Home insurance stands as a safeguard against the uncertainties that come with owning a property. It provides financial protection in case of damage, theft, liability claims, and other unforeseen events. While the appeal of affordable premiums can be enticing, it's essential to be aware of the potential downsides associated with opting for the cheapest home insurance available.
​
1. Inadequate Coverage:
One of the most significant downsides of cheap home insurance is the potential for inadequate coverage. Bargain policies often provide minimal protection, leaving homeowners vulnerable to significant financial losses in the event of a disaster. Basic coverage might not encompass all the risks that your property and possessions face, which could lead to out-of-pocket expenses that outweigh any initial savings.

2. High Deductibles:
Cheap home insurance policies frequently come with high deductibles. A deductible is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. While opting for higher deductibles can lower your monthly premiums, it also means that you'll have to bear a more substantial financial burden when you need to make a claim. This can be particularly challenging in the wake of a significant event, such as a fire or natural disaster.

3. Limited Additional Coverages:
Affordable home insurance policies often lack the flexibility to add optional coverages that could enhance your protection. These additional coverages might include provisions for jewelry, electronics, or other high-value items. Without these options, you might find yourself without proper coverage for items that are of significant value to you.

4. Risk of Insufficient Liability Coverage:
Cheap home insurance might provide the minimum liability coverage required, but this might not be enough to adequately protect you in the event of a lawsuit. If someone gets injured on your property and sues you for damages, insufficient liability coverage could leave you personally responsible for covering the remaining expenses.

5. Poor Claims Process:
Cut-rate insurance companies often prioritize cost-cutting over efficient claims processing. This can lead to lengthy delays and frustrating experiences when you're trying to file a claim. Slow claims processing can further compound the stress and financial strain that can arise after a disaster.
 
6. Exclusions and Limitations:
Cheap home insurance policies tend to have more exclusions and limitations, which can restrict the situations in which you can make a claim. Certain types of damages or events might not be covered under these policies, leaving you vulnerable to potential financial losses.

While cheap home insurance might seem like a cost-effective solution, it's important to recognize the potential downsides that come with it. Inadequate coverage, high deductibles, limited additional coverages, insufficient liability protection, and unreliable customer service are just a few of the trade-offs that could leave you exposed to significant financial risks. When selecting a home insurance policy, striking a balance between affordability and comprehensive coverage is crucial to ensure that your home and belongings are adequately protected in the face of unexpected events.
 

It may be that time of the year when your home insurance policy is up for renewal. We would like to guide you through the process of preparing for your home insurance renewal, ensuring that your coverage continues to provide you with the peace of mind you deserve. Home insurance is a vital aspect of protecting your most significant investment, and keeping it up to date is crucial for your peace of mind.
1. Review Your Current Policy:
​
Before diving into the renewal process, take a moment to review your current home insurance policy. Understand what is covered, the policy limits, and any exclusions. Make a list of questions or concerns you may have. This step will help you make informed decisions when discussing your renewal.

2. Assess Your Home's Value:
The value of your home may have changed since your last renewal. Major home improvements, renovations, or changes in the local real estate market can impact the replacement cost of your home. Inform your insurance agent about these changes to ensure your coverage accurately reflects the current value of your property.

3. Update Your Personal Information:
Ensure your contact information is up to date. Accurate contact details are essential for smooth communication, especially in the event of a claim. Keep your agent informed of any changes in your phone number, email, or mailing address.

4. Consider Bundling:
Many insurance companies offer discounts when you bundle your home and auto insurance policies. Bundling can lead to significant savings, so it's worth exploring this option if you haven't already.

5. Assess Your Deductible:
Your deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Consider your financial situation and risk tolerance when deciding on a deductible. A higher deductible can lead to lower premiums, while a lower deductible may result in higher premiums.

6. Discuss Policy Endorsements:
If you've acquired valuable assets or made improvements to your home, consider adding policy endorsements (riders) to ensure they are adequately covered. Items like jewelry, fine art, or home office equipment may require additional coverage beyond your standard policy.
 
7. Evaluate Liability Coverage:
Liability coverage protects you in case of lawsuits or claims against you. Assess your current liability limits to determine if they are sufficient to protect your assets and future earnings. If you need more protection, you can increase your liability coverage.

8. Stay Informed:
Insurance regulations and industry standards can change over time. Staying informed about these changes will help you make informed decisions during the renewal process.
Your home insurance renewal is an excellent opportunity to reassess your coverage needs and ensure you're adequately protected. Don't hesitate to reach out to your insurance agent with any questions or concerns regarding your renewal. They are there to guide you through the process and help you make the best choices for your unique circumstances.

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.
​
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.
​
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.
​
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.
​
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
​
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.