DirecTV Genie purchase question

[TonuM]

Directv would not even talk to me unless I purchased the receiver
new from them. They said that even id I did buy one, I had to buy
a new access card from them.

I am considering purchasing a Genie receiver but found two different models
HR54-500 and HR54-700. Is there a difference?

Is there a way I can tell if a used receiver is able to be activated?

Thanks

 

[texasbrit]

The only way to know is to get the receiver ID from the seller, and call DirectV, ask for the access card department and they will tell you. Just be aware there are very few "owned" HR44 or HR54 on the market, most are leased and can't be activated.

 

[TonuM]

So if I buy a used receiver there is a possibility that I would still have to pay the lease fee?

I was looking to buy used to save money plus I could return the HDDvr I have now and save the monthly lease fee.

I found the genie new but it costs about $200.

 

[texasbrit]

It's not a lease fee, it's an additional TV fee. You pay it whether your receiver is leased or owned.

 

[Claude Greiner]

Why try to own it. Get Directv to lease it to you for free

 

[TonuM]

Ah, thanks for the clarification.
I misunderstood the fee on my bill.

Buying the receiver would save me the 2-year committment they want for upgrading to the genie.

With the rates going up, on the average $6-$7 a year, I can not guarantee I can afford it two years from now.

 

[Claude Greiner]

So you spend $200- $400 for the genie and the contract cancellation is $480 minus $20 for each month remaining.

There is always the chance you can get out of the contract.

 

[Claude Greiner]

I learned a long time ago not to fight them on the contract to get a discount.

When your ready to leave, either pay the penalty to complain enough until they let you out of the contract.