Monthly Archives: November 2012
Baby Boomers Moving Forward on Retirement Plans
In a survey of still-working adults age 55 and older, the majority of the respondents say they are not delaying retirement and believe they will be financially prepared to retire when the time comes. According to the most recent PulteGroup Home Index (PGHI) survey conducted by national homebuilder PulteGroup, Inc., 61 percent of the respondents
Five Homeowners Insurance Tips for First Time Buyers
A first time homeowner can find buying a new home exciting and overwhelming. When shopping for quotes, there are five areas that are especially important. Here are tips to get the best coverage at the most affordable price. 1. Know the difference between the replacement cost and the market value. Depending on how much was
Five Quick Travel Safety Tips
Whether heading to the 2012 Olympic Games in London or escaping for a weekend getaway, vacationers should remember to take steps to protect their money, luggage and other valuables. Here are a few reminders you should take notice of in order to prevent thieves from ruining your vacation: -Avoid bringing large amounts of cash. Carry
Prepare for the Hidden Costs of Homeownership
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recognizes this month as a time to celebrate the American dream of owning a home. While record low interest rates and recent tax credits for first-time homebuyers have enticed many families to turn their dream of homeownership into a reality, the hidden costs of homeownership can
Guidelines for Purchasing a Home Warranty
A home service contract, otherwise known as a home warranty, provides homeowners with peace of mind that the cost of repairing or replacing an appliance or major system will be covered. However, many people are unaware of exactly how a home warranty works. The Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC), a leading advocate on behalf of
Homeowners Face Insurance Increases Nationwide
The recently released 2011 HomeInsurance.com RateReport shows a considerable increase in average 12-month homeowners insurance premiums for new policies in December 2011. The data represents approximately 15,000 policies sold across the United States with such top-rated carriers as Travelers, Safeco, The Hartford, and ASI/Ark Royal. The RateReport shows that 12-month home insurance premiums in December
The Low-Down on Credit Insurance
I recently came across some great advice from Maryland Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler regarding costly and unneeded insurance being marketed to consumers who are borrowing money or making a purchase on credit. According to Gansler, this ”credit insurance” is notorious for being one of the most overpriced insurance products. Credit insurance may be sold
