Hi Clients and Prospects,

Whether you just received the keys to your first house or you’ve been a homeowner for decades, managing your property comes with a unique set of challenges. It’s easy to fall into common traps that can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

At Page Insurance, we believe a proactive homeowner is a happy homeowner. That’s why we’ve put together these essential tips to help you avoid some of the most common pitfalls.

1. For the New Homeowner: Don’t Underestimate the “Hidden” Costs

One of the biggest surprises for new homeowners is the true cost of ownership beyond the mortgage payment. Property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and unexpected repairs can add up quickly.

The Pitfall: Creating a budget based solely on the mortgage and predictable utilities.

The Fix: Build a “home emergency fund” alongside your personal savings. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 1-3% of your home’s purchase price annually for maintenance and repairs. This way, when the water heater eventually gives out, it’s a manageable inconvenience, not a financial crisis.

2. For the Seasoned Homeowner: Don’t Get Complacent with Maintenance

You know your home inside and out, which can sometimes lead to a “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality. However, deferring small maintenance tasks can lead to catastrophic (and expensive) failures down the road.

The Pitfall: Ignoring the small stuff, like cleaning gutters, checking for leaks under the sink, or servicing your HVAC system.

The Fix: Create a simple, seasonal maintenance checklist. Spending a weekend each season on preventative tasks can extend the life of your home’s major systems and prevent costly emergency calls. For example, cleaning your gutters in the fall prevents ice dams in the winter, which can cause significant roof and water damage.

3. For Every Homeowner: Review Your Insurance Annually

Your home and its contents change over time. You might have completed a major renovation or acquired valuable personal items that your current insurance policy doesn’t adequately cover.

The Pitfall: Assuming your initial homeowner’s insurance policy is “set it and forget it.”

The Fix: Schedule a yearly check-in with your insurance agent. Discuss any changes you’ve made to the property and review your coverage limits for both the structure and your personal belongings. Ensure you understand what is covered (and what isn’t) before you ever have to file a claim.

Ready to Become a More Confident Homeowner?

These tips are just the beginning. Your home is one of your most significant investments, and protecting it is our top priority. For a more comprehensive guide, including detailed maintenance checklists, budget templates, and our complete guide to avoiding homeowner pitfalls, visit our online resource center.

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We’re here to help you enjoy your home for years to come.

Best regards,

The Team at Page Insurance