How do you go about getting it? I've learned in Texas there are apparently 3 types of standardized policies I guess (correct me if I'm wrong) : HO-A, HO-B, and HO-C. So do I just call insurance people up and say "Say, how much for your HO's?" Anything I should specifically look for? Can you say I want HO-C and add some more coverage? What's the best way to go about this? I already know my car insurance company doesn't do homeowners insurance in the state, so I have to find someone else. Anywho - any help is much appreciated.
Ironically, I learned a little, very little, about this this week from a friend who is a P/C agent here in NC. Do you live in a home in which you are obliged to be a member of a homeowner's association? That can have an impact on the type of policy that you should get. I won't venture too much on this because I live in a different state, but I think that would be one thing to be on the lookout for.
Man its a pain in the rear. I helped my dad go through this and there are a bunch of variantions to the 3 you mentioned. I think they have a HO-B+, etc. I know the allstate one is supposed to be pretty bad. We were debating switching to it from State Farm, but the agent showed us we would lose quite a bit of coverage going from our HO-A to the HO-B+. (I might be off on the lettering). Have an agent at 2-3 firms explain you the policy. One faxed us a comparison that was helpful.
DoD, Use an insurance broker. They are probably your best bet on getting a good rate. I have contacts if you are interested.
Once you get a Homeowners policy, I would go ahead and switch your car insurance to the same company as well. They usually give you a discount if you do that.
Ditto. Did that already when I got my house. I had to call around insurance places like State Farm, Allstate, Farmers, Travelers, etc. If you have your car insurance w/ someone now, try to see if there is a discount if you get home insurance w/ them also.
Be very careful whom you get it from. There's a big conflict between many of the companies and the state insurrance board. A couple of companies have stopped selling insurance in the state, and several have threatened to pull out, or have reduced their offerings. As a result, there is a big spread in price, service, and availability between agents. If you've just purchaced, ask your realtor, otherwise, I suggest you shop around quite a bit.
If you're in Texas I suggest giving Germania a call. I found them to be the most affordable and it's a reputable company based in Brenham. They've been good to me.
