Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Low Cost Homeowner Insurance Rates -- Tips For Discounts

By Chimezirim Odimba

Contrary to what you might be made to believe, it's a lot easy to position yourself for an affordable home insurance rate. All you have to do to achieve this goal are little bits of information (that you'd have to implement, though). Here are a list of steps that will help you achieve this goal...

1. Using the same insurance carrier for more than one policy will get you discounts. Insurance companies give discounts (multi-policy discounts) for policyholders who buy more one policy from them. But you might save more with different insurers than you'll get from a multi-policy discount.

2. You will pay less if you've got motion-sensitive lighting on your property. Your home becomes a no-go area for thieves because they'll be spotted easily. The risk of burglary is a key factor in determining a home's risk to an insurer and, by extension, your rate.

3. Fit your home with shatter-proof windows and you will get cheaper rates. You will receive huge discounts by replacing your windows to these if you reside in a place where hail storms and high winds are prevalent. Always remember to discuss with your agent whenever you take such a step. It might benefit you more if you discuss this with your agent first to get an idea of what discounts you can be given if you do this before you start off in the first place.

4. You should get a reasonable discount if you've being with an insurer for 3 years and above. Most carriers will give discounts once you keep your policy with them for 3 years and above. But notwithstanding the fact that you'll qualify for a loyalty discount if you stay put with the same insurer for 3 years and more, don't remain with an insurer that long just for that.

I can almost stick my neck out that you can get rates that are a lot less than what you're paying now. That is, if you know how to shop correctly. I suggest that you obtain quotes from insurers you have never obtained quotes from time to time.

5. The level to which you reinforce your roof could make you eligible for a discount. Take special note of this if you are in the East where high winds are more prevalent. If you want to know how to strengthen your roof and enjoy discounts for doing so, discuss with your agent. Fitting weighty shingles is a possible way of doing it.

Finally, don't forget this for any reason...

As you take these other steps to reduce your home rates, here's something you can do to start enjoying lower rates today. Visit good insurance quotes sites and request for quotes. Visit at least five of such sites for the best results. It's free, quick and easy. However, ensure you give your correct details as you fill the forms presented. The last step is to just pick the insurance company that gives you the best price/value from the quotes return. - 15224

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