Choosing a Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Home

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

Posted on April 30, 2018April 25, 2018 by cvargas

Whether you’re moving across the country or across the street, selling your home can be a stressful process. You want to make sure that you get top dollar for it, while also working on picking out a new place to live that’s (as Goldilocks would say) just right for your family.

Thankfully, you have lots of options when you choose someone to help you sell your home. If you’re looking for advice on how to choose a Massachusetts real estate agent, look no further. Here are a few tips from our Boston home insurance professionals.

Who Should You Trust to Sell Your Home?

When you’re looking to put your home on the market, you have several options of how to list it. Let’s break them down:

You could sell “By Owner,” but this is often a huge mistake. Selling a home is a complicated process, and it’s not worth it just to save a little bit of money on a real estate agent’s commission. In fact, you may even lose money by not getting the best possible sale price.

In the worst-case scenario, you could potentially end up in a legal battle because of your lack of knowledge and expertise. Just like you probably wouldn’t consider representing yourself in court, don’t sell a home without a qualified and knowledgeable professional guiding you. This is where a Realtor comes in.

The Signs of a Great Real Estate Agent

When you’re scouting out real estate agents to meet with, make sure that you find out if your candidates are full-time agents. You want to make sure that you work with someone that is knowledgeable about your neighborhood and knows what they are doing, so try to avoid those ‘part time’ agents who consider real estate a ‘side job.’

It’s important for your Realtor to know about the process of buying and selling a home, but make sure that you choose one that is also knowledgeable about houses themselves. Your real estate agent should be able to walk through your home and point out things that buyers will like, and things that you should consider changing to make the property more attractive.

In addition to being knowledgeable about how to stage your home, your agent should also have marketing expertise. The real estate marketing game has changed a lot in recent years, so you need to make sure that you hire an agent that is going to leverage the most current techniques to get the word out about your house. Ask agents about their typical marketing plan, specifically the digital channels they will use to make sure that potential buyers see your home.

You will need to talk to your real estate agent a lot throughout the process of selling your home, so make sure that you talk to candidates about their communication. Don’t settle for someone that is going to agree to sell your home and then move on to another client – find a Realtor that is going to keep you informed about what they’re doing to sell your home, preferably someone who will proactively communicate so that you never feel like you’re always the one asking for updates and details.

Last (but certainly not least), make sure that you find a real estate agent that truly cares about you and your home. Your real estate agent should be focused on getting to know you and helping set you up for success in selling your home – not solely on increasing their commission. While you’re interviewing potential real estate agents as you prepare to list your home, make sure that you never feel like the means to a bottom line.

When choosing an agent, you need to also do your homework. Instead of relying solely on interviews with the agents themselves, ask for a list of each agent’s recent clients. Call a few and ask about the experience they had with the agent. Also check the agents license to ensure that it is current and that no formal complaints or disciplinary actions have been filed against the agent.

All of this can be a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re having trouble finding the right Massachusetts real estate agent to sell your home, call us! As an insurance agency, we have worked with many Realtors in the area, and we would love to give you a referral for an agent that will meet all of the qualifications outlined above.

When you’ve sold your home and are ready to move into a new place, make sure that you make the call to 617-298-0655 to talk to a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent. We can set you up with a new home insurance policy in no time! We will evaluate your needs and risk tolerance along with the details surrounding your new home to craft a policy that fits your needs.

The Most Common Threats for Business Owners

Posted on April 30, 2018April 30, 2018 by agentinsure

It could drive a person crazy to think about the many things that might potentially go wrong over the course of any given day. And yet, sometimes failing to acknowledge what’s out there can lead to an avoidable situation. If you’re thinking about upgrading or buying commercial insurance for your new business in Dorchester, MA, it’s worth noting the following facts from your friends at Vargas & Vargas Insurance. We provide commercial insurance for hard-working business owners around the state of Massachusetts. Here are a few reasons to get protection.

Criminal Activity

Criminal activity today doesn’t just mean a person breaking the door to your stockroom and stealing all of your available inventory. It can also mean someone breaking into your computer systems and stealing customer data or holding your files hostage for ransom. It can even be a person assaulting an employee at the end of their shift. It can also mean a group of kids just looking to cause a little mischief on a weekend night. Wherever the criminal element may come from, it’s the owner’s responsibility to take care of any physical or emotional damages that may result.

Lawsuits, Weather, and More

From an employee suing the company for wrongful discrimination to an odd blizzard in Dorchester, MA, there are plenty of reasons why a business owner should worry about the state of their business. It only takes a few broken windows to wipe out several days worth of income, which is just one reason why an owner could use a good backup plan.

For a better chance at handling everything that may come your way, it helps to have a commercial insurance policy that works for you. Giving Vargas & Vargas Insurance a call today can make it easier for business owners to handle it all. Reach out to our agents to discuss a policy and have your questions answered.

Recap: Earth Day Celebrations

Posted on April 27, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“Earth Day should encourage us to reflect on what we are doing to make our planet a more sustainable and livable place.” – Scott Peters

We celebrated Earth Day on Sunday, April 22. what did you do to make the world a better place? If you haven’t yet had a chance to make an impact on the environment, here is a recap of a few of the suggestions that we gave.

First, everyone should take the opportunity to learn more about the planet, and how we can help it. There are many debates going on in today’s world about what’s harming the Earth, but regardless of your beliefs, there is still an upside to many of the suggestions we have! In addition, you can:

Plant a tree to promote clean air or a small garden to provide yourself with food. Planting flowers could aid your local bee population.
Cook a meal that is Earth-friendly using local foods from small farms and favoring vegetables over meat.
Reduce the waste you produce or recycle more. Start by donating or selling items that you don’t need instead of throwing them out.
Use less water and energy in your daily routine. Have you installed a low flow faucet, toilet, or shower head?

If you want to keep the Earth Day celebrations going, try incorporating one (or several) of these into your routine. You could even go one step further and make a bigger impact by starting a campaign at your workplace to recycle or reduce energy usage.

It’s Time to Improve Your Backyard for the Summer!

Posted on April 26, 2018April 27, 2018 by cvargas

Summer will be in full swing before you know it – is your backyard ready? As we prepare to enjoy the warm weather here in the Greater Boston area, we have some great ideas for ways that you can improve your home’s backyard so that you can make the summer of 2018 the best one yet!

The Grill is Paramount

Grilling is one of the most anticipated events of any summer. We can’t wait to get outside and make our first hamburger. Remember this when you’re making improvements to your backyard – find a place for your grill (away from low hanging tree branches and a safe distance from your home) and make it a great place to hang out. Also make sure that your grill rests on a solid foundation so that it won’t tip over. And when the hot dogs and hamburgers are tucked away, grill up some fruit or s’mores for dessert!

Prepare the Pool

Do you have a pool? If so, it’s time to get it ready for summertime with the necessary treatments. It’s also important to review the ‘pool rules’ with children. If you don’t have a pool, don’t stress – there are plenty of other options for cooling off without spending a fortune. An above-ground pool has many of the benefits without the expense of an in-ground pool. If you just want to relax to the sound of running water, consider adding a water feature to your landscaping.

Relaxation Zones

Many people will choose to take a good book out into their backyard to enjoy the weather. Is there a space in your backyard that calls to you? If not, maybe it’s time to make one! A hammock is always a welcome addition, but any comfortable chair will do! A side table is also essential – after all, you will need a place to set your cold drink!

Cookout Inspiration

Throwing a cookout? To make it stand out, take inspiration from a tailgate. There doesn’t have to be a game afterwards – what’s important is that a tailgate is a great place for food and fun, which is exactly what you want at a backyard party. They cornerstone to a good tailgate (and cookout) is, of course, the food. Have a variety of main fare and snacks available, along with plenty of beverages. If you are serving alcohol, do so conscientiously, and make sure there are plenty of nonalcoholic options as well.

Another important thing you should consider for your cookout is the entertainment that you find at a tailgate. Sure, some simple setups include a radio, but your cookout guests will love to have some yard games set up. Cornhole, Horseshoes, and Bocce are classic, but there are many other options available nowadays, including games like Lawn Jenga – doesn’t that sound like fun?

Tackle a Big Project

If you have some time and money to invest in your yard, consider taking on a bigger improvement project. There are plenty of ways to upgrade… here are just a few examples:

As we mentioned earlier, an above-ground pool is a great way to incorporate swimming in your backyard without as much construction (or cost) as an in-ground pool. You might also want to consider a hot tub if you want to extend your backyard time to include the Spring and Fall.
Adding a fire pit is a fun project to add some flair to your yard. Perfect for chilly Summer and Fall nights, a fire pit is a great place to gather as a family without electronics and spend quality time – especially if there is food involved! Check out these great fire pit recipes for inspiration.
For those that spend a lot of time tending their garden, a tool shed might be a welcome addition to your backyard. If you haven’t tried gardening yet, consider it as a new hobby – creating something beautiful or even edible from a seed can be gratifying.
If you’re up for a bit more of a challenge, consider adding a deck or porch to your home. They’re the perfect place to enjoy the weather without being exposed to the outside completely. Something covered and screened in will even keep the sun off your back and will keep the majority of the bugs away, which is always a plus.

As always, make sure that you consult a professional and have the proper paperwork completed before you start a big project on your property. If you need a referral for a professional to help with a project you’re considering, ask us! At Vargas and Vargas Insurance, we work with many Massachusetts professionals, and we would be happy to give you a referral!

Update Your Home Insurance

Last, but certainly not least, take this opportunity to have a Massachusetts home insurance professional review and update your home insurance policy. Some of these improvements (like the patio and pool) will add value to your home, so your insurance will need to be updated to reflect that. A review doesn’t take long – just call 617-298-0655 to speak to a Vargas and Vargas Insurance representative.

Recap: Spending Your Tax Refund

Posted on April 24, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” – Benjamin Franklin

Tax Day for this year has officially come and gone – are you waiting on a refund? It is estimated that 80% of people receive refunds on their income taxes, so let us ask you this – What are you going to spend your refund money on? If you want your windfall to go to work for you, here are a few ideas on how to spend it:

Pay off your existing debts, like your mortgage, car loan, student loans, or credit card balances. Most financial planning experts recommend paying off the one with the highest interest rate first.
Make improvements to your Boston area home, whether it’s to put off the cost of routine maintenance, improve your energy efficiency, or starting that DIY project you’ve been eyeing.
Invest the money in an emergency fund or a retirement account.
Take a vacation with your family to relax or make fun memories.

You could also use your 2018 tax refund to prepare for the unexpected with a Massachusetts life insurance policy. For more information, call our five-star insurance agency at 617-298-0655. We can explain to you the difference between whole and term life insurance, and help you decide which policy is right for you with a free quote. Don’t wait any longer, call now!

Steps to Take After Closing on a Boston Home

Posted on April 23, 2018April 19, 2018 by cvargas

Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or you’ve been through the home buying process before, you may ask yourself: “Ok, closing is over… now what?” The truth is that once all the paperwork is signed, you’ve got your work cut out for you! Here are a few things to add to your “Post Closing To-Do List.”

Store Your Important Documents

When you close on a home, you will be entrusted with many papers regarding your home. When in doubt, don’t throw it out! Keep these papers in a safe place in case you need them in the future. One of the best things that you can do is scan these papers and store them in the cloud, keeping the originals in a safe deposit box.

Put Safety First

Without question, one of the first things you should do when you get the keys to your new place is to change the locks. You never know who holds a copy of the existing locks, so it’s best to start fresh. The cost that you incur will be well worth the peace of mind that it brings to know that copies of your homes keys are floating around the neighborhood, especially given the possibility that previous homeowners could have given out copies to maintenance workers or others. Also make sure that you update the pin number on the existing security system, if you choose to renew the service.

Clean to Your Own Standards

The home is empty, so this may be your only opportunity to do a deep cleaning without having furniture in the way. If you are particular about how things are done you may opt to do the initial cleaning yourself. Otherwise, there are many home cleaning services in the Boston area that would be happy to do a one-time job that will get into every nook and cranny so that you can start with a (literal) clean slate.

Now is also a great time to have a pest control service come to treat your property. Some mortgage lenders will require this as a part of their contract, but it is probably a good idea regardless.

Make Improvements

After everything has been cleaned, you may choose to make some improvements to your new home. The complexity of the improvements that you choose is up to you! You could decide that your home is perfect as-is, or that it simply needs a new coat of paint. Painting is an easy way to give a home a fresh feeling, and to make it feel more like your own space.

There are also more involved projects that you may want to take on, like remodeling the kitchen or adding a pool. It’s your home – the sky is the limit!

Familiarize Yourself with Necessities

When you own a home, there are a few things that you need to be able to locate in a jiffy. One is the water system shutoff. If a pipe ever bursts, you don’t want to have to wonder where to go to stop the water. Also check the breaker box and make sure that everything is well labeled, and that there is a battery-operated light nearby so that you’re ready for a power outage.

Before you move in, have a professional check and perform maintenance on your home’s cooling and heating systems, as well as the electrical outlets and plumbing. You probably already had a professional inspection, but it never hurts to have the first maintenance out of the way so that you can establish a routine.

Now is also a great time to ensure that the home’s smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Add a recurring reminder to your calendar to check these detectors twice a year – typically it is recommended that this be done during the Daylight Saving Time clock changes.

Move In!

Once you have done the things outlined above, it’s time to start moving in! This is pretty self-explanatory, just make sure that you’re careful if you or any loved ones does any of the heavy lifting – the last thing you need when trying to set up a new home is an injury. If you’re hiring professional movers, check to make sure that they have the right insurance coverage so that you can’t be held liable if any of their workers are injured on the job. Last but not least, ask your Massachusetts insurance agent about how your possessions will be covered during your move, and how you should file a claim if anything is damaged or broken.

Ensure That You’re Prepared

You never know when trouble will strike, so make sure that you’re ready for anything. Create or practice your family emergency plan. Make sure that all members of your household know where the emergency kit is kept, and how to use everything in it. Also keep a list of emergency contacts where everyone can access it, including the phone number for your favorite local insurance agency.

As a new homeowner, you need to make sure that you have the right insurance protection. This means buying the right amount of coverage, not just the minimum amount required by your lender. To find out what types of coverage you should have for your Boston home, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655.

Recap: Credit Score

Posted on April 20, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself or get all the credit for doing it.” – Andrew Carnegie

Every person has a few numbers that define them. One of the most important financial numbers in your life is your credit score. This number affects your life in many ways, including whether you will be eligible for car loans and mortgages, and the interest you pay on these loans.

But don’t believe everything that you hear about your credit score. There are many myths floating around, including:

Your credit score measures how rich or poor you are
It doesn’t matter how much of your available credit that you use
Only one person in a relationship has to have good credit
You have to carry a balance to have a good score

For more information about what a credit score determines, and how you can raise yours, check out our full blog post from last week. We even gave some tips on how to establish credit for the first time and a few ways that you can improve your credit score.

And remember, at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency we can help you with your home insurance once your great credit helps you get approved for a mortgage, or your car insurance if you’re in the market for a new vehicle. Call 617-298-0655 for a free car or home insurance quote.

How Are You Celebrating Earth Day?

Posted on April 19, 2018April 13, 2018 by cvargas

Earth Day is celebrated across the globe on April 22 of every year. It’s a simple reminder of how important it is to treat this planet that we all call home with respect. Take a minute of your time to read a few suggestions on actions you can take to make our world a better place. After all, if every person aimed to leave the world in a better state each day, we would be in great position to thrive!

Why Do We Celebrate Earth Day?

Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970 in the midst of outcry for environmental reform. Most events happened on college campuses, with other schools also participating. Since then, it has become a global holiday, with many countries choosing to extend the holiday by recognizing an “Earth Week.” Participation has also expanded significantly, with companies also choosing to celebrate and become more environmentally conscious.

This Earth Day, how will you choose to do your part for the environment. Here are just a few suggestions on things that you can do!

Learn More About Helping the Planet

There are tons of resources available today to learn more about ways that the planet needs help. The city of Boston has a Greenovate initiative, where they are “working to get all Bostonians involved in reducing the pollution that causes global climate change.” That is a great place to start, where you can learn about the city’s Climate Action Plan and find sustainability events on their community calendar.

Plant Something

Expanding civilization unfortunately often means removing local plants. Make up for a little bit of what’s been lost by planting something new:

Trees will help to clean the air and will eventually provide lovely shady spots. Make sure that you plant it far enough away from structures so that the roots won’t eventually cause an issue.
Flowers will sometimes attract butterflies and provide pollen for bees. Depending on what you want, check to see what flowers are local to the area. There are plenty of benefits to having flowers in your home!
This time in April is the perfect time to plant a garden! Choose some easy-to-grow vegetables if it’s your first time planting, and you will soon be reaping the rewards with your own locally-grown produce.

Eat Earth-Friendly Food

Even if you don’t want to go to the effort of planting your own garden, you can still help the earth by eating locally grown food. This local food hasn’t travelled that far to get to you, so there is very little energy wasted in transportation.

Find some local fruits, vegetables, and more at the many farmers markets that are in this area during the Spring and Summer months or choose to patronize a local restaurant with a focus on farm to table cuisine.

Reduce Your Waste

In school, many of us were taught to “reduce, reuse, and recycle,” but do you still follow those practices? You could probably reduce the amount of waste you create with a few very simple actions, like using reusable grocery bags when you shop, or using a metal or glass bottle or a mug instead of plastic bottles or Styrofoam cups. For the waste that is inevitable, make sure that you recycle the things that are eligible through Boston’s recycling program. For other items, consider donation instead of throwing things away.

Save Water and Energy

Many places in the Greater Boston Area are very walkable and bike-able. Save a little bit of fuel and get some exercise on your next trip out instead of taking the car. You can also save energy by using less air conditioning, or by switching to energy-saving light bulbs in your home.

Water is also important to conserve. Do so by shortening your shower and turning off the tap when it’s not directly in use. You can also install a low-flow shower head and aerator in your bathroom to save water well into the future.

Extend the Celebrations

Taking one day to recognize our inherent commitment to the Earth is great, but what about the other 364 days of the year? Treat Earth Day like you would New Year’s Day – make a resolution to form or change a habit for the future! Even better, encourage others to do so as well. This could make a huge difference for the planet!

Don’t forget – many insurance providers will offer a discount for going paperless! This means you could help the environment by reducing waste and save yourself money at the same time! To see if you qualify for this discount, call your Massachusetts insurance agent at 617-298-0655.

We could use some suggestions for how we should celebrate at the Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency office. If you have an idea for something we can do to make Massachusetts a more beautiful place, send us an email, or send us a message on Facebook.

Recap: Insurance Mistakes

Posted on April 17, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“Each life is made up of mistakes and learning, waiting and growing, practicing patience and being persistent.” – Billy Graham

As the saying goes, “To err is human.” That doesn’t mean, however, that you should be ok with making easily avoidable mistakes. This includes the insurance mistakes that we detailed in our blog post last week! At Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, our experienced Massachusetts insurance agents will give you advice and review your insurance policies to ensure that you don’t make common insurance mistakes like these:

Insuring your home for its market value instead of the cost to rebuild.
Not having a home inventory in the event that you suffer a major loss.
Skipping out on policies like flood insurance and umbrella insurance.
Buying only the minimum amount of liability insurance with your auto policy.
Forgetting to weigh in on the premium vs. deductible trade-off.
Paying for unnecessary business insurance policies.
Failing to update your insurance policies regularly.

Want a free and no-obligation insurance review? Just call our agency at 617-298-0655 to talk to a great Boston insurance agent about whether your policies will provide the necessary amount of coverage if you make a claim. Also take a minute to subscribe to our blog so that you don’t miss any of our great upcoming content, including insurance tips and tricks, summertime topics, life in Boston, and much more.

How to Spend Your Tax Refund

Posted on April 16, 2018April 11, 2018 by cvargas

Tax Day is almost here! Have you submitted your Federal and Massachusetts income taxes yet? If you have, you may have received a tax refund! Whether you receive any money (and, if so, how much you receive) is different for every person, but one thing is always the same: the need to put that refund money to good use.

Sure, some people will look at their tax refund as an unexpected windfall and use it to purchase a luxury item or put it toward a vacation, but it’s just as easy to make that money work for you! Here are just a few ideas on how to use your payout wisely.

Pay off debt. It may seem like a boring way to spend your refund, but paying off debts now will mean spending less in interest in the future. Can’t decide what to pay off? Personal finance professionals recommend focusing on ‘expensive’ debt – that means paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first.

Start an emergency fund. If your debt is already under control, maybe you should put the money into a savings account. It is often recommended that everyone has at least three months’ worth of living expenses put aside for emergencies. It may seem like a lot, but you will be glad to have that money ready to go if you lose your job, have to pay for an expensive car repair, or make a trip to the emergency room. Remember – that’s three (or more) months’ worth of your typical expenses, not income.

Plan for your child’s future. If you have a family, you know how expensive it can be to raise children. You feel like you’re spending a fortune on diapers when they’re infants, and it only gets worse from there. If you have decided to help with your kid’s secondary education (or if you want to buy them a car or contribute to their wedding) you should start saving sooner rather than later. For education savings, look into the benefits of a 529 plan over a traditional savings account.

Protect your family. It’s impossible to know what the future holds for each of us – that’s why it is so important to have the right insurance protection. If you were to unexpectedly pass away, what expenses would you leave for your family? A life insurance policy would help with funeral expenses and other burdens, so talk to your Massachusetts insurance agent about how you can use your tax refund money to set up this policy and protect your loves ones.

Invest in your future. Are you putting money into your retirement accounts? Most people are, but very few people know when they will be able to retire based on their savings projections. One thing is for certain – money put into a savings account early will grow much more than money saved at the last minute. Consider using some of your tax refund to give your retirement accounts a much-deserved boost.

Improve your home. You spend a lot of time in your home, so maybe you should spend some of your tax refund making improvements. There are lots of DIY projects that you can take on in a weekend that will make a huge difference in your home, like planting a garden, installing crown molding, or making an art project to fill a blank space on a wall. You could even just save a portion of your refund for the inevitable repairs and maintenance that comes as a part of homeownership.

It’s also important to remember that your Massachusetts home insurance policy could cover you for certain repairs. If you have any questions about whether your situation is covered, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency!

Pay it forward. Donating a part of your tax refund not only feels great, but if you save your receipt and it could reduce your tax bill for next year! There are even several health benefits associated with donating to charity.

And, there is one more thing that you could use your tax refund for – At the end of the day, if you want to use your tax refund to make memories with your loved ones, that is great too! Where will your next vacation take you? Many young families save for a trip to Disney World, but if you prefer to stay local, there are lots of vacation spots here in the state of Massachusetts, from the Berkshires all the way to Cape Cod!

So, will you follow this advice and put your tax refund money toward one (or more) of these goals? If you want to learn more about the benefits of having a life insurance policy, call 617-298-0655 and speak to a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent. We can tell you all the ways that this policy will help protect your loved ones, and whether a term or a whole life insurance policy is right for you. We can even give you a free quote, making sure that you get the maximum discounts on your new protection.

Recap: Preparing for April Showers

Posted on April 13, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“You have to accept the storms and the rainy days and the things in life that you sometimes don’t want to face.” – Bai Ling

April is not in full swing, and we’re starting to see why the saying is “April Showers Bring May Flowers.” Did you see our blog from last week with advice on how to handle these Spring rainstorms? In case you missed it, here are just a few of the tips that we gave:

Prepare for April showers by making sure that your emergency kit is stocked.
Perform home maintenance tasks like cleaning gutters and trimming trees to ensure that you are storm ready.
If you are a gardener, April is a great time to plan your layout and plant seeds so that you can harness the rain!
Remove standing water around your home to eliminate breeding grounds for pests.
Check your sump pump to ensure it is working as intended during storms and snow melts.
Review tips for driving in the rain, especially how to handle your vehicle if it hydroplanes.
Buy rain gear before you need it.

If you’re ready to start your Spring Cleaning for the year, remember that Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency is here to help dust off your insurance policies. Call and speak to your Massachusetts insurance agent about reviewing your home insurance, auto insurance, etc. to check for thorough coverage and opportunities for savings. One quick call to 617-298-0655 will check this item off your to-do list!

Know More about Your Credit Score

Posted on April 12, 2018April 6, 2018 by cvargas

The credit score – a seemingly ‘all-knowing’ number that will determine your eligibility to get a mortgage or rent an apartment, buy a car, start a business, and more. This little number is a huge part of your life, so you need to do what you can to get it as high as possible. But, you may say, “it seems so arbitrary! What can I do to raise it?”

Never fear, dear reader! The professionals here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency are here to demystify the credit score. Here are the details on many of the most-asked credit score issues:

What is a Credit Score?

When making a decision about whether you’re a good candidate for a loan, institutions want some credit history. Rather than sift through your entire history, though, they quantify your past spending. Credit bureaus take many factors and turn it into a number between (generally) 300 and 850. They pass this number on to the institution you’re looking to borrow from so that a decision can be reached.

What affects Your Credit?

The three credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) take many things into account when determining your credit score. Each is slightly different and has differing weights, but generally the things that will affect you the most are:

Whether you pay your bills on time
How much of your available credit is being used.
The types of credit you carry.
The number of active credit accounts you have open.

Establishing Credit

For young people and those that have not previously taken out a loan or owned a credit card, the question of how to establish credit can feel like a Catch-22. Most places want you to have a credit history before they will extend you any additional credit, so starting out is tricky.

Thankfully, there are a few products available to new borrowers. One is a secured credit card – you may open this line of credit by providing a deposit to back the card, and you can reclaim the deposit when the card is closed. You can also open a traditional credit card with a co-signer that has an established credit history.

Another way that many people establish their credit is with a student loan. There are many types of student loans available, so if this is the route you wish to take, do your homework to find the product that best suits your needs.

Improving Your Credit Score

If you’re looking to buy a car or apply for a mortgage, you may want to improve your credit score. There are several ways to raise your credit score. The quickest is to check all three of your credit reports to ensure that there are no mistakes.

Once you have made sure that your credit reports reflect your financial standing, you can move on to other methods of raising your score. Be warned, though, that it will take some time before you see an improvement. To see your credit score increase, you will need a history of on-time payments with a variety of lines of credit that you have carried for a long time.

Remember also that your credit score will take a small hit when you apply for a new line of credit, so if you want to apply for a mortgage in the near future, ask a financial planner whether you should wait to open a new credit account or purchase a new car.

Myths About Credit Scores

Don’t listen to everything you hear when it comes to your credit score. There are lots of myths floating around that aren’t true! Like these:

Your credit score measures how rich or poor you are – People with less income that have established credit and pay their bills on time can have a better score than higher income people with little to no credit and a history of late payments.
It doesn’t matter how much of your available credit that you use – Credit utilization is a key factor when determining your score. Often, people with better credit use far less of their available credit than people with low credit.
Only one person in a relationship has to have good credit – When you apply for a loan or mortgage with your partner, both of your scores will be analyzed.
You have to carry a balance to have a good score – In fact, you can pay off your card(s) in full each month and still have a great score. Paying in full also means that you won’t have to pay any interest!

Does that answer all of your questions about credit scores and how they affect you? If you have more, reach out to us – we can direct you to a professional with the answers.

And if your credit score recently helped you get approved for a home, car, or business loan, call us! We can get you set up with the right insurance policy to protect you. Our quotes and insurance reviews are always free, so you have nothing to lose.

Recap: Business Disaster Plan

Posted on April 10, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“One of the tests of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.” – Arnold H. Glasow

Massachusetts business owners: Did you see our post last week about business disaster plans? You never know when an emergency may strike, so the time to prepare is now. Create a disaster plan or refine your existing plan. Here are just a few tips from your Boston business insurance agency:

Create and practice an evacuation plan in case there is an emergency during business hours.
A communication plan is critical for disseminating information with employees about a disaster that has happened, and what they are expected to do during recovery.
Make an inventory of all of your business’s physical property in case of a loss.
Businesses that rely on digital data need a thorough and secure backup and recovery plan for files.
Having the right commercial insurance is critical – speak to your Massachusetts business insurance agent to check your policy for gaps.

If you need help with your business insurance policy, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. We can get you a free business insurance quote or review your existing policy to make sure that you have coverage that will protect you thoroughly in case of an emergency. And program our 24/7 emergency line into your phone just in case you ever need to reach an agent outside of normal business hours: 617-322-5289.

Common Insurance Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Posted on April 9, 2018April 4, 2018 by cvargas

Making mistakes is a part of life. We are all guilty of having faults and making errors, but it’s important to do what you can to minimize your mistakes, especially the ones that could be costly. Insurance is a product meant to help you financially recover if something happens to something you value. That is why it is so important to have the right coverage. The agents here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency want to make sure that you are fully protected, so ensure that these common insurance mistakes don’t apply to you.

Home Insurance Mistakes

Insuring your home for its market value – If your home is destroyed, you will need to rebuild it. This is why most insurance professionals recommend that you insure your home for its rebuilding cost.
Thinking home insurance will always cover you – There are limits on every insurance policy, and home insurance is no different. For complete coverage, you may need to purchase additional riders or policies, like earthquake and flood insurance.
Skipping a home inventory – While we hope that you never have to deal with this, home insurance will cover you if you are ever the victim of a total loss. In that case, you will need to provide a list of possessions when you submit your claim. Wouldn’t it be a lot easier to make this list now, instead of trying to recall everything you own when it’s gone? That’s why we recommend making a home inventory!

If you don’t own a home, you’re not off the hook! Renters insurance and condo insurance are also available to make sure that you are completely covered even if you’re not a homeowner in the traditional sense. And these policies are very important!

Auto Insurance Mistakes

Buying the minimum possible amount of liability protection – As a driver in the state of Massachusetts, you are required to have a certain minimum amount of coverage. Some people buy just that amount, not realizing that they should purchase coverage above and beyond that amount. Talk to a Massachusetts car insurance expert to find out how much coverage they recommend before you scrape by without enough protection.
Ignoring coverage add-ons – When you purchase auto insurance, you will have several options that you can add to your policy. Instead of declining all of them to lower your cost, consider the added protection they will offer and if they make sense for you. Depending on your insurance provider and policy, this could include coverage for car rentals, roadside assistance, and more.
Not considering your deductible – When purchasing car insurance, you will have to consider the common insurance trade-off: deductible vs. premium. If you’re ok with spending a little more when you make a claim, you could have lower monthly payments. On the other hand, spending more on your premium could mean less of a cost when you have an issue.

There is a potential for an accident every time you get behind the wheel, so it’s important to make sure that you’re protected. Getting into a fender-bender or bumping into a neighbor’s mailbox is generally nothing to worry about, but you don’t want to cause a multi-car accident with serious injuries and then find out your underinsured.

Business Insurance Mistakes

Not enough coverage – The most common mistake when it comes to business insurance is simple: most businesses just don’t carry enough coverage. In fact, it’s almost impossible to have “too much” protection. Insurance is very cheap compared to the financial loss you would otherwise face, so talk to your insurance agent and see if you should increase your coverage.
Passing Up Liability Insurance – Did you see our blog post about Liability Insurance (aka Umbrella Insurance)? Having an umbrella over your existing business insurance is critical to ensure complete coverage, so don’t overlook this inexpensive way to add protection for your company.
Paying for unnecessary policies – Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we know that each business is unique. That’s why we take the time to get to know you and your business to determine the types of protection that you need. You need an agent that is experienced in providing unique policies to small businesses.

There is also one general insurance mistake that anyone is capable of: not updating policies. As time goes on, your insurance needs change. This means that you should plan on a chat with your Massachusetts insurance agent at least once a year to make sure that your insurance policies are still tailored to your needs.

If you think that you may be making one of these insurance mistakes, or if you just want an insurance professional to review your policies for gaps in coverage, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. We will do our best to ensure that your coverage is tailored to your needs, and that you will be able to rest easy if you ever need to file a claim on your Massachusetts home insurance, auto insurance, business insurance, or other policy.

Recap: Overlooked Home Maintenance Tasks

Posted on April 6, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“Light is the task where many share the toil.” – Homer

Last week, we posted a blog for homeowners detailing several of the most-forgotten home maintenance tasks. Were you able to add any of these to your ‘to-do’ list? The most ambitious of you may have already checked a few items off! To refresh those who may have missed the prior post, here are just a few of the tasks that you need to make sure get done around your home:

Clean your refrigerator coils and drip pan.
Flush your water heater.
Clean your dryer’s exhaust tube of lint and other debris.
Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned annually.
Lubricate your automatic garage door opener.
Change the filter of your A/C and heater.
Remove debris that has collected in your gutters.
Trim the trees and other greenery on your property.

Completing these tasks will ensure that your home is properly maintained, and many will even help you avoid having to file a claim on your Boston home insurance policy. That being said, however, if you do ever need to file an insurance claim, the Vargas and Vargas Insurance team is here for you! Just call our Stoughton or Dorchester office at 617-298-0655 to speak to a Massachusetts insurance agent that can help you with all of your insurance needs.

Are You Ready for April Showers?

Posted on April 5, 2018March 29, 2018 by cvargas

The first quarter of the year has passed, and April has arrived. Even though temperatures are still struggling to get above 50 degrees here in Boston, we are ready to welcome warmer weather. Unfortunately, as the saying goes, “April Showers Bring May Flowers,” meaning that this month has a history of being on the dreary side.

To help you prepare for the rainy weather associated with the month of April, we have amassed an “April Showers” guide for the rain. Here are tips for dealing with downpours and sprinkles alike:

Storm Preparedness

First and foremost, we have some tips about how to get ready for the storms themselves. In case of a severe storm, you should have an emergency kit in your home (and one in each car). Make sure that these kits include a flashlight and extra batteries! Also include nonperishable foods in case of an extended power outage (and make sure that you have a manual can opener in the house).

Make sure that your home is ready to take on a storm by performing some maintenance, including cleaning your gutters and trimming trees around your property. Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance, we deal with a lot of Massachusetts home insurance claims related to broken tree limbs. Taking time ahead of spring and summer storms to prune weak branches could save you a headache in the future.

Gardening

It is still definitely chilly, but those of you with green thumbs may want to start planning out your garden soon so that you’re ready for planting season. Soon it will be time to plant seeds for winter harvest (like squash and potatoes) and even some flower and fruit seeds. Just make sure to wait to plant seedlings until it warms up a bit, otherwise you risk them dying due to frost!

Pest Control

The increased amount of rain in April makes it a perfect atmosphere for bugs and critters. Do your part to prevent mosquitoes by ensuring that your property isn’t a magnet for standing water.

Rain also gives you the perfect opportunity to check for leaks. And any place that water can get into your home, a bug can too! Pay special attention to doors and windows, as that is the most common place for a gap. Also check for small holes around electrical outlets.

If you are having a pest problem, a trained Massachusetts pest control professional can help get the issue under control as quickly as possible.

Plumbing

It may sound silly at first, but all of the excess water falling from the sky can put a strain on your home’s plumbing. This is especially true in Massachusetts, where we also have to deal with the yearly snow melt as Spring temperatures arrive.

Pay special attention to your sump pump (if there is one in your home). It is critical that your sump pump works properly so that excess water doesn’t cause mold and mildew, or worse, a flood! Test to ensure that it is working by pouring water into the pit and waiting for the motor to start. Watch to see it pump water out and away from your home. You should also ensure that the pump is free of leaves and debris.

Driving and Vehicle Tips

Some people like the dreariness of rain, and it is relaxing if you’re trying to sleep or want to cozy up and read a good book. On the other hand, though, rain can create treacherous driving conditions. This makes it so important to make sure that your car can handle slick roads – after all, there are over 1 million weather-related vehicle crashes every year, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

Before you drive in the rain, be sure that your tires are ready for the wet roads. They should be properly inflated according to the specifications in your car owner’s manual. The tread on your tires and your car’s brakes should also be checked.

When you are behind the wheel in the rain, you should increase the distance between you and the car that you are following, turn on your car’s headlights (it’s the law in Massachusetts!), and know how to handle your vehicle if you start to hydroplane.

Rain Gear

At some point in the next month or so, you are probably going to get caught in the rain. Now is the perfect time to make sure that you are ready when that moment arrives. After all, you don’t want to be running through a rainstorm thinking, “I should have bought that raincoat!”

A raincoat is a perfect place to start when it comes to buying gear. You should also have some waterproof boots and even a hat (otherwise make sure that your jacket has a hood). Everyone also should plan to have a few umbrellas. One for your home, one for your vehicle, and maybe even an extra for your workplace.

Hopefully this blog has helped you prepare for the rain-filled Spring months ahead. If you want, tell us about some of your favorite Spring activities on our Facebook page. And make sure to stay tuned to the blog for more insurance tips and tricks.

Recap: Tips for Hiring a Boston Contractor

Posted on April 3, 2018May 25, 2018 by cvargas

“Hiring people is like making friends. Pick good ones, and they’ll enrich your life. Make bad choices, and they’ll bring you down.” – Jason Fried

Have you been considering a remodel or addition for your Boston home? If so, you need to hire the right contractor for the job. Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we want to make sure you’re happy with the work you have done, so we have compiled a list of tips to help you choose the right contractor:

Find someone who will communicate early and often.
Don’t automatically accept the lowest bid.
Make sure your contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Inspect your written contact, ensuring it contains deadlines and financial estimates.

Once the work begins, there are a few more tips that you should follow to ensure that the process goes smoothly:

Allow workers to store their tools and equipment on site.
Relocate anything fragile or valuable.
Choose between options in plenty of time.
Keep a detailed record of all documents and communications.

For the full list, and a few additional tips to help you through the construction or remodeling process, visit our original post from last week. And remember, your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent is able to give you a free home insurance review to ensure that you have the right amount of coverage for your property. Also make sure that you update your policy if the value of your home changes because of a remodel!

Creating a Business Disaster Plan

Posted on April 2, 2018March 26, 2018 by cvargas

Most people are prepared for a disaster at home, they have an evacuation plan, a point of contact for the family, an emergency kit, and a home inventory for insurance purposes. Have you ever given any thought to creating a similar plan for your business?

Businesses aren’t immune to disaster, so it is critical that you have a plan – just in case the worst happens. You will need to take a few steps to formulate your plan depending on the disaster, and make sure that you share these plans with your employees so that everyone knows how to respond in case there is an emergency.

Evacuation Plan

If there is ever an emergency during business operations, your employees should know how to evacuate safely. Post evacuation maps through the building, and practice emergency drills throughout the year. If your business hosts customers, instruct employees on how to help them evacuate in a safe and calm manner.

Communication Plan

Disasters don’t always happen during regular business hours. If a disaster happens when no one is working, you will need to inform all employees about what has happened, and the steps that they need to take, including whether they will be expected to work from home or an interim location. Your communication plan may involve an email blast or a phone tree – or both!

Physical Property

If your business were affected by a fire, would you know exactly what was destroyed? Probably not. This is why it is critical to have an inventory of the physical property in your business. List everything that your business owns. This will include things like your furniture, electronics, décor, and even inventory. Then it will be up to you to keep this inventory up to date as you upgrade or purchase new items. Ask your Massachusetts business insurance agent what details they recommend recording about each item.

Keep a copy of your business’s full inventory list in an offsite location, which could be a safe deposit box, your personal property, or even in the cloud. This ensures that you will have access even if something happens to your business’s location. You may even want to keep an updated copy on file with your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent for safe keeping!

Digital Data

Many businesses nowadays rely on digital data. If a disaster affected your computers, would you be able to recover? Make sure that all of your critical information is backed up to a secure location in the cloud so that losing your computers wouldn’t cripple your business. You can also ask your business insurance agent about digital liability insurance and equipment breakdown insurance for your digital business.

Off-Site Disaster

Your business would certainly be affected by a fire or flood, but think outside of the box: what if a disaster affected one of your suppliers, or an important client? Think about the possibility of losing each of these parties and create a back-up plan in the event that something happens. Being prepared ahead of time will greatly cut down on your response time if an issue arises.

Insurance Prep

Having the right Massachusetts business insurance is a crucial part of disaster recovery. If your business is affected by a fire, flood, theft, etc., your business insurance will help to put you back on track to getting back to normal – but only if you’re carrying the right types of coverage.

Talk to your insurance agent about whether your business is prepared to deal with the aftermath of potential disasters. A Vargas and Vargas Insurance rep can help you evaluate your commercial insurance coverage to ensure that you have all of the coverage that you need.

This means something else for every business, which is why we tailor business insurance policies to each of our clients. You may want to consider building coverage (including flood insurance), property and inventory coverage, tenant’s improvements coverage, coverage for extra expenses, and additional coverage to rebuild a damaged or destroyed building in compliance with building codes. As discussed above, digital liability insurance may also be something to consider. For added protection, our Massachusetts insurance experts may recommend an umbrella insurance policy for your business, especially if you are at an increased risk for liability issues.

Preventing a Disaster

Make sure that your business is prepared for the worst, but also take steps to minimize your risk of an emergency. For tips on how to make your business safer, stay tuned to our blogs for tips!

You never plan to be affected by an emergency – that’s what makes your disaster response plan so critical. Make sure that part of your plan is contacting your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent. During business hours, call us at 617-298-0655. If you have an emergency outside of our normal hours, you can always call our 24/7 line at 617-322-5289. Program both of these numbers in your phone now for easy access if you ever need to reach us! We can help you get the best business insurance for your Massachusetts business.

April National Days Calendar

Posted on April 1, 2018April 3, 2018 by cvargas

April 1st

April Fools’ Day
National One Cent Day
National Sourdough Bread Day
Easter – Changes Annually

April 2nd

National Ferret Day
National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day
National Reconciliation Day

April 3rd

National Film Score Day *
National Chocolate Mousse Day
World Party Day
National Find a Rainbow Day
National Tweed Day
SAAM Day of Action – First Tuesday in April
National Tweed Day

April 4th

Jeep 4×4 Day
National Chicken Cordon Bleu Day
National Hug a Newsperson Day
National School Librarian Day
National Walk Around Things Day
National Walking Day – First Wednesday in April
Childhelp National Day of Hope – First Wednesday in April

April 5th

National Caramel Day
National Deep Dish Pizza Day
National Go For Broke Day
National Raisin and Spice Bar Day
National Read a Road Map Day
National Burrito Day– 1st Thursday of April
National Alcohol Screening Day – Thursday of the First Full Week in April

April 6th

National Caramel Popcorn Day
National Sorry Charlie Day
National Student-Athlete Day
National Tartan Day
National Teflon Day

April 7th

National Girl Me Too Day *
National Handmade Day*
National Beer Day
National Coffee Cake Day
National No Housework Day
National Love Our Children Day – First Saturday in April

April 8th

National All is Ours Day
National Empanada Day
National Zoo Lovers Day

April 9th

National Cherish an Antique Day
National Chinese Almond Cookie Day
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day
National Name Yourself Day
National Winston Churchill Day

April 10th

National Cinnamon Crescent Day
National Encourage a Young Writer Day
National Farm Animals Day
National Siblings Day
National Equal Pay Day – A Tuesday in April – Changes Annually
National Library Workers Day – Tuesday of National Library Week

April 11th

National Barber Shop Quartet Day
National Cheese Fondue Day
National Eight Track Tape Day
National Pet Day
National Submarine Day
National Bookmobile Day – Wednesday of National Library Week

April 12th

National Big Wind Day
National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day
National Licorice Day

April 13th

National Make Lunch Count Day
National Peach Cobbler Day
National Scrabble Day
National Thomas Jefferson Day
National Blame Someone Else Day – First Friday the 13th of the Year
National Donate Life Blue and Green Day– Changes Annually

April 14th

National Dolphin Day
National Ex-Spouse Day
National Pan American Day
National Pecan Day
National Reach as High as You Can Day

April 15th

National Glazed Spiral Ham Day
National Rubber Eraser Day
National Take a Wild Guess Day
National Tax Day
National Titanic Remembrance Day

April 16th

National Orchid Day
National Bean Counter Day
National Eggs Benedict Day
National Healthcare Decisions Day
National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day

April 17th

National Bat Appreciation Day
National Cheeseball Day
National Ellis Island Family History Day
National Haiku Poetry Day

April 18th

National Animal Crackers Day
National Columnists’ Day
National Lineman Appreciation Day

April 19th

National Amaretto Day
National Garlic Day
National Hanging Out Day
National Oklahoma City Bombing Commemoration Day
National High Five Day – Third Thursday in April
National Get to Know Your Customers Day – Third Thursday of Each Quarter

April 20th

National Cheddar Fries Day
National Lima Bean Respect Day
National Look Alike Day
National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day

April 21st

National Yellow Bat Day
National Chocolate Covered Cashews Day
National Kindergarten Day
National Auctioneers Day – Third Saturday in April
National Record Store Day – Third Saturday in April

April 22nd

National Earth Day
National Girl Scout Leader’s Day
National Jelly Bean Day

April 23rd

National Cherry Cheesecake Day
National Lost Dogs Awareness Day
National Picnic Day
National Take a Chance Day
National Talk Like Shakespeare Day

April 24th

National Pigs in a Blanket Day
National Teach Children to Save Day– Changes Annually

April 25th

National DNA Day
National East Meets West Day
National Hug a Plumber Day
National Telephone Day
National Zucchini Bread Day
National Administrative Professionals Day – Wednesday of Last Full Week in April

April 26th

National Audubon Day
National Help a Horse Day
National Kids and Pets Day
National Pretzel Day
National Richter Scale Day
National Take Our Sons and Daughters to Work Day – Fourth Thursday in April
National Poem in Your Pocket Day – Changes Annually

April 27th

National Devil Dog Day *
National Babe Ruth Day
National Prime Rib Day
National Tell a Story Day
National Arbor Day – Last Friday in April
National Hairball Awareness Day – Last Friday in April
National Day of Silence – Changes Annually

April 28th

National Kiss of Hope Day – Last Saturday in April
National Blueberry Pie Day
National BraveHearts Day
National Great Poetry Reading Day
Workers’ Memorial Day
National Superhero Day
National Rebuilding Day – Last Saturday in April
National Sense of Smell Day – Last Saturday in April
National Pool Opening Day – Last Saturday in April

April 29th

National Peace Rose Day
National Shrimp Scampi Day
National Zipper Day
National Pet Parents Day – Last Sunday in April

April 30th

National Bubble Tea Day *
National Military Brats Day
National PrepareAthon! Day
National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
National Bugs Bunny Day
National Hairstylist Appreciation Day
National Honesty Day
National Oatmeal Cookie Day
National Raisin Day
National Sarcoidosis Day

10 Essential (and Easy to Forget) Home Maintenance Tasks

Posted on March 29, 2018March 23, 2018 by cvargas

Owning a home is the “Great American Dream,” but sometimes homeowners get a little tired of all of the maintenance that comes with the territory of ownership. There is a lot to remember… since a home has so many parts, it’s hard to keep them all running simultaneously!

You’re juggling a lot, so here are a few reminders of items that may need a little bit of TLC. They are easy to forget but shouldn’t be neglected. Make sure these all get added to your DIY maintenance schedule, or call a Massachusetts professional in order to remove them from your ‘honey-do’ list:

Refrigerator: There’s more to cleaning your refrigerator than throwing out spoiled food. Occasionally, you will need to clean the coils – these are what helps keep the refrigerator cold and having them covered in dust will make your appliance less efficient. Also clean out the drip pan, which is often on the bottom of the unit.
Water Heater: As you use your water heater, sediment will sometimes flow into the tank. This sediment reduces the heater’s efficiency and shortens its lifespan. To get the sediment out, you will need to empty the tank, which is a job that needs to be done with extreme care in order to avoid contact with scalding hot water. Most people opt to let a professional handle this annual task.
Kitchen and Bathroom Grout: Most people have grout somewhere in their kitchen or bathroom. Did you know, though, that this grout needs to be resealed occasionally? Most recommend an annual reseal in order to make sure that grout stays waterproof.
Clothes Dryer: Everyone that uses a clothes dryer knows that you have to remove the lint from the lint trap after every load. It is also important to know that you need to give the lint screen a thorough cleaning once in a while – otherwise residue from fabric softener and dryer sheets will cause airflow to be blocked within the unit. You can use any dish soap meant to remove grease, and make sure that the screen dries thoroughly before replacing it.
Chimney: Here in Massachusetts, many homes come with a fireplace and chimney. If this describes your home, make sure that you have your chimney professionally cleaned every year, especially if you use it. This will help you avoid the threat of a chimney fire.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: This home maintenance tip is one that we echo often here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors twice a year. It is critical to know that they will work as intended if there is ever a problem and can give your family critical moments to evacuate the property if there is a fire or gas leak.
Garage Door: To extend the life of your automatic garage door opener, you should plan to lubricate it annually. This includes the chain and overhead springs. Cracked or warped weather stripping on the bottom of the door should be replaced, as should cracked or warped roller wheels.
Air Conditioner and Heaters: It is critical that your heater and air conditioner get regular maintenance visits from an HVAC specialist. They will check the system to ensure that it is running efficiently and that there are no major issues looming. You should also make sure that the filter on these units is changed according to the specialist’s instructions (often quarterly) or more often if you suffer from seasonal allergies.
Gutters: It’s a dirty job, but someone has got to do it! Gutters should be cleaned twice a year (in the spring and fall, typically) to ensure that debris doesn’t collect. If you let leaves, pine cones, etc. clog your gutters, they can get wet and very heavy. This would mean gutters could tear away from your home and/or cause damage to your exterior walls. Overflowing gutters also don’t drain properly, which can cause water to seep into your home or damage your foundation.
Front and Back Yard: Occasionally, you will need to give your greenery some “TLC” – ensure that all trees are looked at by a professional. They will be able to tell you if any branches (or entire trees) pose a falling threat. Have those potential problems dealt with quickly, since they could otherwise break and damage something (or hurt someone) in the next major storm to roll through.

While these tasks are easy to overlook, some of them are critical in order to assure that your home is as safe as possible for yourself and your loved ones. You may choose to do them yourself, but more complicated tasks may require the aid of a professional. For a referral to complete any of these jobs, simply call your favorite local independent insurance agency – we will be happy to point you in the direction of a knowledgeable and courteous workman.

If you do ever have a problem in your home, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency – we can help you file a claim on your Massachusetts home insurance and get you back to normal as soon as possible.

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