Need new services for your home? Maybe it's because you're moving, or maybe you're tired of your existing service provider, or maybe you want to save money. Regardless of the reason, it’s time to do some shopping.
But where do you start? What do you look for in each provider? What do you need? Consider the following:
Home Insurance
Getting your home insured and under warranty are important steps to home ownership. First, keep in mind these terms when shopping:
Ø Dwelling coverage limit – This is the amount a carrier thinks your home would cost to rebuild from the ground up. It can differ greatly from the purchase price of the home – it is largely determined by the square footage of the house and local building costs.
Ø Deductible – Your deductible is the amount you pay toward a claim. This number is the same every time there is a problem and comes out of pocket. Here's why the deductible you choose is important: Higher deductibles mean lower premiums, all other things being equal. A warning: Be careful you don't set the deductible too high – you'll have to come up with it in case of a claim before you get any help from your provider.
Ø Home insurance – Protects covers against wind, hail, fire, theft and other specified perils. Your lender likely will require you to have and maintain home insurance.
Ø Home warranty – Covers home equipment that breaks down i.e. water heater, air system, home appliances, etc. Read about how this is different from home insurance.
Check out these tips for choosing a home insurance provider:
ü Shop around – Compare quotes from multiple carriers, either by using a marketplace website or contacting providers individually. Keep in mind limits and deductibles and make sure you’re comparing identical parameters.
ü Ask for discounts – Most providers offer discounts, so be sure you ask about them. You can save up to 20%, for example, if your home is less than 10 years old.
ü Bundle – By purchasing more than one type of insurance – typically but not always home and auto coverage – from the same provider, you can save on your overall insurance costs.
ü Preventive measures – Take proactive measures to protect your home. Install smoke alarms, get a home security system, don't smoke indoors, etc. These actions can demonstrate a commitment to safety, and you could receive price breaks as a result.
ü Only consider reputable carriers – Look for providers that A.M. Best Company rates 'A' or better for financial stability.
Internet service
How your household uses the Internet will ultimately determine what kind of service plan you need. Evaluate your personal online activity and choose accordingly. Factors that affect your speed include:
Ø Internet activity – What do you do online? Streaming a movie or downloading large files requires more bandwidth than emails or picture uploads.
Ø Number of connections – How many devices do you connect? How many people are using the Internet? More connections means more bandwidth use. Consider a higher capacity plan if there are several people or devices online at the same time.
Ø Types of devices – What devices are you using? You connect in many ways – through laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles, tablets. Some web-enabled equipment may need a stronger Internet connection.
Ø Type of network – Does your provider offer a dedicated network or a shared one? Shared networks can perform slower than dedicated ones.
Ø Type of connection – How do you connect to the Internet? Do you know the difference, for example, between DSL vs. cable? There are 5 main ways to connect: dial-up, satellite, DSL, cable and fiber optics. Different connections offer different speeds, and not every connection is available everywhere.
Choosing the right provider
DSL and most fiber-optic connections provide high-speed, dedicated Internet connections. Cable offers high speeds that are shared with your neighbors.
Dial-up is dedicated but often slow and a hassle. Satellite is great for rural areas and offers a higher level of security but can slow down based on the time of day.
Extra Tips:
Consider bundles: Get your home services – Internet, phone and TV – from the same provider and you could save on your monthly payment. Lock in price guarantees for a longer period of time.
Explore discounts: Always ask for seasonal or on-going deals. Shop several options before committing.
Ask around: Check with your friends, family and neighbors to see which service they use and whether they recommend their providers.
Seek price stability: Ask about contracts and price guarantees. Some Internet service providers increase monthly prices without warning. Consider whether you want a one-year or longer-term contract.
Energy
Energy can be tricky, but we can help. First, it’s important to know whether you’re in a regulated or deregulated area. These terms refer to the source of electricity or natural gas in your state. In a regulated service area, you don’t need to shop around because the state assigns your utilities. Just call the provider and set up your service.
For deregulated states such as Texas, residents can choose their energy supplier. A state-designated utility will still deliver the power to your home, however. Here are some hints to keep in mind when comparing suppliers in deregulated states:
Ø Use assistive sites – Find websites, including the state's Public Utilities Commission, that offer comparisons of suppliers and their rates.
Ø Fixed vs variable – These are the two types of rates you can find. Fixed rates offer a monthly price that won’t change for the duration of your contract. These rates are good if you plan on staying in your home for a long time. Variable, or indexed, rates are subject to change every month but typically don’t have a contract. These rates are optimal if you move around a lot or don't want to commit to a contract.
Ø Extra charges – Look for hidden fees or monthly charges that may not be included in the rate estimate. Ask about additional delivery or maintenance fees.
General services
One of the most difficult things you'll find about relocating might not crop the day you move. But sooner or later, you're going to need a plumber or exterminator or other service provider. It's good to line up people ahead of time instead of waiting until there's an emergency. Here are some suggestions for how to find local services:
· Ask around – Check with the people you meet – neighbors, co-workers, anyone you consider a new friend – to get recommendations.
· Review sites – Websites such as AngiesList.com can offer insight on what services you need. These are especially good when moving to a new area where you may not know anyone local to ask.
· Hardware stores – Places such as Home Depot or Lowe's can offer advice on service providers.
Do your research and get informed to make the best decision for your home.
Comments (0)Subscribe to CommentsComment