopping is Non-Negotiable
Line shopping — comparing odds across multiple sportsbooks before placing a bet — is the single easiest way to improve your long-term results. It requires zero skill, zero handicapping ability, and zero mathematical knowledge. You just need accounts at multiple books.
The Impact
The average line shopper saves 1-3% on every bet compared to someone using a single sportsbook. That doesn't sound like much until you do the math:
| Annual Bets | Avg Savings/Bet | Annual Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 200 | $2.50 | $500 |
| 500 | $2.50 | $1,250 |
| 1,000 | $2.50 | $2,500 |
How to Line Shop
Step 1: Open Multiple Accounts
Have funded accounts at 3-5 sportsbooks minimum. The more books, the better your odds of finding the best line.
Step 2: Check Before Every Bet
Before placing any wager, check the odds at all your books. This takes 60 seconds and can save you thousands per year.
Step 3: Pay Attention to Key Numbers
In football, the difference between -3 and -2.5 is enormous. Line shopping is most valuable around key numbers.
Step 4: Consider Reduced Juice Books
Some sportsbooks offer -105 instead of -110 on standard bets. Over time, this is worth thousands.
Real Example
You want to bet the Bills -3:
- Book A: Bills -3 (-110)
- Book B: Bills -3 (-105)
- Book C: Bills -2.5 (-115)
Book B offers the best value — same spread with less juice. If you only had Book A, you'd never know.