14 Ways to Save Money on Homeowners Insurance (Massachusetts Homeowners Save $500+


Carlos Vargas |Sep 24 2025 09:00

We hear this often, why does homeowners insurance seem to get more expensive every year?

 


And how can Massachusetts residents reduce their premiums without cutting corners on coverage?

 

 

 

If you’ve ever looked at your home insurance renewal and thought, “Why did this go up again?” , you’re not alone. Many Massachusetts homeowners are overpaying by hundreds—sometimes more—without realizing there are practical, proven ways to lower their costs.

 

In this article, we’ll walk you through 14 strategies that can help you save $500 or more on your homeowners insurance—without sacrificing protection or peace of mind.

 


1. Bundle Your Policies

This is often the biggest savings opportunity. When you combine your auto and home insurance with the same provider, discounts can be significant—sometimes up to 25%.


2. Raise Your Deductible (Strategically)

If you increase your deductible from $500 to $1,000, you could lower your premium by 10–20%. Just make sure you have the funds set aside in case of an emergency claim.


3. Improve Your Home Security

Insurance carriers love it when you make your home safer. Installing monitored alarms, cameras, deadbolts, and smart home devices can earn you discounts.


4. Maintain a Good Credit Score

Yes, credit matters. In Massachusetts, your credit isn’t used directly to set rates, but carriers may still use credit-based insurance scoring as part of your risk profile.


5. Stay Claims-Free

Every claim you file stays on your record. A clean claims history over five years often leads to loyalty discounts or lower premiums.


6. Shop Your Policy Every 1–2 Years

Loyalty doesn’t always pay. Rates can fluctuate due to underwriting guidelines, so reviewing your policy every couple of years ensures you’re not overpaying. (We do this for you automatically)


7. Install a Water Shutoff System

Water damage is one of the costliest types of claims. Systems that detect leaks or automatically shut off water can lead to discounts of 5% or more.


8. Review Your Coverage Annually

Do you have too much personal property coverage? Are you paying for riders you no longer need? An annual review helps optimize protection without waste.


9. Ask About Available Discounts

Not all discounts are applied automatically. Ask your agent if you qualify for senior, new home, non-smoker, paperless billing, or paid-in-full discounts.


10. Upgrade Your Roof or Electrical System

Newer roofs and updated electrical panels lower your risk profile—and many carriers reward those improvements with premium reductions.


11. Avoid Small Claims

Filing for every minor issue can trigger rate hikes or dropped coverage. Sometimes it pays to handle smaller repairs out of pocket.


12. Work With an Independent Insurance Broker

Independent agents compare policies across multiple carriers to find you the best coverage and price—something captive agents can’t do.


13. Join a Group or Association

Some insurers offer group discounts through employers, alumni organizations, or unions. Ask about affinity programs.

Affinity Group / Program

Eligible Members

Discount on Homeowners Insurance

Notes/Insurer Examples

UMass Boston Alumni Insurance Program

UMass Boston alumni

Varies (auto/home discount)

Farmers, Liberty Mutual

UMass Amherst Alumni via AMBA / USI Affinity

UMass Amherst alumni

Group rates on home & auto

USI Affinity program

Northeastern Alumni Insurance Discount

Northeastern University alumni

Discount on home and auto

Liberty Mutual

USI Affinity Collegiate & Alumni Programs

Alumni of ~200+ colleges/universities

Group rates on home & auto

Multiple carriers

Travelers Insurance Affinity Discounts

Employer groups, credit unions

Home & auto discounts

Call Travelers to check eligibility

GEICO Organizational Discounts

Members of recognized associations

Home & auto discount offers

Check MA‑specific list via GEICO

MAHA HomeSafe Program

Graduates of MAHA Homeowner 201 or Condo 202

7–10% discount with participating insurers

MAHA‑partner insurance companies, like: Arbella, Harleysville Worcester, Commerce/MAPFRE, Liberty Mutual , Quincy Mutual, Safety


14. Choose the Right Insurance Company

Not all carriers rate risks the same way. A company that’s expensive for your neighbor might be cost-effective for you. Rates vary wildly —so shop smart.

 


Final Thoughts: You Can Save Big—But You Need to Know Where to Look

 

 

If you’re like most Massachusetts homeowners, chances are you’re leaving money on the table when it comes to your homeowners insurance. By taking even a few of the steps above, it’s not uncommon to save $500 or more annually.

 

 

Remember: Insurance is about protecting your most valuable assets—but it shouldn’t drain your wallet in the process.


What to Do Next

 

 

Are you wondering which of these savings apply to your current policy?


Or maybe someone you know could use a fresh look at their insurance options?

 

 

📩 Let us help. Reach out and let’s see how we can save you—or someone you care about—money on home insurance today.