1. If a crime has been committed, report it to the police. You should get a copy of the police report.

2. Contact your insurance agent or company immediately.

3. If necessary, try to protect your property from further damage. Save your receipts.

4. Don’t dispose of damaged items until the adjuster has seen them.

5. Prepare a list of damaged items. Take pictures of the damage. (Now aren’t you glad you made an inventory list/video?)

6. Get the appropriate claim forms and fill them out completely. Return them within the time limit.

Resolving Issues

If you encounter problems (such as denial or inaction within a reasonable period of time) settling your insurance claim for your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate, you can follow these steps:

• Make sure you can support your case with documentation. Be prepared to send copies with any letters. Keep the original documents, such as estimates and receipts and only send copies. Also keep copies of all letters.

• Be prepared to document each phone call. Note the date and time of each conversation and name of each person you talked to.

• Review your policy to see if it contains information on resolving disputes or appealing a claim denial.

• Talk with your agent or company representative. If they can’t solve the problem then get the name and phone number of the company’s claims manager.

• Send a letter explaining your problem including copies of supporting documentation to the company claims manager.

• If your problem still isn’t satisfactorily resolved, then contact your state insurance department and file a complaint. Locate your state insurance web site using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) web site.

• As a last resort, you may want to consult an attorney. Make sure you choose an attorney that specializes in homeowners insurance. Be prepared to pay a consultation fee and get the fee structure in writing before pursuing the case.

Filing Claims

To reduce the chances of having to file a claim at all, use common sense when it comes to installing and maintaining smoke, carbon monoxide, and motion detectors, cleaning chimneys and wood stoves on a regular basis, and keeping a dry chemical fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Rely on deadbolt locks and an alarm system for protection against theft and use space heaters with caution. Your policy may contain clauses or conditions that specify other reasons that could void portions or all of your coverage. Examples include failure to report claims promptly, failure to cooperate fully with the insurance company, and failure to protect the property from further loss. Another example would be using your home for a business (perhaps even providing informal but regular childcare for three or four children not your own) not specifically included in the policy. Make sure you read your policy carefully to determine what the conditions are.

An insurance company may also cancel or refuse to renew your coverage or raise your premiums if for any reason the property no longer meets their underwriting criteria. For example, perhaps the building has grown too old or the zoning has changed, or you have in some way increased your liability exposure trampoline to the yard). Filing too many claims, in many cases, may also lead to cancellation.

And a word to the wise about keeping your policy in effect. An insurance company can cancel your policy for non-payment of premiums, fraud, or misrepresentation. Your policy may contain clauses or conditions that specify other reasons that could void portions or all of your coverage. Examples include failure to report claims promptly, failure to cooperate fully with the insurance company, and failure to protect the property from further loss. Another example would be using your home for a business (perhaps even providing informal but regular childcare for three or four children not your own) not specifically included in the policy. Make sure you read your policy An insurance company may also cancel or refuse to renew your coverage or raise your premiums if for any reason the property no longer meets their underwriting criteria. For example, perhaps the building has grown too old or the zoning has changed, or you have in some way increased your liability exposure. Filing too many claims, in many cases, may also lead to cancellation.

Insuring Your Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate – Part I

Insuring Your Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate – Part II

Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate For Sale:

1915 Old County Road, Daphne AL 36526

MLS# 166611

Incredible bay front home that is on the National Historic Registry and it has magnificent grounds and views.  This home is bursting with southern charm with heart pine floors, tall ceilings and an oversized 10 X 50 sunporch.  The kitchen is fabulous with Acquisite cabinets and a Wolf gas double over with 6 burners.  The house has been totally renovated by Bill Purvis a tremendous value.

Learn more about 1915 Old County Road and other Mobile Eastern Shore real estate for sale by visiting JudySells.com.

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Suggestions for making a Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate inventory include:

• Organize it by room.

• Describe each item, including make and model, and where it was bought. Record the serial number, if the item has one.

• Attach sales receipts, purchase contracts, and appraisals to your list.

• For clothes, count each type of item, such as pants, shoes, shirts, coats, etc. Particularly note those that are valuable.

• Supplement your written list with photographs. Make sure you label the photos. *If you have a video camera, videotape each room. You can also add a narration as you tape.

• Don’t forget items that are in drawers, closets, attic, and basement.

• Use your computer. Make your list, scan in receipts, photos, and other papers. Keep these in a fireproof box. Make a copy of your inventory and photos and store them away from the house.

• Add valuable new items (such as a new entertainment system) to the inventory when you purchase them. Review and revise the list annually.

What is generally covered? Under the HO-3 policy type (the most popular), damage caused by perils and hazards such as fire, lightning, smoke, windstorm (in certain parts of the country), hail, vandalism, falling objects, theft, weight of snow or ice, vehicle striking the structure, building collapse, water damage from bursting pipes, and structural damage from an electrical surge are covered.

What is usually excluded? Under the same HO-3 policy, damage not covered includes that caused by an earthquake, floods, windstorms (in certain parts of the country), war, pets, birds, rodents, or insects, sewer backup, pollution. Damage done by you or that which is the result of normal wear and tear is also excluded.

Do not despair, however. You can add riders or special endorsements to your policy to cover some of the above-mentioned exclusions and/or to increase the coverage for items whose value exceeds the basic limits. Some of these endorsements can include: wind, sewer backup, jewelry, fine art, furs, theft coverage protection, etc.

Valuable items such as jewelry, art work, and collectibles should be appraised so that you will have adequate coverage. Another thing to consider is adding a rider to insure your home office if you do not have a separate business policy.

So you have purchased adequate insurance for your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate, have inventoried your belongings, and have put that list in a protected place–and you’re feeling secure and confident. But what if life throws you a curve and your property is stolen or damaged? Then what? Look for Part III in this series for help in filing and/or settling a claim and for tips to prevent losses at all.

Insuring Your Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate – Part I

Mobile Eastern Shore Homes For Sale:

58 N Bayview Avenue, Fairhope AL 36532

MLS# 166333

Welcome home to this Historic home that dates back to 1912 and is on the National Historic Home Register.  This home offers great central location just blocks from downtown Fairhope and the bay.  As you walk up you will notice the fabulous curb appeal with its cute picket fence and a courtyard with a Gunite pool.  Inside you will find details like beaded board ceilings, oak floors and built in book shelves.  The Master bedroom is large and includes a large bathroom.  Enjoy the southern breezes from the screened porch. 

Learn more about 58 N Bayview Avenue and other Mobile Eastern Shore homes for sale by visiting JudySells.com.

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Types of homeowners insurance:

• HO-1 is very basic coverage, insuring against fire or lightening damage

• HO-2, called “broad coverage,” also covers loss of or damage to property resulting from windstorm or hail, theft, explosion, smoke damage from vehicles and aircraft, glass breakage, removal of property endangered by covered peril such as fire, vandalism, malicious mischief, and riot or civil commotion. HO-2 also covers building collapse, freezing of or accidental discharge of water or steam from within plumbing, heating, or air-conditioning, falling objects, weight of snow, ice, or sleet, and rupture or bursting of steam or hot water heating system

• HO-3, called the “special” form, insures your home and detached structures against loss or damage from any peril except for those specifically excluded in the policy. This is the policy most homeowners purchase. It is important for you to read your policy carefully to see what is excluded—you may want to cover exclusions with special endorsements.

• HO-4 is a tenant’s policy and insures your household contents and personal belongings against the perils of the HO-2 policy. It also covers additional living expenses if needed, medical payments, and also liability protection.
  

• HO-6 covers a condominium unit-owner who wishes to insure items not insured by the association policy, as well as the personal property inside the unit and personal liability protection.

• HO-8 is the “older home” policy. Having an older home may preclude your being able to buy a replacement policy; you may have to buy a modified replacement policy instead. This means that instead of replacing such older home materials as plaster walls for example, the policy will pay for standard building materials and processes in use now.

Some states designate their forms differently, using such titles as HO-A, HO-B, etc., but the coverage is generally the same.

Types of replacement policies:

• Actual cash value policies pay to replace your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate holdings and possessions, minus depreciation, up to the limit

• Replacement cost policies pay the actual cost of rebuilding or repairing your home and replacing your possessions up to the policy limit. No deduction for depreciation.

• Guaranteed replacement cost policies pay whatever it costs to rebuild your home as it was before the damage occurred even if it exceeds the policy limit.

• Extended replacement cost policies pay a specified percentage over the policy limit to rebuild your home. Usual percentages are 20%-25.

How much insurance do you need for your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate holdings? The Insurance Information Institute suggests that you first need enough to cover the cost of rebuilding your house at today’s construction cost. Note: this does not include the cost of the land. Some lenders require only that you have enough to cover the cost of your mortgage, but that figure may be inadequate to cover your home’s value. In addition to the value of the structure itself, you will also need coverage for your possessions, living expenses if you have to live somewhere else for a period of time, and any liability you may incur. Your insurance agent can advise you as to the type and amount of insurance that would best suit your needs.

Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate For Sale:

19264 Fairfax Drive, Fairhope AL 36532

MLS# 165525

Nice French country home in sought after Fairfield Place.  Home features chef’s kitchen with Kenmore Elite appliances, which include gas cooktop & double oven, granite countertops, glazed cabinets.  This home offers a large master suite.  This home is in a great location on a corner lot with a fenced in backyard and rose garden with a fountain.  A must see!!

Learn more about 19264 Fairfax Drive and other Mobile Eastern Shore real estate for sale by visiting JudySells.com.

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A knowledgeable and understanding real estate agent who is familiar with the needs and desires of the 55+ set, combined with the services of an attorney who specializes in both real estate and estate planning and an accountant who deals with senior tax implications, can be invaluable to you in looking at all aspects of selling your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate and helping you determine what is best for you. Senior Expert Margie Behr also advises that you think about taking out a home equity loan before you put your house on the market and that you involve your whole family in the decision-making process.

Deciding to Sell

If you do decide to sell, BankRate.com cautions you to first get a written market analysis and a financial evaluation which will help you and your team of advisors address the realities of the market, your investments, and tax objectives.

Once underway in the selling process, you‘ll have to prepare your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate for showing to potential buyers. That includes removing, storing, or giving away some large furnishing, heirlooms, or collections, and making your home as “clutter-free“ as possible. If this task looms too large for you to deal with by yourself, your real estate agent can provide you with qualified, responsible people who will make the burden much lighter. Remember that a well-maintained property with plenty of open space makes the house seem larger and shows off its assets.

The exterior, too, needs attention so that its “curb appeal“ will make shoppers want to come inside and investigate further. Keep lawns mowed, bushes trimmed, and flower beds fresh and colorful. Walkways, siding/brick, and roofs should be in good condition and entranceways must be attractive and inviting.

What and where to buy?

Bankrate.com stresses the importance of looking at all your options and comparing them to your physical needs-now and in the future. Carefully consider the benefits to a one-level home or a building with an elevator. Would a condo with no maintenance required be best for you? Have you thought about a retirement community? You’ll need to determine the value of being close to friends, doctors, churches, stores, public transportation, and facilities which foster leisure pursuits. Do you golf? Want to be involved in a recreational senior center? Will you want trails or bike paths nearby? Be sure to visit areas you are seriously considering–often and at different times of the day. Talk with current residents, drop in the stores, walk around the community with family members or a friend. You can also do some reconnaissance online at [our website] which give you very useful demographic information re: income, population, employment, crime rate, etc., or you can Google a specific neighborhood.

Two final precautions: 1) don’t commit to a vacate date on the Mobile Eastern Shore real estate you’re selling until you have secured a new residence. You don’t want to have to move twice! 2) if family is really important to you, don’t move too far from them. Many grandparents have regretted their move so much that they have moved back to be closer to the children!

As you go through the process of relocating to/from your Mobile Eastern Shore real estate, view it as an adventure, a chance to view the world from a different setting, meet new people, and make new friends–and enjoy the journey!

Mobile Eastern Shore Homes For Sale:

10806 Pecan Drive, Fairhope AL 36532

MLS# 161928

Wonderful retreat.  The home sits on 2 ¾ acres with large trees.  Immaculate home with 3 bedrooms and 2 ½ bathrooms with a kitchen, den with wood burning fireplace and a sunporch.  There is a 2 car enclosure that has one bay that is large enough for a RV.  There is a boat lot on Turkey Branch with 40 feet on creek.

Learn more about 10806 Pecan Drive and other Mobile Eastern Shore homes for sale by visiting JudySells.com.

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The Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate Podcast

June 2010: This month’s edition covers Mobile Eastern Shore real estate market activity and then and we’ll promote the value and importance of home inspections as the summer selling season approaches. Features special guest Terri Murphy of US Learning. Program length: approximately 8 1/2 minutes

Mobile Eastern Shore Real Estate For Sale:

655 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope AL 36532

MLS# 165743

Newly renovated 3 bedroom 3 bath Fairhope cottage in downtown.  This home offers 1824 square feet with an open floor plan in the main house.  The kitchen is the primary focus with the heart pine custom cabinets and countertops made from original 1920’s flooring.  And with a focus on being greet the house was updated in 2007 with a tankless water heater, stainless steel appliances and underground utilities.  There is also a 924 square feet 2 story carriage house with another full bath and kitchenette. 

Learn more about 655 Fairhope Avenue and other Mobile Eastern Shore real estate for sale by visiting JudySells.com.

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