Many homeowners assume they should file an insurance claim any time something goes wrong. But in reality, filing the wrong claim can raise your rates, limit your options, and cost you far more over time.  Chris O’Brien explains how to decide when filing…

Most homeowners have insurance, but very few understand what their policy covers until something goes wrong. Knowing what you’re protected against (and what you’re not) can be the difference between a small inconvenience and a major financial setback.  We spoke with Chris O’Brien, Sales Manager,…

Why life changes mean insurance changes  Major events can impact your financial responsibilities and the assets you need to protect. Reviewing your insurance after a milestone helps ensure you’re not underinsured or paying for coverage you no longer need.  Here are a few moments when it’s smart to…

Step 1: Understand Your Insurance Needs Before requesting quotes, know what coverage you need:  Auto Insurance: Most states require liability coverage but consider adding collision and comprehensive coverage if your vehicle is financed or leased.  Homeowners/Renters Insurance: Protects your property, belongings,…

Insurance Tips for New Homeowners:  Homeowners Insurance: Covers property, belongings, and liability; lenders usually require it.  Flood & Hazard Insurance: Depending on your location, consider additional coverage for floods, earthquakes, or other natural disasters.  Document Valuables: Create an inventory of…

What is an Insurance Portfolio?  An insurance portfolio is the collection of coverage that protects your income, assets, and loved ones. Just like a financial portfolio, it should be well-rounded and tailored to your specific needs.  A strong insurance portfolio typically includes:  How Insurance…

  Why a Home Purchase Matters for Your Financial Health  For most people, a house is the largest purchase and investment they’ll ever make. Beyond the mortgage itself, it influences everything from your monthly budget to your long-term wealth strategy.  Unfortunately, many…

   A common question that comes up is whether mortgage insurance and life insurance are duplicative. While it may sound like they provide similar coverage, they work very differently, and one will offer far more direct value to a homeowner’s loved ones.  What is Mortgage Insurance?  Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is often required when a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase…

Builder’s Risk Insurance: What It Covers  This is the builder’s responsibility. It typically covers:  Important: This policy only lasts during construction and only protects the builder’s investment, not your personal property or liability.  Homeowners Insurance: When You Need It  You’ll…

Buying a newly built home is an exciting milestone. You’re getting a brand-new space with no prior damage, modern upgrades, and fewer repairs to worry about. But before you close, there’s one area that often gets overlooked: insurance.  Most buyers…