Depending on the company you buy your policy from the price you pay for your homeowners insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars.
Here are some things to consider when buying homeowners insurance.

Shoping around, although time consuming, could save you a lot of money. Ask your friends, check the local Yellow Pages or contact your state insurance department. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (www.naic.org ) has information to help you choose an insurer in your state as well. Your home state may have information available on typical rates charged by major insurers.

Make sure to check consumer guides, local insurance agents and online insurance quote services. The insurer you select should not only offer a fair price but also deliver the quality service you will need if you should ever have to file a claim.

Choosing a higher deductible is another way to save money on your homeowners insurance premiums. Most insurance companies will recommend a minimum deductible of $500. Raising your deductible to $1,000 may save as much as 25 percent off your premiums. If you live in a disaster-prone area your policy may have a separate deductible for certain kinds of damage such as wind, hail, earthquakes etc.

Some companies that sell homeowners, auto and liability coverage will take 5 to 15 percent off your premium if you buy two or more policies from them. Make certain this combined price is lower than buying the different coverages from multiple companies.

Some other things to consider.

Items such as smoke detectors, burglar alarms and dead-bolt locks can usually save you at least 5 percent on your premiums.

If you’re at least 55 years old and retired, you may qualify for a discount of up to 10 percent at some companies.

Some employers and professional associations administer group insurance programs that may offer reduced rates.

Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs because insurers are increasingly using credit information to price homeowners insurance policies.

Some insurers will reduce your premiums by 5 percent if you stay with them for three to five years and more if you a steady customer for six years or more.

Live in an area close to a fire hydrant or in a community that has a professional rather than a volunteer fire department.

Homes with electrical, heating and plumbing systems that are less than 10 years old can also provide discounts.

Using the above guidelines when choosing a homeowners insurance provider will help you maximize your possible discounts and ensure you are getting the most coverage for the least cost.

About the Author

Michael Silva has been conducting business on the Internet for the past 9 years and has extensive knowledge in the areas of marketing, promotion, training and affiliate programs. You can find 1000’s of articles in our online library by visiting http://www.ahowtoguide.com