Insurance

Progressive HomeQuote Explorer Review

Progressive HQX

This post was sponsored by Progressive.

Over the last few years, we’ve come to recognize Progressive Insurance thanks to Flo, the Progressive girl. Initially, when the company first began in 1937, it focused solely on auto coverage. Over time, the Ohio-based company stayed true to its name of being a progressive insurance company, and thus, expanded its services beyond vehicles. From golf carts to condos, customers can obtain coverage for some unique circumstances in addition to standard protection. They were the first major auto insurance company to have a website, they continue their history of innovation with a new service: HomeQuote Explorer.

HomeQuote Explorer Review

What is it?

HomeQuote Explorer is a free online quoting experience to help homeowners compare home insurance rates. Think Trivago for hotels, except it will show prices from multiple insurance companies side by side. Not just that, but when you do enter your information, HomeQuote Explorer will match you with the best policy for you based on your information. Currently, Progressive is the only insurer that offers anything like this, according to their website.

How does it work?

You start the process by entering the address of your home to their search bar on the site. Progressive then pre-fills any information they find based on public records of the house, which helps you save time. Their questionnaire also includes images to assist in the process of answering questions about your home, such as your roof type or flooring details.

Once you’ve completed the assessment, they’ll match you with what they feel is the best policy based on your answers. However, you do not have to choose their recommended. They also provide you with alternative rates and coverage to review – side-by-side comparisons of rates and coverage from multiple companies so that you can ensure you’re getting the best deal.

As you finalize your decision on your new home’s insurance option, you can simply buy it online or call Progressive to speak with a licensed agent.

Pros and Cons of Progressive HomeQuote Explorer

Pros:

On top of comparing your rates, they will even take care of the details with your mortgage company for you if you prefer. They’ll send a proof of insurance and coordinate the details, allowing you to lump in the payment to your mortgage rather than paying Progressive directly.

The information regarding their service is also very clear and easy to find. Their FAQ page answers just about any question you might have about the process, which is something I truly appreciate.

Cons:

The biggest con for me, personally, was that the HomeQuote Explorer was still relatively new when I gave it a try so there were still a few quirks. Using my current address, I went through the process as though I were buying my place. As I went through and filled out the information for my home insurance quote, the images the promotional video showed were not present. It was their old questionnaire that also did not have an auto fill option as promoted.

When I tried again, however, the new screen and features did appear. After going back and taking a look at the newer version of HomeQuote Explorer, this issue was resolved.

Another con I experienced was that the HomeQuote Explorer didn’t directly provide the homeowner’s insurance but rather partner with other companies to do so. Thus, they are limited in the discounts they can offer.

Progressive is a trustworthy company and continues to deliver a quality service. I can say this confidently as an auto insurance policy holder for the last three years. Regardless, it would still be wise to research other home insurance policies before purchasing through the HomeQuote Explorer. It does appear that some glitches are still being worked out.

All in all, the tool was easy to use and helpful in giving me an idea of one of my options for home insurance.

Interested in learning more about HomeQuote Explorer? Check out the video below:

Tips to Avoid Being Ripped Off by a Life Insurance Plan

Tips to Avoid Being Ripped Off by a Life Insurance Plan

As much as we want to refrain from thinking about death, the fact of the matter is that life is unpredictable. What we can predict, though, is what will happen to our assets and how our families will be taken care of through life insurance. While not an easy nor enjoyable task, you need to research a policy that will work for you. As with anything, there are many companies out there looking to swindle you, so you need to be careful. But, don’t worry; we’re here to help. The following are tips to avoid being ripped off by a life insurance plan:

Tips to Avoid Being Ripped Off by a Life Insurance Plan

Prior to starting your search, it needs to be decided whose life or lives will be covered in a plan and what types of coverage will be available in the case of death. Here’s how you can navigate the process of life insurance shopping:

  • Think about supplementing pension and social security income. A dual-income home no doubt helps to make things easier, but when one spouse passes, you have to live on much less. Life insurance can help alleviate some worry and serve as a partial income replacement for the surviving spouse. In this case, term life insurance is a great choice due specific time frames, but whole life insurance, which is a type of permanent life insurance that assures financial certainty, is even better due to the increasing cash value it provides. The downside, of course, is that it does cost more money. But, with guaranteed growth, it may be worth the investment.
  • Know how the agent gets paid before meeting with him or her. Before even setting up a meeting to look at different policies, find out how your potential agent is paid. Are they compensated through commission or are they salaried? The last thing you need when shopping for life insurance is to be treated like a paycheck. Make sure you’re making decisions that are best for you and not for the agent’s bank account.
  • Use an online calculator. An online calculator, like this one from New York Life, can help you see where you stand and how much your spouse will need to cover expenses. Look for calculators that actually provide information on the numbers and not just try to direct you to an agent.
  • Be open and honest with your agent or broker. It is imperative that you are open and honest with your broker. Be as clear as possible and as open as possible about your current situation and your needs. This will prevent you signing up for a plan that is not right for you, or, worse, an unexpected increase in rates.
  • Know your health history. Often times, you’ll need to have a medical examination when applying for life insurance. Be as prepared as possible by having a list of past surgeries, treated conditions, accidents, medications, and so on. This will make the entire process simpler and quicker for everyone including you.
  • Research the different types of life insurance. Two different main types of life insurance plans were discussed previously (term and whole life), but the two other main plans include universal and variable. Don’t go into a meeting with an insurance agent without having some background knowledge of the specifics of these plans. You’ll be able to make wiser decisions by doing so. This may be one of the more important tips to avoid being ripped off by a life insurance plan.

While we should always remain positive, we should also be prepared for the worst in life. It is an unfortunate thought. However, by taking the steps to protect your family for the future now, you’ll have peace of mind and truly be able to live life the fullest.

What tips would you add to the list? 

The Importance of Understanding Auto Insurance (And How It Could Save You Money)

understanding auto insurance

Having auto insurance is one of those essentials you need if you drive…legally, that is. Not just that, but having auto insurance does protect you and your vehicle should anything happen, whether it be a head-on collision or a hit-and-run. You need to see your car as an investment because it is. Thus, understanding auto insurance will be wise so that you know you are getting the best deal (and not just emptying your bank account). Here’s how you can save money while still ensuring you’re protected:

Understanding Auto Insurance

Compare Before You Buy

Similar to the concept of “try before you buy,” you want to always compare quotes side-by-side. In fact, you do not even need to wait until you are buying to do a comparison. Many companies would be more than happy to go over cost-savings with you based on your current insurance provider. But, if you don’t want to deal with a salesperson, you can easily do the car insurance comparison online.

For most providers, they will offer to email you an initial quote first based on the information you filled out. Once you do this for multiple companies, you can see the best route to take. Some sites, like Progressive, will even do a comparison side-by-side for you, which is a smart sales tactic for them. For a faster look at different quotes from various companies, though, NerdWallet offers a free online tool for you to do just that. Check it out here.

Don’t Go Without It

Every state makes it a requirement for drivers to carry auto insurance. Even motorcycle drivers need to have insurance. If you get caught without it, the costs could be much higher than your monthly premium. If you were to get into an accident, the state may go after your personal assets, you may have higher insurance costs, a suspension of your license, and so on. You can learn more about these penalties at DMV.org.

Be Cautious About Loaning Your Car

Insurance policies go after the vehicle and not the driver. This means that in an accident, they pursue the vehicle at-fault for costs, and whoever owns the car and is the policyholder is responsible for those costs. So, even if you were not the one driving your car, your insurance has to cover it, which will lead to higher insurance rates for you to pay.

More Miles, More Money

The more you drive on a regular basis, the more money you’ll have to pay for an insurance policy. They base this on the increased likelihood of an accident to take place with the amount of times your car is on the road. In order to avoid this increase, try to periodically utilize public transportation instead whenever possible.

Look for Policies With Accident Forgiveness

When you’re in an accident, your premium will typically increase, especially after multiple accidents in a row. That is, of course, unless you have accident forgiveness in your plan.

Put Multiple Cars On One Policy

Many auto insurance carriers have “bundle plans” that allow you to insure more than one car under one policy. This can help you save money rather than going through multiple companies.

Ask About Military Discounts

As a thank-you for serving our country, many companies will give a military discount for those currently enlisted or veterans. Be sure to ask and see they have any options for you.

Overall, understanding auto insurance helps you to save money (or avoid wasting it) by knowing what to look for or mistakes you can prevent. Hopefully, with this knowledge, you’ll be able to find the best coverage and plan for you.

What would you add to the list?