Real Estate Marketing & Beyond
Congratulations! You've finally found a home you like and put in an offer. If accepted, you'll be on your way to homeownership. As exciting as buying a home is, you also need to think about the logistics of owning a home. In addition to paying the mortgage and property taxes, you also need to have the right type of insurance coverage. In this guide, we'll go over what homeowner's insurance and why you really need to have it.
If you're not a first-time homeowner, you probably already know what homeowner's coverage is. If not, it's a type of coverage that protects your home and your belongings. This type of insurance also offers protection if someone gets hurt on your property. Standard policies typically cover the house, condo, or apartment itself, in addition to any attached structures, such as a garage. It usually also provides protection against natural disasters as well. However, not all policies are the same. You might have to opt in for additional flood coverage.
If you're not sure which type is right for you, you can look online and visit a marketplace that offers comparison quotes from top providers. You can then weigh the pros and cons of each policy and choose one that is the best fit. Since everyone's needs are different, the cost of your plan might differ from your neighbors or someone who is living in the same type of home. You should also look for customer reviews online to see how other homeowners feel about the company you choose. Poor customer service, hidden charges, and inadequate coverages are all signs to choose another provider. Furthermore, see if you can find any information about how claims are handled. If something does happen, you'll want to work with a company that processes your claim quickly.
There are primary types of HO-H8: basic, broad, and special. Each one offers a different level of protection. Basic may only cover your home and your personal belongings. Without add-ons, you may not receive compensation for all kinds of natural disasters, floods, falling objects or vandalism. If you opt for broad, your protection is increased, and you'll be compensated for whichever add-ons are written in your policy. In addition, there is actual cash value, replacement costs and guaranteed replacement costs and value. All three offer varying levels of compensation in the event something happens.
In addition to shopping around and comparing rates, there are other ways to decrease your monthly premium. Install a high-tech security system, which may decrease your premium by five percent, is a good start. You will need to provide proof of install to your carrier to receive the discount. You should also install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. In some cases, you can save up to 10 percent. Just be sure that you can prove that you have them if asked. Deadbolts and sprinkler systems may also lower your bill as well.
This depends on how much protection you need and how much money you want to spend. If you have the money, then you can opt for more coverage. However, if you're on a tight budget, you might have to start with the most basic of protection. You can also increase it when you're financially able.
If you plan on doing renovations, you need to choose high-end materials. Wooden structures may cost more to insure simply because they're more flammable. On the other hand, concrete or cement-based materials usually cost less. Pay attention to money saving home improvement tips so you can save where you can while still investing in high-end materials. On a side note, you also review your insurance policy regularly. Any upgrades or life changes may influence how much you must pay.
