2torial #0790:
Learn2 Shop for Home Owner's Insurance

Safe at home

As unpleasant as they may be to think about, accidents do happen--houses get robbed, roofs collapse under the weight of snow, visitors slip and fall, and tree branches break windows. Odds are you'll be one of the lucky home owners who only has to file a minor claim once a decade. Still, a good insurance policy can help you feel safe and secure in your own home--and in the event something unexpected does happen, you'll feel better knowing you're covered.

By shopping around and doing some easy preliminary research, you'll increase your chances of finding a policy that provides the greatest security for you and your family. We'll show you what to look for, what to ask, and what to avoid.

Before you decide to purchase anything, research the area where your house is to determine what types of situations you'll have to insure against. For instance, is the house in a neighborhood prone to high rates of vandalism and theft? Have severe weather conditions, like snow and rain storms, hurricanes, or tornadoes, been an issue for your neighbors? How about fires, earthquakes, or mud slides?

Speaking with your neighbors about these things will give you a tremendous jump-start on knowing what type of insurance you'll need to buy--and maybe even how much you'll have to spend.