Power outages range from inconvenient to potentially dangerous. A home generator offers peace of mind by keeping the lights on, maintaining heating and cooling, and preserving food until power is restored. Here are nine key reasons to consider adding a generator to your home. The Weather The majority of power outages are caused by weather. As the likelihood of extreme weather [...]
Fireplaces bring a delightful and cozy touch to our homes, which is especially appreciated during the harsh winter days. However, having a fireplace also entails responsibility. It's crucial not to attempt DIY projects here – always rely on a professional to inspect and maintain your fireplace. Here are some essential tips to ensure your fireplace remains both safe and snug. [...]
If you're a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are several things you can do to winterize your vacant home. Taking the right precautions can help protect your home from theft, water damage, heating or electrical malfunctions, and other potential threats while you're away for an extended period. #1 make sure your home doesn’t look unoccupied Forward your mail, [...]
Frozen pipes present an invisible threat, one that you might not recognize until the weather warms up. If you suspect pipes in your home have been exposed to freezing temperatures, or water is not flowing through a faucet normally, follow these steps to help reduce the potential for water damage. What to do if You Have a Frozen Pipe [...]
Frozen pipes in winter can be every homeowner's nightmare. While we can't control nature, there are easy steps you can take to reduce the risk of damage during a Midwest deep freeze. Before Winter Check water pipes located in unheated or poorly insulated areas around your home, including the basement, attic, crawl space, garage, and within cabinets containing plumbing. [...]
A recent Wall Street Journal article stated that, according to Edmunds, used-car prices have dropped in part because there is now a greater supply of all vehicles on the market. This means buyers could save a record $20,000, on average, by choosing used over new. It's important to remember monthly payments are just part of the expense of owning a [...]
Do you know the advantages and disadvantages of 15-year and 30-year mortgages? Each has a unique set of benefits that may be better suited to your personal situation. Home insurance and PMI are different entities and can be confusing, especially for first time home buyers. Feel free to call or email us if you ever have any questions: (630) [...]
You may be thinking, "I live in the Midwest. Hurricanes don't impact me." But the truth is, any hurricane that causes damage in the United States has the potential to impact your insurance premiums. Here's How Hurricanes Impact Your Insurance Rates: Home prices are more expensive these days. The inflationary surge means the cost of rebuilding homes has also [...]
The weather is changing, and losses increase in the fall and winter. If you experience an auto or property loss and are not sure what to do, call us before you file a claim with the insurance company. Questions You May Have: What are my coverages? What is my deductible? Will my premium increase if I file a claim? [...]