I have absolutely no service at my new house, but do have internet via cable. Will this device provide coverage there or does it simply serve to boost a nearby signal?
The network extender does not boost an existing signal. It creates its own cell signal, basically acting as its own cell tower, getting service thru your broadband connection.
What device are you talking about?
Verizon femtocell/network extender
So it does work as a standalone device then. Connected to the internet