We are full into the holiday season, and while you're caught up with holiday cheer, here are our 12 gits of Christmas present. Remember, as your life changes, so should your insurance. A quick call to our office can help us educate you on the insurance coverage you need to protect your home, car, family, and life.

12 Insurance Tips for Christmas Present

1. Your tree needs water every day. It is essential to water your tree daily, or else the branches will dry out quickly. A single spark from a nearby candle or fireplace could cause catastrophe.
2. Check your insurance. If you have purchased an expensive item, you may need to adjust your homeowner's coverage. 
3. Update your auto insurance. Whether you're heading to the mall for holiday shopping or traveling to see family, make sure your insurance is current! Due to storms and ice, automobile accidents tend to increase as the temperature drops. Plan additional travel time and eliminate distractions to ensure safe holiday travel.
4. Use caution when online shopping. Consider asking your insurance agent about adding identity theft protection to your homeowner's insurance for added protection when shopping online. Typically, this can be added to your homeowner's or renters' insurance for a nominal fee, but there are also standalone plans.
5. Holiday Lights. When installing outdoor lighting, use outdoor-rated lights and extension cords, ensure they are plugged into GFCI outlets, and avoid overloading cords, as they can become hot enough to burn.
6. Stop porch pirates. Delivery confirmation is a good way to prove the package was delivered. Thieves will follow delivery trucks, waiting for the perfect target. These thieves commonly strike during working hours as many homes are empty at that time. You can insure your packages. Consider having a person there when the delivery is scheduled. Install a security camera.
7. Never drink and drive. Did you know that in some states, party hosts can be held liable for injuries caused by intoxicated guests?
8. Use caution with candles. Never leave candles burning at night. Place candles in open areas, away from walls and items that might catch on fire.
9. Set your alarm. During the holiday season, you will likely run many errands. Develop the routine of always activating your home security system. Thieves can break into your home in a matter of minutes, so you should always leave it protected.
10. Theft From Vehicles. While you are in the store, criminals are in the parking lot looking for easy ways to get into your vehicle. Keep all packages in the trunk; always lock your car, and park close to the store and in a well-lit area.
11. Stovetop safety. Never leave cooking food unattended. The most common cause of cooking fires is leaving the stove (or fryer) unattended.
12. Ladder Safety. When putting up holiday decorations, always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places. Don't stand on chairs, desks, or other furniture.

Strive Insurance Group, Inc. (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance Agency, Inc) is an independent insurance agency representing many insurance companies.  This means that we quote with many different insurance companies to obtain the best rate and coverage for your insurance.  We do this at no additional fee or service charge to you.  Our insurance agency's reputation for representing the best insurance companies, providing excellent customer service and competitive pricing to our clients has been earned and proven for over 30 years.  We take great pride in finding you the best coverage and backing it up with prompt personal service.  

We represent, and have established a strategic alliance, with only the highest quality insurance companies. In doing so, we can provide you with the service and coverage to meet your dynamic needs. As your needs change, we can review and collaborate to decide which insurance company or companies are best suited to your situation
 
 
 
 
 

Everyone needs some level of personal insurance. Most purchase auto insurance, homeowners or renters insurance, life insurance, and maybe personal umbrella coverage. There are some many choices that at times you may wonder which is best for you and your family.  We put together a list of questions you might think about as you consider your personal insurance. We always recommend you review your personal insurance annually to make sure it is still meeting your needs. 
 
Do Agents Offer Something Different?
 
We would answer that as a yes because, agents have access to different kinds of insurance companies, they offer you a choice and work to provide the best possible combination of coverage price and service. Agents are a small business whose goal is to look out after their clients.
 
If I Rent, Do I Still Need Insurance?
 
Renters should purchase renters insurance to protect their personal property like; furniture, guns, electronics, and clothes. Your apartment owner may also require liability coverage, which can be included in renters insurance. Renters insurance is very affordable and can be an effective way to make sure you are covered in the event of a loss.
 
Does The Type Of Vehicle Affect My Auto Premiums?
 
Yes. The make and model of the car you drive play a factor in your car insurance rates. The cost of your vehicle also makes a big difference; the more it costs to repair or replace your vehicle, the more you will pay to insure it.
 
Are There Auto Insurance Discounts?
 
Many insurance carriers offer lower rates to good students, military personnel and people with excellent credit. Ask your agent what discounts are available.
 
Will a Parking Ticket Affect My Auto Insurance Premiums?
 
Not usually. You can generally have one ticket on your history without it adversely affecting your premium.
 
 
When Should I Consider Life Insurance?
 
Life insurance is something you might consider when you get married or start having children. Some employers offer a small amount of life insurance, but these plans generally are not enough. Life insurance can provide peace of mind to loved ones in the event of an untimely death of a breadwinner. Life insurance proceeds can be used to fund college, pay for outstanding bills, to supplement lost income for a period of time.
Life insurance premiums are at all time lows so it can be a very cost effective financial planning tool.
 
Is A Personal umbrella Policy important?
 
Most of us engage in daily activities that put us in danger. Your danger of being sued simply increases if you own a car or an automobile. Many Americans only purchase vehicle liability insurance for $300,000 and homeowners’ liability insurance for no more than $300,000. A personal umbrella policy can give you an extra $1 million in liability protection. 
 
I Am Remolding My Home, Do I Need To Adjust My Insurance?
 
If your insurance is written on a replacement cost basis, there may be no need to make adjustments, but we always recommend you contact your agent to review this question. The answer depends on the kind of work you are doing. For example, if you are replacing your carpet with a similar product, you may not need to make any changes in your policy. But if you are adding a 500-foot addition on to your home, then this would definitely require adjustments in the value of your home.
 
For example, say your insurance valuation is based on a kitchen with laminate countertops and generic cabinets. But then you spend $60,000 on granite countertops, custom cabinets, and top-of-the-line appliances. Would your existing coverage be sufficient to rebuild your remodeled kitchen after a loss? Most likely, you would have an issue.
 
Before you enter into any renovation project, contact your agent, and they can help you identify which areas may require insurance updates.
 
I Have A Home Based Business, Should I Get Additional Insurance?
 
Homeowners or renters insurance policies do not cover any business risks. If you run a business out of your home, we recommend you purchase a business insurance policy. If you have customers in your home for business purposes, your home insurance does not provide any coverage.  Depending on the type of business, coverage may be added to your existing homeowner’s policy through a rider or endorsement. 
 
I Just Bought A Personal Watercraft, Is That Covered?
 
Unlike small boats, personal watercraft are not generally covered by your homeowners This would include; bodily injury to you that is caused by an uninsured watercraft operator. The legal costs if you're sued due to an accident.  And any damage to the personal watercraft you own.
 
Strive Insurance Group, Inc. (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance Agency, Inc) is an independent insurance agency representing many insurance companies.  This means that we quote with many different insurance companies to obtain the best rate and coverage for your insurance.  We do this at no additional fee or service charge to you.  Our insurance agency's reputation for representing the best insurance companies, providing excellent customer service and competitive pricing to our clients has been earned and proven for over 30 years.  We take great pride in finding you the best coverage and backing it up with prompt personal service.  

What are multi-policy discounts?
Everyone who owns an automobile and home has the opportunity to save money. Insurance companies will offer you discounts if you place your home and auto insurance with them, because insurance companies want your business.  These discounts may also apply to your motorcycle, boat, RV and even your personal umbrella policy.
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Multi-policy advantages
There are advantages to have all your personal insurance through one insurance company. These advantages include premium savings, saving you time, a better way to manage your insurance and having just one agent to oversee your insurance program.

Multi-policy discounts will vary depending on the insurance company. Usually we see discounts ranging from 5% up to 20%. Bundling your insurance can offer the convenience of a single bill and easier claims handling when you need it.

Things to remember about multi-policy discounts

• Whether you are single or have a family, you can take advantage of multi-car discounts.
• Use an independent agent to search the market for your best options.
• Bad driving habits will raise your premiums, so be sure to keep a clean record.
• Remember to insure your boat, RV and motorcycle as well.
• Most major insurance carriers have policies and discounts readily available for people living together.

 
 

What Kind Of Insurance Should Newlyweds Have?
Congratulations!  You have decided to share your life with that special person.  Your honeymoon is over and you are settling into your new life together. Now is the time to start thinking about how to protect that life, especially as you start to make pans for the future.  Personal insurance protection is a good way to help make sure your dreams come true.
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Personal Insurance Considerations for Young Married Couples

• Life insurance.  Now may be a good time to consider life insurance. Life insurance offers replacement income and peace of mind for your spouse.
• Health insurance.  You must have health insurance.  If it is not provided by your employer, you can purchase coverage on an individual basis.
• Renter’s Insurance.  If you rent, do not go without renter’s insurance. Renter’s insurance can provide coverage for damage to, or loss of, personal property, and also cover your personal liability.
• Auto insurance.  You will also want to review your auto coverage. If you each have a car, and they are insured in your individual names, combining them into one policy may qualify you for a multi-car discount from the insurer.
• Your Wedding rings.  You will want to insure your wedding rings for theft or accidental loss.
• Do you own a home business?  Many young people have home based businesses; if so, you may need business insurance.  Call your agent today.

Insurance is not as romantic as picking where to go on your honeymoon, but it is one of the most crucial things you can do as newlyweds! Although most couples are aware of the need to reassess their insurance needs when they marry, there is a gap between that awareness and action.

Personal Insurance Update
With the summer months approaching, now would be a great time to review your homeowner’s and personal insurance program.  There is a large spike in auto accidents during June through August.  We offer a free review to assess your insurance needs, and we can recommend needed personal insurance coverage like a personal umbrella, cyber liability, and flood insurance.  Summer Risks Are Very Real.
Here are a few of the risks your family may face this summer:

• Watercraft -- Remember, your personal watercraft insurance does not cover racing.  In addition, if your boat is over a certain length, you will need a separate boat policy.  Remember to have personal floatation devices for all people in the boat, and do not drink and drive your boat.  Venture beyond the geographic limits in the policy and the insurance may be nullified.
• Travel -- If you are planning a family vacation, make sure you keep your home safe while gone.  Use timers on lights, cancel the mail and garbage, and do not post vacation pictures on social media while you are gone.
• Swimming -- Never leave a child unattended around water.  If your child does not know how to swim, make sure they have a floatation device on at all times.
• Bug Bites -- If you are heading outdoors, be prepared for annoying critters.  Use EPA-registered insect repellents* that contain at least 20% DEET (products include Cutter Backwoods and Off!  Deep Woods) for protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs.  Other repellents protect against mosquitoes, but may not be effective against ticks or other bugs.
• Barbecuing -- Never leave a barbeque unattended.  Do not barbecue inside or in a garage.  If you receive a minor burn, hold the skin under cool running water for up to 15 minutes to reduce swelling or until the pain subsides. 
• Sunburns -- Always use sunscreen, and if your skin is burned, mix one-part whole milk with one-part cool water and gently apply it into the affected areas with a washcloth.
• Heat Stress -- You may be having fun or working in the sun, but if it is hot, keep hydrated by drink plenty of water.  Wear lightweight clothing and take breaks every hour or so.
• Fire pits -- Fire pits are becoming increasingly popular for outdoor entertaining.  While some burn wood, others use propane or natural gas.  Keep kids at a safe distance and teach them that fire pits stay hot long after the flames go out.

Strive Insurance Group, Inc. (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance Agency, Inc) is an independent insurance agency representing many insurance companies.  This means that we quote with many different insurance companies to obtain the best rate and coverage for your insurance.  We do this at no additional fee or service charge to you.  Our insurance agency's reputation for representing the best insurance companies, providing excellent customer service and competitive pricing to our clients has been earned and proven for over 30 years.  We take great pride in finding you the best coverage and backing it up with prompt personal service.  ​

Not sure how to save money on auto insurance? Many auto insurance companies provide discounts and advantages to help you save money on your auto insurance plans. Consult your insurer's agent to see how you might save.
Your auto insurance provides financial security and comfort of mind. Choose a firm that offers competitive rates while still providing dependable coverage: request suggestions and personal experiences from friends and family. Having an agent help, you will reduce much of the time and stress involved in finding the right auto insurance for you.
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Bundle Your Insurance
Bundle your insurance if you have multiple automobiles or different types of insurance. You can combine your policy with other plans such as homeowners' or renters' insurance, boat insurance, motorcycle insurance, and even umbrella insurance. If you buy more than one policy from the same company, you'll get a bundle or multi-line discount.

Be A Safe Driver
Customers having a history of accidents and movement offenses (including speeding tickets) typically pay a higher premium since they pose a greater risk of driving. According to Insurance.com, even a single traffic ticket can raise your auto insurance price by 19%.

Change Your Deductibles
If you are a safe driver, you'll almost certainly never have to make an insurance claim or pay a deductible. If you're unfamiliar with the term "deductible," it refers to the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance company pays the rest of your claim. The deductible for most insurance is around $500. Increasing it to $1,000 or more could result in lower monthly premiums.

Low Millage Plans
Low-mileage discounts may be available if you drive less than the average amount of miles in your area. You might also choose for a "pay-as-you-go" plan, which charges you based on the number of miles you drive. If you work from home or have a short commute, these are extremely beneficial.\

Pay Your Premium In Full
If you pay your insurance premium in full instead of monthly, your rate for car insurance can go down. 
 
Consider The Car
Your insurance prices are influenced by the type of car you drive. Because of the heightened danger of injury and the increased demand for collision coverage, premiums for expensive sports cars are frequently excessive. Furthermore, larger SUVs are more expensive to insure than smaller (safe) cars. Premiums for new autos are also greater than for old or used vehicles.

Location
You can expect your auto insurance costs to rise if you move to a larger city with greater crime rates.

Have Your Agent Shop For You
Companies charge different premiums for the same coverage. Without utilizing an agent, you may not know this. Your agent can offer a number of options based on your individual needs. Check to see if the company is licensed to operate in our state.

Ask For Discounts
Here are some of the discounts you should inquire about

• Good student
• Safe driver
• Loyalty
• Bundled policies
• Multi-car
• Low mileage
• Driver training
• New car
• Pay in full
• Hybrid
• Safety equipment

 
Strive Insurance Group, Inc. (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance Agency, Inc) is an independent insurance agency representing many insurance companies.  This means that we quote with many different insurance companies to obtain the best rate and coverage for your insurance.  We do this at no additional fee or service charge to you.  Our insurance agency's reputation for representing the best insurance companies, providing excellent customer service and competitive pricing to our clients has been earned and proven for over 30 years.  We take great pride in finding you the best coverage and backing it up with prompt personal service. 
 

When it comes to protecting your financial assets like your home or auto, you can't trust just anyone with your investment. Finding a trustworthy and trained insurance agent/broker could mean the difference between having enough coverage for your property following a catastrophic loss and being stuck with a large repair bill. An insurance agent/broker is a specialist who works on behalf of clients to find the best policy or insurance provider for their needs.

Consider the overall fit not just the price, as price can be deceptive. Be careful of someone who sells on low cost, generally it means poor coverage. The same method you used to choose a doctor or dentist can be applied to choose an insurance broker. You want someone with a pleasant "bedside manner," as it were.

Understand the differences in agents
Direct Writers vs. Independent Agents: There are two ways to obtain insurance coverage from a company. Direct writers are insurance companies that hire their own salespeople to write exclusively for them; they work for the company that employs them. Independent agents work for the insured rather than the insurance company. They do, however, have contracts with multiple insurance companies and can usually provide you with more options.
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Signs It Is Time To Find A New Agent

• They are responsive to calls and requests
• You are the one that indicates all conversations
• Requesting a quote is complicated
• When a claim occurs they are nowhere to be found

Qualities of a Good Agent

1. Trustworthy
2. A good Listener
3. The desire to teach you rather than sell you
4. Someone who view insurance as a promise not a product
5. A good agent will want to develop a relationship with you not just sell you then move on.

How To Start The Process
Testimonials: Yelp, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social media platforms can help you determine whether or not a business provides good service. These websites can be useful, but meeting with an agent or broker in person is one of the greatest methods to determine whether or not they will take good care of you.

Personal Recommendations: Consult with your coworkers, people you trust, and your circle of friends. Asking a complete stranger is preferable to relying on advertisements or the yellow pages. People are more likely to refer others with whom they have had a good encounter.

Ask Questions
Consider this like an interview, where you are selecting a person and agency to represent you.

• How long have they been in operation?
• What are their certifications if any? Look for agents with advanced designations such as Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) or Accredited Adviser in Insurance (AAI).
• Which companies do they represent?
• How will the renewal processes work?
• If you're going to have a personal account manager?
• How will they help if a claim occurs?
• What experience do they have with risks like yours?
• What they charge for services and/or how they are compensated?
• Ask them to review your current policies and make recommendations?

Conduct interviews with the contenders to determine which one is the best fit for you. Selecting a broker with strong communication skills will allow you to find an agent who is easy to relate to and who can provide you with information you need to understand your risk and how to best mange it. 

​As football season starts and fall is here, it is an excellent time to think about your insurance and any changes you might need to make. Having the right personal insurance is important in that it protects you and your family in the event of loss, damage or accidents. The number of insurance claims varies according to the season. The fall season offers new forms of hazards and new patterns in personal insurance claims, along with the falling leaves and reducing temperatures.

Here Are A Few Types Of Insurance You Might Think About
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Auto Insurance, we assist you in obtaining coverage according to on your needs, driving habits, geographic area, budget, and other factors. The following are some coverage protection choices to consider during the fall and winter months.

• Roadside assistance
• Towing coverage
• Accident forgiveness
• Snowmobile insurance

Home Insurance, as local independent insurance agency, we are always willing to walk you through the measures necessary to secure your home. Your agent can assist you in reviewing coverage alternatives during the fall and winter months.

• Earthquake or flood insurance
• Loss of use coverage
• Property away for your premises
• Sewer back-up

Fall Safety Tips
As the weather cools and the leaves begin to fall from the trees, it's vital to remember a few important fall safety tips. Your family may enjoy the crisp fall weather while avoiding some of the dangers that come with the season if adequate precautions and safety knowledge are taken.

• Service your furnace and AC units
• Clean your gutters
• Inspect four fireplace
• Clean up trees and shrubs around your home
• Inspect your rook for damage
• Use Caution with Space Heaters

Be sure to speak with an insurance agent or broker about your coverage and additional things you can do to check your home and property for seasonal liabilities.

Personal Insurance
Our goal is always to give our clients the best possible combination of coverage, price, and service. We are not in the business of offering low-cost insurance that does not meet the needs of our clients. 
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There are many ways we help our clients with their personal insurance while keeping our promises. By believing that insurance is about understanding the needs of our clients and then developing personal insurance solutions around your needs, our clients will be better off. 

Here are some ways in which we provide unique insurance solutions for our clients. 
Home Insurance – Do you have true replacement cost coverage. Are you insuring your loss of use if your home were destroyed?

Auto Insurance – We recommend buying more than the state minimum requirements for liability coverage. The small additional premium can help protect your financial future. 

Motorcycle Insurance - 24-Hour Roadside Assistance, your bike breaks down in the middle of a long road trip. Count on roadside help with this coverage

Watercraft Insurance - Protect your watercraft and trailer, including options for agreed value and emergency services.
Here is how we get you the right insurance. 

We place your personal insurance with the right companies.  
We understand that not all insurance companies are alike. Some companies have great motorcycle rates, while others offer competitive rates on homeowner or renter’s insurance. We have many years of experience, which helps us know which insurers keep their promises. If insurers stop keeping their promises, then we stop using them. All our insurance companies have proven records of accomplishment of delivering on their promises. That means they pay their claims promptly and with minimum problems. 

Our staff is licensed and trained.  
We believe that having a team that is licensed and trained is the best way to deliver on our promises. We promise to take the time to understand your needs and be transparent in all our dealings with our customers. We may not be perfect, but we will always work hard to make sure your needs are our number one priority. 

We find the right personal insurance coverage for your needs.  
We can provide personal insurance options that fit your individual needs. That may mean a personal umbrella for added protection, competitive coverage for a vacation home, life insurance, disability insurance, or even mortgage protection coverage. It may also mean we advise you to increase your deductibles on older vehicles. If you have a custom home, we would recommend adding the feature to your homeowner’s insurance that is designed to provide the needed replacement coverage in the event of a loss. 

You may need special personal insurance coverage.  
There are many special or unique kinds of personal insurance coverages that you may require. These can include identity theft, coverage for fine arts, guns, and other collectibles, plus others. If you are traveling to a foreign country, you may need special health insurance or trip cancelation coverage. All these safeguards are part of how we try to keep our promise to you. 
 
We provide only the personal insurance you need.  We can provide the necessary personal insurance coverage and limits; we will not try to sell you something you do not need. If you are a young family, we might recommend term life insurance, but if you are in your later years, term life insurance might not be your best option. If you are a high net-worth individual, we are going to recommend at least a $1,000,000 personal umbrella policy to protect you and your family. These policies can often include coverage for reputation management services and defense services, which are part of the policy. 

We would rather teach than sell.  
Our office is located where you live and work. We love to meet with our clients and educate them on what kind of individualized personal lines insurance is best for them. We do not use call centers; we have licensed professionals ready to serve you. Our team is here to help you along every step of the way, from designing a competitively priced personal insurance program to helping you settle a claim. 

We use our experience and knowledge to help you with all your personal insurance needs by presenting you with the best possible combination of coverage, price, and service. Our promise is to help you understand your personal risks, provide you with competitive options, and be there for you when you have a claim. We will respond to your requests promptly and look out after your interests first. 
 
Give us a call
 

Summer is the time when many homeowners start to think about and plan for, various home remodeling projects. If you are thinking about updating your kitchen, putting on that new roof, or even landscape projects, it pays to do some pre-planning. Whatever the project, you need to protect yourself from the financial risks and hazards associated with a home remodel project.

• What’s your project? Are you looking to remodel one room or make minor updates to a small space? The type of project determines whether you’ll need a general contractor or someone more specialized.
• Check-in with your local homebuilders’ association. You’ll be able to search contractors within your area and put together a list of potentials.
• Get referrals. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers who they’ve worked within the past. They may have a great contractor you haven’t heard of — or know of a few you should stay away from.
• Prepare ahead. Compile a list of reputable contractors before you need one. The stress of an emergency repair might impair your judgment.
• Get multiple estimates. If the price is a big concern, checking with only one contractor won’t guarantee you the best price. But the cheapest estimate also doesn’t ensure the best work. If you have the time, try and get a second or third quote.

If you plan on hiring a contractor, you should consider these tips to help make sure your project is completed the way you want. 

• Plan on permit costs from your local government. 
• Ask contractors about their experience with your specific project. 
• Make sure the contractor is licensed. You can usually go to the State Contractors Board for this information. 
• Provide the contractor with guidelines for working in and around your home. 
• Check local directories for recommendations. Yelp can be a good resource. 
• Be specific in your project; this would include type of products used and even brands you desire. 
• It is ok to get more than one bid.
• The lowest price may not be the best quality.
• Always have a written agreement with your contractor. It should include a timeline and competition date.
• Never pay 100% upfront. It is customary to pay one third down, one third as you go and one third upon completion. 
• Go visit other homes on which the contractor has worked. 
• Make sure the contractor has liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Your homeowner’s insurance will not cover the contractor or his work. If the contractor causes damage to your home, you will want their insurance to provide restoration. Ask for a certificate of insurance. 

When you buy insurance, whether it’s for your home, your car or your business, you want an advocate who will properly assess the risks you face and give you an objective analysis of the marketplace, it’s up to you to make the final choice.
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Our team of agents continually pursues additional professional education and certifications. It is our goal to ‘wow' you with the best service every time you call