While having a professionally installed and monitored security system will definitely keep your home safe and secure, it will also drain thousands of dollars out of your bank account. Despite what security system salespeople will tell you, there are many low cost ways to help keep your home and belongings safe, as long as you […]
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RSS feed for this sectionSeven Most Dangerous DIY Home Renovations
Make no mistake, Do It Yourself (DIY) projects can be dangerous. While it always tempting to do a project yourself to save money, there are some projects that are best left to the professionals. According to the Home Safety Council, one in five DIY-ers ends up in the hospital due to an accident while renovating […]
Homeowners Can Spend Over $9K a Year in Hidden Costs
Finding the perfect house, getting a mortgage and moving in are just the start of the expenses you will have to deal with as a brand new homeowner. The actual amount that you will have to pay above and beyond the mortgage payment will vary but a new analysis by Zillow and Thumbtack discovered some […]
5 Home Insurance Myths You May Have Fallen For
Homeowners insurance can be a bit confusing and like all type of insurance there are a number of myths and misconceptions floating around. A misunderstanding or not having a complete grasp of your coverage can be a very expensive mistake. Believing you are covered for something, and finding out that is not the case when […]
Time for a Cookout! Grilling Safety & Homeowners Insurance Basics
Summer time means barbecues and outdoor fun. Unfortunately, some BBQs end badly. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, about 10 people will die, 100 will be injured and $37 million in damages will occur during the 5,700 grill fires that take place every year. Many people will also be burned, some severely, by grill fires. […]
What Is Force-Placed Insurance Coverage?
Tucked away in your mortgage, hidden in the small print, is a little surprise that could cost you big, but only if you fail to keep your homeowners insurance premiums up to date. Every mortgage ever written specifies that the homeowner must carry homeowners coverage in certain dollar amounts. In most cases the house must […]
Federal Flood Insurance policy increases are hitting homeowners hard
On April 1st, the National Flood Insurance Program started issuing new rates on personal flood insurance policies and premiums are headed up for most homeowners The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is in charge of managing the program and claims the premium increases are necessary to get the program back on solid footing. The program […]
When hiring contractors, ask about licenses, insurance
Spring has sprung and when the snow starts to melt and the flowers start to bloom, homeowners often start thinking about how to improve their home. While many homeowners prefer to do the work themselves, some jobs are just too big and then its time to bring in the experts. If you are hiring a […]
What’s An Umbrella Policy and How Does It Work?
Here is an often overlooked fact of a typical homeowners policy: Liability coverage is typically capped at $100,000. While it is possible to up your coverage levels to $500,000, few people do it. Even at $500,000, a serious accident on your property will quickly exceed your limits, which is why you may want to consider […]
Some Home Improvement Projects That Cannot Increase The Resale Value Of Your Home
Tax refunds are on the way, which means that many of us will have a little extra coin in our pocket soon. One great way to invest your windfall is to sink it into your house. Whether you update your kitchen, add a bedroom or just repaint your exterior spending money on your home will […]