While my expertise in the real estate business is in the financing end of residential & commercial propterties, I thought I would point out a few helpful hints in regards to Homeowner's Insurance.
- Loyalty does serve you justice. Staying with the same insurer for 3 to 5 years can earn a discount & you will get an even bigger discount if no claims are made during that time -
- Perhaps the biggest discount is insuring your car and home with the same company. Also, if your credit has been an issue in getting turned down for other policies, often times they won't even run a credit check if you've been with the same car insurer for awhile. -
- Alarms, Smoke Detectors, Fire Extinguishers, & Dead Bolts are a big plus in your favor. Outfitting your home with these will in tune afford you the ability to pay less for insurance on your home. The more sophisticated the system, the bigger the discount...generally 15%. -
Of note, no matter what you are shopping for (mortgages, insurance, car loans, groceries), remember that a good shopper is a smart shopper. Educate yourself and make sure those professionals you are dealing with are continuing your education through their honesty & expertise. Shopping isn't about waiting to hear what you want to hear, it's about education and knowing what is out there that you can actually get.
Want to save on auto & homeowner's insurance premiums? Raise your deductibles on your home & auto as high as you can possibly get them & watch your premiums drop!