Graduation season is winding down, and as a recent graduate, you may be considering moving out on your own. When it is time for us to leave our parents house, most of us choose to rent rather than buy. Whether you choose an apartment, condo, or any kind of rental home, it is important to make sure that you are protected. If something gets stolen from your place, and you think that your landlord will cover it- guess again. Landlord's policies almost never insure their renter's actual possessions. The only way to truly make sure that you, and your hard-earned possessions will be taken care of is to invest in a renters policy.
If anything should happen in the home you are renting, a renters policy will defray costs associated with damages. Although your landlord probably has coverage for the building that they own, that coverage does not extend to your personal property. No one is invincible. Theft and accidents can happen to anyone. You are the only one who is responsible for protecting your assets.
If you are currently renting, and don't have renters insurance, you should start looking for a policy today. W.T. Flynn Insurance can help you shop for your new policy, and can search the country to find you a great rate. Visit our Virtual Insurance Office today to learn more about your options, and to get a free online renters insurance quote.
Massachusetts gas prices are beginning to climb again, bringing back memories of when prices waivered around $4.00 per gallon earlier in the year. Increases earlier in the week of a nickel or so pushed prices above $2.00 a gallon.
The continually rising gas prices, coupled with our current economic woes, are reawaking the need for Americans to conserve their energy. When gas was really expensive earlier in the year, many opted to walk or rely on public transportation to keep their costs low. Additionally, interest in hybrid cars boomed when gas prices were high, spurring many to think twice about hopping in their gas guzzling SUVs.
There are a variety of things you can do to cut down your car costs. Keeping up with routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations will help stop the effects of normal wear and tear. Keeping your tires properly inflated will also help your car run stronger for longer- and use less gas.
You may already know of the above tips to cut down your car costs- but did you know that it may be possible for you to save money on your auto insurance as well? If you have shopped around for a new policy in a while, you may be missing out. And if you feel like you don't have time to shop around for a new policy, consider contacting an independent agent. An independent agency, like WT. Flynn Insurance, can shop the top carriers in the country to save you money. Visit their Virtual Insurance Office right now to learn more about your Massachusetts Auto Insurance options or get a free online quote.
Now that the President has been in office for 100 days, and has started to implement his policies, it’s time to look ahead. We know that President Obama has urged the American people to consider renewable energy sources- but how does our President plan to move Americans toward hybrid cars and alternative fuel sources for vehicles.
Even before President Obama was elected and the Democrats took control of the House and Senate, the move toward plug-in hybrid vehicles and green energy was a bi-partisan plan agreed upon by the majority of both parties. In October of 2008, the $700 million bailout plan passed the Senate, and included a tax credit for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. To further push hybrid power and to lead by example, President Obama is planning to convert the entire White House fleet of cars to plug-in hybrids.
President Obama has long been a proponent of plug-in hybrids. In 2007, the former Senator, along with his colleagues, introduced a bill which urged for the use and development of plug-in hybrid cars and other electric vehicles. Obama wants 1 million hybrid cars on the road by 2015, and has plans to increase the fuel economy of vehicles by 4 percent each year. He is also intends on increasing the tax credits issued to hybrid drivers and pushing domestic auto producers like Ford and GM to focus on hybrid energy. Eventually, our President would like hybrid vehicles to achieve 150 miles a gallon and wants to offer those Americans who purchase them a $7000 tax credit.
With the state of the economy, the emergence of a possible pandemic, and the threat of terrorism, renewable energy seems to have been pushed to the backburner. But, based on the eve of President Obama’s hundredth day in office on April 29, 2009, he made it clear that renewable energy is still of huge importance to him and this country:
” And so, you know, we've got to strike a balance. I don't want to be -- I'm not an auto engineer. I don't know how to create an affordable, well-designed plug-in hybrid. But I know that, if the Japanese can design an affordable, well-designed hybrid, then, doggone it, the American people should be able to do the same… I just want to help them get there.”
If you have recently purchased a hybrid car, you should take the necessary steps to properly insure it. WT Flynn is an independent insurance agency serving Massachusetts who would be happy to tell you about your options. You can visit our Virtual Insurance Office right now to learn more, or to get a free Massachusetts auto insurance quote.
It’s a common question these days- with people having more expenses than their incomes can satisfy. A good place to look when you are looking to save money is at your auto insurance. Before thinking about slashing your coverage to pieces, there are other ways you can cut back. Although you don't want to eliminate the protection you have with uninsured/underinsured motorist and comprehensive or collision coverage unless there's no choice, you still have options.
A few simple tips on how to remain protected but save:
Make sure you're getting all of the discounts you're eligible for- but don’t slash your policy limits. It is too risky to completely cut your auto policy down to the bare minimum.
Compare auto insurance rates from other companies to see if you're paying more than you have to for the same coverage. Rates can vary considerably from one company to the next, so investing a little time in comparing quotes might pay big dividends in savings.
Insure your car against damage, even if you have to increase the deductibles. Unless you can afford to pay cash to replace your car, try to keep it insured for comprehensive and collision. Comprehensive in particular is relatively inexpensive, especially if you have an older car model.
Always buy Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists coverage. With more uninsured drivers on the road, this type of coverage gives you low-cost protection from unnecessary risk.
Divorce rates rise every year. With nearly half of all marriages failing, divorce is an unfortunate- but very real- event in many people’s lives. When a divorce happens, couples face the troubling task of separating both emotionally and financially. Legal and financial advice will be critical to divorcing couples- especially ones with children. Additionally, divorce can also have a significant impact on your credit, especially if you will be dividing shared debt or have expenses when starting over on your own. Paying close attention to your finances and credit will pay off hugely when you are trying to make a fresh start.
Often, when discussing and dividing finances, a jointly owned vehicle may play a role in the conversation. When a couple decides who will be keeping the car, a change in insurance will need to happen. With a change of insurance, the new sole owner will have to let the insurance company know of other changes, including a change in address, who will be driving the car, and any type or amount of driving that will be done. A change in the aforementioned details could have a large impact on your insurance premium. If a member of the former couple needs to purchase a new car, a new insurance policy will have to be purchased to cover it in order for the car to get registered.
Although divorce is an extremely difficult time, getting your auto insurance in order will help to save you from some of your heartache. If you’re searching for auto insurance advice, or are in the market for a new policy, take a look into W.T. Flynn Insurance. With our Virtual Insurance Office, W.T. Flynn Insurance can walk you through the insurance shopping process and answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Visit our site at www.wtflynn.com or call us at 1.800.763.8039 to learn about your coverage options, or to get a free quote on auto insurance.
When your commercial vehicles are out of commission, it is more than just an inconvenience for your business- it’s lost profit.
Protecting your fleet of business vehicles and the people who drive them is important for your company's reputation and future goals. A company can go into financial ruin from one lawsuit. With a commercial auto insurance policy, your cars, trucks, and other vehicles can be back on the road quickly if they are ever involved in an accident.
Commercial auto insurance is more than just a tool to help businesses comply with state regulations. A good commercial auto policy will help legitimize and secure your company by assuring employees they are covered in the event of an accident and protecting you if you or your employees are faced with possible legal actions.
Whether you own a small business with just one car or a company with several hundred vehicles that are used for heavy labor, purchasing commercial auto insurance is a necessity.
W.T Flynn wants to make your insurance search as simple and painless as possible. Since most states in the US have mandatory coverage requirements for business vehicles, it is important that you purchase a policy. W.T. Flynn will walk you through your coverage options, ensuring that you choose a coverage that fits the unique needs of your business and falls within your particular state's guidelines.
Most people know what to do during a fire, but what about what NOT to do? You'd be surprised to hear the mistakes that many people make. Here are the top ten:
Going back inside for something. Photo albums? Your laptop? Your leather jacket? Leave them - it's not worth suffering third-degree burns or even more serious damage.
Not getting out as soon as possible. Fire spreads quickly, so it's vital to get out as soon as you can. Many people panic and "freeze" for a few moments, or try to look around for things to save.
Not crawling. If there's already a lot of smoke, you should crawl - not just stay low.
Trying to fight the flames. The idea pops into some peoples' heads that they can beat the fire out with wet towels or their little fire extinguisher. Unless you're a trained fire fighter, don't try - just get out.
Forgetting to test doors for heat before opening them. Check the doorknob first! If it's hot, look for other ways to get out.
Attempting to use the elevator. Always take the stairs.
Believing that smoke isn't as harmful as flames. In some cases, it's worse.
Looking around for items to save. Just try to get out - don't worry about your things.
Believing that it's safe to hide in bathrooms or closets. Never try to hide from a fire. You could end up being trapped.
Not calling 911 immediately. Many people panic or become confused and forget to call 911. Or, they remember, but they try to get the number for the fire department. Just call 911 and give the operator your information.
We hope this list of what NOT to do in a fire is just as useful as any tips on what TO do. For more information on fire insurance and safety, contact us today. We're WT Flynn Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Framingham, Massachusetts.
Anyone who is used to apartment living knows the score: neighbors can be a pain. We cannot choose our neighbors, that’s for sure, and sometimes we get stuck with some real characters. Here are a few of the types we’ve come across, and how to deal with them:
The Talker.
It’s gotten to the point where you’re afraid to walk the dog, check the mail, or step outside for a cigarette. If you do, you’ll be out there for an hour talking to…the neighbor. Let’s face it: some people are so talkative or lonely that they will look for anything to talk about, and they can discuss it for hours. The best way to deal with them? Whatever you’re doing, just keep on walking! If the neighbor spots you lighting a cigarette or bumps into you in the laundry room, simply explain that you have to get back inside. Your dinner is burning, your kids are alone, your spouse is sick – whatever!
The Borrower.
“Hi, sorry to bother you. I’m making a pie and I just need four spoons of sugar. It’s such a small amount that I hate to run out to the store just for that. Do you have any?”
“Sorry, do you happen to have a spare lightbulb? Ours just blew and you know how it is.”
“Me again. Can we borrow your vacuum today?”
Sometimes you just want to yell at these people, “GET YOUR OWN STUFF!!!” The problem is, if you’re at all polite, you can easily become a pushover when it comes to that neighbor who just can’t stop borrowing things. Here’s how to deal: The next time this borrowing neighbor asks to use something, very politely tell them that you need it back immediately, preferably that same day or night. If the neighbor agrees and it seems like you’re not going to get it back same-day, simply go over and retrieve it yourself. Don’t be rude; just take back what is yours. They’ll get the hint.
The Visitor.
Knock-knock-knock.
Uh-oh…it’s the neighbor again. Whether it’s a lonely housewife who likes to crochet while talking to you, a teenager who loves your new Xbox, or the couple who are just thrilled that you’re another young couple who lives just a few doors over, many renters experience those neighbors who just invite themselves right on over. You can’t pretend to not be home forever. A good way to deal with neighbors like these are to gently expain that you’re busy at the moment, and could you set up a date to visit instead? If they’re sane, they will understand and most likely leave you be.
The Favor-Asker.
“Can you watch my toddler for just an hour? I have class.”
“Can you walk our dog while we’re on our cruise?”
“Can you grab our mail while we’re out of town?”
Ugh! If it’s something you don’t mind, like checking their mail, fine. If the favors begin to eat into your time, nip it in the bud. If you do a favor and then they ask again, explain that it was okay the first time, but you really don’t want it to become a regular thing. They will get the hint.
The Noisemakers.
There’s nothing like the boom-boom-boom of a stereo at 4 a.m. when you have to get up for work at 7 a.m. Or what about the neighbors who sleep with their TV on? Or the couple who constantly get into screaming matches, or the guy who likes to sing loudly in the shower, or the old lady with the tiny barking dog? Being comfortable and satisfied inside your own home is your right. The only way to deal with the noise is to straightforwardly address it. Go to the neighbor and very politely explain to them that their music, TV, dog, fights, singing, or whatever else is keeping you awake or bothering you. Most neighbors will apologize and be more careful. If that’s not the case, then you should report them to your complex’s authorities. Don’t be afraid of the confrontation – after all, it’s your home.
The Psycho.
Once in awhile, there will be that crazy neighbor who marches to your door and complains about you being noisy. He or she insists that you’re keeping them awake or bothering them. They are angry most of the time, but sometimes not. You’re surprised because you think of yourself as actually kind of quiet.
What do you do?
First off, REALLY think about it. Could you unwittingly be making lots of noise? Ask yourself if you’re playing music, watching TV too loudly, having loud guests over, or wearing high heels after 9 p.m. Does your washer/dryer, shower/tub, or dishwasher make lots of noise? Consider everything and anything that could prove them right. If you find something, then you should stop. If you rack your brain and cannot come up with an answer, explain to the neighbor that you honestly are being quiet. (I once had a neighbor who told me if I didn’t shut my dog up, he would shoot it. I did not have a dog or any other pet.) If the neighbor persists, take the matter up with your complex’s authorities.
For more information on renting and renters insurance, contact us. We’re WT Flynn, an independent insurance agency based in Framingham, Massachusetts.
America is made up of lawsuits. Every day, you can read about some crazy situation where someone, somewhere has sued another person for something wild, like a beer ad not being realistic, or a TV show upsetting a watcher’s stomach. Other times, the lawsuits are completely grounded. Either way, in today’s America, it’s very likely that you’ll need umbrella insurance.
Umbrella insurance is a safety net for your home and auto insurance, and often other types of insurance. You may think that you’re fully covered simply by having a home insurance policy, but if you have a big house with lots of room for unusual accidents (like trampoline, pool, playground set, or hot tub, etc.), you should consider umbrella insurance. Even owning a snippy dog or a finicky cat could be cause to purchase umbrella coverage.
Umbrella insurance can cover many other things as well, even some things that people could find silly. As for the home and auto safety net, it jumps in to cover the amount above what your policies capped out, up to the limit you chose.
Umbrella coverage may seem unnecessary, but these days, you’d be surprised. We want to help you fully understand what your umbrella coverage will entail. To learn more about umbrella insurance, contact us today! We’re WT Flynn Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Framingham, Massachusetts.
It takes a dedicated person to remember to update their home insurance policy every two years. So many homeowners forget to. Then, when their home is abruptly damaged by a hurricane or someone breaks in and steals, they are panic-stricken when they dust off their old home insurance papers. Suddenly there is no insurance to cover the torn-apart garage that they built last year, and there’s no insurance to cover the brand-new entertainment center they got Dad last Christmas that was just stolen.
That’s why keeping your homeowners policy updated is such an important part of owning home insurance: your carrier will only reimburse you for the amount you’ve insured your home for. You must keep track of any additions, renovations, and general property value increases, as well as new possessions that you would want to be reimbursed for.
Have you built anything onto your home in the last couple of years, like a bonus room or a deck? Have you renovated a room? Did you finally get that set of Majesty Prestigio golf clubs you’ve been after? These are the types of things that call for an update on your policy. The value of your home could have also risen in the last few years.
As for inside your home, i.e., your personal possessions, you need to keep track of anything that you would want to be compensated for if it were to be damaged or stolen. A good time to do this is right after Christmas, when most people have recently been receiving lots of new items. You should go through your house with a video camera or regular camera and take video/photos of anything that you’d want to be reimbursed for, including clothes, DVDs, toys, etc. For a backup, you also need to write a yearly physical list with an estimated dollar value for each item.
You want to be sure you’ll receive all of the replacement cost that your home is worth. You don’t have to be in a sticky situation in the event of burglary or natural disaster. Keep your homeowners policy updated!
WT Flynn is an independent insurance agent in the Framingham, Massachusetts area. To find out more about Framingham, Ashland, Natick, and Wayland home insurance, contact them today.
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
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