Shop Home Insurance

Best companies (2025)

• USAA — vets only, top-rated.
• Amica — top customer satisfaction. Most states.
• State Farm — local agents, reliable.
• Allstate — strong claim handling.
• GEICO / Progressive — bundle with auto.
• Lemonade — newer, app-first, cheap.
• Avoid Florida-only insurers — many failing.

Senior discounts

• Most insurers offer 10-25% off for retirees / 55+.
• Bundle (auto + home) — 15-25%.
• Newly built / re-roofed — 5-15%.
• Security system — 5-10%.
• Deadbolts + smoke alarms — small.
• Home water shut-off (Moen Flo) — 5-10%.
• Loyalty discount — 5-10% after 3+ years.
• Higher deductible — $1,500 vs $500 saves 10-15%.

Coverage to verify

• Dwelling — REPLACEMENT cost (not market value). Check rebuild estimator.
• Personal property — usually 50-70% of dwelling.
• Liability — $300K minimum, $500K-1M better.
• Medical payments — visitors hurt at home.
• Loss of use — pays for hotel if home unlivable.
• Special items — jewelry, art over $1K need scheduled.
• Sewer backup — separate rider often needed.
• Flood — separate. Standard insurance doesn't cover.

Shop every 2 years

1. Get 3 quotes (Amica, State Farm, GEICO).
2. Match coverage exactly.
3. Note discounts.
4. If new is 15%+ cheaper — switch.
5. Cancel old policy after new takes effect.
6. Loyalty doesn't pay — switching saves real money.