If you already have a policy, then you already know what to prepare. But if you don’t and it’s your first time to get one, ensure that you have all the documents you need to help you determine the value of your home and your belongings. Prepare the following:
- Mortgage statements
- Receipts from home upgrades and renovations
- Purchase receipts from major purchases (e.g. appliances and furniture)
- Appraisals of highly valuable belongings (e.g. art pieces, jewelry, and collections)
If there are insurance terms you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to clarify them with your agent.
Insurance can be very confusing, especially if it’s your first time to deal with it. It’s easy to get lost in the jargon. And if you’re shy enough to ask what the terms mean, you might buy a policy and not even know what it covers. That could be very costly for you. So, never hesitate to ask your agent if some words or terms are unclear to you. That’s what your agent is there for!
Be careful with deductibles.
Bear in mind that while high deductibles mean lower premiums, it also means you need to cash out more when filing a claim. Be realistic about your financial capability. But if you have a mortgage, your lender will usually set deductible requirements.
Learn more about the discounts available to you.
When getting insurance quotes, make sure you ask about discounts. Insurers often offer many discounts for various reasons – from home security installation to getting multiple policies.
Shop and Compare
The best way to shop and compare insurers is through an independent insurance agency. These agencies have a list of insurance carriers you can choose from. They are be able to give you different types of coverage at different prices. Aside from that, their agents will be able to walk you through getting insurance.
American Trust Insurance is an independent agency that is dedicated to helping families protect their home and financial future. We offer reliable home insurance policies that you can tailor according to your unique needs. Get a free home insurance quote today and discuss your options with our agents. Call us at (305) 270-2220 or email us here.