Home insurance premiums have risen dramatically. Some states have seen their premiums rise 25% or more, and an average homeowner’s insurance premium rings in at about $1,300.

There are several elements working against the homeowner, but there are still ways to save! Here are some of our recommendations:

A Higher Deductible: If you increase your deductible, you are effectively taking on more risk. Raising your deductible can also make you more inclined to have emergency funds available to cover expenses that may come up such as a hurricane-damaged roof or flooded basement.

The Small-Claim Avoidance Virtue: Another benefit of raising your deductible is the ability to pay for smaller issues directly out of pocket since a history of smaller claims can harm your monthly premiums. Since your history of claims follows you no matter where you go, it can become hard to keep your yearly costs reasonable if you must file repeatedly.

Combining Home and Auto Coverage: We have so many awesome ways to give customers discounted rates, and we love to see customers using our services for more than one aspect of their coverage needs. You may be entitled to a sizable discount just by combining your home and auto needs. It’s a win-win situation, and you can employ our expert services and extensive policy knowledge.

Make Sure you Compare: Shopping around with multiple providers to see if you can save on insurance is sometimes not at the top of your priorities. However, if you have the time, the extra effort can pay off. Comparing rates before you purchase is a great way to save money. Even small savings can build up over time.

Upgrades that Can Radically Lower Rates: Annual premiums can be lowered when you take the time to make improvements to your house. One of the reasons why so many homeowners do not do this right away is the cost, as it can sometimes seem that the initial out-of-pocket expense curbs the benefit. Adding things like smoke detectors and burglar alarms can help you save.

Deadbolts are one of the most inexpensive improvements you can make to the home that makes a huge impact on security, and sprinkler systems for fires do as well. A roof can sometimes be covered under other policies, and you may be eligible for a full replacement if a major storm blows through with considerable damage. While updated heating and cooling systems are on the pricier side of things, it offers heightened savings when setting rates.

The Furry Friend Factor: Lately, the popularity of Rottweilers and pitbulls has risen, and while they may be your best friend, they can cause an unwanted spike in your monthly premiums. Amenities for outdoor fun such as trampolines and swimming pools may also cause your premiums to be high.

Annual Plan Re-Evaluation: Answering your questions is what we are here for. Going over your plan once a year is key to finding areas for improvement in your coverage. If you have prepared an emergency fund, you could be in a better position than relying on insurance that may not cover the entire cost. Taking measures to improve your credit score can also lower your rates, as paying off bills every month and being so diligent is always advantageous.