The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers multiple financing options for veterans who want to buy a home. However, the VA does not offer homeowners insurance. During your home buying process, you'll also need to get homeowners insurance to protect your property. Here are some ways veterans can save on homeowners insurance:
Shop around
There are countless insurance providers for a good homeowners policy. It might seem overwhelming to choose, but the more research you do, the more you'll save. Make a list of your top choices and compare their rates and reviews. It's also worth asking other veterans, such as loved one or those you've served with, for recommendations of providers they're happy with.
Bundle policies
It's common for insurance providers to offer discounts for buying more than one policy. For example, if you already have car insurance, the same company might be able to offer you a homeowners policy at a discounted premium. Some providers may even discount both policies when you combine them. Investigate what providers offer for multiple policies before you buy.
Improve security
There are simple safety and security upgrades you can make to your home to potentially lower your homeowners insurance premium. Some examples of upgrades include adding dead bolt locks, security cameras, floodlights and carbon monoxide detectors. Providers may also offer discounts for homes with smart security systems to keep you and your property safe.
Opt for a higher deductible
If you don't mind a higher deductible on your policy, you may be able to get lower monthly rates on homeowners insurance. Most homeowners insurance policies have a deductible amount of $200 to $300. However, raising the deductible to anywhere between $500 and $1,000 can potentially save 20% or more. Each provider has different options for deductibles--some policies with no deductible at all--but it's worth investigating the benefits of choosing a higher deductible amount when shopping for a policy.
About the Author
Julie Pieczonka
Hi- I am Julie Pieczonka and I would love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I would be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
I am a retired fitness education and health education teacher. I decided to satisfy a long-time goal of mine and become a Realtor. This continues my desire to serve others and am so fortunate to have had amazing success. I served as an Ohio & Indiana Realtor, was a member of the Ohio Association of Realtor's President's Club 2015, 2016 & 2017; and a member of the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtor's Circle of Excellence Club 2015, 2016 & 2017. Realtor of the Year for Sellstate Platinum Realty in 2020.
My husband and I (and our two golden retrievers) have become permanent Florida residents as I acted as a referral agent only in Ohio and Indiana from 2018 through the present.
I am actively practice my love for Real Estate here in the Sunshine State.
I absolutely enjoy assisting my clients in one of the biggest decisions they will make in their lives —that's buying and selling real estate.
Cordially-
Your Active Agent,
Julie
