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This past year, in many areas around the country, the cost of homeowner’s insurance jumped considerably. I recommend using the power of the Internet to get a good deal, so go online and shop those rates! Check out comparison sites like NetQuote.com, Insurance.com, AllQuotesInsurance.com, and Esurance.com. Call your insurance agent as well.

When it comes to getting the best rate, be aware that:

• You should only be insuring your house, not the property it stands on.
• You’ll pay less if you have a security system and fire alarm in place.
• You’ll pay less if you’re a nonsmoker.
• You may qualify for a discount if you renovate the electrical, heating, and/or plumbing systems.
• You can get a discount if you buy your homeowners insurance from the same company that insures your car.

Lastly, another way to lower your rate is to raise the deductible. Ask your carrier how much you’d need to raise your deductible in order to knock 20 percent off your premium. If it’s an amount you can handle, then go for it!

David Bach, author of seven NYT best sellers. His new book is Start Over, Finish Rich. Click here to visit his website.

-- David Bach

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