The online betting industry has ballooned into what is estimated to be between US$80-350bn. per year. As such, online sports and spread betting is a very competitive industry with literally hundreds of sites to choose from. When choosing a betting site, therefore, there are several key aspects to consider.

Does the betting site have an honest reputation? Scour betting-related Internet forums, Google the name of the online betting site with the words ‘scam’ and ‘fraud’ and read any results in detail. To be certain of joining an online betting site with an honest reputation, you can join one of the bigger ones; note, however, that their odds setters are more professional and experienced, and their financial resources allow them to offer more up-to-date odds, lessening your chance of snaring a good bet. Along the same lines of having an honest reputation, the online betting site should treat its members with respect. Again, consult forums and chatrooms, ask around and get honest opinions from those who have experience with the site that you are considering joining.

It is very important that the site offers 24/7 wagering. It shows that there are dedicated employees prepared to offer support around the clock and the company is a real online betting service. Make sure that you check out the online betting sites in your area, i.e. those in the UK, ensure to consult English sports betting sites or other British-based betting sites before looking elsewhere.

Whilst choosing a betting site, always attempt to cash in on the numerous sign-up bonuses that are offered today by most online betting sites in an attempt to lure you into their clutches. Do not be perturbed by their seemingly generous nature – these are not gimmicks and will be honoured in due course.

The betting interface offered is also important – you want to find a site that offers a betting interface that allows for multiple wagers, in varying dollar amounts, all entered from one screen. The more sophisticated the site appears, the more resources they have at hand – perhaps not the ideal situation for the cynical gambler.

Finally, having fast payouts seems to be the order of the day for online betting sites. It is not much fun celebrating the big win a week after it has occurred.

Bear in mind that your initial deposit should be small, particularly if you are still slightly suspicious of the betting site’s legitimacy. Of the estimated five hundred bookmakers operating online, there are several that appear one day and disappear the next. You don’t have to worry about this if you stick to the sites listed on our site. All of them are completey legitimate.

If you are looking for betting forums, check out our top 10 Betting sites for more information.

Whilst most of your time will be devoted to choosing the online betting site that is right for you, it is also an essential skill to be able to spot a bad bookie. Generally, if the odds do not quite seem right, it pays to do some extra research.