If you own a house, then you likely already protect it with reliable homeowners insurance. However, this may not offer as much protection as you need, especially against unexpected threats. In those situations, a special warranty might help, but most owners do not even have answers to basic questions like “What is a home warranty?” 

Even if you already know what they are, you may ask yourself other questions, like “Are home warranties worth it?” and “What do home warranties cover?” Ready to get all the answers to these questions and more? Keep reading to discover what these warranties are and whether or not you need one. 

Understanding What Home Warranties Are 

What is a house warranty? In short, this is an agreement that homeowners make with warranty companies in order to receive discounts on any needed repairs or replacements in the house. In most cases, these agreements protect against perils not offered by traditional homeowners insurance. 

For example, warranties may protect against damage to your HVAC, furnace, plumbing, or other housing components that your existing insurance may not cover (make sure you take the time to review what your home insurance covers). In most cases, warranties offer a baseline level of coverage, and owners can purchase additional coverage for other vulnerable parts of your residence. 

Breaking Down the Benefits of Home Warranties 

What does a home warranty do? You now know a bit more about the basics of these agreements and how they can potentially protect homeowners. However, such warranties are not the best choice for every owner, and you must carefully consider whether they would work for you and your particular needs. 

For example, you need to consider which items in your house are not covered by an existing insurance plan (ideally, you already know about the top home insurance claims and how to avoid them). You should also research how much it would cost to repair or replace those items in the event of an emergency. Finally, you should consider how much this is stressing you out and whether buying a warranty is worth it simply to obtain some peace of mind. 

How can you go about this, though? Below, you will find more answers to “What do home warranties cover?” to help you finalize your decision. 

How a Home Warranty Can Save on Repairs and Replacements 

“What does a home warranty do?” is easy enough to answer, but whether you need the protection offered by one of these warranties depends on what kind of homeowner you are. For example, if you are either good at fixing things yourself or finding the best contractors in town, you probably do not need one of these warranties because you will be just fine in the event of a disaster. 

Otherwise, you may want a warranty in place that helps take these burdens off your plate. Additionally, if you have really expensive appliances, you may want a warranty because even a little bit of damage can result in major out-of-pocket expenses. 

The Peace of Mind Factor: Minimizing Maintenance Anxieties 

Are home warranties worth it for everyone? No, because different kinds of homeowners need different levels of protection. But if you are asking, “Do I need a home warranty?”, that is easier to answer. In most cases, it comes down to how much you value peace of mind and are willing to pay for it. 

As with insurance, warranties come with an added cost, one that you will have to worry about paying each month (more on this soon). You may never need to utilize the protections of such a warranty, but its biggest benefit is peace of mind — that is, you know that you have a safety net in an emergency. For the right owner, that peace is worth more (perhaps much more) than the cost of a monthly premium. 

Exploring the Limitations and Drawbacks 

What is a home warranty? Beyond the basic definition, you could argue such warranties are a gamble. As a homeowner, you are gambling that you will get a decent return on investment. However, whether even making the initial gamble is worth it may vary from owner to owner. 

That is because these warranties come with premiums and service fees you must pay and deductibles you must consider. Below, you will find more about how this works, which can help you answer the question of “Do I need a home warranty?” for yourself. 

Weighing the Costs: Premiums, Deductibles, and Service Fees 

As with your homeowners insurance, warranties come with a premium you must pay each month. They also have a service fee you must pay whenever the warranty company sends someone to your property to inspect the damage. And such agreements have deductibles, which, as always, means you will need to pay a certain amount before your warranty covers any damage to the things inside your house. 

The Great Debate: Are Home Warranties Worth It? 

So, is a house warranty worth it? As usual, the honest answer to that question is “it depends.” If you want peace of mind or are uncomfortable fixing things like broken appliances, warranties are a great choice. Similarly, if you do not want to spend time running down contractors when something goes wrong, the warranties offer a streamlined way to repair things and get your house back in order. 

However, if you are good at making repairs and/or finding local handypersons, such protections may not be needed. And unless you have very expensive appliances, you may not want the added expenditure of another monthly premium. Depending on the threats your house faces, you may be better off with hazard insurance for your home. Throw in the deductible and the service fees, and it is clear that while home warranties are great, they are not the best choice for all homeowners. 

Looking to Further Protect Your Home? Get Home Insurance from InsureOne 

What is a home warranty? Now you have an answer to that question and know more about how these special warranties work. You also know what the costs involved are and how to determine whether these agreements are right for you. However, one last question: Do you know who is ready to help you save while keeping your house safe? 

Here at InsureOne, we specialize in the homeowners insurance you need and the price and service you deserve. Ready to stop paying too much and start working with specialists you can trust? If so, it is time to get a quote online. You can also pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, you are always free to find an InsureOne office near you. 

You already protect your house with home insurance designed to protect it from the most common threats. Depending on where you live, though, your house may face other threats, including fires, floods, and earthquakes, that are not among the covered perils in your policy. When such disasters strike, you may be left with a costly bill you have to pay out-of-pocket. 

It is possible to enhance your policy protection with the right home insurance riders. Unfortunately, the average homeowner does not know much about what these riders are and why they are important — at least, until it is too late and the disaster has passed. 

Ready to learn about which forms of additional homeowners coverage are worth buying and which are worth skipping? And which common insurance riders are available to most homeowners? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know. 

What Are Home Insurance Riders? 

An insurance rider, simply put, is an add-on that you purchase for an existing policy. While “rider” is the most common term, these add-ons are sometimes referred to as home insurance endorsements. Regardless of the term your carrier uses, this extra home insurance coverage is designed as a way for you to supplement an existing policy and provide your house with additional financial protection. 

Riders provide additional protection, but they come with an additional cost. Because of that, it is important to carefully weigh whether you want the feeling of security that comes from having a more robust policy or whether you would prefer to save money on your premium each month by not getting a rider in the first place. 

That is a difficult question, and the answer will vary from owner to owner. To figure it out for yourself, you must first know a bit more about the difference between riders on homeowners insurance and standard coverage. 

The Difference Between Riders and Standard Coverage 

The primary difference between riders on homeowners insurance and standard coverage is that the riders cover a single, specific threat and your regular policy covers an entire range of threats. For example, if you check your current policy right now, you will discover a list of covered perils. If one of these perils affects your property, your policy will cover it, but if something happens that is not listed, you may be stuck footing the bill. 

Riders are designed to cover perils that standard policies do not, which is why you can typically purchase additional homeowners coverage to protect against things like floods, earthquakes, and other major threats. With the rider in place, you will not have to worry about whether that specific peril will be covered when you file your claim. 

Identifying the Need for Additional Protection 

It is one thing to simply know that home insurance endorsements exist and another thing to know whether or not you actually need them. How, then, can you tell that you need a rider? For natural disasters, you need to consider how often they happen in your state and the risk to your home. Flood and earthquake riders, for example, might be unnecessary for those who live in areas that are not prone to floods and quakes but vitally necessary for those who are at major risk of these natural disasters. 

Knowing whether to get a special rider also means knowing what the limits of your current policy are and whether your lifestyle demands additional protection. For example, those who own many high-value items (such as a major jewelry or art collection) may find that they need more financial protection than their standard coverage offers. In this case, a rider can provide peace of mind whenever the owner has to leave the house. 

Some reasons you may need to consider additional home protection do not have anything to do with natural disasters, such as an expensive renovation or a decision to begin investing in art or antiques. 

To decide whether or not additional protection is the right choice for you, it is important to know the common insurance riders available to most homeowners. 

Common Types of Home Insurance Riders 

Some insurance riders are designed to protect against natural disasters, including flood and earthquake endorsements. Another popular option is scheduled personal property riders, which allow you to purchase enhanced protection for your personal property. This is designed for high-value items or large collections whose value surpasses the limits of standard coverage. 

Other than those, the most common riders are designed to protect your home against more uncommon forms of damage. For example, water backup endorsements can protect your home from damage caused by clogged pipes (something often not covered by a standard policy). And building code coverage helps protect older houses, covering the additional cost of repairs to help bring everything up to the most recent building code requirements. 

Keep in mind that these riders do not take the place of regular maintenance in and outside of your home. If your pipes have been leaking or exhibiting signs of slow drainage for some time and you have not had a professional in to fix the problem, your claim may be denied. Not taking care of issues around your home that may turn into a larger problem are one of the reasons your homeowners insurance may not pay out. 

Benefits of Adding Riders to Your Policy 

If you are still on the fence about whether you need extra home insurance coverage, it may help to know the specific benefits of adding riders to your policy. The biggest and most obvious advantage is that you will have more coverage protecting your house and personal property. Furthermore, some homeowners end up saving money because a rider makes it easier to protect precious belongings compared to other solutions, such as buying an entirely separate policy. 

The right policy can also protect your property from accidental loss, something that most standard policies do not cover. Finally, most riders come with low deductibles and some have no deductible, giving you one less thing to worry about if you have to file a claim. 

Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting Home Insurance Riders 

The primary mistake to avoid with home insurance riders is buying them when you do not need them. If your area has never had any earthquakes or floods, for example, buying separate endorsements for these natural disasters may be unnecessary. And unless you have very expensive items that your home limits will not cover, then scheduled property riders may be equally unnecessary. 

Secure Coverage for Your Home 

Now you know the most important things about home insurance riders, including what your options are and how they work. You also know how to decide whether or not you really need this extra coverage. However, do you know who you can trust when it comes to protecting your home from future disasters? 

At InsureOne, we believe you should never have to choose between great insurance prices and superior service. Ready to stop compromising, get the customer service you deserve and give your home the protection it needs? When you are ready, get a quote online. Additionally, you can pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, feel free to find an InsureOne office near you. 

You already protect your house with good homeowners insurance, and that keep it safe from all manner of financial threats. But you still must deal with Mother Nature — in the winter months, that means you need to worry about how to deal with all that snow on your property. 

There are various methods for clearing winter precipitation, and some are better than others. For that matter, some methods will be more suitable for certain homes and homeowners than others. Which method is best for you and your house? Keep reading to learn whether you are better off with DIY snow removal or if you should cave in and hire a snow removal service. 

Understanding the Basics of Snow Removal 

When it comes to snow removal methods, there are usually three primary options for homeowners. Those options are plowing, shoveling, and salting. Each method has its own pros and cons, so it usually takes a bit of trial and error for homeowners to discover what works best for them. 

So long as you have the right tools, you can do all of the above for DIY removal. However, you will have more options if you hire a snow removal service. Hiring professionals is always a more costly option, but it might be the better choice for those who want the job done quickly and perhaps do not have all the gear to do it on their own. And it can help you quickly make your home safer. 

Speaking of safety, do not forget that the number of slip-and-fall incidents is why liability insurance is so important around the holidays. 

DIY vs. Professional Snow Removal Options 

Strictly speaking, there is nothing that a professional removal service can do that you cannot do on your own. At the end of the day, they, too, will be doing one or more of the usual options of plowing, shoveling, and salting. They can simply do things quicker and more efficiently because they have many specialized tools. You can buy these tools for yourself, but that will require an initial investment and finding space to store everything throughout the year. 

The Essentials of DIY Snow Removal 

The essentials of DIY removal are relatively easy to understand. Plowing involves the use of specialized trucks and equipment to clear out large stretches of snow at a time. Shoveling simply involves using a shovel to manually clear areas like driveways. And salting involves using salt and/or other chemical compounds in order to quickly break down the snow. 

All these techniques are available to homeowners. The only requirement is having the right tools to effectively get the job done. Below, you will discover more about the tools in which you may wish to invest. 

Essential Tools for Effective DIY Snow Clearing 

Different snow removal methods require different kinds of tools. Shoveling, for example, usually requires nothing more than a shovel. Salting, however, requires access to special chemicals, and depending on where you live, there may be regulations on what you can buy and how you use it because these chemicals can potentially harm plants and animals.  

Finally, plowing requires large and expensive plowing equipment. Smaller versions of these tools may be available, but the best plows are the construction-grade tools used by professionals. 

Tips and Techniques for Safe DIY Snow Removal 

To safely shovel, start from the top of the pile and use your legs, not your back. Stand wide and keep your knees bent. Finally, pivot your whole body and not just your back when making the shoveling motions. 

Salting should be done after shoveling areas like your driveway and steps. Shovel away as much as you can, and then apply the salt to remove what remains. The third method, plowing, is best left to professionals because it requires operating complex machinery very close to your home. 

When to Call in the Professionals 

Now you know the primary ways to remove snow from your house. But that leaves you with the essential questions: Are you better off using these snow shoveling tips for a DIY approach, or should you call in the professionals? 

The answer usually comes down to how much you need to clear, what tools you have, and how hard you wish to work. For example, it is easy to obtain a shovel and salt, and someone in moderately good health can clear out a moderate amount on their own. If there is a large amount, if you are older, and/or if you are worried about the liability issues of using chemicals around your house, you may be better off calling professionals. 

How to Choose the Right Snow Removal Company 

If you want to hire a professional snow removal company, your best bet is to ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. You should also get multiple estimates so you can get the best deal. Finally, make sure anyone you hire has proper liability coverage. Otherwise, you might discover the unpleasant intersection of home insurance and snow removal when you are left with major out-of-pocket costs. 

Balancing the Pros and Cons 

Now that you know the different ways to remove snow from your house, you should know the pros and cons of doing it on your own versus hiring professionals. In short, doing it on your own will be cheaper, quicker, and more convenient. But it requires time, labor, equipment, and knowledge that you may not readily have. 

Conversely, hiring professionals costs additional money, takes longer, and you have to worry about things like home insurance and snow removal accidents. However, the pros have all the equipment and know-how, and they can handle the problem while you are comfortably inside your home and drinking a piping-hot cup of coffee. 

Maintaining Safety and Compliance 

Whatever snow removal methods you choose, you will need to be mindful of safety and compliance issues. Without the right technique, it is easy to slip and fall while cleaning everything yourself. But you cannot necessarily afford to let things pile up: not only is it an impediment to you, but it creates a potential liability issue for visitors to your home who may get similarly injured if they slip. Remember, accidents like this are among the top home insurance claims in the nation. 

If you hire professionals, make sure they have proper liability insurance if something goes wrong during removal (for example, the plow damaging your home). As for your own coverage, take the time to make sure your homeowners insurance covers plumbing in case your pipes end up freezing over. 

Legal Responsibilities and Homeowner Liability 

There are some major legal responsibilities to consider when removing snow. For example, whether you use the aforementioned shoveling tips or hire a professional, you need to remove everything sooner rather than later to avoid potentially getting sued if a visitor trips and falls. And when using salt, you need to abide by all state and local regulations regarding this substance. 

Make Sure Your Home Is Properly Insured This Winter 

Now you know the primary snow removal methods and the pros and cons of hiring professionals. These tips can help you save time and money while keeping your home safe. But do you know who can protect your house from so much more than the elements? 

At InsureOne, we specialize in home insurance and protecting your biggest investment from the unknown. When you are ready to put your worries on “ice,” come get a quote online. You can also pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, feel free to come find an InsureOne office near you. 

Good homeowners insurance can protect your family home and possessions from financial disaster. The only annoying thing about it is usually the monthly premium. As it turns out, though, installing special home security systems can lower your premium each month while helping deter thieves and other intruders. 

How does home security and insurance work? And just how much will a security system lower your homeowners coverage? Keep reading to find out. 

Exploring the Link Between Home Security and Insurance Costs 

Chances are you are asking a big question right now: “Will a security system lower my homeowners insurance?” In most cases, yes: If you install a monitored system, your carrier will usually lower your premium. 

The reason for this is simple. Your homeowners premium is influenced by how likely the carrier thinks you are to get robbed and then file a claim. A good system makes you that much less likely to get robbed. The carrier will take this into consideration and most likely lower your monthly rate. 

The Potential for Long-term Financial Benefits 

One of the things that makes a good security system a great investment is that it may more than pay for itself by lowering your premium every month. Throw in the fact that keeping robbers away will also keep you from filing a claim (which can cause your rate to go up) and you have the potential for long-term financial benefits. 

How Security Systems Lead to Insurance Discounts 

Installing the right system can help you directly lower how much you pay for your home policy. On top of that, installing a system like that can help you qualify for homeowners protection discounts. By asking your carrier about possible discounts ahead of time, you can also verify which kinds of security features help you qualify for the best discounts. 

Examples of Security Features That Lower Premiums 

There are many low-tech and high-tech systems that can help you save on home insurance. On the low-tech side, installing deadbolts and having fire extinguishers on hand can help you save. On the high-tech end, you can also install monitored security systems with as many extra features as desired. Those extra features may include camera surveillance, sprinkler systems, gas leak protection, and more. 

Different Systems, Different Savings 

A very common question is, “How much will a security system lower my homeowners insurance?” Many variables affect the answer, including exactly which system you installed. While the deadbolt may yield small savings, a monitored system will almost always help you save more. 

As a general rule, you are always better off asking the carrier which systems qualify for what kinds of discounts. This will keep you from blindly buying a security system and then being surprised by the meager (or even nonexistent) savings. 

Comparing Traditional Alarm Systems and Smart Home Technology 

A traditional alarm system is very simple: it lets out an alarm when someone breaks into your home (remember, burglary is one of the top insurance claims), and such systems typically need to be installed by professionals. By comparison, smart home technology security solutions can typically be installed by the user and allow a range of functionality, including cameras that you can access via your phone. 

Many modern systems also allow you to speak to people who may be breaking into the home or already in there, allowing you to scare them away. And such systems may offer the bells and whistles described earlier, including leak protection and even sprinklers that can be set off automatically or manually as needed. 

Tips for Working with Insurance Companies to Recognize Your Home’s Security Upgrades 

For those hoping to save on home insurance by installing one or more security systems, the best advice remains to speak to the carrier before buying or installing anything. This allows you to verify you are getting the right system needed to lower your rate and qualify you for the best homeowners insurance discounts. That is also the ideal time to ask them any lingering questions you may have about home security and protection. 

Other Ways to Save On Home Insurance 

As you can tell, home security and insurance can be pretty complex, but saving on your policy is easier than you might think. There are many tips to save on homeowners coverage, including increasing your deductible and asking about other discounts (they are often available for everything from setting up automatic payments to being a specific kind of worker, such as a teacher or member of the military). 

You can also work on improving your credit score, bundling policies together, or even buying a home in a safer neighborhood. By far, though, the best thing you can do to lower your rate is to get a better price from a better carrier. 

Get a Free Homeowners Insurance Quote 

Now you know about the relationship between home security and insurance. This includes how installing the right systems can help you save on your premium and how they may qualify you for special discounts. This can help you save, but do you know where to get the best prices and service on your homeowners policy? 

At InsureOne, we specialize in giving your home and family the protection they deserve. Ready to stay safer than ever, complete with the most competitive prices and service? All you have to do is get a quote online. You can also pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, feel free to come find an InsureOne office near you. 

A surprisingly large number of would-be homeowners are already shopping for the best homeowners insurance before they start asking some key questions. That includes questions like “Who pays closing costs?” and “How much are the average closing costs?” 

These questions can make an anxious time even more stressful, especially for first-time buyers. Fortunately, learning everything you need to know now can help make the final stages less stressful. Ready to buy with real peace of mind? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know. 

Understanding Closing Costs in Real Estate 

Before you can figure out who will cover the closing costs, it is important to understand these fees. This generalized term refers to a variety of different fees, some of which have to do with the property itself. Other costs relate to your lender’s role in this purchase and the paperwork required to finalize your mortgage. 

In order to comprehend how these fees work, it is important for homebuyers to recognize how the roles of the buyer and seller inform who pays what when buying a home. The roles of buyer and seller are negotiable for most points during a sale, so keep that in mind. Below is a quick breakdown of the most essential information. 

Buyer and Seller Roles in Sale 

On paper, the roles during the mortgage loan process are strictly defined and easy to understand. The seller is, of course, the person hoping to sell the home and make a profit from the sale. The buyer hopes to buy their dream house at the best possible price. 

Of course, many others get involved and blur the lines a bit. For example, if the seller works through a real estate agent, you will most likely interact with agents and other third parties (including bank officials) during the sales process. The seller is still making critical decisions during this process, and even if it is through an agent, the buyer may try to negotiate for certain perks, including the seller taking care of all the closing costs. 

The Breakdown of Buyer’s Closing Costs 

By now, you have likely noticed that “closing costs” is an umbrella term. That umbrella is so large you may wonder what the buyer is paying for when they cover the finalization costs. 

Many costs make up the final number, some of which are required and some of which are optional. Below, you will get a better idea of what the buyer must take care of during this time. 

Typical Expenses for Buyers at Closing 

It is possible to change who pays for what during negotiations. Generally speaking, buyers pay for closing costs and other costs for things like the appraisal, home inspection, credit report, title service, and loan origination. 

Assuming you are working with a lender, they can provide a better overview of your exact fees and a more granular breakdown of your expenses. They can also walk you through the process of how you can try to negotiate with the seller to have them assume more of these particular costs. 

Can Buyers Negotiate Their Share? 

The honest answer to the question, “Who pays closing costs?” is: “It depends on negotiations.” The default state is that certain fees are paid by both parties. However, it is possible for buyers to negotiate for sellers to take on more of these fees. 

That being said, there are certain non-negotiable fees buyers will likely be stuck paying. This includes appraisal fees, government fees, courier fees, and property taxes and home insurance if it is built into your mortgage, which is normal. That’s why it is important for new homeowners to know about insurance. The more you know about these costs going into the mortgage loan process, the less you are to be taken by surprise. 

What Sellers Need to Know About Closing Costs 

Closing costs are a very big deal to anyone trying to sell a home. In the current market, selling is a great way to make a major profit, but these fees can eat into how much you make. For example, anywhere between 6%-10% of the sale price might go to these fees, which includes your real estate agent’s commission. 

However, much like with buyers, exactly how much you pay will be determined by your negotiations. Learning more about the various fees you are likely to pay can keep you from getting blindsided.

Common Seller Contributions During Closing 

Unless negotiated otherwise, certain finalization costs are almost always the responsibility of the seller to pay. These include transfer taxes, real estate agent commissions, title insurance, attorney fees, and seller credits. 

Strategies for Sellers to Manage Closing Expenses 

Instead of fighting over who pays closing costs, sellers should negotiate with the buyer and agree on who pays for what. This can keep sellers from paying too much, as can negotiating lower fees and commission rates from attorneys and realtors. Finally, while it is not recommended for every seller, you can very directly manage expenses by selling the home yourself rather than working through an agency. 

Navigating Negotiations Over Closing Costs

Can sellers pay closing costs? They can, but only if you successfully negotiate this into the contract. In order to save as much money as possible, it is important to learn how to navigate negotiations. 

The negotiation process is a bit different for buyers and sellers. Below, you will find information for each party to improve your bargaining skills. 

Crafting Your Offer: Tips for Buyers and Sellers 

For sellers, negotiating closing costs is mostly a matter of convincing the buyer you have proposed a fair arrangement. When most buyers see that you are willing to cover several of the fees, they will be more willing to pay their own share. If your main priority is simply saving money, you are better off focusing on negotiating for a better commission rate from your agent, which can reduce fees and help you make more profit. 

Buyers looking to save are, in many cases, better off negotiating with the lender as much as the seller. You can shop around for the best loan rates ahead of time, which can help you get the best rate and pay the fewest fees. Speaking of shopping around, if you must pay for things like appraisals and home inspections, you can call around until you find professionals offering the most competitive rates. 

Regional Considerations in Closing Costs 

Nobody likes paying too much in finalization fees, and there are certain things buyers and sellers can do to control how much they pay. However, one thing that you cannot easily control is where you live. Whether or not your new home is part of an HOA will affect your closing feels (as well as your homeowners insurance costs). 

Buyers often wonder, “Can sellers pay closing costs or am I stuck with these fees?” Below, you will find info about just how bad the fees may be depending on where you live. 

Who Pays What? Closing Costs Across States 

As the saying goes, everything in real estate is about “location, location, location.” For example, closing costs can be wildly different across different states. Since closing costs for buyers are a percentage of your loan amount, choosing to live in an expensive area, such as Washington D.C. versus somewhere like Alabama where housing costs and the cost of living are much lower, will have a direct impact on the actual amount you must fork over for closing costs. These costs for buyers typically run from 1%-5%. 

As Forbes reports, those in Iowa can expect to pay an average finalization cost of $2,272, and residents of Washington D.C. can expect to pay a much higher average of $29,330. Sometimes, even neighboring states differ dramatically; for example, residents of Alabama pay an average of $2,371 for closing, whereas Florida residents pay an average of $8,213. 

Spotlight on Texas: Special Rules and Norms 

They say everything is bigger in Texas. Fortunately, that does not include closing costs. In this state, there are no transfer taxes on real estate sales, bringing those fees down. Additionally, unlike many other states, Texas does not mandate title insurance, which helps further reduce how much you pay. 

Buying a House Soon? Get a Free Quote on Homeowners Insurance 

Now you know more about who pays closing costs when buying a house. This guide has given you the tools you need to better negotiate, both with the other party and with lenders, attorneys, and real estate agents. Peace of mind is now within reach once you are armed with these techniques and information. 

The only thing missing is finding the best homeowners insurance. At InsureOne, we are devoted to protecting your home and everyone inside of it. When you are ready for the protection you deserve, come get a quote online. Of course, you can also pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, feel free to find an InsureOne office near you. 

Typically, people rely on good homeowners insurance to protect their most important investment. However, on the West Coast, an increasing number of residents are facing a California home insurance crisis in which one carrier after another has stopped offering coverage in the state. 

Why are insurance companies leaving California? What does it mean for the state, and what can you do to protect yourself and your family? Keep reading to discover the answers. 

The Current State of Home Insurance in California 

If you have not been impacted yet, you might wonder if the crisis over California home insurance has been blown out of proportion. However, things have gotten very dire, something many in the state realized when State Farm recently declared they would not be renewing a staggering 72,000 homeowners policies. 

Sadly, this is just the latest carrier to take drastic action. Other big-name insurers like Allstate and Farmers have instituted restrictive steps, either stopping underwriting new policies altogether or severely limiting them. 

Interestingly, this is affecting residents from different areas in distinct ways. If you live within an urban area, your policy may not have been affected. But those living in areas prone to events like wildfire are facing fewer and fewer options. To make matters worse, the policies that are still available are getting more expensive. 

Actions Taken by the California Insurance Commissioner 

One measure of the current crisis’s seriousness is that the California Insurance Commissioner has had to take direct action. Last September, Commissioner Ricardo Lara announced a series of executive actions collectively labeled the Sustainable Insurance Strategy. This strategy aims to reform the market completely, something the state hopes to accomplish by the end of 2024. 

The commissioner’s actions are directly due to Governor Gavin Newsom, who issued an executive order instructing Lara to act. The governor is concerned with the overall economic picture. If it becomes prohibitively difficult to get homeowners policies, plans to develop new housing in the affected areas could stall. The biggest hurdle to California’s strategy is carriers who have been concerned by things like rampant wildfires may be hesitant to come to the table and negotiate. 

The Impact of California Wildfires on Home Insurance 

Several issues are currently fueling the California crisis. For example, inflation has increased the cost of construction, and some carriers have even blamed outmoded state regulations. By far, though, the biggest problem has been wildfires, which have only become worse over time. 

That would be bad enough on its own, but climate change virtually guarantees these fires are only going to become more prevalent and more intense. In the eyes of more and more carriers, insuring California residents in riskier areas (hills, mountaintops, or anywhere else a bit too close to highly combustible natural features) is becoming prohibitively expensive. Accordingly, more carriers are canceling policies and tightening underwriting requirements to mitigate the financial risks posed by these fires. 

Navigating Through the Home Insurance Challenges 

If you live in California, this news is understandably concerning. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself if you are worried about being affected or even after your policy is not renewed. 

For example, it is never a bad idea to shop around for a new policy. In the short term, this might help you lower your monthly premiums and discover a company with better customer service. In the long term, this can help you get a better idea of what your different options will be and what your new homeowners insurance will and will not cover if your current carrier refuses to renew your policy. 

Is Home Insurance Required in California? 

For better or for worse, home insurance is not required in California. It might be more accurate to say that it is not required by the state. If you (like many homeowners throughout the state) have financed your home through a mortgage lender, there is a strong chance the lender will require you to have coverage in place. 

That being said, it is always a good idea to have a homeowners policy. Such policies can pay to repair or even replace your home in the event of something as catastrophic as a wildfire, depending on your specific plan inclusions. Additionally, such policies can pay to repair or replace precious items that may get damaged or stolen, and you get liability coverage that will pay for the medical bills and even your legal fees in the event a guest is injured and holds you liable. 

Steps to Take If Your Policy Is Not Renewed 

If your existing homeowners insurance policy is not renewed, it’s a good idea to start shopping around for a different carrier. You can get free quotes without making any firm commitments. Considering that affected areas typically face higher coverage costs, it is important to shop around to get the lowest possible rate for yourself. 

Before this happens, though, make sure you are prepared in the event of a disaster. It is worth taking some time to research how to recover after a fire and get your home back on track. 

Exploring the Ripple Effects 

Obviously, the current homeowners crisis is terrible for residents throughout the state who are in danger of losing their policies. This leaves expensive homes very vulnerable to wildfire and other threats. However, there are also ripple effects that could affect the state and its residents for a long time if this crisis goes unresolved. 

Economic Consequences for Californian Homeowners 

When you buy a home, it is an investment in your economic future. Unfortunately, one ripple effect of the current crisis is that California residents are facing declining property values. For example, the Center for International Environmental Law reports that “homeowners could lose between $9.87–$32.1 billion in property value due to more than 100,000 non-renewals.” That prospective economic loss may get even worse if carriers do not positively respond to the state insurance commissioner’s strategy. 

The Broader Implications for the Real Estate Market 

The insurance crisis may also negatively affect the housing market in California. Governor Newsom is understandably concerned about how this will affect the state economy due to the number of housing projects that have been suspended or outright canceled. This has a trickle-down effect on homeowners as well. Home values in affected areas are plummeting, and it has generally become much harder to buy or sell a home. 

How InsureOne Offers a Beacon of Hope 

Fortunately, there is a beacon of hope in this situation. With InsureOne, you do not have to worry about your policy suddenly getting canceled or about paying too much. You will continue to get the best possible coverage, and that is just one of the benefits of choosing InsureOne. 

The Benefits of Choosing InsureOne for Your Home Insurance Needs 

What do you get when you do business with InsureOne? You get top-notch customer service and high-quality insurance. In these stressful times, a sympathetic ear and a kind heart will go a long way. Get both by switching to InsureOne for your coverage needs. 

Another benefit of working with InsureOne is that you will get the best price for your homeowners policy. Agents will compare quotes across different carriers, making sure you get a competitive rate no matter which carrier you choose. 

How to Get the Best Homeowners Insurance in California 

Now you know how to navigate through the California home insurance crisis. But do you know who can help you find your way and secure the protection you and your family deserve? 

At InsureOne, we are committed to keeping your home and everyone in it safe. Ready to secure yourself against the unknown and better prepare for the future? When you are ready, navigate to our website and get a quote online. You can also pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, feel free to visit an InsureOne office near you. 

Most people who own their own home have both homeowners insurance and auto insurance. The protection offered by this coverage is important, but the cost of the monthly premiums can quickly add up. 

In this situation, many try to save money by choosing to bundle home and auto insurance. But does this method save money, and what do you need to know to start? Buckle up and keep reading to discover whether a home and auto policy bundle is a good idea for you and your coverage needs. 

The Benefits of Bundling Home and Auto Insurance 

If you are on the fence about getting bundled home and auto, chances are you are focused on one big question: What, exactly, are the benefits of bundling insurance in this way? As it turns out, there are two primary benefits that you can start enjoying right away. 

Potential Cost Savings 

The biggest benefit of bundling your coverage through the same carrier is that you can effectively secure both an auto insurance discount and a home coverage discount (no matter what type of homeowners insurance policy you have). You will still need both types of coverage, of course, but getting them as a bundle can help you start immediately saving on your premiums. 

Why do carriers offer savings for bundling? The short answer is that carriers always prioritize customer loyalty and want to do business with clients for as long as possible. Bundling your coverage in this way shows the carrier you are willing to go “all in” on doing business with them, and in exchange, they are happy to offer you a discount for not taking some of your business elsewhere. 

Convenience and Flexibility 

Aside from saving on your monthly premiums, the other chief benefit of bundling is that it offers enhanced convenience. Typically, those who do not bundle have different types of policies from different carriers. That means getting two sets of paperwork, paying two sets of bills, and generally dealing with twice as much hassle. 

Conversely, bundling allows you to cut everything in half. Imagine how much time you could save only paying one bill, only getting one set of paperwork, and having a “one-stop shop” for all your coverage needs. This ultimately helps you save something just as important as money: It helps you save time, and there are few things as precious (or as limited) as your free time. 

How to Find the Right Home and Auto Insurance Bundle 

Assuming you already get your home and auto coverage from separate carriers, the easiest way to get a good bundle is to ask each carrier for a free quote. By discovering how much your new premium would be, you can decide which carrier to go with for your bundling needs. 

At the same time, you should go beyond the ones you are already doing business with and get quotes from other carriers. This may help you discover even better bundling options. You may be able to save even more on your monthly premium in the same way that you can shop around and negotiate a better car insurance premium. 

Additional Insurance Bundle Options 

So far, this guide has focused on home and auto because these are the primary types of coverage consumers need to bundle. However, you should know that it is possible to bundle other types of policies through the same carrier as well. 

For example, if you need to insure other vehicles, such as boats, RVs, and motorcycles, it is possible to bundle those in with your existing policies. While some companies may call it a “multi-policy discount” rather than a bundle, you can also save by insuring multiple vehicles (such as yours and your spouse’s) through the same company. This generally offers all the advantages mentioned above, saving you ample time and money. 

Understanding How Bundle Discounts Work 

In function, bundling discounts are like any other discounts offered by carriers. The primary difference is that other kinds of discounts are usually tied to a specific behavior on the part of the customer, such as getting an auto policy discount for completing a defensive driving course. With bundling, you can get a discount simply by putting all your different types of coverage with the same carrier. 

At the end of the day, carriers are happy to do this because bundling serves as a form of marketing. It encourages customers to get all their coverage needs met by the same company, and carriers consider offering discounts as a small price to pay for gaining additional customers. To maximize savings, it can also be beneficial to know how to read and understand your auto insurance policy. 

FAQs About Bundling Insurance 

Are Bundling and Multi-Policy Savings the Same Thing? 

Whether bundling and multi-policy discounts are the same thing depends on the carrier. Whether or not your own carrier considers them the same thing or not does not change the fact that getting multiple policies via the same carrier is one of the most reliable ways to save time and money each month. 

If I Buy an Auto Insurance Policy Today, Can I Add Home Insurance Later? 

Unlike health insurance, you can add additional types of coverage (including home coverage and more) at any time. This is advantageous because you can discover whether you like doing business with the carrier before you take the plunge and do even more business with them. 

Can I Bundle Policies From Different Insurance Providers? 

It is impossible to bundle policies from different providers. By definition, bundling involves getting multiple policies from the same carrier. 

Will the Discounts Remain the Same if I File a Claim on One Policy? 

If you file a claim, you will still save money via the bundling discount. However, it is possible that the overall cost of your monthly premium will rise. Keep in mind that you are still paying less than you would without the bundle because otherwise, you would be paying the increased premium with no discount whatsoever. To ensure you are saving enough with your bundle, you may want to review how much car insurance costs in your state. 

Are There Certain Requirements Needed to Bundle Auto and Home Insurance? 

While the policies themselves may have special requirements (for example, meeting the minimum automobile coverage requirements mandated by your state), there are no specific requirements for bundling policies. Bundling is as easy as buying multiple policies from the same carrier and simply asking for a discount. 

Find the Best Home and Auto Insurance Bundle 

Now you know how to bundle home and auto insurance. But do you know where to find a carrier that offers the best savings as well as the excellent customer service you deserve? 

At InsureOne, we are here to provide all of your coverage needs, and if you are ready to bundle, we are ready to help you save. Why spend all that extra time and money each month when you do not have to? We can help you get a quote online. Of course, you can pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, feel free to come into an InsureOne office near you at your earliest convenience. 

Don’t believe it? Hold onto your stockings as we walk you through why liability insurance is so important around holidays! 

Excited Pets Become Dangerous Pets 

This might be your first time thinking of holidays and liability coverage at the same time, and chances are you are imagining everything that could go wrong around the house. While there are plenty of things that can go sideways in your home, one of the biggest threats may occur long before you start serving food or unwrapping gifts. 

Specifically, your dog(s) may pose a major risk this time of year. Holiday liability coverage is important for the same reasons that liability is always important: when lots of extra people are hanging in the neighborhood and piling into your home, it can drive a dog positively crazy with excitement.  

If that excitement translates into a painful bite for one of your guests, you may be considered at fault, making your liability insurance crucially important. 

Things Heating Up in the Kitchen (Literally) 

Make it home from the grocery store without getting into any accidents? Congrats! This is a bigger achievement than most people realize. But once you start transforming those groceries into tasty holiday dishes, you may have to deal with a different kind of risk altogether. 

Kitchen fires are very common this time of year, and the main culprit is the oven. Anything that needs to cook in the oven for many hours or at high heat on the stovetop can spell trouble – especially if you are distracted by visitors. This could cause a fire, and you could be liable if anyone is injured. Good coverage can help you take care of their medical bills and (if necessary) your own legal bills. 

Accidents Are Surprisingly Common 

The most common liability claims involve people getting into accidents at your home and blaming you for their injuries. Normally, you might not worry about this because your house is a (mostly) controlled environment. Around holidays, however, that control is easily lost, and it can lead to some very painful accidents. 

For example, guests who have been drinking could easily fall down your interior stairs, and even the most sober guests might slide down icy porch stairs. Even the food can be threatening if someone chokes on a bone or (perhaps even worse) comes down with food poisoning. In all of these instances, you could be held liable and face major court fees and medical costs. Thanks to liability insurance, though, your costs will be covered if the worst happens. 

When Fun Leads to Injuries 

Let’s say that you make it home from the grocery store, prepare your fabulous meal, and everyone eats without any incidents. At this point, you may be tempted to let your guard down and relax. But even relaxation sometimes carries risks! 

That’s because many people spend holidays together with physical activities like playing football or exotic activities like riding snowmobiles. No matter how much fun you have, guests might hold you liable for any nasty accidents. If that happens, you’re going to need the liability protection that comes from great homeowner’s insurance. 

Get the Best Homeowner’s Insurance Today! 

Now you know why liability insurance is so important around holidays. However, do you know where you can get coverage even more reliable than mom’s apple pie? 

InsureOne is here to protect you, your family, and your home this holiday season and beyond. Ready to give yourself the protection you deserve? We’re always ready for you to get a quote online. Of course, you can pick up the phone and give us a quick call at 800-836-2240. Finally, you’re always free to come into one of our convenient nearby offices and learn more about what we have to offer!