-- 1 A good number of insurance shoppers do not take advantage of their state's department of insurance.
You can find out much about coverage types, tips, companies licensed to sell such insurance policies in the state and other useful information.
The right information will surely put you in a better position to get more savings.
-- 2 Make phone calls to your trusted friends and know what they think of their insurance company.
Know the level of service they get and what they pay if it makes sense to ask them.
You can ask them to refer you to their agent if you're happy with their testimonials.
I must point out, though, that you must avoid going with just one person's recommendation.
It's possible they might not have done the best shopping themselves.
The fact is that you will shop better if you talk with and compare about three agents.
Take out time to get quotes from each agent your acquaintances recommended.
Have extensive discussions with each of them and find out who you prefer.
This is quite effective but at the same time very time-consuming.
-- 3 Make use of consumer guides.
You'll see typical rates for your home insurance policy.
This is not counting the fact that they will give you many tips that will help you get the best value at the lowest rates.
Note that the prices you see in those guides are not absolute.
They are only reference points.
Due to this, do your best to obtain quotes from as many insurers as makes sense.
Multiple quotes ensure that you get lower rates and value.
-- 4 You have to choose an insurer that's been long in the game of home insurance.
Do NOT make the mistake of signing up with an insurer without knowing their standing.
Different companies have different approaches to business.
These affect their future.
Make sure you are comfortable with the insurer you plan to use.
Find out their standing across different unaffiliated research companies.
-- 5 The most vital route to massive savings in home insurance is comparison shopping -- Given that you do it right.
You can get quotes that will have a difference in excess of $1,000.
You could conveniently save so much by just choosing the lowest quote.
This should apply if you're just after the lowest price.
However, if you're looking for the best price/value then you would have to check the details of the lowest offers.
Different insurance companies may have adjustments for similar policies.
It's a good idea to ask the agent what's part of the deal and what's not.