Looking for ways to keep your auto insurance premiums manageable? Here are 9 ways you can save on your insurance (without sacrificing coverage.)
1. Driving Record Your driving record plays a big role in how much you pay for insurance. By keeping a clean record for 3-5 years, you can save hundreds of dollars! Be a cautious driver, don’t speed, and you'll lower your premiums. 2. Driving Course Defensive driving courses are an easy way to achieve an extra discount. They can also help keep a ticket from showing up and messing up your clean driving record. Make sure to call us before taking the class if you're using it for a discount so we can verify that your policy qualifies. 3. Anti-Theft Devices Installing an alarm or other anti-theft device can lower premiums on your vehicle. Make sure to discuss all features with us, sometimes even power locks and a remote can count! 4. Your Credit Score While insurance uses a different formula then the credit bureaus, your credit still affects the rate you pay. Good credit can save you hundreds (even thousands) on your premiums! Make sure to review your report on a regular basis and have any mistakes corrected. 5. Where You Live Rural areas pay less for insurance than the big cities do. It's all about risk and with a large population, there is more chance for an accident. Therefore, where you choose to live can impact your rates. Consider visiting with us before purchasing a home if you’re concerned about the costs (it is based on the zip code). 6. Your Vehicle The vehicle you choose to purchase also makes a difference! Some vehicles cost a lot more to repair than others, which drives up their rates. Easy way to avoid buying a money-sucker? Call us first and let us quote the vehicle before you sign on the dotted line. 7. How Often You Drive If you take public transportation and only drive on the weekend, you'll pay less than someone with a long commute. Make sure to review your annual mileage and daily commutes with us (especially if they change) so that you can receive the extra savings. 8. Raise Your Deductible A higher deductible (your out of pocket cost in a claim) means a lower monthly rate. If you have $1000 in savings and could afford to use it if you had an accident, then you’ll save on your insurance cost by having a $1000 deductible instead of a $250. We can help you review the costs and benefits in your specific situation. 9. Your Agent And the best way to save? Work with a local agent! You'll get the coverage you need plus you'll have an advocate working on your behalf to find the best rate, all the discounts, and an easy explanation of any gaps in your coverage. It's the #1 way to control your risk, maximize your savings, and protect your family. We want to be your agent. Call us to discuss your policy today.
0 Comments
Claims can be a stressful process. I've worked with my clients after car accidents, home fires, storm damage, and even a death in the family. Insurance claims are tied to the most stressful events in our lives.
That's why it's extremely important that you work with an agent and a company that you trust. After an insurance claim, you will be assigned an adjustor to evaluate your loss. Depending on the type of claim, they will examine the property and gather more information. The adjustor will determine the settlement amount and answer any questions you may have. So what happens if things don't go smoothly at first? Maybe you don't agree on the amount or can't get the right documentation? That's where I come in. My job, as your agent, is to also be your advocate. My office goes to work to help you communicate with your adjustor if there is a problem. That means that when you need help, we're there. Yes, sometimes you can get cheaper rates with unknown companies. And you might love being able to buy online without talking to an agent. But when it comes down to those stressful moments, it's great to have someone you know on your side. Call my office today and let us protect your family next. Regular home maintenance is important and frequently overlooked. We tend to forget about our HVAC system until it quits working on a hot day! That's why, we're providing a few simple tasks and reminders you can do each month to keep your home in tip top shape all year long.
Here's where you can get started in July: Do an energy audit. Hot weather is a great time to find all the spots in your home where air may be sneaking in. Plugging those leaks can save as much as 20% on your heating and cooling bills! Look at every door and window area for places where you can see daylight through a crack or feel a draft. Don't forget the mail slot and fireplace too! If you'd rather use a professional, contact your utility company for a recommendation on a home energy auditor. Protect your patio furniture. You probably have all of your nice outdoor furniture in use right now. Make sure to take a few minutes to clean it each week (and protect it during storms) and it will last for many years. Check the tags on pillows and cushions for specific cleaning instructions and regularly hose down the furniture itself. Remember, patio cushions are a favorite place for busy squirrels so try to keep them protected! Save on Home Insurance. If we don't currently insure your home, call us for a quote today. We'll look for every possible discount without sacrificing important coverage. Great insurance coverage is the best protection you can have! Selling your home can be a stressful process, especially when it doesn't move quickly. With a new job looming, you may have no choice but to leave the home vacant for a short time until it sells.
The problem? Vacant homes fall under different insurance rules and can leave you at risk. Homes are typically considered vacant when the utilities are shut off and/or furniture has been removed. Insurance companies view a vacant home as a higher risk. There are more opportunities for vandalism and no one living there to protect the home from fire or storm damage. So what should you do when moving? First you need to talk to your insurance agent and get the details on your policy. Since policies vary by state and insurance company, there is no single right answer. Explain the situation to your agent. Ask what coverage is included and what is excluded (specifically for vandalism). And find out what changes can be made to protect your home. Selling a home doesn't always follow a quick timeline. If you're facing the possibility of leaving your home vacant, contact us first and find out how to best protect yourself and your property. |