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Factors that Affect Your Boston Insurance Quote

Posted on by cvargas

Insurance is a great way to protect your investments and your family against calamities. While there are insurance providers everywhere (if you haven’t seen a commercial for one lately you must be hiding under a rock) there is only one way to make sure to get the best Boston insurance quote for your needs. That is to use an independent insurance agent like Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency!

Factors that Affect Your Boston Insurance Quote

When you call us for an insurance quote, we will search several providers to make sure that you get a great policy at a great price. When determining an insurance premium, most insurance providers will consider similar factors. These differ for each type of insurance. Here are the most common factors that usually affect the insurance quotes for four different types of insurance coverage:

Home Insurance Quotes

  • Age and features of home, including electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC and more.
  • Home’s location – risk for natural disaster and crime, proximity to police and fire stations, building costs in the area.
  • Claim history of the homeowner(s).
  • Risk factors in the home, including swimming pools, trampolines, etc.
  • Credit score of the homeowner(s).
  • Amount and value of possessions to be insured.

Note: Renters insurance is very similar to home insurance, and typically considers many of the same factors. TIP: To lower your quote, update your home and prevent risks with safety measures.

Auto Insurance Quotes

  • Age, gender, marital status, and profession of the primary drivers.
  • City or cities where the car is often driven.
  • Vehicle’s size, age, and safety rating.
  • Vehicle value and/or replacement cost.
  • Driving history of the drivers (reported accidents, past insurance claims).
  • Average mileage car is driven in a week or month.
  • Reasons car is driven (personal, business, or both). Lower your quote by driving a safe car and being mindful of your driving habits.

Health Insurance Quotes

  • Person’s gender, age, and preexisting conditions.
  • Family history of the insured.
  • Tobacco use including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or snuff. Body Mass Index.
  • Person’s profession and its implications on health (increased stress, sedentary or active lifestyle, etc).

Many of these factors are also considered when you are looking for a life insurance quote. TIP: Lower your quote by losing weight, exercising regularly, and ceasing use of tobacco products.

Business Insurance Quotes

  • State(s) of operation.
  • Amount of gross sales per year.
  • Number of employees and/or independent contractors.
  • Nature of the business (computer based, service based, increased risks of danger). Physical location of the business property.
  • Amount of equipment and inventory owned by the business.

TIP: To lower your quote, use safety devices to prevent theft, ensure that employees are properly trained, and look into discounts offered by trade associations.

If you or someone that you know is in the market for an insurance quote in the Greater Boston Area, we hope that Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency comes to mind. With one quick call to 617-298-0655, you can speak with an insurance agent that will make sure that you get a quality insurance quote at a lot price. We look forward to earning your business.

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4 Small Business Insurance Tips

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As a small business owner, you’re probably always focused on lowering your business’s costs. Thankfully, Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency can help you with that! Today, we want to share with you four tips to lower your small business insurance costs.

small business insurance tips

There are many things that are unpredictable in the course of doing business, but the cost of your insurance policy from our agency is something you can count on. Here are the four tips that can help you save:

Manage Your Risk Levels

The purpose of insurance is to protect you against unexpected losses. While this protection is crucial, it is best for your business if you don’t have to make a claim. Avoiding risks will save you the stress of dealing with a calamity, as well as saving you the cost of your insurance deductible.

As they say “the best offense is a good defense.” This is as true in insurance as it is in sports. If you take the time to mitigate your business’s exposure to risk, you can help to ensure that you won’t need to deal with a claim. Some types of risk mitigation can even earn you a discount on your small business insurance! These include safety measures like alarm systems and more – just ask your insurance agent for a list of potential discounts.

Re-evaluate Your Deductible

If you are successful in mitigating your risks, you may feel comfortable raising your insurance policy’s deductible. This means that you will pay more in the event that you make a claim, but it also has an inverse relationship with your premium. This means that increasing your deductible will lower your premium.

If you want to avoid the need to scrounge together a deductible payment in the event of a claim, you can help your business out by setting aside money equal to your policy’s deductible. That way, you have enough money to cover your deductible set aside if you need to make a claim.

Bundle Your Policies

A small business insurance policy is made up of many pieces. The more pieces that you are able to bundle under your business owners policy, the more you will save – just like when you bundle your personal home insurance and auto insurance.

When you’re looking for a new policy, ask your agent about combining all of the business insurance coverage types that you need, including property coverage, liability coverage, workers compensation, commercial auto insurance, group benefits, and more.

Review Your Coverage Annually

When was the last time that an insurance professional reviewed your coverage? It’s easy to get comfortable with your insurance provider, but taking a few minutes each year to discuss your coverage with an agent could save you money! Here at Vargas and Vargas, we can search to see if changing providers could save you money. We can also check to see if your current provider offers any new discounts for which you qualify.

To speak with a small business insurance expert, just call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. We insure many businesses here in Massachusetts, and would be happy to evaluate your business’s unique needs and craft you a quote for a new business insurance policy.

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Don’t Believe These House Insurance Myths

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You can’t believe everything that you hear – and that’s doubly true when it comes to house insurance policies. It turns out, some people give really bad advice, and say things about home insurance that simply isn’t true. As an expert in Massachusetts home insurance policies, the folks here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency want to clear up some of the confusion about a few popular myths.

House Insurance myths

Before we start, it is important to note that every house insurance policy is unique. While the examples that we give here will be true in most cases, you should always check with your insurance agent before making any decisions about your policies.

“People I hire to work at my home are covered under my house insurance.”

Your home insurance liability protection will cover you and your friends and family when they are on your property. In most cases, it will also cover any part time workers that you employ – like babysitters, snow plowers, and dog walkers. Someone that works full time as a contractor for another business probably won’t be covered by your home insurance, though. They should be covered by their employer’s workers compensation. Check to ensure that this is true before hiring any contractors to ensure that you are protected.

“I run a business out of my home – that means it’s covered by my home insurance.”

Even if you are the sole employee of a home-based business, you may need a special insurance policy (or a rider on your home insurance) to make sure that your business is covered. Talk to your home insurance agent to find out how you can get business liability coverage and protection for your business’s assets.

“A neighbor’s tree fell and damaged my fence – his insurance will cover the damages.”

No one can be liable for acts of nature – including fallen trees. This means that your insurance will need to cover the damages incurred, even if the tree was growing on your neighbor’s property. This will naturally be subject to your insurance policy’s coverage and your deductible amount, as with any insurance claim.

“I have plenty of liability coverage under my house insurance, so I don’t need an umbrella insurance policy.”

An umbrella insurance policy does much more than add liability coverage to your home insurance policy! It also provides you with court costs, protects you against libel and slander, covers you while you’re away from your property, and much more. For all of these reasons and more, an umbrella insurance policy is a wise investment.

“All of my property is protected under my Massachusetts house insurance policy.”

In some cases, special property will need a rider on your home insurance policy in order to be fully protected. The most prevalent case of this is jewelry. Home insurance will cover jewelry up to a specific amount unless you purchase a jewelry rider. This is also true for certain collections, expensive rugs, antiques, etc.

If you have any questions about your house insurance, or how to ensure that you are fully protected, just call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. Our agents would love to inspect your policy to make sure that you have all the necessary coverage so that you and your loved ones are taken care of in case of a calamity.

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Do You Have Knob and Tube Electrical Wiring?

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In recent centuries, we have made many advances in the type of electrical wiring that we use in our homes. From the 1880s to the late 1930s, the go-to method used when wiring a home was called Knob and Tube wiring (also known as K&T wiring). While this used to be the de facto way to bring electricity to a home, now there are safer and more efficient ways to wire.

Do You Have Knob and Tube Electrical Wiring?

Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we get a few calls every month from people asking about Knob and Tube electrical wiring, its safety concerns, and how it affects home insurance policies. Now we’re here now to set the record straight in writing:

What Homes Have Knob and Tube Wiring?

The Knob and Tube method was most prevalent from the 1880s to the 1930s, but many professionals continued to use this method of wiring up until the 1950s. Even some homes that were built in the ’60s and ’70s were constructed with Knob and Tube wiring. If your home was built in any of these periods, there is a chance that you have K&T wiring.

What Are The Potential Problems with K&T wiring?

One of the most prevalent problems with Knob and Tube wiring is that the material used to insulate it is rubber, which degrades over time. This means that the homes with K&T wiring are getting more and more dangerous as time progresses and the rubber gives way and exposes bare wiring to air and moisture. In more modern wiring systems, the insulation is made of much more durable plastic.

What is The cost Associated with Rewiring a Home?

If your home has an old Knob and Tube wiring system, you should consider spending the money to have a professional electrician update your home to a modern wiring system. The cost of this job will naturally vary depending on the electrician, size of the home, and many other factors. According to Angie’s List, though, the average cost of rewiring a 1,500 to 3,000 square foot home will be in the range of $8,000 to $15,000.

What Are The Benefits of Rewiring?

Replacing your home’s wiring is an expensive endeavor, but the benefits are well worth the costs. In addition to being much safer for your home and your family (let’s face it – replacing electrical systems is much less of a hassle than dealing with a house fire), you will also most likely qualify for a reduction in your home insurance premium because of the update. Modern electrical wiring puts your home at much less of a risk for a claim, and insurance providers will often account for that when determining what you pay.

If you rewire your home and get rid of an old Knob and Tube wiring, let your Massachusetts insurance agent know. All you have to do to speak with a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent at 617-298-0655. Our home insurance experts will be able to adjust your house insurance to reflect your safer electrical wiring, which should save you on your insurance premium!

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4 Ways How to Protect Against Identity Theft

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In today’s world, everything is connected, and almost everything is stored in ‘the cloud’ – including your personal information. It only takes one data breach for your sensitive information to get into the wrong hands. This can include banking information, your Social Security Number, and much more.

Avoid becoming the victim of identity

In light of all the recent data breaches, we want to share some tips on how you can keep your personal information protected, and avoid becoming the victim of identity theft:

Watch your existing accounts.

As soon as you learn about a data breach that happened at a company with which you do business, you need to ensure that you regularly check your related accounts. Make it a point to check the accounts for suspicious activity on a regular basis, and notify the appropriate parties if you see any unusual transactions.

We should note that this is a step that everyone should take, and it is not specific to those people are at high risk of credit fraud or identity theft. Everyone with access to accounts online should check for erroneous transactions on a regular basis.

Sign up for credit alerts and fraud protection.

If a company that you have an account with is the victim of a breach, you will likely be offered some kind of credit monitoring or identity theft protection for free, or at a reduced price. You should consider this offer! In fact, anyone with information in the cloud should have some sort of credit monitoring service. They’re often available for a very reasonable price, often less than $10 a month.

In addition, a fraud alert system will make it more difficult for someone else to create a credit account in your name. This alert will ensure that any lender or credit issuer opening a credit account in your name contacts you directly. This makes it much less likely that it be done without your knowledge. It will add one simple step to the process when you look to create a new account, but make it virtually impossible for criminals to commit credit fraud against you.

File your taxes early.

Did you know that thieves need only minimal amounts of information in order to file a fraudulent tax return in your name? If a thief is able to steal your identity and claim your tax refund, you will probably spend quite a while sorting out the resulting mess with the IRS. Save yourself the trouble by filing your taxes as early as possible, before any shady characters can.

Remain vigilant.

When you’re the victim of identity theft, or your personal information is compromised, it’s easy to monitor your information for a while. After a bit, though, you could lull into a state of complacency. Some thieves will wait before using the information that they stole in order to take advantage of this fact. This is why it’s important to remain vigilant in the monitoring and protecting of your personal information.

With all of the above tips, you can help to ensure that your personal information is protected against theft. If you would like to make sure that your physical possessions are also protected, call 617-298-0655 to speak with a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent about getting a quality home insurance or auto insurance policy from the Massachusetts insurance experts.

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Massachusetts Renters Insurance FAQ

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Massachusetts residents know that the people here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency are the foremost authority on Massachusetts insurance policies. That’s why we get so many calls and emails to ask about insurance questions. We are always happy to speak with you about your insurance questions, but we want to also answer some of our most frequently asked questions here on our blog.

Massachusetts Renters Insurance FAQ

Today, our topic will be renter’s insurance. If someone else owns the home or apartment in which you live, a Massachusetts renters insurance policy is probably right for you. Here are a few answers to common renters insurance questions:

My landlord has insurance on the property – is that enough?

In short? No. Your landlord’s insurance will only cover the structure of the house or apartment. If you want coverage for your belongings and liability protection, you need to purchase your own insurance. Speak to your insurance agent about the value of your belongings for an idea of how much coverage you need.

What does a Massachusetts renters insurance policy cover?

Depending on your unique policy, a renters insurance policy will cover your belongings in losses due to theft and vandalism, fire and smoke, lightning, windstorms, hail, and more. In addition to covering your possessions, your renters insurance will also typically include liability coverage, meaning that you will be protected in case of unintentional bodily injury and/or property damage. This coverage may also provide you with legal defense costs in these cases. 

Can my roommate and I share a renters insurance policy?

Personal insurance policies are often only written for individuals or families. This means that your insurance policy will not cover someone that isn’t related to you. If your roommate wants to protect their belongings and get liability protection, have them call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency for their own renters insurance policy!

What is the average cost of a renters insurance policy?

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the average renters insurance policy costs between $15 and $30 a month. While this obviously depends on the type and size of your home or apartment, as well as the value of your possessions, it is a very small cost compared to what you would pay if you were the victim of a catastrophic loss. As with most cases, the protection afforded by an insurance policy is well worth the money spent.

How can I save money on my renters insurance policy?

Your Massachusetts insurance agent should make sure that you receive all insurance discounts for which you qualify. This may include discounts for bundling your insurance policies with the same carrier, as well as discounts for having certain safety features in your rental property, including burglar alarms, sprinkler systems, and more.

How do I get a renters insurance quote?

Getting a Massachusetts renters insurance quote is simple! All you need to do is call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. Our agents will be happy to get you a free, no-obligation insurance quote for a policy with the coverage that you need. You can also drop by one of our offices, located on Washington Street in Dorchester, or on Cabot Place in Stoughton.

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The Potential Dangers of Melting Snow

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This winter is coming close to hitting an all-time snowfall record here in the Greater Boston Area. Most of us are ready for Spring to come, but it’s important to realize that while the snow is a pain to deal with, the water generated when it melts will be as much (if not more) of a pain.

The Potential Dangers of Melting Snow

Are you prepared to handle the threats associated with melting snow? Your home insurance policy will help you in case the new melt causes a ‘slip and fall’ accident on your property, but you may be missing another key type of insurance policy in the wake of rising waters.

Winter Snows Bring Spring Floods

There is so much snow on the ground after all of these storms, that in some places it’s hard to find the ground. Here’s a prime example – have you seen recent pictures of our beloved Fenway Park? There are reasons that the Sox go down to Florida for Spring Training! Well, when the weather starts to warm up, all of the water created by these snow drifts will need to go somewhere. Unfortunately, the ground is already frozen and saturated. This means only one thing – floods.

Protect Yourself with Flood Insurance

When the snow starts to melt and water works its way toward your property, don’t expect your home insurance policy to cover you. In fact, most home insurance policies don’t protect against flooding at all. That’s where Massachusetts flood insurance policies come in. They will provide you with the coverage necessary to protect your property and your possessions against rising waters.

Purchase Coverage ASAP!

Did you know that flood insurance doesn’t begin to protect you until 30 days after it is purchased? That is why it is so important that you do not wait until Spring to purchase a flood insurance policy! The first day of spring is coming up fast (March 20th, to be exact) so now is the perfect time to invest in a policy.

For most homes that are in a preferred flood zone, a flood insurance policy would cost less than $500 a year – and this small cost is well worth the protection that it provides. For most one family homes, a flood insurance policy can provide up to $250,000 worth of coverage for the structure, and an additional $100,000 in coverage for the home’s contents. Businesses can have up to $1 million in coverage – $500,000 for the business’s structure, and $500,000 for its contents.

In addition to snow melting, flood insurance will also protect you against floods due to many other causes, including the heavy rainfall that we sometimes experience in the spring and summer, and even into the Fall hurricane season floods.

If you want to learn more about how a flood insurance policy can protect your personal or business property and possessions against the impending threat of melting snow, just call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. Our knowledgeable agents will be able to get you a free flood insurance quote and ensure that you purchase the policy that is best for your unique needs.

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Four Types of Individual Health Insurance

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If you’re in the market for an individual health insurance plan, you may be feeling a little lost. You’re looking for insurance to cover your prescriptions and visits to the doctor, but there are simply too many options available. For help wading through the sea of seemingly nonsensical letters that describe different types of coverage, see our handy guide below.

Four Type of Individual Health Insurance - Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Massachusetts

It’s important to realize that this is only a quick overview of the four major types of individual health insurance policies available. For a more detailed description (or advice concerning your insurance) call your Massachusetts insurance agent.

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs)

In an HMO, you are limited in your freedom to choose a health care provider. You must choose a Primary Care provider in your HMO’s network. That Primary Care provider will most likely need to issue you a referral before you can see any type of specialist.

Minimal amount of paperwork compared to the other types of health insurance policies. Predictable out-of-pocket costs, and co-pays for each type of care.

Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs)

With a PPO, you will have more freedom to choose your health care providers when compared to an HMO. This added freedom comes with a cost, though. Typically, a PPO has slightly higher out-of-pocket costs than HMO plans. There is also typically additional paperwork required if you wish to see a doctor out of the PPO’s network.

When you choose a PPO, you will need to pay a monthly premium, as well as copay or coinsurance for your doctor’s visits. In addition, some PPOs will require you to pay a deductible. There will most likely be no paperwork required when you see in-network doctors, but seeing an out-of-network providers may require you to full out a claim for in order to get reimbursed.

Point-of-Service Plans (POS)

HMOs and PPOs are without a doubt the two most well-known types of individual health insurance policies. What some people don’t realize, though, is that there are many other options available that may better fit their needs. For example, a Point-of-Service plan is a combination of an HMO and a PPO – with this plan you will have a primary care provider that will issue you referrals to specialists, but you still have the freedom to see out-of-network providers if you are willing to pay slightly increased costs.

The cost of a POS plan is typically slightly higher than an HMO, but less than a PPO. For some people, it is a good mix of freedom and affordability.

High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs)

Typically paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA), a HDHP is simply a health plan (it can be an HMO, PPO, or POS) with a very high deductible. In this case, the insured person pays for most of their health care out of pocket, with a cap if the maximum ‘out-of pocket amount’ is reached.

To talk to an expert about your individual health insurance options, and to find out more about the health insurance options offered here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, all you need to do is call 617-298-0655. Our friendly and knowledgeable agents would be happy to answer all of your health insurance questions, as well as to get you a free quote on a new health or life insurance policy.

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Ice Dams – Solutions for Impending Roof Damage

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It’s no secret, this winter has been one of the harshest on record in the Greater Boston area. As you shovel away snow from your sidewalk and driveway as each storm passes, make sure that you don’t ignore the snow and ice that is accumulating on your roof. It may look pretty, but there is a major threat posed by this snow buildup – ice dams. Continue reading →

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Four Simple Ways to Increase Your Car’s Value

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Are you thinking of trading in your car in the near future? If you are, it may be worth taking these four steps to increase your car’s value – this will mean that you get more for the car that you get rid of, and therefore will help you pay less for your new car!

Four Simple Ways to Increase Your Car's

Even if you’re not thinking of getting a new car on the horizon, number 4 is great advice that you can start following now to ease potential headaches down the road.

1. Clean the Interior

There is nothing quite like a good first impression when you trade in your car. Make sure that the first thing the buyer sees will be a clean, well polished interior. If your interior is already in good condition, you may only need to vacuum out recent dirt. If your interior is in slightly rougher shape, it may be worth paying for an interior cleaning at a car wash. If you really want to go the extra mile, purchase new mats from an auto supply shop.

2. Polish and Repair Headlights and Windshield

Another great way to make a positive first impression when you’re selling your car is to make sure that it shines when the buyer watches you pull up. The best way to do this is with clear, bright headlights and a windshield that is free of chips or cracks.

You can shine up or replace your headlight covers with a quick purchase from your local auto parts store, and a windshield is quickly repaired or replaced by an auto glass repair company. We are partial to Anytime Auto Glass here in the Greater Boston area – they have same day service that will come to you!

3. Make any Easy Repairs

When someone is buying your car, they will look for any reason that they can find to negotiate the price down. It is your job as the seller to make sure that very few of these opportunities exist. Before you sell, take the time to do any simple repairs. It may seem counterintuitive to spend money on a car you wish to sell, but look at it this way: the money that you spend on most repairs will come back in spades when you sell!

4. Get Your Paperwork in Order

Anyone that owns a car should follow this advice: whenever you get a receipt for anything that has been done to your car, you should save it. You can keep a physical file of invoices and repair receipts, or scan all of the papers and keep a digital folder of your records. With this information, you can easily prove that your car has been properly maintained. It should also be noted that this tip is equally applicable to almost any asset, including homes, boats, and more!

If you are in the market for a new car, make sure that you call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655 to get a Brockton, Sharon, or Jamaica Plain auto insurance quote from one of our friendly and knowledgeable insurance agents. We are always happy to serve you, and look forward to finding you the perfect car insurance quote to fit your needs.

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7 Driving Mistakes That Could Put You At Risk

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Each time that you get into a vehicle, you are taking a risk. While most car trips are without peril, there are some driving habits that may put you at an increased risk for calamity. In 2013 alone, there were an estimated 3.8 million crash injuries that required medical attention, and 35,200 deaths related to traffic collisions.

7 Driving Mistakes That Could Put You At Risk

Here are 7 driving mistakes that could put you at risk:

1. Ignoring Road Conditions – Before you even think about driving somewhere, you need to consider the conditions. If it’s too wet (whether from snow or rain) or visibility is poor, you should consider postponing or cancelling your drive. A trip out of the house isn’t worth the risk if conditions are bad.

2. Driving Drunk or Drowsy – You should also consider your personal condition before you start to drive. If you have been drinking, or if you are overly tired, don’t allow yourself to pilot a vehicle. This also applies to feeling extremely angry or upset – all of these conditions will cloud your judgment and may slow your reaction time.

3. Running Yellow Lights – Some drivers take a yellow light as a sign to speed up so that you can make it through the intersection. In truth, a yellow light should signal exactly the opposite – stop safely if you can. You should only go through a yellow light if it would be unsafe for you to stop in time.

4. Not Signaling – If you want to be safe while you drive, you need to communicate with the drivers around you about your intentions. The best way to do this is with appropriate use of your turn signals!

5. Texting – When driving, you need to pay attention to the road. Texting is one thing that will ensure that you’re spending 100% of your attention elsewhere. When texting, you are much more likely to stray into another lane, fail to stop, or any number of potentially fatal driving mistakes.

6. Tailgating – You need to leave enough room between your vehicle and the car in front of you so that you can come to a safe stop or get around the vehicle if need arises. The generally accepted rule for following distance is the Three Second Rule.

7. Speeding – Did you know that speeding is the most common bad driving behavior? The speed limit represents the fastest speed you should go to be safe, so abide by it! In truth, going an extra five or ten miles an hour won’t make you reach your destination all that much faster, so don’t risk it.

Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we provide Massachusetts auto insurance that will protect you in the event of a car accident. Of course, we would rather that you aren’t involved in any accidents, so please make sure that you don’t commit any of the errors above. If you need a new auto insurance quote, please contact the Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655.

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Umbrella Insurance: When It Rains, It Pours!

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Do you have enough insurance coverage? It’s a loaded question, to be sure. Unfortunately, this is an impossible question to answer – even for insurance experts! No matter how much coverage you buy for your home, car, and other belongings, there is always the slight chance that you will one day need to file a claim in excess of your current policy limits. That’s where an umbrella insurance policy kicks in!

umbrella insurance

What is Umbrella Insurance?

According to Investopedia, umbrella insurance is “Extra liability insurance coverage that goes beyond the limits of the insured’s home, auto or watercraft insurance. It provides an additional layer of security to those who are at risk for being sued for damages to other people’s property or injuries caused to others in an accident.”

In other words, umbrella insurance acts as an extra layer of protection on top of your existing insurance policies, just as a physical umbrella would provide extra protection from the rain on top of your existing clothing.

ithout umbrella insurance, your maximum claim limit would be the amount outlined in your insurance policy. You would be responsible for any additional damages, and paying those out of pocket can get very expensive very quickly. With an umbrella insurance policy, you have a significant amount of additional coverage that can be used for exorbitant claims on several of your existing insurance policies.

What does Umbrella Insurance cover?

Every person has different needs when it comes to umbrella coverage, but in general, the coverage protects its owner in several ways. The most prevalent use of umbrella insurance is to cover damages above and beyond existing home, auto, and other insurance policies. This includes extra coverage for:

Injuries such as slips and falls, dog bites, car accidents, etc.

Property damage like damage to a car after an auto accident, accidental damage to another person’s belongings, and more.

Lawsuits, including defense costs, attorney fees, and other related expenses.

And much more.

In addition, this policy will typically cover some types of liability not covered under other insurance policies, such as libel or slander.

Who needs this policy?

There is a common misconception that only the wealthy need umbrella insurance because they have extra assets to protect. In truth, the number of assets you have isn’t the sole reason that you would purchase this protection. Umbrella insurance is meant to protect you in the cases discussed above, typically consisting of very expensive liability damages.

Every person is capable of incurring these costly damages, so every person should talk to their Massachusetts insurance agent about obtaining an umbrella insurance policy.

How do I get an Umbrella Insurance quote?

Getting an umbrella insurance quote is easy! All you have to do is call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. Tell one of our agents about your current insurance policies and your need for additional liability insurance, and we will find the policy that is right for you. The best part is that this type of policy is typically very inexpensive, so you won’t have to spend a lot out of pocket to get a lot of extra peace of mind.

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How Much Life Insurance Do You Need?

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How Much Life Insurance Do You Need

If you want to protect your loved ones in the event of your unexpected passing, a great way to do so is with a life insurance policy. Once you realize that you need this coverage, though, it can be a momentous task to try to determine exactly how much coverage you should purchase. Instead of agonizing over this issue, call your insurance agent! They will help you determine the right amount of coverage for your needs, including the following considerations:

Make sure that you leave enough behind to support those people that depend on you financially. Your life insurance policy should leave enough support for spouses and/or parents that you support, as well as enough to support children until they are able to be financially independent.

If you currently have any outstanding debt, you should probably have enough life insurance to clear it in the event of your death. A life insurance professional can help you determine which debts you should cover, but generally speaking you want to consider covering credit card debt, student loans, car loans, and mortgages.

Let’s face it – death is expensive. Make sure that you include some money in your life insurance to cover your final expenses for a funeral and burial, which could exceed $10,000. This should also include an earmarked amount to cover any estate taxes that will be incurred upon your passing.

You will also need to include any future obligations in your whole or term life insurance policy. If you want to cover your child’s college education, or want your spouse to be able to take a vacation after you pass away, this should be accounted for when determining your life insurance policy’s payout value.

In addition to being covered for all of the above, you should make sure to call and speak with your Massachusetts insurance agent if your financial situation changes, because it could affect the amount of life insurance coverage that you need. Specifically, the following situations typically require a life insurance coverage adjustment:

A change in marital status – either a marriage or a divorce will change your life insurance needs.

The birth of a child – you should probably increase your life insurance policy to cover the child until their 18th birthday, and adjust this coverage down every couple of years until they are grown.

You take on debt – as we mentioned, your life insurance should cover your debts, so let your agent know if you buy a home or a car. You may also want to increase your coverage if your credit card debt increases. Conversely, if you pay off a significant debt, you can decrease your coverage proportionally.

Retirement – the majority of life insurance coverage is meant to replace your income if you pass away. When you retire (and therefore no longer have an income) you no longer need this coverage, and your policy should be adjusted accordingly. Make sure, though, that you still have coverage for death expenses and debts.

If you’re ready to talk to one of the best insurance agents in Massachusetts, just call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. We will be able to evaluate your financial situation and get you the perfect life insurance quote for your needs.

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Best Apps for Setting a Budget

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Best Apps for Setting a Budget

Everyone needs a good budget. You should be able to quickly determine how much you’re earning, how much you’re spending, and how much you’re saving. In the olden days, this was done with pen and paper. Then technology emerged and spreadsheet software became the best way for setting a budget. Nowadays, great budgeting tools are only a few taps away. Check out some of the following apps that will help you set (and stick to) a budget. All are available on both Android and iOS. Most are even free!

Level Money

This app syncs with your bank and credit cards, and then shows an easy-to-read infographic of how much money you may spend for the day, week, and month. Overall, it is a very simple and easy to use app, with very little customization needed.

level money

You Need a Budget

One of the best apps with a website counterparts, You Need a Budget allows users to input their income and expenses so that their available budget is available on the go. This app also allows you to see exactly how much of your budget is available in several different categories, including groceries, restaurants, business expenses, and more.

iphone-budget

Spendee

If you’re looking for an app that can help with your budget and also help you keep records of your bills and receipts, look no further than Spendee. For less than $2, this app allows you to see all of your expenses in their attractive interface, and also keep track of your bills and receipts by taking pictures of them and storing them within the app.

spendee app

Goodbudget

Have you ever heard of envelope budgeting? It’s a simple budgeting technique where you take out a certain amount of cash from each paycheck, and split that cash into several envelopes labeled with categories. The challenge is to use the envelope’s cash until you get paid again. Setting a specific budget per category is often helpful for people looking to budget, and it’s exactly what this app does!

system2

Mint.com Personal Finance

Arguably one of the most powerful budgeting tools currently available, Mint.com is a web tool with an great app counterpart. If you’re looking for a one stop shop for all of your budgeting needs, you may want to check out Mint – just be aware that to access all of its tools, you will need to give it access to your online banking accounts. But don’t fear, the information is kept safe. Once your account is set up, you will be able to budget and then keep track of all of your finances (including debit accounts, credit accounts, outstanding loans, and more) in one place!

mint personal finance

Will you be using any of these budgeting apps to help in setting a budget this year? If you do try one of these apps, let us know what you think of it! And remember that Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency could help you lower your ‘Insurance’ budget with one quick call to 617-298-0655! Speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable agents about how to lower your Dorchester home insurance, or your Boston auto insurance.

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A Clean Kitchen: Top to Bottom

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A Clean Kitchen - Top to Bottom

The kitchen is an essential room in every home. It is where meals are made and eaten, and where the family connects after a busy day. All of this use unfortunately means that there will also be a lot of messes made in the kitchen. If it’s time that you gave your kitchen a thorough cleaning, here are a few tips that you can use to help get the busiest room of your home sparkling in no time:

Step 1: De-clutter!

The first step in cleaning any room is to get all of that clutter out! Anything that doesn’t belong in your kitchen should be moved to its proper place, or (at the very least) put in a ‘Lost and Found’ box. At this point, your kitchen should already be feeling a little more organized, but you’re not nearly done yet. This cleaning may take a little while, but it will make sure that you’re ready for company, or just make sure that your kitchen gets a good deep clean once in a while.

Step 2: Dust and scrub all surfaces.

Get out your rags and dust mops and make sure that all of your kitchen surfaces sparkle. Just remember to work from top to bottom – gravity will bring dust and grime down, so starting at the top will ensure that you’re not doing double work for no good reason. We recommend dusting the area above your cabinets, then the top of the fridge, and move on to your countertops before cleaning barstools and other seats.

Step 3: Remember the fridge!

It’s a big job, but your refrigerator needs a good deep cleaning occasionally. Take out all of the food (it helps if you check all of the expiration dates while you take things out) and place them on an empty counter. Once the fridge is bare, wipe down all surfaces inside before replacing everything. Anything that touches food directly (like your vegetable drawer) should get extra attention, and an extra hot bath to kill any potential germs.

Step 4: Clean the other appliances.

Once the fridge is sparking (and free of any questionable foods) take the time to clean your other appliances. Run a vinegar cycle in your empty dishwasher, microwave a cup of water to steam off any stuck-on foods, and use a combination of baking soda and vinegar to clean stubborn stains off of your oven without harsh chemicals.

Step 5: Wash the floor last.

Again, dirt and grime will travel under the influence of gravity. This means that any stray dirt that escaped your grasp during the cleaning process will end up on the floor. This is why the floor should always be the last thing that you clean. Vacuum up any debris, then disinfect with your floor cleaner of choice, whether it’s a traditional mop and bucket or a new sweeper with disposable pads.

Once your kitchen is clean, take a load off and clean up your Dorchester home insurance policy! Just call 617-298-0655 to speak with a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent about making sure that you have enough coverage for you and your family.

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Five and a Half Ways to Turn Your Business Around

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The only constant in this world is change. Instead of fearing change when it comes to your business, embrace it! Every business owner, especially those seeing declining or stagnant profits, should realize that a change is advised, even necessary.

Five and a Half Ways to Turn Your Business Around

Here are five and a half ways to turn your business around for the better. Making some of these changes may even help you regain momentum in a positive direction. If you’re already going in a positive direction (and we hope that you are) these tips may provide different ideas for how you can explore new opportunities:

1: Keep an Open Mind

If you want to make changes in your business, you should be focused on listening to the advice of others, and on trying new things. You can never truly know ahead of time whether a new strategy will work, but you miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take. In the spirit of transformation and rejuvenation, make it a point to step outside of your comfort zone.

2: Focus on Employees and Culture

The quality of employees will easily make or break your business. If there is someone on your staff that you want the others to emulate, reward them. On the other hand, if there is a staff member that you question, it’s probably time to reconsider their employment.

Once you have a staff that you believe in, it is your job as the business owner to encourage a productive and friendly culture. Don’t let your employees get too stressed, instead reward positive behaviors and show appreciation in ways that match up to your employees’ motivators. (Here’s a tip: Many employees are motivated by receiving great health insurance and workers compensation coverage from their employer!)

3: Don’t Drag Your Feet

If you’re going to implement a change at your business, take the time to research it and figure out the steps that you will need to do to successfully start a new process or policy. Once that’s done, though, don’t waste time – it may take a while to figure out if a change is for the better, so get started as soon as possible.

4: Prioritize Transparency

Don’t try to sneak around when you make changes in your business – celebrate it! Be realistic with your staff and customers about what you are changing, and explain what benefits you expect to gain. You may also want to share what could go wrong, if you want to make sure that everyone is completely prepared for potential repercussions.

5: Share a New Vision

In the same spirit as ensuring that you are transparent with your employees and clients about the changes that you wish to implement, make sure that you also share your new vision of your business. Explain to all people that have a stake in the business what it is you want to accomplish, and how you plan to get there. Make sure that you listen to their comments and concerns, and address them accordingly.

6: Revive Your Business Insurance

While it may not help your business turn around, a new business insurance quote from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency may be able to help you ensure that your business is financially protected in case of a peril. If you already have a Massachusetts business insurance policy from Vargas and Vargas, you should call 617-298-0655 at least once a year to update your coverage.

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How to Shovel Snow Safely

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We’ve had quite a lot of snow over the last few days, and for a lot of you, it’s time to get outside and start removing the buildup from your driveway and walkways. Believe it or not, shoveling snow can be quite a dangerous activity if not done properly, so make sure that you take the following precautions before you think of lifting a shovel or pulling out your snowplow.

How To Shovel Snow Safely

5 Tips How To Shovel Snow Safely:

1. Determine If It’s Safe

Don’t even think about going outside if the conditions are unsafe. Wait until the storm is over before you begin clearing. Also make sure that you’re in the proper physical condition for physical activity. If you are sensitive to the cold, have been advised to refrain from strenuous activity, or have a heart condition, you may want to delegate this task to a family member, or pay a neighbor to clear the snow off of your property.

2. Wear Lots of Layers

Don’t neglect the importance of bundling up when you leave the house – especially for the length of time that it will take to clear snow. Your core should be enveloped in several layers of clothing, and all of your extremities should also be covered – so grab your boots, gloves, and a hat before you venture out!

3. Prevent Injury

You should always stretch before strenuous activities like running – shoveling snow is no different. To prevent yourself from sustaining an injury while you’re working, make sure that you take the time to warm up your body and stretch out your muscles. If you need suggestions for stretches to do, check out this article from Real Simple.

4. Stay Hydrated

Again, you should treat shoveling like the true exercise that it is. You shouldn’t go on a run without a bottle of water, so take one with you when you head outside. Being out in the cold is taxing on the body, especially when you’re scooping and lifting too, so take water breaks at regular intervals. If you’re able to prepare for your adventure ahead of time, make sure that you are hydrating your body before you go out – that will help tremendously in the battle for proper hydration.

5. Don’t Overexert Yourself

When in doubt, take a break. Don’t make yourself push through to get everything done in one go if you don’t feel up to the task. There’s nothing wrong with going inside to warm up and get some hot cocoa halfway through the job. And remember – if you ever feel pain, dizziness, or nausea, stop and let someone else finish up. It’s not worth risking your health just to clear some snow.

Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we’re looking forward to getting back into the swing of things after this storm. We will return to the office and begin helping our customers sort through any blizzard related claims. If you need to report damage to your home or car, all you have to do is call 617-298-0655. Our agents will be happy to help you file a claim on your Massachusetts home insurance or auto insurance policy.

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4 Supplemental House Insurance Policies We Cover!

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Every house insurance policy that we write here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency is unique, just as each of our customer’s homes is unique. When we create a home insurance policy, we include all of the typical coverage types, such as protection for the home’s structure, coverage for personal possessions in the house, and liability protection. 

4 Supplemental House Insurance Policies We Cover!

Based on the particular needs of the home and its owner, though, we may also recommend that other supplemental policies be added to the house insurance policy. These additional policies could include the following:

Protection for Valuables

A typical home insurance policy will cover most of the possessions that you keep in your home. However, you should make it a point to mention to your insurance agent if you have anything of particular value that may need additional protection. This typically includes items like jewelry, antiques and collections, and sometimes can consist of other valuables like musical instruments or valuable sports equipment.

Flood Insurance

If you want to protect your home in case of flood, you need to ask your insurance agent about adding a Flood Insurance policy to your house insurance. Flood insurance typically includes protection against damage due to heavy and lengthy rainfall, storm surge, blocked storm drainage systems, damaging snow melts, and more. Depending on the location of your home, you will need either a standard flood insurance policy or a preferred risk flood insurance policy.

Earthquake Coverage

Is your home protected against damage done by an earthquake? While it seems that earthquake protection belongs more in California, you may be surprised by the Seismic Hazard Map of Massachusetts. It states that Boston and surrounding areas have a 14-20% chance of having an earthquake in the next 50 years. Altogether, earthquake protection is very affordable, so ask your insurance agent about whether or not you should include it in your home insurance policy.

Umbrella Insurance

A typical home insurance policy only includes liability protection for bodily injury and property damage done to others. If you would like to extend this protection, you can do so with an umbrella insurance policy rider on your insurance policies.  With this type of umbrella policy, you can typically get lots of coverage for a small price, making it well worth the cost. Get a free quote today!

Animal Liability Protection

If you have a pet in your household, you may want to consider purchasing some extra liability protection for incidents involving the pet. Most often, this will be for dogs that could potentially harm someone while out and about, but can also cover injuries due to any other pet, including cats, birds, and more. Just remember, even the sweetest pet can cause harm when provoked – don’t assume that your pet is so good that it will never cause harm to others.

If you would like to speak with an insurance professional about adding a supplemental policy to your Massachusetts house insurance, all you need to do is call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. We will review your current policy and see if there are gaps that you need to fill so that you have complete financial protection for one of your most valuable assets. We can also help with car insurance, business insurance, and more!

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Tips for Living in a “For Sale” Home in Dorchester

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If you’ve ever tried to sell a home, you know how painful it is to keep your house in order while retaining some sort of normalcy in your life. Here are some tips for living in a “For Sale” home in Dorchester courtesy of your friends at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. If you use these tricks, you may be able to sell your home without tearing your hair out trying to keep it presentable for showings:

tips for living in a for sale home in dorchester

1. Start packing right away:

As soon as (or even before) your home officially hits the market, make a trip to your local hardware store to grab several boxes. Pack away anything that you don’t plan on using in the near future, and stack these packed boxes neatly in your garage or a storage unit. Doing this will not only de-clutter your home so that it is more presentable to potential buyers, but will also allow you to do some packing work ahead of time, so that you scramble less when it is time to move.

2. Get rid of anything that isn’t moving with you:

If you know already that there is something you won’t be taking with you when you leave, take the time to deal with it now instead of waiting until you’re ready to move. Give items to friend or neighbors, leave items for garbage collection, or make an appointment for a charity to come and pick up unwanted items (this can often be considered a tax deductible donation!)

3. Do one deep cleaning, then spot clean:

When you first put your home on the market, take the time to clean your home from top to bottom. Did you know that a clean home not only sells faster, but also typically fetches a better price then one that wasn’t scoured? If you’re not up to performing the cleaning yourself, there are plenty of professional cleaning services that you can hire to make your home spotless when you begin to show your home.

4. Prepare for each showing:

If your home has already been cleaned well, you should only need to do some routine maintenance to keep it spotless. When you schedule a showing, make sure to wipe down your bathrooms and countertops and pick up clutter. Also make sure that all personal items and sensitive information are stored away, including private documents and prescription medications. You may also want to put a privacy lock on electronics, including computers and tablets.

The best part is that these four tips will do more than just help you stay sane while your home is for sale. They will also help to cut back significantly on the amount of work that you have to do once you do find a seller. Just consider this – if you take these suggestions to heart, your home will already be partially packed, anything that you wanted to get rid of will already be gone, and your home will be clean and ready for its new owners!

Also make sure that you remember to call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655 if you need a new Massachusetts home insurance policy for your new place! We are always happy to help get our customers the best possible Boston insurance policies.

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Do You Have the Best Auto Insurance Possible?

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Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, we always want to bring you the best: the best auto insurance, best home insurance, best business insurance, and so on. We ensure that this is done by making sure that our insurance agents are the best of the best. Only then can we know for certain that our customers are getting optimal policies and excellent customer service.

best auto insurance in dorchester boston massachusetts

At our agency, we are always looking to educate our customers about their insurance. If, for example, you are looking for the best auto insurance policy available, you can use the following four pieces of advice from our insurance professionals.

Have a balanced deductible and premium.

An insurance policy is always a balancing act between two things – the deductible and the premium. If one is too low, then the other is too high. You can lower your monthly payment, but it will mean paying more out of pocket when you need to make a claim. On the other hand, a low payment on a claim typically means an elevated monthly payment. Finding the right balance means some trial and error, and the advice of an experienced insurance professional.

See if a payment plan could lower your expense.

Did you know that certain types of payment could get you a discount? Depending on your insurance provider, you could get a discount for paying your 6 month premium in full. This discount could be up to 10% of your rate! With proper planning and saving techniques, it is possible for anyone to save up the required amount in advance of the payment due date, and doing so could save you a significant amount on your next insurance premium.

Ensure that you take advantage of all possible discounts.

To get the best car insurance available, you need to make sure that your insurance agent searches for a policy that will get you great coverage at a great price. This often means searching for a policy that has several available discounts for which you quality, for example:

Depending on your unique situation, your insurance agent can search and make sure that you get car insurance from a provider that offers discounts that match your circumstances.

Shop around for a new policy.

Following a major life event or a period where you have a spotless driving record, it could be in your best interest to search for a new car insurance policy. Sometimes changing insurance providers will mean a better rate (and even better coverage) than your previous provider, even when factoring in any loyalty discounts that you may have. And remember – it never hurts to keep your eyes open, so make sure that you consult with your insurance agent about your current policies at least once a year to explore your options.

If you want to see if obtaining a new auto insurance policy is the best option for you, all you need to do is call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff would love to walk you through the quote process. And one of the best benefits of using an independent insurance agency is that you only give us your vital information once, then we shop around for you to find the best auto insurance to fit your needs!

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