Understanding Personal Seat Licenses: What You Need to Know
Purchasing a personal seat license, or PSL, can be a confusing process, and it’s important to understand the ins and outs of this investment before making a decision. In this article, we will explore the basics of personal seat licenses and what you need to know before making a purchase.
What is a Personal Seat License?
A personal seat license is a contract between a sports team and a fan giving the fan the right to buy season tickets for a specific seat within the team’s stadium, arena or ballpark. The PSL grants the fan the right to purchase tickets for a set number of years, typically ranging from five to thirty years. In return for that guarantee, the fan pays a lump sum fee upfront for the right to purchase the season tickets.
Benefits of Owning a PSL
The primary advantage of owning a PSL is the security of knowing that you will have the same seats for every game. This means that fans won’t have to worry about missing out on big games by not securing tickets, and they can count on sitting in the same spot for every game, season after season.
Additionally, PSLs often come with additional perks such as access to premium seating areas, exclusive events, and VIP parking. Overall, owning a PSL can provide a unique and exclusive experience that is not available to other fans.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing
When considering purchasing a personal seat license, there are several factors to take into account. Firstly, it’s important to factor in the lump sum fee that is required upfront. Depending on the location of the seats and the team’s popularity, PSLs can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
Additionally, fans should take into account the cost of season tickets on top of the PSL fee and factor this into their annual budget. Furthermore, it’s important to consider the length of time of the contract, whether you will be able to use the tickets for that entire period of time, and if there is an option to sell or transfer your PSL.
Case Studies
To provide an example of what owning a PSL can look like, let’s explore the Dallas Cowboys PSL program. The Cowboys sold PSLs for $16,000 per seat and required a minimum of two PSLs per individual. The PSL guaranteed the seat for thirty years and provided access to exclusive events and VIP parking.
In comparison, the Carolina Panthers offered PSLs for $3,000 and provided a financing option for fans who couldn’t afford the lump sum payment. The PSL guaranteed the seat for ten years and provided access to exclusive events.
Conclusion
Purchasing a personal seat license can be a significant investment and requires careful consideration. Fans should take into account factors such as the lump sum fee, the cost of season tickets, contract length, as well as any additional perks before making a decision. By understanding the basics of personal seat licenses, fans can make informed and confident decisions regarding their investment.
