Blog entries tagged tips

Home Insurance Decoded

Greg Rivera — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 22:22:59 +0100

Picking the right insurer for your new home in Friendswood’s West Ranch can be a stressful task for new homebuyers. Add to the confusion the need for multiple policies including Homeowner, Windstorm and Flood for homes in Galveston and Brazoria County, and the waters can get pretty brackish to say the least!

With so many providers out there and such a vast range of products and packages, this quick tip sheet will provide a references and insight to help you making a more informed decision.

Do Your Research
Take a crash course in the types of policies available so you know what you are getting. Many companies try to influence your purchase by offering the lowest price quote, based on minimum questioning of your needs. Although price is important, when you have water pipe burst or a leak under your foundation, you will appreciate having the most comprehensive policy. And, don’t forget to make sure your builder has completed the necessary WPI-8 certificate of compliance and avoid policy penalties. Visit websites Tdi.state.tx.us, Floodsmart.gov and Opic.state.tx.us

Know Your Lenders Requirements In order to compare quotes from multiple companies, you will need to know what your lender requires of you, from the minimum dwelling coverage requirements to the types of policies they will require you to. And don’t forget to ask if your insurance premiums will be paid by you or through an escrow account.

Choose Wisely
Ask friends and neighbors who they chose to insure their home and why they choose their current agent. I recommend finding a local agent who has been in business long enough to weather a few storms and that you can visit in person to review all of your insurance needs as they arrive. Internet based company’s may be able to offer slightly cheaper rates, but are often located in another state and are not familiar with specific regions. Nationwide Agent, Charles Mayfield, and State Farm Agent, Buddy Bouquet have been residents of the Friendswood area for over 30 years. Both are a wealth of information and represent companies awarded A ratings.

Regardless of your location, it’s always important to compare 2-4 quotes before making your decision. Not only will you save money but you’ll also have peace of mind knowing that you didn’t just select the first insurance plan you came across. Good luck in your search!

Spring Forward for Daylight Saving Time: March 14

Greg Rivera — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 04:38:41 +0100

Each Spring, we move our clocks forward by one hour during the night in order to capture the convenience that extra light brings during the Spring and Summer seasons. Friendswood Development Company is reminding West Ranch residents to remember to do just that at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 14.

Daylight Saving Time actually affects you in more ways than simply confusing your schedule. By making the adjustment, we are allowing ourselves to use less energy in lighting our homes. This energy-saving orientation was the original intent of the U.S. when Daylight Saving Time was instituted during World War I and later when the length of Daylight Saving Time was standardized in 1966.

Due to the passage of the Energy Policy Act in 2005, Daylight Saving Time is now four weeks longer by extending the time change from the second Sunday of March to the first Sunday of November. Our new routine was established with intent to save 10,000 barrels of oil each day by reducing power used by businesses.

Friendswood Development Company hopes feeling greener eases the pain of losing an hour this weekend and that all our visitors, Realtors, and community residents enjoy the warmer Houston weather ahead!

Important Notice: Freeze Precautions

Greg Rivera — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 23:55:32 +0100

The Houston Weather Bureau is predicting freezing conditions from Thursday night through to Saturday morning (January 7-9, 2010).

These sustained freezing conditions could result in pipes bursting, causing severe damage. Please take the following precautions to minimize damage to your property and protect your plant and pets.

Wrap an exterior exposed pluming pipes.
Disconnect water hoses.
Keep your pets inside.
Cover your plants.
Do not leave faucets dripping
Listen to your radio and T.V. for weather updates.
If you are going out of town, leave the heat on in your unit and open the under counter cabinet doors. As an additional precaution, turn off the main water valve and drain the faucets. If you turn the water off and you have electric water heater, be sure to turn the breaker off.