Month: January 2017

5 Tips to Reduce the Risk of Car Theft

Posted on by AgentInsure

Car theft can happen to anyone at any given time, especially if you live in a high crime area. For this reason, it’s important to take precautions that would discourage thieves from targeting your vehicle. A standard auto insurance policy from Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC, will ensure your vehicle is covered in the event of theft. By doing your part, however, you may never have to put in a theft claim for your car.   

Always Lock Your Car: Many car owners encourage theft by leaving keys in the ignition or their vehicle running while they hop in and out of their home, a convenience store or gas station. It’s better to develop the habit of always rolling up windows and locking your car, regardless of how short a time you’ll be gone. Lock your vehicle even when parking in your driveway for any length of time.

Put Valuables Out of Sight: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle as this can attract the attention of would-be thieves and encourage them to target your car. Store valuables in your trunk or hide them beneath the seats where they’re out of sight/out of mind.

Park Smart: Park in well-lit, busy parking areas to make car theft more difficult without being seen or caught.   

Buy a Club: Buy a club (locking device) and use it on your steering wheel every time you leave the car.

Invest in a Car Alarm: If you live or work in a high crime area, invest in an auto alarm or security system to protect your vehicle, particularly if it’s a model that’s targeted often.

By taking preventative measures to safeguard your vehicle, you reduce the risk of theft. For more tips on theft prevention and information on affordable auto insurance in Hope Hills, NC, contact Cross Creek Insurance today.

Homeowners Insurance For First Time Buyers

Posted on by AgentInsure

If you’re buying a home for the first time, and you’re planning on getting a mortgage, your lender will require you to bring proof of homeowners insurance to your closing.  For purposes of protecting your lender’s interests in the property, you’ll need to include your lender’s name in the mortgagee’s clause.  It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to close on the home without your lender being protected.  You might even need to include six months of coverage for the next year as part of your closing costs.  At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills NC, we’ll help you meet your homeowners insurance requirements.  At a minimum, you’ll want to insure:

  • Your dwelling and any other structures on the property
  • Your personal property inside of the home
  • Your liability for any injuries or property damage on the land
  • Medical payments coverage is somebody is injured on your property

On top standard coverage for your home, you might want additional coverage.  Think about flood coverage if you live in an area where flooding occurs.  You might even want special endorsements for certain personal property like artwork, jewelry, furs or electronics.  A standard policy will only pay for loss or damage to those items on a limited basis. 

You’ll also need to make a decision on whether you want your home and personal property insured for actual cash value or replacement cost.  Replacement cost is a bit more expensive, but as opposed to actual cash value, it doesn’t contemplate depreciation.  Replacement cost is the better choice for homeowners.

You’ll want to speak with one of our agents at Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC in order to customize the best options for you.  Just give us a call or stop in for a cup of coffee.