In the +EV world of sports betting, one of the least desirable situations for any bettor is to have their account limited by a sportsbook. This can mean reduced betting limits, restricted access to certain markets, or in some cases, complete account closure. Up to this point in The Sports Betting Path, we've taught you all the ways to beat a book. Now we need to understand how to avoid being limited by one!
Why does this happen, and more importantly, how can you avoid it? This post dives into these questions, offering practical strategies to keep your betting account in good standing.
Understanding Why Sportsbooks Limit Accounts
Sportsbooks limit accounts for various reasons, but they mostly want to mitigate risk. If a bettor consistently wins, especially in large amounts or through methods like arbitrage betting, sportsbooks might see them as unprofitable customers. Betting heavily on obscure markets can also raise flags, as these markets have lower betting limits and are more susceptible to manipulation.
To avoid getting limited, one has to think like a sports book. If you were a risk trader looking at an account, what would you be looking for? As a sports bettor, you would obviously want to avoid those things as much as possible!
Strategies to Avoid Being Limited
While it can be difficult, we essentially want to do our best to try and mimic recreational bettors. The more bets that are placed this way can hide your more strategic bets. Here are a few tips:
- Engage in Popular Markets: Focusing on popular sports and markets, like the NFL or NBA, is less likely to alert the sportsbook. These markets attract a lot of betting action, so your activity is less conspicuous. Though you may not find as much EV in this markets, there is some to be found. Placing bets with zero or even slightly negative EV in major markets can help extend the life of your account drastically.
- Package Bets in Parlays: Parlays are commonly associated with recreational bettors rather than professionals. This is because they typically involve higher risk and lower chances of winning, as all parts of the bet must be correct for it to pay out. Sportsbooks often view parlay bets as less sophisticated, which can work in favor of a sharp bettor looking to disguise their skill level. The complexity of parlays makes it harder for sportsbooks to accurately assess a bettor's skill.
- Be Discreet with Arbitrage Betting: While arbitrage betting is not illegal, it's frowned upon by bookmakers. If you engage in it, do so subtly by placing the opposite bet at a different sportsbook. Betting on exact opposite outcomes at the same sportsbook just minutes apart will raise all sorts of red flags.
- Spread Your Bets: To avoid drawing attention, it's wise not to always bet the maximum limit. Spreading your bets across different sportsbooks can also help, as it dilutes the visibility of your winnings and betting patterns. Hitting the max limit on bets at one sportsbook will raise eyebrows and bring focus to your account.
- Limit Steam Chasing: Sometimes there is some steam that is just too good to pass up. An example: you might find a college basketball extra game with a line of +30.5, when it's +23.5 everywhere else. This is too good to pass up? Right? Well, while you are getting amazing EV here, you are also getting amazing eyes looking at your account. You won't last long at any sportsbook steam chasing is your only angle of attack.
What to Do If You Are Limited
If you find your account limited, all is not lost. Reach out to the sportsbook's customer service for clarification. Sometimes, a polite and reasoned conversation can lead to the lifting or easing of limitations. However, be prepared that this might not always be the case.
Conclusion
Avoiding limitations at sportsbooks is partly about understanding why they happen and partly about betting smartly. By spreading your bets, being discreet in your betting strategies, focusing on popular markets, mimicking recreational betting patterns, and staying informed, you can enjoy a more stable and prolonged betting experience. Remember, the key is not just to avoid limitations but to bet responsibly and respect the sportsbook's rules and fair play.
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