Recap: Summer Tips for Small Businesses

Name: Vargas & Vargas Insurance
Address: 1133 Washington St, Dorchester, MA, 02124
Telephone: 617-298-0655

Posted on July 10, 2018June 29, 2018 by cvargas

“Business is about people. It’s about passion. It’s about bold ideas, bold small ideas or bold large ideas.” – Tom Peters

What are you doing to take your small business to the next level? The summertime may seem like a great time to take a break and enjoy the weather, but don’t let yourself stay stagnant! Instead, check out our full blog post from last week, including several ideas like these on how you can leverage the summertime to grow your business:

Try out a new social media platform or put some effort into an existing one with summertime photos of your customers or products.
Expand your customer database by consistently asking for email addresses. Make it more attractive by offering a discount to customers that are on your email list or a coupon to new sign-ups.
Attend or host an event – your next customer could be right around the corner! As a bonus, plan an event for your employees as a reward for working so hard throughout the year.
Never let yourself get lazy. Instead of relaxing, plan for the future of your business.

For more business marketing tips, general business advice, and business insurance expertise, stay tuned to the Vargas and Vargas Insurance blog! And if you ever have a question or want to review your Massachusetts business insurance options, call our agency at 617-298-0655.

Tips for Your Family Vacation

Posted on July 9, 2018July 6, 2018 by cvargas

Summertime is the perfect time to plan a family vacation. Kids are out of school, and the weather is perfect for some fun in the sun. If you’re planning on taking a vacation, make sure that you first read these tips from your favorite local independent insurance agency:

Choosing a Destination

You’ve decided to go on vacation! Now, the question is… where do you go? The trick is to choose a destination that will delight the entire family (which, as you probably know, can be pretty tricky). Your best course of action may be to find the right balance of all of your ‘wants’ – somewhere that is fun, relaxing, entertaining, and maybe even educational.

Thankfully, there are plenty of places like this in our very own backyard. Of course, Boston is a city full of history, culture, and entertainment galore. If you want to travel out a bit further, though, there are plenty of other cities within driving distance worth considering – including Providence, Newport, Manchester, Portsmouth, and many more.

If you are willing to fly, then your options are practically limitless, as children and adults alike will delight in destinations both within the US and abroad. And if you want a vacation that is something slightly off the beaten path, consider a cruise! There are plenty sailing out of the Boston harbor year-round.

Packing

Just like when you’re trying to choose the perfect vacation destination, packing for your trip is also a balancing act. You want to make sure that you have enough clothing and toiletries for everyone while simultaneously not going too overboard. This is especially true when you’re flying since most airlines will charge you for extra bags and bags over a certain weight limit. Even when driving, though, be conscious about how much you pack. After all, the weight of your car is one of the factors that will determine your gas mileage on the trip.

As you pack, also make sure that you prepare your home for the trip. Stop your mail and newspaper delivery, arrange for a neighbor to water your plants, and think about putting some of your lights on timers to deter thieves.

Travelling

Is there anything worse than being bored while travelling? To avoid this feeling of ennui, make sure that every person you are travelling with has a few things that will keep them occupied during the trip. Think about books, movies, and even some games. Bring more than you think you will need – the excitement of an impending vacation will make the fun of other activities wear off more quickly.

During Your Trip

It may be tempting while you’re in a new place to try and pack in as much sightseeing and as many activities as you can. While you should definitely see and do a lot while you’re away, make sure that you and your family don’t get stressed out because you’re trying to do too much. Leave in a little time for unstructured activities, and don’t be afraid to take a nap or relax by a pool if that’s what everyone feels like doing! And sometimes it’s fun to break into teams and do things separately once in a while.

Heading Back Home

When it’s time to head ‘back to reality’ don’t let anyone fall into a post-vacation rut. Remember the quote “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Children especially may make comments about how they wish they didn’t have to go back to school and wish they could stay on vacation forever. Remind them that vacation is only special because you only get to do it once in a while. Cheer them up by starting to talk about where you will go next! After all, the anticipation of a trip is half the fun!

After the Trip

Reflection is one of the most rewarding experiences of a family vacation. Have your kids tell you their favorite parts of your trip, and have fun revisiting some of your memories by looking through pictures. And remember, many kids will have writing assignments about their summer vacation activities when they return to school, so save some of those for your vacation scrapbook!

So, where are you and your family going on vacation this summer? No matter where you go, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency before you leave. We can check your home insurance to make sure that your property and possessions will be safe while you are away and will check your car insurance if you’re taking a road trip.

Remember – vacation is supposed to be all about fun and relaxation, and it will be easier to both have fun and relax after an insurance check-up! So, don’t wait – before you get out your suitcases, call one of the best Boston insurance agents at 617-298-0655. And make sure that you stay tuned to our blog for more summertime tips and tricks from your favorite Boston insurance agents!

Recap: Key Home Insurance Facts

Posted on July 6, 2018June 23, 2018 by cvargas

“Knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.” – Anton Chekhov

You have a Massachusetts home insurance policy, but how much do you know about it? Most people know their premium amount but get stumped if asked about the details of their policy! Don’t wait until it’s too late – learn the following four key details about your home insurance today:

Deductible: Does your policy have a fixed dollar deductible or a percentage-based deductible? Is there only one, or do different claims have different deductible guidelines? Can you raise your deductible amount to save money on your premium?
Policy Limits: Most home insurance policies have a few different limits, including the dwelling itself, other structures on the property, personal property, loss of use, liability, and more. Do you know how much coverage you have for each of these types of claims?
Covered Perils: Most home insurance policies cover fire, but what about if a neighbor’s tree falls on your home? What about water damage due to a flood? Earthquakes? Sinkholes? The list of possible incidents is endless!
Available Discounts: There are many discounts available for Massachusetts home insurance policies. Are you getting all of the ones that you qualify for?

Do you know all of these details about your home insurance policy? If not, call your Boston home insurance experts at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency today. Make one quick call to 617-298-0655 and one of our agents can review your policy with you and fill you in on all of the important details. They can even check to see if you qualify for any additional discounts – so don’t wait… call now!

Flood Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

Posted on July 5, 2018June 29, 2018 by cvargas

Now that hurricane season is in full swing, the agents here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency are getting a lot of questions about coverage for their homes and other possessions. One of the biggest tips that we have for our clients is to consider purchasing a flood insurance policy, because it will cover some instances that a home insurance policy alone will not.

In an effort to help our customers understand the importance of flood insurance and to outline some of the basic information about the policy, here are answers to some of our most frequently asked flood insurance questions:

What is a Flood?

Ok, this may seem like a silly question at first, but how your insurance policies define ‘flood’ will play a huge factor in determining whether you are covered for a loss. While insurance providers may differ slightly in their definition, most agree that to be a flood, waters must cover at least two square acres of normally dry land and/or affect at least two properties. When you purchase your flood insurance policy, ask your agent the specifics on what your insurance provider considers a flood so that you can know for the future.

Does my home insurance cover flood damage?

No! Home insurance policies often have a strict set of coverage exclusions, one of which is damage due to flooding. If you want to be covered for this potential peril, you will need an additional flood insurance policy for your home. Thankfully, your home insurance will likely cover damages due to hail and wind, which is not a part of a Massachusetts flood insurance policy.

Do I need flood insurance if I don’t live near water?

Floods are the product of many different situations. It’s not just torrential rainstorms that causes flooding. Flooding can also occur because of hurricanes, water backups, and even melting snow. Did you know that your home is more likely to be affected by a flood than by a fire? In fact, it has been estimated that over $2 billion of damage is caused by flooding each year in the US.

What is a flood zone?

A flood zone is an area that has been evaluated for its flood risk, and its designation will affect your flood insurance premium. Properties in Zone A are high risk, Zone B is moderate risk, and Zone C is low risk. The higher your risk for floods, the higher your flood insurance premium will likely be.

If there is a flood, won’t I be covered by federal disaster assistance?

It is a possibility that federal disaster coverage may be available, but only if the President declares a disaster, but over 90% of disasters are not declared. Plus, even if you receive federal disaster coverage it is a loan that you would have to repay, but flood insurance will cover you without you having to repay any of the amount paid out for your claim.

How will my flood insurance premium be calculated?

There are many factors that will be considered when insurance providers determine your premium. These include (but are not limited to) the amount and type of coverage you are purchasing, the location and flood zone of the property being insured, as well as the age of the building.

How much does flood insurance cost?

A flood insurance policy will probably be more affordable than you expect! For a low premium payment, you can get a lot of coverage to protect your property from flood damage.

Are flood insurance discounts available?

It is a possibility that you could receive a discount on your flood insurance premium. For more information on whether you qualify for a flood insurance discount, speak with your Massachusetts insurance agent from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. They will be able to check to see if there are any applicable savings.

When will my policy go into effect?

For most flood insurance policies, there is a 30-day waiting period before the policy goes into effect. This means that you can’t wait until the last minute to purchase a flood insurance policy if a hurricane or other big storm is heading toward Massachusetts! There are a few exceptions to this rule, including a change in the building’s flood zone, and when there is a renewed mortgage on the property.

How do I get a quote?

Getting a quote is always easy with Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency! There are several ways that you can get in touch with a Boston insurance agent to talk about your coverage – fill out our online quote form, email us, or call our office at 617-298-0655. Someone can answer all of your coverage questions and get you the policy you need with minimal hassle. And remember, our quotes are always free, and we search many different insurance providers to make sure that you are getting the best possible deal on your insurance coverage.

Recap: Insurance Awareness Day

Posted on July 3, 2018June 21, 2018 by cvargas

“Insurance is the only product that both the seller and buyer hope is never actually used.” – Unknown

Did you catch our blog last week about how to celebrate Insurance Awareness Day on June 28? The day may have passed, but it is never too late to reaffirm the importance of insurance in your life. If you haven’t yet, here are some of our suggestions for making sure that your insurance portfolio is in tip-top shape, and that you are ready for anything that will come your way:

Check out our blog archives for more information about the importance of having the right insurance coverage.
Call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency for a free insurance review – you should do this at least once a year to ensure that your policies are up to date.
Refer a friend or family member to our agency for a free insurance quote – they may be able to get better coverage or a lower price on their policies.

Insurance may not be glamorous, but it is a crucial part of making sure that you and your loved ones would be financially covered if something were to happen to your home, car, health, etc., and that makes it worth celebrating on this Insurance Awareness Day!

If you need a free Boston insurance policy review for your home insurance, auto insurance, business insurance, or any other product, simply call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655.

Summer Tips for Small Business Owners

Posted on July 2, 2018June 27, 2018 by cvargas

Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we love to support the local businesses in our community. That could be by shopping small or providing them with top of the line Massachusetts business insurance and business advice!

We have a question for all of the business owners out there: Do you ever feel like there’s more that you could be doing to grow your business? It’s probably a constant state, right? Well, if you’re getting the itch to do something timely to promote your business to potential customers (or remind your past customers that you’re still around) here are a few summer tips for your small business:

Snap a Few Pictures

Summertime is the perfect time to put a new emphasis on photos – after all, a picture is worth 1,000 words! Take pictures of customers in your business (with their permission, of course), snap a photo of your employees, or frame your products in the summer sunshine. Then post these photos on your social media accounts or have a summertime feature wall with these photos on a wall of your business.

Grow Your List

How do you reach out to your customers? Social media is a great option, but you can’t guarantee that your posts will be seen by your past customers. If you invest your time in growing your email database, however, you can guarantee that your messages will be sent directly to each person that you wish to contact! Start up a list or make a push to fill out the existing one and send out a few mailers to your fans to encourage them to visit you or patronize your business (coupons are never a bad idea if you’re looking to drum up a few extra customers)!

Try Out a New Platform

Social media is a very powerful platform for any business in today’s world. Is your business a part of the Social Media realm? There is a site for almost everyone, so why not try out something new to see if you can gain a bit of traction?

Those businesses that are new to the online world can start with the basics like Facebook and Twitter, and the options are endless for businesses that are a little more advanced. Our recommendation is to consider places like Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn – or find something more suitable to your industry!

Find Local Events

There is always something going on here in the Greater Boston area. Are you taking advantage of the great events being offered? There are business building and networking events for business owners.

Have you looked into whether your business could have a booth at an event related to your industry? Make a good showing by being prepared – have examples of your product or service, as well as business cards. This is another great opportunity to run a giveaway in order to build out your email list! Just have a card to fill out and drop in a fishbowl. Customers get a chance to win, and you can market to them directly to their email address… it’s a win-win!

Host a Giveaway or Contest

Your customers are probably busy enjoying all of the wonderful summer activities in Boston – do you ever worry that they have forgotten about you? Pique their interest with a giveaway or contest! Offer your own product or service as the prize, or something that everyone would love. Advertise at your location, and online through Social Media and your email list, and customers will be talking about you in no time!

Appreciate Your Employees

Summertime is the perfect time of year to build up the people who helped build your business – your employees. Show them some appreciation with a catered meal, or even a bigger event that their friends or family can attend. See more tips in our blog post dedicated to Employee Appreciation Day!

Plan for Upcoming Holidays

Once summer is over, there is a stretch of events and holidays until the start of the new year. Now is the prefect time to get your ducks in a row and start to plan your marketing strategies! Take inspiration from the above suggestions and schedule some Social Media posts, plan out some holiday season contests or giveaways, start searching for events taking place in the Greater Boston area, and more. What are some of your favorite marketing techniques for the Fall and Winter?

So, are you ready to make the most of the summer season? Whether you choose to try one of our small business tips, or make your way through most of the list, we always want to make sure that small businesses in Boston flourish. A great way to do that is with business insurance from our agency! Call 617-298-0655 for a free quote or check out our online quote portal anytime. Happy marketing, small business owners!

Key Facts About Your Home Insurance Policy

Posted on June 28, 2018June 23, 2018 by cvargas

Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets. Your home insurance policy is what ensures that you won’t have a financial crisis if your home is damaged or destroyed – that makes it very important. But here’s a question that we like to ask all of our clients: How well do you know your insurance policy? Most people know that they have a policy, and may know their premium, but for most people it stops there.

Here is some ‘food for thought’ – you shouldn’t wait until you need to make a claim to know the ins and outs of your Massachusetts home insurance policy! Make sure that you are prepared by knowing several things about your policy before you have an issue. Here are four major things that you should know:

Know Your Deductible

If you have to make a claim, you will be responsible to pay for a certain amount of the reparations before your insurance policy starts to pay out. Do you know this number? Some people choose to set aside some money to cover their home insurance and auto insurance deductibles so that they won’t have to scramble to make the payment if they need to make an insurance claim.

It is also important to realize that many home insurance policies also have a few different deductibles. There is one main number used in the event of a claim, but your policy may also have a larger deductible for losses due to earthquakes or floods. This may be a specific dollar amount, but it could also potentially be a percentage of the claim amount – which could add up fast in the event of a major disaster.

Know Your Limits

This may sound like sage life advice, but we’re talking about your insurance limits! Home insurance policies always have a maximum dollar amount for the coverage they provide for different types of claims, just like the deductibles above. Depending on your policy, you may have different limits for property damage, personal possessions, loss of use, liability, etc. Your Boston insurance agent will be able to help you determine the amount of coverage you are required and recommended to have for each of these.

Examine these limits on your current policy and ask your Boston insurance agent if they are high enough. You may want to consider additional home insurance coverage, or you can buy an umbrella insurance policy for added liability coverage. It is also important to remember that you shouldn’t necessarily insure your home based on what you paid for the property. Instead, you want to be able to rebuild your home if it is completely destroyed, so look to insure your home for the ‘rebuilding cost’ rather than the purchase price, which could be more or less. For older homes, you will also want to add in additional insurance if your home would need to be fixed in a way that adhered to newer local building codes.

Know Your Covered Perils

It should come as no surprise that your home insurance will almost definitely cover you if there’s a fire – but what about some of the other curveballs that life could throw your way? Would your home insurance cover your losses if…

Your house flooded?
You were affected by an earthquake?
Your neighbor’s tree fell on your home?
A visitor slipped and fell on your property and sued you for damages?
Your dog bites a visitor or guest?

There are a million possible things that could go wrong in and around your home, but your home insurance may require a little added protection to make sure that you are fully covered. Talk to your insurance agent to find out if you are prepared.

Know Your Potential Savings

When purchasing a home insurance policy from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, there are many potential discounts for which you may qualify. Which ones are you receiving? You can get discounts for having several insurance policies through the same carrier, as well as discounts for having a security system and/or fire alarm. You may even qualify for a new discount if you have insurance through the same carrier for more than a set number of years!

If you think there’s a chance that you could qualify for an additional discount since your last Massachusetts home insurance quote, call to speak to your insurance agent. They will be able to check and see whether you are getting the right coverage at the best possible price.

Don’t know any (or all) of the above? Find out the details of your policy by calling your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent at 617-298-0655. We can explain to you your deductible, policy limits, covered perils, and search for any new discounts that you could receive. The call will only take a few minutes, so don’t put it off any longer!

Recap: Avoiding July 4th Insurance Claims

Posted on June 26, 2018June 15, 2018 by cvargas

“Opposites generally create intense chemistry. There are more chances of fireworks when different people are together than similar personalities.” – Sonam Kapoor

The Fourth of July is just one week away! Have you finalized your plans yet? No matter what you’ll be doing, make sure that you do it safely, and avoid having an accident that would necessitate an insurance claim. Here are a few tips from your local insurance experts:

Hosting a party? Prepare for guests by removing breakables and valuables from common areas.
If anyone is going to be enjoying the pool, make sure that they are safe. Children should be supervised, and everyone should practice safe sun while at the pool or outside during the day. And make sure that everyone stays well hydrated!
Fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts (and it’s also illegal to buy fireworks in another state and bring them to Massachusetts), so if you want to see a display you will need to locate a professional firework show in Boston.

Before the festivities start, do your due diligence and check on your home insurance policy. Your experienced insurance agent can review your current policy to make sure that it is as ready for the fireworks as you are. Remember – for any and all of your Massachusetts insurance needs, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655.

June 28 is Insurance Awareness Day!

Posted on June 25, 2018June 24, 2018 by cvargas

Throughout the year, there are many holidays to celebrate. Any given day seems to host at least a few different holidays. June alone has many – National Donut Day on the first Friday, Red Rose Day on the 12^th, National Kissing Day on the 19^th, Take Your Dog to Work Day on the Friday after Father’s Day – and the list goes on. Our favorite here at the Vargas and Vargas Insurance office, though, is without a doubt June 28^th – Insurance Awareness Day.

As an insurance agency in Greater Boston, we are always on a mission to make sure that our clients know how important it is to have proper insurance coverage for all of the valuable things in life – from your home to your car to your business, and even your health and life itself!

In honor of Insurance Awareness Day, we have a few ideas for things that our clients and their families can do to ‘celebrate’ this important holiday. If insurance is a part of your life, we encourage you to pick out one or a few of the items on this list, or even make your way through the whole thing!

Read Our Blog Archives

Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency has been serving the Greater Boston area for many years, and we have been sharing a portion of our knowledge with you, our customers, through our blog posts. Take a moment and learn something about insurance by looking back onto our blog archive. We make it a point to post about our insurance expertise and about this great city that we call home. Hopefully you find something useful while perusing and visit the blog often for more updates.

Teach Your Kids About Insurance

In today’s world, many kids graduate high school without knowing how insurance policies work! This is concerning, so on this Insurance Appreciation Day take the opportunity to teach your kids what insurance is, and why it is important to have. This can be done with kids of almost any age. Here is an article from Pocket Sense about how to do this in order to take one additional step toward preparing your children for their impending independence.

Review Your Insurance Policies

Your life is always changing. You go through new challenges as you get older. If you have children, they are maturing day by day. You need to make sure that your insurance policies reflect that change. That’s why it is important to have a thorough insurance review at least once a year. Call your insurance agent and schedule a checkup for your home insurance, auto insurance, and any other insurance products that you carry. Ask about whether it’s time to think about life insurance if you don’t already have a policy.

Have a Little Insurance-Related Fun

“Insurance” and “fun” aren’t words that are usually used in the same sentence. Insurance tends to have a reputation for being tedious and boring – but it doesn’t have to be! Have some fun this year on Insurance Awareness Day and watch a movie, or at least a movie clip, with one of the world’s most loveable insurance agents – Ned Ryerson!

Plenty of other movies also have an insurance plot or sub plot, including The Rainmaker, Memento, The Truman Show, Death of a Salesman, and even The Incredibles (the second is now in theaters).

There are also a multitude of insurance comics out there that you can enjoy and share with your friends. Here are just a few examples from the very funny Randy Glasbergen.

Share an Insurance Story

Do you have a story about how insurance has helped you? Whether you have filed a home or car insurance claim, or if health insurance has ever let you focus on recovery rather than medical bills, we want to hear! Post to the Vargas and Vargas Insurance Facebook page about why you love insurance, and if our agency has ever gone above and beyond to help you, we hope that you will leave a review and tell others about our great work!

Recommend Our Agency

Do you have a friend or family member who needs an insurance quote or review? It would be our pleasure to help them! Just send them a link to this blog post or give them our phone number (617-298-0655). Our Massachusetts insurance quotes are always free, and there is no obligation to buy!

So, how will you celebrate Insurance Awareness Day this year? It may not merit a label on your calendar, but you will be glad that you took a few minutes out of your day to do something in celebration, whether it is learning something or getting a review of your existing policies.

Remember, it’s quick and easy to call your insurance agent for a free policy review, and you’ll be glad you did if you end up needing to make a claim in the future!

Recap: Guide to Road Trips

Posted on June 22, 2018June 8, 2018 by cvargas

“I climb behind the steering wheel… I drive off immediately without once looking back; it’s a long journey but it leads to freedom.” – Corinne Hofmann

Is the open road calling to you? Once the summertime hits, the weather is lovely, and the kids are out of school, many families choose to go on adventures by loading up the car and taking a road trip. In case you missed our full post last week, here are a few of the major tips for your family’s journey:

Before you go on a road trip, take a test drive – choose a place that is a few hours away to get your feet wet and decide if your family could survive long days in the car.
Take care in choosing a destination. You want to choose something that is a manageable distance away, and a place that the whole family can look forward to visiting.
Before you leave, make sure that your car is ready for the trip. If you want to be sure that your car is up for the task, visit one of the many mechanics in the area for a check-up.
Set rules to follow in the car and prepare plenty of healthy snacks and entertainment for the trip.

Before your family begins their road trip, make sure that you check in with your Massachusetts auto insurance agent for a free auto insurance review by calling 617-298-0655. Your agent can make sure that your car insurance is ready for a grand adventure!

Why Does the Cost of Auto Insurance go Down when You Turn 25?

Posted on June 20, 2018June 19, 2018 by agentinsure

We all want to save money on things like insurance because we are paying for it anyway. That being said, some drivers are what insurance companies consider high-risk drivers which leads to higher rates across the board. So what makes the magic age of 25 different? For those in the Dorchester, MA area, the agents with Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help you answer this question in more depth.

High-risk drivers are often those that are considered either inexperienced or with less to lose in the case of an accident. High-risk drivers are also those that have statistically been placed in the category due to things like gender, age, and location. Drivers under the age of 25 are considered to be drivers with less experience and therefore drivers that are more likely to be in a traffic accident. When you turn 25, you can contact your insurance agency and let them know, and your rates will be adjusted according to your age. Though there are no other milestones so to speak according to age and rates, the older you are, the less your insurance generally costs so long as you have not had a ton of accidents.

Some other factors that may affect the overall cost of your insurance are things like your gender, males have a higher rate generally, if you are married or single, if you have multiple cars on your policy, if you have kids, have a degree, etc. These are all factors that your insurance agent will help you consider to get the best rate possible. For those in the Dorchester, MA area, the agents with Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help you to find your perfect policy every time.

Recap: Free Family Fun in Boston

Posted on June 19, 2018June 4, 2018 by cvargas

“I think togetherness is a very important ingredient to family life.” – Barbara Bush

It’s summertime, and that means you’re probably on the lookout for free family fun here in the Boston area. Thankfully, Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency has got you covered! In our previous blog post, we covered several ideas that will give your family hours upon hours of entertainment without burdening your bank account. Here are just a few of the suggestions:

Visit a local park or playground. Kids will have fun for hours – especially if they help pack a healthy picnic lunch to enjoy in the lovely weather!
Summer is a great time to take advantage of the many water-based activities in the area. See if there is a local pool that you can visit, or just let kids play in the sprinklers for the afternoon.
Volunteering is a great way to introduce children to the idea of giving back to their community. Here are some ideas of volunteer opportunities for children and families.

For more summertime tips, stay tuned to the Vargas and Vargas Insurance Blog! We love to post safety tips, insurance advice, seasonal updates, and much more! And if you ever need insurance help, call our office at 617-298-0655. We offer free advice and Massachusetts insurance quotes that will help you make sure your family is protected.

How to Avoid Fourth of July Insurance Claims

Posted on June 18, 2018June 15, 2018 by cvargas

What will you be doing in a few weeks to celebrate Independence Day? This Fourth of July, Americans will be celebrating the 242^nd anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. There will be parties and gatherings all across the country, as well as plenty of fireworks displays! The staff here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency is looking forward to the holiday, and the plans being made involve plenty of grilling, swimming, and spending time with loved ones.

Throwing a Party?

Independence Day is a great opportunity to gather with your neighbors, friends, and family for some good-spirited celebration. If you’re planning on throwing a party, there are a few things that you will want to think about:

It’s all about the good old US of A. Make your party festive with plenty of US flags and red, white, and blue themed decorations. You don’t have to break the bank to add some flair to your get-together – check out these ideas from Good Housekeeping.
Food on the Fourth tends to revolve around the grill. If you want to be adventurous, offer more than just hot dogs and hamburgers! Grill up some sides and try grilled fruit for dessert! That smoky flavor is something you just can’t get with any other method of cooking.
Before your guests arrive, make sure that you have relocated all of your breakables and valuables that are in common areas. Close off any areas in your home where you don’t want guests to go.
If you will be serving alcohol, you need to keep a close eye on how much your guests are drinking. If someone overindulges, offer them a ride home or call a cab. Otherwise, you may wish to have your spare room ready in case someone would rather crash with you until it is safe for them to get behind the wheel.

If hosting or attending a party isn’t something you’re interested in, that’s ok too! There is nothing wrong with having a quiet movie night at home. And there are even several movies appropriate for the holiday – like 1776 or Independence Day!

Enjoying the Water?

The Fourth of July is the perfect holiday to enjoy at the pool or beach. We hope that you have fun enjoying the water, but make sure that you put safety first. Little ones should be coached on the rules of the pool or beach before they don their bathing suits. This includes no running and no diving. Children should be supervised at all times. Make sure that anyone that is in the sun applies (and reapplies) sunscreen, and that they stay properly hydrated.

Also make sure that you are safe if you’re going boating. For more information, read our blog all about Boating Tips!

Seeing Fireworks?

Did you know that fireworks are illegal in the state of Massachusetts? Our state adopted the Model Fireworks Law as promoted by the National Fire Protection Agency, making the sale, purchase, and use of fireworks illegal in our state. It is important to know that even though fireworks are being sold in neighboring states, it is illegal to bring these fireworks into our state, by penalty of confiscation and possible fine.

Because of the fireworks ban, those of you that want to see fireworks this Fourth of July will need to find a display that is being run by licensed professionals.

One of the most popular events in the area is the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. This free event takes place on July 3^rd and 4^th at 8 pm at the DCR Hatch Shell. The concert on the Third is music only, but if you go on the Fourth you can see the concert at 8 and then the fireworks begin at 10:30. This year, the headliner is a Massachusetts native – Rachel Platten! For those that don’t want to brave the crowds to see the concert and fireworks on the Fourth, the concert will be broadcast on Bloomberg TV, Bloomberg Radio, Bloomberg.com, and more.

Remember your furry friends this Fourth of July – many animals are afraid of fireworks. If this is the case, ask your veterinarian what can be done to make them more comfortable. They may recommend medications or comfort items that will help your cat or dog remain calm during one of the more stressful days of the year.

No matter what you choose to do to celebrate this Independence Day, the unexpected is always possible, so make sure that your home and family are protected with a home insurance policy from your local Massachusetts insurance agents at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. One call to 617-298-0655 and you can review your insurance or get a free and no-obligation quote.

And remember – this Fourth of July and every holiday – stay safe and have a great time with your loved ones. Happy Fourth!

The Ultimate Guide to Road Tripping

Posted on June 14, 2018June 8, 2018 by cvargas

Summer road trips are a rite of passage for most kids these days. Loading up the car and being in closed quarters with the entire family for a few days can sound like masochism, but it doesn’t have to be! A road trip done right is a fun and educational journey that will provide fun memories for kids and adults alike.

If you’re thinking about taking a family road trip, here are a few tips from your favorite local Boston insurance agents at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency!

Destination Ideas

Before you embark upon a long-form road trip, you may want to do a test run with your family to make sure that you’re all prepared. There are many locations that are only a few hours away from our area and would be perfect for a one or two-day trip. These locations include Newport Rhode Island, Six Flags New England, Sturbridge Village, and Portland Maine.

Once you’re ready to choose the destination for your longer trip, you have plenty of options. Will you go to a natural wonder, a big city, or an entertainment hot spot? If you’re really adventurous, you can even combine several destinations into a single trip!

Here are just a few possible destinations, along with their distance from the Vargas and Vargas Insurance office in Dorchester:

The Berkshires: 128 Miles.
New York City: 225 Miles.
Washington DC: 455 Miles.
Niagara Falls: 472 Miles.

What other places are perfect for a road trip? Has your family enjoyed a road trip to an attraction that we didn’t mention? There are a ton of fun and interesting things to see here in New England, so the road trip opportunities are endless.

Before You Leave

Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This is doubly true when it comes to vacations. You need to make sure that you, your family, and your vehicle, are all ready to leave the comforts of home.

First, make sure that your car is in good health. You may opt to take it to your mechanic of choice for a quick check-up. Also see if it is due for an oil change, especially considering how many miles you are about to put on the car. For safety, check your car’s emergency kit to ensure that it is ready for your trip. You can also call your favorite Dorchester insurance agency for a quick car insurance checkup.

At the very least, you should make sure that your gas tank is topped off before you leave so that you can drive for a long stretch without needing to find a gas station. Starting off on your journey with a clean car is also a good idea. And make sure that you have a trash can available during the journey!

Also make sure that your family is prepared for the trip. You will need lots of entertainment for everyone. This could include music, books, games, and other car trip activities. Remember that radio stations may not always be available, so hook up a smart phone to your car’s infotainment system or have some old-school CDs at the ready. The internet is full of ideas that will keep your family amused for hours. Planning ahead also gives you the opportunity to pack fun and healthy snacks for all of your passengers. Anything that doesn’t need to be refrigerated is a plus, but you could also plan on bringing a small cooler for beverages and small snacks too.

While You’re in the Car

After spending several hours in the car, people are bound to get a little stir-crazy. Make a loose plan to stop every couple of hours for a potty break and possibly to get something to eat. Stretching is important when you have been sitting for a long period of time, so have a mini yoga class with the family a few times a day to stay loose.

It never hurts to have a little extra unexpected entertainment in your proverbial back pocket for when the road seems endless, so pack a special snack or the instructions and materials for a new game that will provide a respite from at least a bit of boredom. It also helps to keep the destination in mind – have a countdown and make a fuss every time you get closer to your goal. This could be every 100 miles, every hour, etc. Seeing progress will help everyone see that you are advancing – even if the road always looks the same.

So, will you and your family be taking a road trip vacation this summer? For more summertime and vacation tips, keep checking back to the Vargas and Vargas Insurance Blog. And if you ever need an insurance quote or review, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling 617-298-0655 or filling out our online “Compare Quotes” form for the insurance policy of your choice.

Recap: Small Business Insurance

Posted on June 12, 2018May 31, 2018 by cvargas

“I can’t imagine a person becoming a success who doesn’t give this game of life everything he’s got.” – Walter Cronkite

As a business owner, you want to make sure that you’re doing everything in your power to protect your business from the unexpected. One of the best ways to do this is with the right business insurance policies. Business insurance can seem complicated, but when it’s broken down, the question is really whether you have enough coverage. Having the proper amount of business insurance will protect you, your business, your employees, and your customers.

In our blog last week, we detailed out several types of business insurance that Boston area business owners may need, including property insurance, several types of liability insurance, business interruption and data breach insurance, worker’s compensation, commercial auto insurance, and more. We also covered the importance of having the proper insurance for a home-based business, as well as personal insurance policies.

If you are ever worried about not having enough commercial insurance coverage, or if you have a question about your Massachusetts business insurance coverage, just call the Vargas and Vargas Insurance office at 617-298-0655. One of our experienced agents can help you ensure that your business is fully protected with the right coverage, and they can help you navigate your needs to determine which types of insurance are necessary for your business.

Fun and Free Family Entertainment in Boston

Posted on June 11, 2018June 4, 2018 by cvargas

Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we are experts on insuring homes, cars, businesses, and more in the Boston area. After having lived and worked in the Boston area for so long, we also know a few thigs about finding great entertainment in the city. If you’re looking for fun and free entertainment in the Boston area this summer, here are just a few ideas for you and your loved ones:

Playgrounds and Parks

A favorite pastime in the summer is visiting local parks and playgrounds with the family. Young children love to play, and even older children who refuse to set down their cell phones and tablets can benefit from a little bit of fresh air every so often. For more time together, bring a few toys or pack a picnic lunch to share. And remember, sun safety is very important when spending time outdoors!

Looking for something unique and goal-driven to do in your time outdoors? Try Geocaching! Deemed the “World’s Largest Treasure Hunt,” it’s an activity that the whole family will love. It’s free (all you need is a smart phone and good walking shoes) and there are tons of caches in our area that you can find.

Water Activities

Want to make even more of your family time? Boston has many opportunities for water fun. If you don’t have a free community pool, there are plenty of free public pools in the city. In addition to being a ton of fun, playing in the pool can keep the heat at bay, as well as being great cardiovascular exercise for adults and children alike. And we all know that tired kids are happy kids!

And if you don’t feel like leaving the house, a hose or sprinkler can also provide hours of fun for the family. For added fun, get some water guns or reusable water bombs and let loose! First, though, make sure to set rules and boundaries for your games so that no one gets hurt during the fun.

Check Out Your Local Library

Have you been to your local library? In addition to housing more free books than you and your family could read in a lifetime, they also probably offer audiobooks and movies that you can check out. One additional huge perk of a library membership is their activity offerings. Many host reading sessions, craft days, and more. Some even offer free passes to local attractions!

Volunteering

For those looking to get their family out of the house without breaking the bank, volunteering is a wonderful option. Giving back to the community is a great thing to do and can help children learn many important life skills (not to mention that a history of volunteer work looks great on college and job applications).

There are many volunteer opportunities here in the Greater Boston area, including helping the elderly and the homeless, working on conservation efforts, helping others maintain health and wellness, and much more. To find the opportunity that is right for you and your family, visit the website for Boston Cares – the largest volunteer agency in New England.

Boston Tourist Activities

When was the last time that you played the part of a tourist here in your own hometown? Boston is home to many historical landmarks and other attractions that the whole family can enjoy. Here are the details for just a few of the possibilities:

The Freedom Trail: Pick up a free map at the Visitor’s Center on Boston Common and it will help you navigate the 2.5-mile trail through 16 historical sites, including Paul Revere’s House, The Massachusetts State House, the Old North Church, the USS Constitution, and more.
If you have children, it’s never too early to start talking about their future. One great place to get them thinking about their impending coming-of-age is at a college campus. Thankfully, there are several top-notch colleges here in Boston! Most offer free tours or other public events that would be perfect for your family.
Want to go to a museum? Most of the time there is an admission fee, but if you know some of the secrets of Boston, you know when to go for free admission! Many museums in the area offer free admission at some point during the week – an online search will lead you in the right direction.

What is your favorite free family activity here in the Boston area? Is there anything that we should try that isn’t on our list? Let us know! We always love to hear from our clients.

And while you’re telling us about all the fun local entertainment options in the area, ask your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent about whether it’s time to review your insurance policies. We recommend annual reviews for all personal and commercial insurance policies. The process is simple and free and could save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.

Recap: Prepare for Hurricane Season

Posted on June 8, 2018May 23, 2018 by cvargas

“Hurricane season brings a humbling reminder that, despite our technologies, most of nature remains unpredictable.” – Diane Ackerman

It’s official: hurricane season has begun. Now that there’s the potential for a hurricane any time, have you started to prepare your home? In last week’s full blog post, we detailed several ways that you could help to get ready for the potential of a hurricane hitting the northeast this summer or fall. Here is a quick recap of the tips:

Prepare your home by having your roof inspected regularly. If there is a storm coming, bring in anything that could act as a projectile in high winds, like patio furniture, bicycles, and potted plants.
Update your emergency kit with everything you would need for a few days without power, including water and nonperishable foods. Also include entertainment for everyone in the household!
Have an evacuation plan. It is invaluable to have a few potential destinations picked out just in case you are ordered to evacuate. Make sure to account for any family pets, if you have them. If there’s a hurricane coming, fill your car’s gas tank before the inevitable rush on the gas station.

And remember, it only takes a few minutes to have a Massachusetts insurance professional review your home insurance. One call to 617-298-0655 and you will know whether you have enough coverage to weather a potential storm. But don’t wait for the rain to start falling – before we end up on the wrong end of a spaghetti plot you need to call!

Recap: Sun Safety

Posted on June 5, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” – Helen Keller

Did you catch our blog post last week about how to stay safe while enjoying the sunshine? As you enjoy the lovely Boston weather, remember that it is important to keep yourself and your family safe from the potentially harmful rays of the sun.

If you’re going to be exposed to the sun for more than a few minutes, make sure to wear sunscreen and reapply it as directed for continued protection.
Even though you’re wearing sunscreen, it’s important to protect yourself when you’re in the sun by wearing clothing, hats, and sunglasses to cover your skin. Also take plenty of breaks in the shade and stay hydrated.
Know the early signs of skin cancer including the ABCDE rule and see a medical professional if you see any of abnormalities on your body. Also have a doctor check your moles and skin abnormalities annually as a preventative measure.

Make sure that you’re always able to put your health first with the right health insurance policy. To speak to one of our agents about your health insurance needs, just call 617-298-0655. We can help guide you through the sometimes confusing jargon and get a policy that is right for you and your loved ones.

Types of Insurance for Small Businesses

Posted on June 4, 2018May 31, 2018 by cvargas

At Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we know the value of small businesses – that’s why we take such pains to protect the ones we insure with top-notch Massachusetts small business insurance policies. Whether your business is established or just starting out, it has many moving parts, and no two are exactly alike, so the insurance that each one needs is unique. Based on your industry and the risks to which you are exposed, your commercial insurance policy may include:

Property Insurance

If your business has a storefront or an office, property coverage is critical. You need to make sure that your location and its contents are protected in case of any type of covered loss, including most types of severe weather, as well as fire, vandalism, and more. For added protection, talk to your insurance agent about adding a flood insurance policy to your property insurance.

General Liability Insurance

You never expect your business to do harm to others, but you should be protected just in case you are ever the target of litigation. Depending on the policy, your liability insurance may also cover damages or medical fees for which you are held liable, up to the policy limits.

Professional Liability Insurance

If your business makes recommendation or gives professional advice, you may need special liability insurance in case your guidance results in harm to your customers. Ask our agents about how much coverage you should carry based on your line of business, and we will help steer you in the right direction.

Excess Liability Insurance

When it rains, it pours. That’s where umbrella insurance comes in! If you have umbrella insurance, you will be protected above and beyond your other liability insurance policies. This helps to ensure that you won’t have to close your doors if you are ever targeted by a large lawsuit.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If your business is responsible for any vehicles, you will need insurance to cover those vehicles and the employees that operate them. Whether your vehicle is for transport of employees or customers, or if it is used for deliveries, you need to make sure that you’re fully protected in case of an accident. For more information, read this post on the Vargas and Vargas Insurance Blog!

Business Interruption

Your basic business insurance policy will cover repairs to your property if it is damaged, but what will cover you if you have to temporarily close your doors? If the loss of income for a short period of time would result in difficulties, you may want to consider business interruption coverage, also called business income insurance.

Data Breach Insurance

Does your business rely on digital data? If your computers are physically damaged, they will be covered… but what about if they are hacked? If your information is stolen and your data is leaked, data breach insurance will protect you. This may also cover businesses that are sued due to leaked information that was kept in paper files, though hacking is much more common nowadays.

Worker’s Compensation

If your business employs a certain number of workers, you may be required to carry a worker’s compensation insurance policy. This coverage will ensure that your employees are protected if they are injured on the job, and can include coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and more. Call our agency to find out if you are legally required to carry this coverage.

Home-Based Business Coverage

If you run your Massachusetts business out of your house, don’t assume that your home insurance policy will cover your business. Often, these businesses will need additional specialized coverage in order to be fully protected, whether it comes as a rider on your home insurance or a separate business policy. Talk to an insurance agent about your business and the type of coverage that you need. For smaller businesses like these, the insurance premiums are often very affordable.

Personal Insurance Policies

While it isn’t a part of our Massachusetts business insurance policies, we want to take this opportunity to remind you not to neglect your personal insurance policies. Trust our agency with your home and car insurance policies in addition to your business’s insurance so that you can rest assured knowing that you are fully protected both personally and professionally.

Want to see what a personalized business insurance policy from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency looks like? Just call our agency at 617-298-0655 to speak with a commercial insurance expert about your needs. We will craft a unique policy for you in no time, and at no cost to you! In addition, we can make sure that your business gets all potential discounts and credits that you qualify for – after all, you have better things to spend your money on!

So, what are you waiting for? Call or click now for your free quote and see if your business can be better covered with a policy from Vargas and Vargas Insurance.

Recap: After Your Wedding, Update Your Insurance

Posted on June 1, 2018May 23, 2018 by cvargas

“Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.” -Franklin P. Jones

Summer is a popular time for weddings here in New England. If you are getting married this summer, make sure to follow these simple tips to update and combine your insurance policies with your new spouse:

Combine your renter’s insurance or home insurance policies to cover your singular residence. Remember to update your home inventory to include your wedding rings and gifts that you received!
Bundling your home or renter’s insurance with your car insurance (for one or multiple vehicles) will probably save you money on your insurance premiums.
Now that you’re married, you should consider getting a life insurance policy, or change your existing policy to have your new spouse as the beneficiary.
More responsibility can mean more potential risks. Consider guarding yourself and your new family with an umbrella insurance policy – you can get a lot of additional coverage for pennies on the dollar.
For more tips on how to update your insurance policies after marriage, talk to your Boston insurance agent!

And if you’re not tying the know anytime soon, pass our blog post along to a bride-to-be or groom-to-be that you know! Anyone who needs a Massachusetts insurance review can call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655 for a free consultation with a local insurance expert.

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