Is My Bicycle Covered By Insurance?

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Determining whether your bicycle is covered by your insurance depends on the type of policy you have and the coverage it offers.

Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, auto insurance, specialized bicycle insurance, and other specific insurance options are worth exploring to safeguard your bicycle against theft, damage, and accidents. However, it’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of your policy, understand the coverage limits, and fulfill any requirements to ensure you have the necessary protection for your valued mode of transportation.

Some insurance carriers have come out with specialized insurance policies just for electric bikes. Because Ebikes are typically more expensive than traditional bicycles, they warrant additional insurance protection.

The best way to avoid a loss of course is to avoid it being stolen altogether. Some safety tips for keeping your bike safe include:

  • Invest in a quality lock.
  • Secure both wheels and your frame.
  • Keep your bike in a highly visible area avoiding isolated or remote locations.
  • Don’t keep your bike out overnight.
  • Get an insurance policy
  • Register your bike with the National Bike Registry.

According to the National Bike Registry, 1.5 million bicycles are stolen each year. With college campuses being the biggest source of bicycle theft, it would be great if there was a way to protect your investment that was quick and easy. The good news is that more than 48% of bicycles that are stolen are recovered, but of those, only 5% are able to be identified and returned to their owners.

The National Bike Registry and 529 Garage have partnered to create a database to track and store bicycle VIN numbers. Not only can you register your bike, but you can search their database for recovered bicycles in an effort to get yours back.

Bicycle theft is a rampant problem in the US and unless you want to submit a homeowner claim (please talk to your licensed insurance agent prior) you likely won’t see you bicycle again or be able to recover your losses. Bicycles are likely covered under your home, renters or condo insurance policy with your insurance carrier.

Register your bicycle today and rest assured that your bicycle is better protected and more likely to be returned in the event of being stolen.

Contact an agent in our office to discuss insurance options for you bike. Typically all bicycles can be insured but with all insurance options, it is a cost benefit calculation.

Secure Your Peace of Mind: 12 Items to Store in a Home Safe

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Important Items to Store in Your Home SafeIf you haven’t already, now is the time to consider purchasing a home safe. Beyond protecting your valuables and family heirlooms from theft, a home safe also provides a secure place for important documents. It’s worth becomes immeasurable when unexpected events like home fires or burglaries occur. By keeping your documents and valuables safely stored, you can mitigate potential losses and maintain peace of mind. The benefits alone should be enough to motivate you to invest in a home safe.

When choosing a location for your home safe, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Select a safe that is heavy enough to deter burglars from easily walking away with it. Whenever possible, bolt the safe to the floor or install it securely into a wall. Unless you access it daily, consider storing it in a discreet location in your home.

Convenience is important to ensure you make regular use of it. Additionally, consider the size and weight of the safe. Heavier safes that require a hand truck to move should be placed on the ground floor, while those that can be carried by a couple of people can be positioned on the second floor. If fire protection is a priority, try to place your safe on a cement slab.

Now, let’s discuss twelve items that you should store in your home safe:

  • Passports, original birth certificates, marriage/divorce papers, and social security cards
  • Cash
  • Wills or other essential legal documents
  • Valuable watches or jewelry
  • SD cards, important computer backup discs, or other vital electronics that you don’t use regularly
  • Annual tax returns
  • Small firearms
  • Spare car keys and titles for all vehicles
  • Important papers related to bank accounts, retirement, or other investments

Investing in a home safe today can prevent future headaches and safeguard your most valuable possessions.

While owning a safe is crucial, it is equally important to have the right home insurance policy. For any insurance-related questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the knowledgeable insurance agents at our agency. With our years of experience, we will assist you in finding the best coverage to suit your specific needs.

Maximize Your Home’s Value Before You Sell

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Tips to Maximize Your Home's Value When It it Time to SellSelling your home can be a significant endeavor, requiring careful preparation and attention to detail. Often, homeowners neglect certain repairs that may not bother them but could dissuade potential buyers or raise concerns during home inspections.

To ensure you fetch the top dollar for your property and avoid unexpected last-minute repairs, follow these essential steps when preparing to sell your home.

  • Address major and noticeable repairs: Take a thorough look at your home and identify any significant repairs that need attention. Do you have sagging gutters or peeling house paint? These repairs can be relatively inexpensive but greatly enhance your home’s appeal. Attend to small items that can easily be fixed, leaving a positive impression on potential buyers.
  • Complete unfinished remodeling projects: If you’ve had a long-standing unfinished remodeling project, now is the time to wrap it up. For instance, replacing an outdated, single-paned aluminum slider door with an energy-efficient vinyl one gives your home a polished and completed look. Most home buyers prefer a move-in ready property and are hesitant to take on additional projects.
  • Declutter your home: Many of us accumulate various collections over time, such as antiques, glasses, toys, or DVDs. Additionally, personal photographs and memorabilia adorn our walls. To help buyers envision themselves in your home, pack away these items and create a clean, neutral environment. Minimizing personal touches allows potential buyers to see the space more objectively.
  • Thoroughly clean your home: A clean home showcases its best features. Dust all surfaces, including the tops of furniture, window sills, and refrigerator. Neatly organize clothes in closets and dressers. For a small fee, you can even hire a professional cleaning company to give your home a top-to-bottom cleaning, ensuring it shines and maximizes its selling potential.
  • Enhance your curb appeal with color: First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone. While most of your time is spent indoors, potential buyers will judge your property based on its curb appeal. Consider adding potted plants or colorful flowers to the exterior to create an inviting atmosphere. If landscaping isn’t your strong suit, a vibrant potted plant next to the front door can make a significant impact.
  • Seek honest advice from your realtor: Your real estate agent’s goal is to help you achieve the highest possible sale price. Take advantage of their expertise by requesting a walkthrough of your home, where they can provide constructive feedback. Their fresh perspective can offer valuable insights into improvements that could enhance the overall appearance and appeal of your property. Remember, their suggestions are not personal but aimed at optimizing your selling success.

As you embark on this new chapter of selling your home, it’s essential to consider your future housing needs. We can assist you by providing quotes for property insurance, including coverage for earthquakes and floods. Whether you plan to rent or move into a condominium, we also offer renters and condo insurance options to safeguard your new living arrangements.

By following these steps and partnering with us for your insurance needs, you can navigate the selling process with confidence, ensuring a smooth transition to your next home.