OptionsHouse Review

December 21, 2016 by posted in brokers, Forex brokers, Stock brokers • No Comments

OptionsHouse review was led by the team of www.forextrading.biz for those who need to know about how to open a trading account with OptionsHouse, Is OptionsHouse legit or a scam? Our OptionsHouse review covers fees, regulation, pros & cons. Read before you trade with this broker.

OptionsHouse Review: A Comprehensive Look at the Options Trading Platform

Introduction

OptionsHouse was once a popular online brokerage platform specializing in options trading, appealing particularly to active traders and options enthusiasts. Known for its competitive pricing, powerful trading tools, and user-friendly platform, OptionsHouse carved out a niche in the crowded online brokerage market.

Although OptionsHouse was eventually acquired and integrated into E*TRADE, it remains a relevant case study for traders who value sophisticated options trading capabilities combined with low fees.

This review will cover the key features of OptionsHouse, including its trading platform, pricing structure, account types, customer service, and overall value proposition. We will also include frequently asked questions and provide insight into whether OptionsHouse would have been a good fit for different types of traders.

History and Background

OptionsHouse was founded in 2005 by a group of experienced options traders who wanted to create a platform tailored specifically to the needs of options traders. The company quickly gained traction by offering a powerful, intuitive platform combined with some of the lowest fees in the industry.

The brokerage was eventually acquired by ETRADE Financial in 2016, with its technology and client accounts gradually integrated into the ETRADE platform. While OptionsHouse no longer exists as a standalone brand, its legacy lives on through E*TRADE’s options trading tools and pricing strategies.

Trading Platform and Tools

1. OptionsHouse Platform

OptionsHouse’s proprietary trading platform was regarded as one of the best for active options traders. It was designed to be fast, reliable, and packed with features without being overwhelming.

Key features included:

  • Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop order entry.

  • Real-time streaming quotes and Level 2 market data.

  • Advanced charting tools with technical indicators and drawing capabilities.

  • Customizable watchlists and trade tickets.

  • Sophisticated options analytics, including risk graphs, profit/loss calculators, and probability analysis.

  • Strategy roller for automated options rolling.

  • Multi-leg options order entry with an easy-to-use strategy builder.

2. Mobile Trading

OptionsHouse offered a mobile app designed to replicate the desktop experience. Users could place complex multi-leg options trades, monitor real-time market data, and manage portfolios directly from their smartphones or tablets.

The app was praised for its speed and usability, helping traders stay connected to the markets even when away from their computers.

3. Research and Education

OptionsHouse provided robust educational resources aimed at helping traders understand options strategies and market dynamics. These included:

  • Educational articles and webinars on options trading strategies.

  • Video tutorials on how to use the platform and analyze markets.

  • Market news and updates to help inform trading decisions.

Investment Products

OptionsHouse primarily focused on options trading but also supported other investment products:

  • Stocks and ETFs: Commission-based trading of stocks and exchange-traded funds.

  • Options: Comprehensive options trading with support for all strategies, including spreads, straddles, and condors.

  • Mutual Funds: Available but with less emphasis compared to options and stocks.

  • Futures: Not offered.

  • Forex: Not available.

The brokerage’s focus remained on options and equity trading, with particular strength in providing tools that helped traders manage complex options strategies.

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Pricing and Fees

OptionsHouse was known for offering some of the lowest fees for options trading in the industry, which made it attractive for high-frequency options traders:

  • Stock and ETF Trades: $4.95 per trade.

  • Options Trades: $4.95 per trade plus $0.50 per options contract.

  • Mutual Funds: $9.95 per transaction.

  • No Account Minimum: Traders could open an account without any initial deposit requirement.

  • No Inactivity Fees: There were no fees for inactivity, which was a competitive advantage.

The low commission rates combined with no inactivity fees made OptionsHouse a cost-efficient choice for traders looking to minimize expenses.

Account Types

OptionsHouse offered a variety of account types to meet different investor needs:

  • Individual Brokerage Accounts

  • Joint Accounts

  • Traditional IRA and Roth IRA Accounts

  • Custodial Accounts

Account opening was straightforward, with no minimum deposit required, making it accessible to new traders and those with smaller portfolios.

Customer Service

OptionsHouse was praised for its responsive and helpful customer support. Investors could reach representatives through phone, email, or live chat. Support hours extended into the evenings and weekends, catering to active traders who might need assistance outside of regular business hours.

The broker also maintained a helpful online knowledge base and FAQ section, providing self-service resources for common questions and troubleshooting.

Security and Regulation

As a fully regulated brokerage, OptionsHouse adhered to industry standards to protect client funds and data. The brokerage was a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), which insured customer accounts up to $500,000 (including $250,000 for cash claims).

Security features included:

  • Encrypted communications.

  • Secure login protocols.

  • Account activity monitoring for suspicious behavior.

Pros and Cons of OptionsHouse

Pros

  • Highly competitive options trading fees.

  • Robust trading platform designed specifically for options traders.

  • No inactivity fees or account minimums.

  • Mobile app allowed full trading functionality on the go.

  • Comprehensive educational resources.

  • Responsive customer support with extended hours.

Cons

  • Limited investment options beyond stocks and options.

  • No access to futures or forex trading.

  • Mutual fund offerings were limited and relatively expensive.

  • Platform may be overwhelming for complete beginners.

  • The platform and brand no longer operate independently after acquisition.

Who Should Use OptionsHouse?

OptionsHouse was ideal for:

  • Active options traders seeking low commissions and powerful tools.

  • Investors who prioritize a platform designed with options strategies in mind.

  • Traders looking for a brokerage with no inactivity fees.

  • Investors comfortable with a primarily options and stock-focused platform.

It was less suited for:

  • Investors interested in futures, forex, or more extensive mutual fund options.

  • Beginners who require extremely simple platforms.

  • Investors wanting a wider variety of asset classes such as bonds or cryptocurrencies.

Legacy and Integration with E*TRADE

After ETRADE acquired OptionsHouse in 2016, the technology and accounts were merged into ETRADE’s platform. Many OptionsHouse features, especially its options tools and competitive pricing, influenced the development of E*TRADE’s own trading platforms.

This acquisition strengthened E*TRADE’s position among options traders and brought enhanced tools and lower fees to a broader customer base.

Conclusion

OptionsHouse set a high standard for options-focused online brokerage services with its combination of low costs, advanced tools, and customer-centric features. While the brand itself no longer operates independently, its impact lives on in E*TRADE’s trading platforms.

For options traders seeking a cost-effective, feature-rich trading environment, OptionsHouse was a top contender in its time. Today, investors can look to E*TRADE’s enhanced offerings, many of which originated from the OptionsHouse platform.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What was OptionsHouse?
    OptionsHouse was an online brokerage specializing in options trading with low fees and advanced tools.

  2. Is OptionsHouse still available?
    No, OptionsHouse was acquired by E*TRADE and integrated into its platform.

  3. What were the trading fees at OptionsHouse?
    $4.95 per stock or ETF trade plus $0.50 per options contract.

  4. Did OptionsHouse charge inactivity fees?
    No, OptionsHouse did not charge inactivity fees.

  5. What investment products could I trade with OptionsHouse?
    Stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds.

  6. Was there a minimum deposit to open an OptionsHouse account?
    No minimum deposit was required.

  7. Could I trade options strategies on OptionsHouse?
    Yes, the platform supported complex options strategies including spreads and condors.

  8. Did OptionsHouse offer a mobile trading app?
    Yes, a mobile app with full trading functionality was available.

  9. What educational resources did OptionsHouse provide?
    Webinars, articles, video tutorials, and market news focused on options trading.

  10. Was OptionsHouse regulated and secure?
    Yes, it was regulated and protected by SIPC insurance.

  11. Could I transfer my existing brokerage account to OptionsHouse?
    Yes, OptionsHouse accepted account transfers.

  12. Did OptionsHouse support futures or forex trading?
    No, these were not supported.

  13. What happened to OptionsHouse accounts after the E*TRADE acquisition?
    Accounts were migrated to E*TRADE’s platform.

  14. Was customer support available on weekends?
    Yes, OptionsHouse offered extended hours including some weekend support.

  15. Could beginners use OptionsHouse?
    Yes, but the platform was primarily designed for more experienced traders.

  16. Did OptionsHouse provide margin trading?
    Yes, margin trading was available.

  17. Were there any fees for mutual funds?
    Yes, mutual funds generally carried a $9.95 transaction fee.

  18. Did OptionsHouse offer retirement accounts?
    Yes, including Traditional and Roth IRAs.

  19. What made OptionsHouse stand out from other brokers?
    Its low fees and advanced options trading platform.

  20. Can I still access OptionsHouse features today?
    Many of its features are now part of E*TRADE’s platform.

OptionsHouse Review FAQs 2

  1. OptionsHouse Review 2025: Is It Still a Top Choice for Traders?

  2. OptionsHouse Broker Review: Features, Fees, and Performance

  3. OptionsHouse for Beginners: What You Need to Know

  4. Is OptionsHouse Right for You? A Detailed 2025 Breakdown

  5. OptionsHouse Trading Platform Review: Pros and Cons

  6. OptionsHouse Review for Long-Term Investors

  7. OptionsHouse Review for Active Traders: Speed and Tools

  8. Is OptionsHouse Safe? Security and Regulatory Overview

  9. Real User Reviews of OptionsHouse: What Traders Say

  10. The History of OptionsHouse: From Startup to Acquisition

💸 Fees, Pricing & Account Value

  1. OptionsHouse Fees Explained: Commissions, Margin, and More

  2. Are There Hidden Fees on OptionsHouse? What to Watch Out For

  3. How OptionsHouse Makes Money and What It Means for You

  4. OptionsHouse Pricing Compared to Industry Standards

  5. Is OptionsHouse a Low-Cost Broker for Options Trading?

🛠️ Platform, Tools & Features

  1. OptionsHouse Platform Features: Charting, Tools, and Research

  2. How to Use OptionsHouse Research Tools Like a Pro

  3. OptionsHouse for Options Trading: Features and Strategies

  4. OptionsHouse Mobile App Review: Trading Anywhere

  5. Automated Trading and Alerts on OptionsHouse: What’s Available?

👤 Audience-Specific Reviews

  1. OptionsHouse for New Traders: A Beginner-Friendly Broker?

  2. OptionsHouse for Retirees: Is It Suitable for Retirement Accounts?

  3. OptionsHouse for Casual Traders and Side Hustlers

  4. OptionsHouse for Day Traders: Execution Speed and Tools

  5. OptionsHouse for Swing Traders: Platform and Features

🧑‍🏫 How-To Guides

  1. How to Open an OptionsHouse Account Step-by-Step

  2. How to Buy Stocks and Options on OptionsHouse

  3. Setting Up Alerts and Watchlists on OptionsHouse

  4. How to Trade Options on OptionsHouse: A Beginner’s Guide

  5. Managing Your Portfolio Using OptionsHouse Tools

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📘 Strategic & Thought Leadership

  1. Why OptionsHouse Became Popular Among Options Traders

  2. OptionsHouse vs Robinhood: Who’s Better for Options Trading?

  3. The Acquisition of OptionsHouse: What Changed?

  4. OptionsHouse’s Role in the Brokerage Industry Today

  5. Is OptionsHouse Still Competitive in 2025?

🧩 SEO & Niche Topics

  1. OptionsHouse Account Types: IRAs, Margin, and More Explained

  2. OptionsHouse Minimum Deposit Requirements

  3. OptionsHouse Promotions and Bonus Offers for New Clients

  4. Common OptionsHouse Complaints and How to Address Them

  5. Best Alternatives to OptionsHouse in 2025

⚖️ OptionsHouse vs. Other Brokers

    1. OptionsHouse vs Robinhood: Which Is Better for Options Trading?

    2. OptionsHouse vs E*TRADE: Features and Fees Compared

    3. OptionsHouse vs TD Ameritrade: Platform and Service Showdown

    4. OptionsHouse vs Fidelity: Who Offers Better Value?

    5. OptionsHouse vs Charles Schwab: Research Tools and Pricing

    6. OptionsHouse vs Webull: Which Has the Better App?

    7. OptionsHouse vs Merrill Edge: Comparing Investment Options

    8. OptionsHouse vs Ally Invest: What Changed After the Acquisition?

    9. OptionsHouse vs Interactive Brokers: Best for Active Traders?

    10. OptionsHouse vs Vanguard: Which Is Better for Retirement?

Optionshouse broker vs others

  1. OptionsHouse vs. E*TRADE: Which Broker Is Better for Options Trading?

  2. OptionsHouse or TD Ameritrade: Which Platform Fits Your Needs?

  3. OptionsHouse vs. Charles Schwab: Fees, Features, and Tools Compared

  4. OptionsHouse vs. Fidelity: Best Choice for Active Traders?

  5. OptionsHouse vs. Robinhood: Options Trading Showdown

  6. Trading Platforms Compared: OptionsHouse vs. E*TRADE

  7. Options Trading: OptionsHouse vs. TD Ameritrade – Who Wins?

  8. Research Tools Faceoff: OptionsHouse vs. Fidelity

  9. Mobile Trading Experience: OptionsHouse vs. Robinhood

  10. Retirement Accounts Compared: OptionsHouse vs. Charles Schwab

  11. OptionsHouse vs. E*TRADE: Pros and Cons You Should Know

  12. OptionsHouse vs. TD Ameritrade: Which Broker Is Right for You?

  13. Side-by-Side Review: OptionsHouse vs. Fidelity for Active Traders

  14. OptionsHouse or Robinhood: Which Broker Matches Your Style?

  15. Discount Broker Battle: OptionsHouse vs. Charles Schwab

  16. Best Broker for Options Trading: OptionsHouse vs. TD Ameritrade

  17. Beginner Investors: OptionsHouse vs. Robinhood – Which Is Easier?

  18. Active Traders: OptionsHouse vs. E*TRADE – Who Wins?

  19. Retirement Investors: OptionsHouse vs. Fidelity – Which Is Better?

  20. Low-Cost Trading: OptionsHouse vs. Robinhood – Which Is Cheaper?

  21. Thinking of Switching? OptionsHouse vs. Other Top Brokers

  22. OptionsHouse vs. Competitors: Which Broker Should You Trust?

  23. Two Brokers, One Portfolio: OptionsHouse vs. [Broker] Compared

  24. OptionsHouse vs. Big Players: Who Offers the Best Value?

  25. From OptionsHouse to E*TRADE: How Does the Transition Compare

OptionsHouse review conclusion

To open a free demo account visit the OptionsHouse broker reviews page at “Topforexbrokers.com”. If you need the lowest fees presented by a trustworthy trader, OptionsHouse is accepted to be your best bet. It isn’t the greatest in terms of educational resources or customer service, and its trading platform is problematic to study (the mobile app definitely has room for development, also), but it’s an inordinate choice for experienced depositors who want reasonable Options trading, and who don’t attention about mutual funds or worldwide investments. You can download optionshouse google Android app or iTunes IOS application for mobile trading, Fxstay says.

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John Doe is a seasoned Forex trader and financial content creator with over 17 years of hands-on experience in currency markets. Specializing in broker reviews and trading strategy analysis, John combines real-world trading insights with in-depth research to help traders make informed decisions. He regularly tests platforms like MT4, and MT5 to provide up-to-date, unbiased reviews. When not trading, John contributes to financial forums and mentors aspiring traders on maximizing their investment potential.

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