Insurance and Smart Home Buying

Charles Goodman Group: Trusted Bedford Insurance Agent

When potential homebuyers weigh their options during open houses, everything from the layout to room quantities is up for discussion. One area where buyers often miss the mark is discussing homeowner’s insurance compared to the property’s features. Although all homes must be built based on local regulations, some properties are more attuned with regional weather and environmental concerns. Allow a Bedford insurance agent to guide the entire family through the best home for the insurance dollar.

Some areas are known for their windy conditions, such as the East Coast and within the Great Plains. If buyers are looking for a home in these areas, search out brick buildings with tornado certified doors. Wind resistance with brick reduces insurance premium costs considerably. If a strong door is added to the structure, it’s almost impenetrable to flying debris in a storm.

Understand the soil under a potential property before buying. Some areas are prone to nearly pure clay soil. Although offering a beautiful hue in the garden, this soil can shift. Insurance agencies know shifting soil only contributes to cracked foundations. Premiums are bound to go up with potentially poor soil. Look for solid bedrock and other sturdy materials to make insurance costs lower.

Earthquake country is usually on the West Coast, but ground movement is possible in other parts of the nation.

A trusted Bedford insurance agent from the Charles Goodman Group can assist you with any questions regarding life insurance or property insurance.

Verify if the potential home is considered earthquake-vulnerable. For the best homeowner’s insurance price in these areas, choose wood-frame homes. Wood has natural flexibility, giving the structure a little sway in the event of an earthquake. If a property is retrofitted with braces and other shoring items, insurance may decrease even more. Be aware, however, that most basic homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover earthquake damage. A rider would have to be added to the policy.

Because fire is a main component to any homeowner’s insurance, the premium price can be altered slightly with proximity to fire-fighting tools. When a fire hydrant is just outside the property, insurance agents take this fact into consideration for a reduced rate. Professional firefighters serving the region are also good cause for a low insurance rate. The fact that the structure has fast access to a fire solution eases insurance costs considerably.

If buyers are unsure of the area’s vulnerabilities, such as earthquakes, research the information before deciding on a home. Online and governmental resources help buyers make a smart decision on their next property. With a broad form insurance policy in the future, buyers want the best deal in real estate and coverage as possible.