How do I choose a Life Insurance Plan that best fits my needs?

This question can best be answered by consultation with one of our insurance professionals.  There are a number of variable you will need to consider.  You can also find answers to this question by clicking on the Personal Lines button and selecting Life Insurance.  There you will find a description of some of our life insurance products.

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If I buy a condo, will I need homeowner's insurance?

Properties that fit into the condominium class are covered by policies provided by the contractor, building owner, or most commonly, the association.  The condominium is developed of a number of units owners in the building.  These owners, referred to as the condominium association , are assigned specific operational duties.  Members/Unit Owners vote on improvements, assessments, inclusions, restrictive covenants, utility cost, parking arrangements (if applicable), and use of common areas.  There is a fee assessed to cover the cost of all inclusions decided upon.  This fee applies mostly to the common areas, or space defined as outside of your internal walls.  It serves in your best interest, however, to obtain an owner's policy to cover all your personal possessions.  We will be delighted to schedule a consultation with you to discuss your specific insurance coverage needs.

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I'm starting a new business, what type of insurance coverage do I need?

There are so many possible answers to this question.  The first thing we will need to consider is the type of business you are starting.  All businesses are affected by federal, state, and some local laws and/or regulations.  This includes the requirement to obtain some form of insurance, whether your coverage is for vehicles, equipment, supplies, or public safety.  There are specific rules for employers and sole proprietors alike.  Once you decide how you want to operate, you will need to consult with us to talk about your coverage options. 

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How is my insurance affected if I own more than two properties?

There are a few options available to you as a property owner.  Once we assess your ownership status, we can customized coverage specifically for your properties.  One question we will ask is:  What "type" of properties do you own?  By type we mean; single family dwelling, two to four unit building, four or more unit building, etc.  Your insurance coverage is directly affected by the type of properties you own, along with a few other factors.  Your property could be of residential status or commercial status.  These are specifics we can address upon consultation.

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Is there a difference between homeowner's insurance and hazard insurance?

No there isn't.  I'm sure you've heard it referred to differently in different settings.  Frequently, this policy is addressed as hazard insurance by mortgage lenders.  It is the same policy.  Homeowner's insurance protects against specific hazards that can affect living conditions, property damage as specified by the policy, natural disasters (as specified by the policy), injuries occurring on or within your property (as specified by the policy), and a number of other conditions. 

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I frequently hear about homeowner's insurance, what's out there for renters?

Even if you do not own the building where you live, it is likely you have valuable personal items which would be expensive to replace if they are stolen or damaged by fire or some other cause. Also, you still have potential legal liability to someone who is injured on the property you occupy, even if you are not the property owner. A "Renters Policy" is essentially like a Homeowners Policy but you are not responsible for coverage for the building/structure. Because of this, Renters Policies usually cost far less than Homeowners Policies.  In some cities and regions, landlords require renters to obtain renter's insurance.  This is never a bad idea.  Whereas, you are not the property owner, you still own things of value which you will want to protect.
 

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What is gap insurance?

There are times when we think we our vehicle is fully covered…then an accident happens, and we're stuck with a car we can't drive and full responsibility for the finance payments.  It can be very tragic if you've only owned your car for six months, the value of the car plummeted the moment you drove off the lot, and the difference between the current value of the car and what you owe is significant.  This is a very good question to ask, this is something you definitely want to discuss during consultation.  One thing you want to consider when discussing gap insurance is the difference between leasing your vehicle and purchasing it.  Always, always, always consult with your insurance agent before buying or leasing anything.  Even if you buy a used car for cash, you are required by law to insure your vehicle.  We can guide you smoothly through the process.

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What type of insurance should I buy for my car?

This is definitely a question for consultation.  We have provided information explaining types of coverage for automobiles, but the decision remains completely with you.  When considering car insurance, you might want to keep a few questions in mind.  Who will be riding in your car?  Will you be driving during very busy hours on very busy roads?  Will you drive your car consistently or every now and then?  Will there be other licensed drivers using your car?  What is the age of your car?  How is your driving record?  You can follow the hyperlink provided within the text of this paragraph.  However, we can better help you once we've covered some basic questions with you.

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