It’s a really common mistake and one that can cost a homeowner a ton of money in the event of a total loss to their home. Homeowners across the country see their property values dropping and assume that it’s a good time to lower their home insurance coverage. The problem with this is that your insurance covers the replacement cost of your home NOT the market value.

The replacement cost and the market value of your home are two very different things. The market value of your home is the price it would sell for in the current real estate market and includes the value of the land that the home sits on. On the other hand, the replacement cost of your home only includes the structure of your home (no land) and is calculated based on current construction rates in your area (amongst other things).

This misconception is even more dangerous now because while home values have dropped significantly over the past few years, construction costs have increased. This has many homeowners believing they are adequately insured while they are actually under-insured.

How to estimate your insurance coverage:

1- For a rough estimate on how much dwelling coverage your home may need you can use an estimator such as this home insurance calculator. It will use average construction costs in your area and the square footage of your home to provide an approximate coverage for your home. This tool only provides an estimate on coverage and should not be used as a true figure when purchasing a policy.

2- For a more exact idea about how much dwelling coverage you need, you should talk to a licensed homeowners insurance agent. They will ask you about the various features of your home including building style, building materials, finished square footage, etc. to give you an estimated replacement value for your property.

3- Last but not least, make sure to review the coverage listed in your policy at least once a year or anytime you make any updates or significant renovations to your home. It’s important to do this as building costs can inflate and the replacement cost of your home may increase when you perform renovations and additions.

Source: http://homeinsurance.com/blog/2012/01/06/why-you-shouldnt-lower-your-home-insurance-coverage-when-your-home-value-drops/

 

4 Comments on Why you shouldn't lower your home insurance coverage when your home value drops

JAN
09
2012
698,000 Points 15 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Bookmarked.  I realize that replacement costs are tied to the homeowners insurance, but I was unable to find any calculators.  Thanks.  
1:30pm • #1
229,175 Points Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Rolando -- and we in the Mortgage industry do not necessarily help some of our clients as we should, when we only require them to carry insurance to cover the mortgage (even if the cost to replace the home is considerably higher.)
2:14pm • #2

Here is a link to the home insurance calculator: http://homeinsurance.com/calculators/home-insurance-calculator.php

 
Roalndo
3:03pm • #3
406,262 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog Called Shot Master

 

Thanks for sharing this insurance information; good timing as people look for ways to cut expenses they may not be aware of the difference bet market value and replacement cost.  Thanks again and have a good day.
3:34pm • #4


What does the graphic say?
Leave a response…

(optional)
Spam Prevention:
 
Copy_of_rt_agent_picture_4x5_new Rainmaker_large

Rolando Trentini

Evansville, IN

More about me…

F.C.TuckerEmge Realtors, LLC

Address: 7820 Eagle Crest Blvd., Evansville, IN, 47715

Office Phone: (812) 479-0801

Cell Phone: (812) 499-9234

Email Me

About Me The Trentini Team of F.C. Tucker EMGE REALTORS® provides exceptional service to each of their clients as they help them to achieve their real estate goals. With their knowledge, experience and background, both Kathy and Rolando bring one-of-a-kind perspectives to the table during all of their real estate transactions. Their excellent communication skills combined with their passion for real estate allows The Trentini Team to follow through every time with the highest level of service possible. Rolando and Kathy are your premier Evansville and Newburgh, Indiana real estate source. They can help you buy your dream home or sell your current home for the best price possible. To learn more about what The Trentini Team can do you for you, contact us today!


Listings

Links

Archives

RSS 2.0 Feed for this blog