Author: agentinsure

Kitchen Renovations That May Affect Your Insurance

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One of the most popular home improvement projects are kitchen renovations. It is also one of the most expensive. You should know how the renovations would affect your insurance premiums before getting started. Consider getting in touch with McCormick Insurance Inc. and ask the agents how your new kitchen remodel will impact your insurance rates.

  1. Kitchen Countertops – Improving your countertops can be an expensive endeavor. Choose your countertop wisely. There are many distinctive types and each may affect your home insurance differently. In addition to the popular granite, laminate, and wood surfaces, there are also quartz, solid surface, stainless steel, copper, and eco-friendly countertops available.
  2. New Appliances – You do not have to upgrade all of your appliances at one time. This could be costly and eat into your budget. Start with the oldest ones and eventually replace them all. Stainless steel appliances are a valued commodity and can increase the resale value of your home.
  3. Cabinet Refacing – Renewing your cabinets may not affect your insurance premiums a great deal, but it is important to understand your options if it does. Adding wood veneers, plastic laminates, or rigid thermofoils could make a significant difference. Ask your McCormick Insurance Inc. agents in Pembroke Pines, Florida for more details.
  4. Backsplash – One of the least expensive things you can do is add a decorative backsplash to the kitchen. They are easy to install yourself, but if you have a contractor make sure that he or she is fully licensed in case of accidents.

All of these kitchen renovations could add value to your home. They also may cause you to increase your insurance coverage to cover the new value of your home. Call the agents at McCormick Insurance Inc. in Pembroke Pines, FL to discuss your options.

Things To Consider When Driving A Motorcycle During Deer Season

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Deer season is a dangerous time for anyone to be out on the roads. Unfortunately for motorcycle drivers, it is even more dangerous. If you love your motorcycle, though, nothing will keep you from enjoying the great weather than comes with the season. If you plan on taking full advantage of this weather, then you need to be careful for deer no matter where you go. Make sure you are as prepared as possible with these top considerations.

  1. Deer travel in groups and not usually alone. That means that if you happen to see a deer while driving, you are likely to see one or more in the same area. When you see one deer, start looking for more so that you are not surprised when one comes out in front of you.
  2. Deer tend to move more at dusk and dawn. This means that if you are driving during these times, you need to make sure you really keep an eye out for them. You should also have a great light installed on your bike so you can see better and further. 
  3. Always wear your protective gear. This is something you should do at all times on your motorcycle but especially if you are driving during deer season. You want to be as protected as possible and that includes wearing a helmet. 
  4. When riding in a group, make sure you spread out some. In the case of a collision, you want to be spread out so one driver does not take out everyone else. 

Make sure you have insurance that is up to date. If you do not have an adequate policy, be sure to contact McCormick Insurance Inc. serving Pembroke Pines, FL to get a policy quote.

 

Driving In the Snow: Top Tips for Safety

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With winter already showing its true colors all across the nation, there’s no better time to start improving your driving skills. In fact, you should always do your best to be prepared for the worst. Whether it be snow, ice or freezing rain, these weather elements can greatly hinder your ability to keep your vehicle on the road. With the right skills, though, you can be confident when driving during the winter. Here’s a close look at a few tips you need to keep in mind. 

If you plan on driving a lot in winter weather, you definitely need to consider putting winter tires on your vehicle. These tires are designed to keep you on the road, regardless of the weather elements you’re driving in. Not only will the tires give you more control over the vehicle, but your the car will also be able to stop faster, which is paramount when driving on ice and snow. 

You’ll also need to  make sure that you are looking as far ahead as possible down the road. The more aware you are of your surroundings, including those in your peripheral and ahead of you, the better prepared you will be in the event that you need to avoid an accident. Keep in mind that it’s not only other vehicles you’re trying to avoid having an accident with. There are animals, pedestrians, and buildings that you need to be looking for, as well. With your eyes peeled, though, you’ll be more likely to keep yourself safe when driving in winter weather. 

To learn more about driving safely in winter weather, contact the McCormick Insurance Inc. Agency today. 

Benefits of Independent Insurance Agent in Pembroke Pines

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When a person goes shopping for insurance in Pembroke Pines, it’s imperative to keep in mind that there are various agents who can help with finding the best policies. Whether it be a homeowners policy or coverage for antique vehicle, having the right plan is paramount to protecting your valuable assets. With an independent agent on your side, you can take comfort in knowing that you are being covered by the best policies available. Here’s a closer look at a few reasons to go through an independent agent in Pembroke Pines. 

Regular reviews enhance your coverage

When was the last time your insurance agent called you and told you that a better policy was available at a more affordable price? Probably never, especially if you go through an agency that is constricted by providing coverage through a single insurance brand. With an independent agent, though, you can have peace of mind in knowing that this person will constantly be on the lookout for policies that provide you with optimal coverage at the most affordable price. 

Greater levels of customer service

When you go to make a claim, there is only one thing you have in mind — you want it to be processed quickly. With an independent agent on your side, you can rest assured that the claim will be processed not only quickly but in the best manner to provide you with the most compensation possible. This allows you to rest easy at night knowing you have the best coverage possible. 

For more info on buying the best insurance through an independent agent, contact McCormick Insurance Inc. today. 

3 Reasons To Have Home Liability Coverage

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When you live in Pembroke Pines, Florida, it’s important to have a homeowner’s insurance policy. Liability coverage is common within a policy – and you want to make sure it is coverage you have in place to cover various incidents.

Whether it’s a dog bite, a slip and fall, or something else, there are three good reasons for the coverage.

Medical Bills

Medical bills may be covered if a visitor to your home is injured. You don’t want to be the one to pay for these out of pocket, so home liability coverage will likely take care of the expenses on your part. If they have health insurance, you could be held liable – and this is a great way to save the money from being your financial responsibility.

Legal Costs

There could be legal costs associated with someone getting hurt on your property. If there’s an accident in your home, someone could sue you. This is going to require a lawyer. Whether you are found responsible for the damages or not, the home liability coverage is likely going to take care of your legal costs so you don’t go broke in the process.

Wages

If someone is injured sufficiently enough, they may be out of work. These lost wages could become your problem. The good thing about liability coverage is that it may prevent you from paying these wages.

You never know when someone could be injured and to what extent. When you have the right limits on your liability coverage, it can cover pain and suffering, medical bills, legal costs, wages, and more.

Contact us at McCormick Insurance Inc. today to speak to an agent who can help you find the right home insurance policy for you. Our agents look forward to finding comprehensive policies at affordable rates in Florida.

 

 

Prep Your Car For The Fall Months

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Many people make the assumption that they don’t need to do anything differently during the fall months than they do any other time of the year, especially in Florida. It’s not going to get very cold, and you’ll probably never experience ice or snow. However, there are a few things that you can do in order to prep appropriately.

An important thing is to check on your tires. As the temperatures outside fluctuate, the tire pressure can change. If the tires are too soft or too hard, it is going to result in problems with the way your car handles and potentially lead to a blown tire as well.

This is also a good time to have your brakes checked. You want to make sure that the rotors, drums, and brake linings are all checked. Especially if you are going to be driving outside of the state, you want to make sure that your brakes are capable of handling all of the different road conditions.

Comfort is an important thing to focus on as well. Defrost and heating unit within your car is going to be used during the fall and winter months. Bringing your car into a local mechanic to have the HVAC system inspected can be worthwhile. This way, if there are problems, they can be fixed right away.

It doesn’t matter whether you live in Florida or not. You want to make sure you are taking care of your car, and prepping for the fall is an important part of car ownership.

Call us at McCormick Insurance Inc. today. We can help you find a great auto insurance policy in Pembroke Pines, Florida for the fall as well as all year long. We can answer questions you may have about auto insurance and get quotes from multiple insurance companies, as well.

 

3 Ways to Save on Gas During a Road Trip

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At McCormick Insurance Inc., we help people save money on their auto expenses. We primarily help drivers find affordable auto insurance, but occasionally we pick up tips for saving on other auto expenses. For instance, here are three ways you can save on gas when taking a road trip.

Save Gas During a Road Trip

When taking a road trip, one of the main expenses you’ll have is your fuel costs. Therefore, saving on the amount of gas you use during your trip could significantly reduce the total cost of your adventure. To spend less at the pump, try the following:

  • make sure your tires are properly inflated
  • drive the speed limit
  • plan any trips to major cities around rush hour

These first two suggestions will help you improve your fuel economy, and the third will reduce the amount of time you spend sitting in traffic.

Save on Auto Insurance

If you haven’t reviewed your auto insurance policy, you may also be able to reduce your insurance premiums. Lowering how much you pay for auto insurance will save you money while you’re on the road and after you return home.

If you own a car in Pembroke Pines, FL and would like to see whether you can reduce your auto insurance premiums, give us at McCormick Insurance Inc. a call or send us an email. Our auto insurance agents would be glad to pull up a few quotes on auto insurance for you, so you can see how they compare to your current policy. In many cases, our independent insurance agents are able to find drivers policies with lower premiums.

If you’re planning a road trip, don’t wait until you get back to contact our agents. Get in touch with them today, and you could be saving on your auto insurance before you get on the highway.

 

Do You Have Roomates? 3 Renters Insurance Tips

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Having a roommate can be a great way to save money and keep household costs to a minimum. However, making sure you have the appropriate level of renter’s insurance coverage is also important. Here are three tips to consider.

Tip #1: Make Sure You Talk to Your Agent

Talking to your agent is important when you have a roommate. This discussion should take place fairly soon after moving in together, as your policy does not automatically cover your friend’s belongings unless certain guidelines are met. Find out whether or not your renter’s insurance carrier requires you to each have your own policy or allows to add your roommate’s name to your current coverage.

Tip #2: Decide Whether or Not to Have Separate Policies

The decision to have separate policies or be on the same one together is also important. While sharing coverage does allow you to split premium costs, there are some drawbacks. If you or your roommate have a falling out or one moves away, it can be difficult if you have a sudden claim as both of your names will be on the reimbursement check. Sharing coverage also means that you are responsible for splitting the payment to replace your stuff. This can get very messy if the two of you are not on the same page, which is why many roommates just opt to have individual renter’s insurance policies.

Tip #3: Understand That Intentional Acts Aren’t Covered

Another important tip to remember regarding roommates and renter’s insurance is that intentional acts aren’t usually covered. This means that if you end up with a nightmare of a roommate who damages or steals your stuff, your policy most likely won’t pay for reimbursement.

Do you have questions regarding renter’s insurance? Please contact our team of professionals at McCormick Insurance Inc. for more information.

4 Great Perks of Hosting a Garage Sale

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Do you have tons of items you are considering getting rid of, but aren’t sure where to start? Have a yard sale! Here are four perks of hosting a garage sale.

#1: Get Rid of Clutter

Let’s talk about the obvious first. Having a garage sale helps you eliminate the clutter that’s been piling up in your home. Clothes that no longer fit, toys that your children no longer play with, or home decorations that no longer suit your taste are all great candidates for putting up for sale. Gather items by going from room to room with a box and determining what you want to get rid of. Another option is to keep a few boxes handy that you add items to throughout the year.

#2: Earn Extra Cash

Another benefit of hosting a yard sale is that you can earn extra cash. Set a goal ahead of time and know what it will take to reach that goal. Some examples are a special outing for the family, a vacation, or even the supplies needed to tackle a home improvement project. Many parents even sell their children’s old clothing and toys to help redecorate their bedrooms.

#3: Teach Your Kids About Business

One more perk of hosting a yard sale is that it teaches your children about business. Have them help you tag items, set prices, and collect money. Garage sales are also a great time to setup a lemonade stand or other snack venture.

#4: Meet Your Neighbors

Finally, hosting a garage sale means you get to meet your neighbors. Perhaps a new family has moved in that has a similar taste in home goods or that you simply haven’t had a chance to chat with yet. By having a sale, you get to meet and connect with those who live nearby.

One important thing to consider before you host a garage sale is whether or not you have adequate home insurance coverage. Anytime you have visitors in your home or on your property, you run the risk of a liability claim due to injury or a fall. In addition, by having your garage door open, you also increase the chances of a possible theft. For more information or a policy review, please contact our team at McCormick Insurance Inc.

 

3 Important Facts to Know About Renters Insurance

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Every year, thousands of people move into a new apartment, condo, or rental home in our area. However, few realize the importance of taking out a renters insurance policy.

If you are one of these renters and are on the fence about purchasing coverage, here are three important facts to consider.

Renters Insurance Fact #1: Your Policy Includes Liability Coverage

One overlooked fact about renters insurance coverage is that most standard policies include a provision for liability coverage. This means that if a guest becomes injured while visiting your home or as a direct result of your actions, your renters insurance policy would help pay for their medical bills and any associated legal fees if you are sued. In certain circumstances, pet bites are also covered under this section of your policy. Liability coverage is important to have, as it protects your financial well being if an unfortunate event occurs.

Renters Insurance Fact #2: Your Belongings Are Covered Anywhere in the World

Most people understand that a renters insurance policy covers their personal belongings while inside their home or apartment. However, this type of coverage goes far beyond by protecting your items anywhere in the world. This means that if you are traveling and something is stolen from your luggage, you have coverage. It also means that if you accidentally leave your cell phone, laptop, or other item in your vehicle and it is stolen, you are also covered. This extension of coverage is especially important for those who go on vacation often or travel for work.

Renters Insurance Fact #3: You Might Get a Discount for Having Coverage

Another important fact to consider about renters insurance is that you might get a discount for having coverage. Many insurance carriers offer a special incentive for having a renters policy with the same company as your auto policy. And some Florida landlords and apartment complexes even give tenants a percentage off of their rent for having renters insurance. Of course, whether or not you qualify for these discounts is determined by your exact situation.

While these three facts are definitely important benefits, there is much more to what renters insurance entails. For more information or to receive a no-obligation quote, please contact our team at McCormick Insurance Inc. today.