Is Home Insurance Paid Monthly or Yearly?

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When you buy insurance for your Rochester, MN home, you may wonder how often you’ll need to make payments. The answer is that many insurers will let you choose to pay monthly or yearly. This is a significant decision with multiple consequences.

Annually

Most insurance companies will charge you less per year if you pay on a yearly basis. They do this because they save money by processing only one payment rather than 12. Annual payments might also help you cut spending on postage and checks.

When you pay yearly premiums, you won’t need to spend as much time making or keeping track of payments. Fewer transactions result in a smaller risk of overdraft fees, record-keeping mistakes and lost or delayed payments. This helps to ensure that coverage remains in effect.

A yearly payment is sometimes the only option. Certain mortgage lenders demand that buyers prepay for a year’s worth of coverage when they purchase homes. If desired, owners can switch to monthly payments after the initial year.

Monthly

Nevertheless, there are also benefits to be gained from paying by the month. You won’t have to save up as much cash before obtaining or renewing coverage. It’s also easier to switch insurers at any time. There’s no need to request a large refund if you cancel mid-year.

If both options appeal to you, look for a compromise. Some insurers accept quarterly or semi-annual premiums from their customers. Safechoice Insurance Agency can help you find a company that provides suitable payment options.

Our Rochester, MN agency has offered affordable coverage and top-notch service to Minnesota residents for over a decade. We independently check rates from multiple insurers and identify the best options for our customers. To find home insurance that fits your budget, please contact Safechoice Insurance Agency by dialing 507-280-9282.
 

How Home Insurance Can Save Lives in Rochester

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Home insurance isn’t the fireman that will rescue your family from the flames, nor is it the policeman that will apprehend criminals before they do any harm to you. But that doesn’t mean that it’s not important when it comes to keeping everyone in a community safe. Safechoice Insurance Agency wants the citizens of Rochester, MN to learn more about its benefits. 

Preventing the Worst 

Home insurance is there for you when you have something unexpected come up. It may be able to fix structural damage or deformities in the house or yard that could eventually pose a threat to the safety of the family. If the foundation is damaged by a storm for instance, then you won’t be able to live there safely until its back to being stable again. But insurance also works in intangible ways as well. When thieves (or even kids who are just looking to cause trouble) see that homes look as though they were given the utmost care, then they may hesitate to conduct their affairs on that particular block. 

Finding the People Who Can Help 

Safechoice Insurance Agency understands the community of Rochester, MN, and the actions that each homeowner takes affects everyone. The more responsibility is infused into a neighborhood, the safer and more valuable it becomes. Home insurance saves lives, and it can help boost the value of the property as well, making it an even more worthwhile investment for you. And it all starts with you. If you’re looking for more information on how you can get a policy that will provide the best protection, then we’re here to make that dream a reality. See why it may be more affordable than you think when you give us a call today for a quote. 

Taking Care of Your Home the Correct Way

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When it comes to taking care of your home in Rochester, MN the correct way, there are several tips to keep in mind. From taking care of the lawn to cleaning out the gutters, keeping your home in pristine condition is essential to its overall value. Fortunately, one of the easiest ways to take proper care of your home is to keep an active home insurance policy on it. Here’s a quick look at three other tips you can follow to help ensure you’re taking care of your home the best way possible. 

#1: Sweep and Mop Behind Appliances

One of the dirtiest areas in a home is behind appliances. Whether it be a washer, dryer, refrigerator, or stove, the areas behind these appliances can get very dusty and dirty. And while they do not have to be moved on a weekly basis to be cleaned behind, it is ideal to move them and clean behind them at least once a month. In doing this, you will also notice how much easier it is to keep these areas clean because the dirt and grime will not build up so heavily behind them. 

#2: Clean the Windows

Cleaning your windows on a regular basis may or may not be an option. Window cleaning can require special equipment and supplies depending on how high they are and their shape. If you don’t know how or cannot clean the windows on your home yourself, you can always hire a professional window cleaning company to do the work for you. 

#3: Pressure Wash the Vinyl

Keeping your home pressure washed is key to keeping the exterior in tip-top condition. Once again, if you don’t know how to clean the exterior of your home (whether it be vinyl or brick), you can hire a professional cleaning company serving the Rochester, MN to do it for you. 

Contact Safechoice Insurance Agency today to learn more about home insurance in Rochester, MN today. 

 

What Should You Consider When Purchasing Home Insurance?

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You can’t predict the future, so it’s not easy to know how much home insurance you might need. The best thing to do is to work with an agent from Safechoice Insurance Agency for your homeowner’s coverage in the Rochester, MN area to help you plan for possible future events. They can help you sort through what to consider while you’re planning for your homeowner’s insurance coverage while staying within your budget. Here are some items for you to have in mind when you speak to an agent.

  • Deductibles – Higher deductibles will decrease your premium, but if something happens, you will need to pay that deductible.  Know how much of a deductible you are comfortable paying for an incident.
  •  Replacement Cost or Cash Value – Decide if you would like the cost of replacing your home or valuables without depreciation or if you would rather have the actual cash value after depreciation. 
  • Know Your Policy – Work with your agent, so you clearly know what is covered under your plan. For certain events, you may need a separate policy.
  • Discounts – You may be eligible for discounts, such as car and home insurance with the same company, installing an alarm system, or dead bolts.
  • Annually – Review your policy at least once a year with your agent to ensure you have adequate coverage.

Safechoice Insurance Agency

If your home is in the Rochester MN area, Safechoice Insurance Agency is an excellent insurance agency to work with to help you determine your coverage needs. A professional agent will take the time to explore your home insurance options. They will help you make policy decisions that will provide the coverage you need at a price that will fit your budget.  Contact us today to get started.

Is Collision Coverage Necessary?

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Most every state requires that drivers carry minimum auto insurance coverage to pay for injury or property damage to others in the event of an accident. Minimum coverage, however, won’t help you recuperate your losses if your car is damaged in an accident. By obtaining collision coverage from Safechoice Insurance Agency in Rochester, MN, you ensure your vehicle is protected in the event of an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Here are just a few ways collision insurance can be of benefit to Minnesota drivers.

Protection from Accidents You Cause 

Even careful drivers can find themselves involved in an accident that causes damage to their vehicle. With collision coverage, your insurer will pay for repairs to your vehicle, even if the accident was your fault. After you pay the deductible, your collision insurance will take care of the rest. If repair costs exceed the market value of your vehicle, your insurer may “total” the car and reimburse you for its market value, making it possible for you to replace your vehicle.  

Protection from Accidents Caused by Others

Collision coverage will protect you from accidents caused by other drivers by covering the cost of auto repairs without raising your premium. This way you don’t have to wait for the other driver’s insurance company to settle the claim. Your insurer will then seek reimbursement from the insurance carrier of the driver at fault of the accident.   

If you own a new or costly vehicle, it only makes sense to obtain collision coverage to protect your investment. Even older, reliable vehicles with high market value can benefit from what collision coverage has to offer. With collision coverage, you can have greater confidence that you are protected from accidents.  

At Safechoice Insurance Agency, Rochester, MN, we can help you make wise decisions concerning the auto insurance coverage you need. 

How to Prepare Your Home for Winter

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It can be easy to overlook the cold winter ahead while it’s warm and you’re still thinking about the fun times you had with all those cookouts and picnics. But whether we like to admit it or not, Old Man Winter is just around the corner, and especially in Rochester, MN! Here’s how you can prepare for his chilly visit with these tips from your friends at Safechoice Insurance Agency. 

Winter Tip #1: It’s never too early to start.

There’s a reason why the birds start flying south and the squirrels gather food long before it gets cold – if you start your prep when the first snow falls, it’s already too late. Act now to clear out your gutters and care for your yard, and you’ll have peace of mind when the weather outside is frightful.

Winter Tip#2: Give Your Furnace a well-deserved checkup.

Furnaces are an essential part of living out here in Minnesota. Take good care of your furnace, and it will take care of you! Keep the airways clean by changing your filter once a month, and have a professional inspect it for a clean bill of health. 

Winter Tip #3: A sealed-up home is a snuggly warm home.

You might have heard that sealing up the cracks in your home saves a lot on the energy bill, but did you know that it blocks out moisture, too? A home kept dry prevents a multitude of problems that include costly structural damage. 

Ready, Set, Prep!

Get ahead of Old Man Winter this year by prepping your home now. If you have any questions about winter-related damages with your home insurance in Rochester, MN, our staff at Safechoice Insurance Agency is here to help. Thanks for reading!

What You Should Know About Auto Insurance and the Law in Minnesota

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Auto insurance does vary from state to state, which can make things a bit confusing if something happens out of town or if you move around a lot. Learn more about what you have to consider if you live in Rochester, MN. Safechoice Insurance Agency wants you to have the facts first. 

State Minimums 

Each state has set out their own minimums when it comes to staying legal. This means that if you want to get the bare minimum, you’re capped off at a certain amount. In New Hampshire, you’re not even required to buy auto insurance, making it unfortunate if you’re hit by someone from that state. In Minnesota, you need to have at least $30,000 worth of coverage for bodily injury, $10,000 for physical property and $60,000 limit for each incident. This is one of the higher minimums, meaning you likely won’t need to pay anything out of pocket. 

Understanding the Law 

Staying legal isn’t just about minimums though, it’s about thinking ahead. What happens if someone hits you and they’re uninsured? Do you have the time or the money to either go through litigation or to fix your car on your own? Most people who sue uninsured motorists are unable to recover anything, so this is a major concern. You may need additional coverage and not even know it. Safechoice Insurance Agency can help you make better choices when it comes to staying safe on the road. It’s tempting to go with the cheapest policy, but that choice can end up costing you more than you ever could have imagined. Call us today if you live in Rochester, MN and want to have your questions answered or if you need a quote. 

 

Signs Your Roof Has Been Damaged By Hail

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There are certain types of roof damage that is not covered by homeowner’s insurance. However, hail damage is typically covered in Rochester, MN. Following a hail storm, it is important to know what the signs are that indicate your roof was damaged. This will help you know when to get repairs made or file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Here are a few of the signs that your roof may have been damaged by hail.

Dents

The number one sign of damage to your roof by hail is dents and dings in the roofing material. Typically, there is no discernible pattern to the dents, as hail falls whereever it likes. Unfortunately, these dents and dings can cause water to pool on the roof or lead to weak spots that can crack or break over time. If you see obvious dents or dings on the roof after a hail storm, you should call in a professional to determine the extend of the damage.

Damage to the Metal on Your Roof

Another sign that your roof was damaged by hail is damage to the metal parts of your roof. This may include gutters and flashing. These materials may be dented, but they may also be twisted or lifted and falling off. If the metal looks off after a hail storm, it’s time for roof repair.

Soft Spots in the Roof

The last sign that you need repair after a hail storm is soft spots in a roof. The hail may have caused a soft spot in the materials under the roof. Unfortunately, this is hard to see or feel unless you are a professional. That’s why it is recommended that you call in a professional after large or lengthy hail storms.

Unfortunately, you can’t prevent hail damage to a roof. But you can ensure that your home and roof are fully covered if a large hail storm comes into town. Safechoice Insurance Agency, serving the greater Rochester, MN area, would love to help you put together a homeowner’s insurance policy that fully protects your home, at a price you can afford. Give us a call today to talk about your insurance options or to receive a free quote.

Why Auto Insurance is Particularly Important in Rochester, MN

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If you live in Rochester, MN, and you are the owner of a motor vehicle, you should know that auto insurance is very important. In fact, it is required if you drive a vehicle. In Minnesota, it is particularly important that you have auto insurance coverage, because of the harsh winters that can affect your driving.

During the winter months, it is a very good idea to have roadside assistance in addition to the policy you normally have. Slide offs happen more often when the roads are icy and being stuck in a ditch, it can be great to have roadside assistance available to come and rescue you and your passengers. You can actually end up saving money this way, as you will be paying for the relatively inexpensive roadside assistance instead of having to pay expensive bills to have your car towed. Also, accidents are more likely when the roads are slippery, so it helps to have auto insurance even more than it does during the other times of the year. They are more likely to end up actually getting use out of their auto insurance coverage in the winter when accidents are more likely, as are damage and injuries. Comprehensive coverage will help you a great deal by protecting you against the higher risk of collisions and potential storm damage during the winters in this state. It is always important to have auto insurance coverage, as there is always a risk that an unexpected crisis situation could take place. However, you are more likely to benefit from this protection in the winter, due to all of the added risks that are present at this time of the year.

If you are interested in knowing more about auto insurance in the city of Rochester, MN, you should consider contacting Safechoice Insurance Agency. The agents at Safechoice Insurance Agency can answer any questions you might have and give you any information you need about how important auto insurance is for you as a resident of the state of Minnesota.

Five Fall Home Maintenance Tips

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To keep your home warm and safe this fall season, take the time out to do regular maintenance. Following these five tips will keep your property in peak condition through the winter months.

Unclog Those Gutters

Clogged gutters can be a huge headache for homeowners. After a storm blows through, take the time to remove the branches, leaves and other debris that has become trapped inside the gutter. Flush water through the gutter once cleared out. Tired of regularly inspecting the gutters for debris? Then, consider installing gutter guards to reduce clogs.

Stay Warm and Toasty

The heating systems within your home will need to be inspected and serviced as needed. Improper care and maintenance of your wood-burning fireplace and furnace not only decreases efficiency, but also increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Rid the House of Roof Problems

The snow and ice from winter weather can be brutal on a roof. To prevent a major leak from springing, inspect the roof for issues. Replace any shingles that are broken or curling. If there are major signs of damage, a brand new roof may be in order. Check the metal flashing around chimneys and vents too for signs of damage.

Prevent Drafts

Get rid of any drafts in the home by sealing any cracks around windows and doors. Caulk around the openings or replace weather stripping. Add more insulation to reduce heating costs to the home.

Prep the Plumbing

Prevent freezing pipes by draining outdoor water sources and turning off the shut-off valves. The fall is also a good time of year to drain your water heater and flush out the system to improve how well the water heater runs during the winter. 

Contact an independent insurance agent through Safechoice Insurance Agency about how keeping up with your property’s maintenance can affect your home insurance rates. The agency serves Rochester, MN and surrounding areas.