"House Hunting and Homeowners Insurance
May is National Moving Month, a time when millions of Americans will prepare for a change of address. If
you’re in the market for a new home, there are a number of factors to consider when purchasing real estate.
One important and often overlooked consideration when buying a home is the value of insurance
protection. After all, you’ll be paying for homeowners insurance for as long as you own the home. Here are
a few points to consider when house hunting.

Age of the home
Common features of older homes, such as ceiling molding, may be expensive to replace and increase the
cost of insurance. Outdated plumbing and electrical systems may also raise the rates of insurance.

Distance from the fire department
Houses located near permanently staffed fire departments, and houses with a nearby hydrant, usually cost
less to insure.

Swimming pool or other special feature
A swimming pool, hot tub or other special feature generally increases the need for excess liability insurance
or an umbrella liability policy, and may limit the availability of insurance options if available. This
coverage provides added protection in the event someone is injured on your property and files a lawsuit
against you.

Flood risk
Damage from flooding is NOT covered by a standard homeowners policy. Homes in an area at risk for
flooding need separate insurance. Flood insurance is available from the federal government’s National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Once you’ve completed the closing process —but before unpacking boxes — make sure you adequately
insure your new home not only to cover its cost, but to rebuild and replace your belongings in the event of a
total loss.

You may need to consider adding special coverage, such as Residential Equipment Breakdown. This
unique offering provides coverage in cases of mechanical or electrical breakdown1 for almost anything that
uses electrical power- furnace, air conditioner, hot water heater and home electronics systems.
Your Farm Bureau agent can help you determine the right amount and type of homeowners insurance for
you, as well as the appropriate deductible and available discounts. Talk to your agent today about
homeowners insurance coverage that protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

1Coverage terms and provisions are determined solely by forms that are used after purchase and made part of the insurance policy.
Nothing contained in this informational material shall be constructed to grant or broaden coverage that is not explicitly provided in the
policy forms.
Source: Insurance Information Institute, Home Buyers Insurance Checklist, www.iii.org, visited January 18, 2011. Better Business
Bureau, Avoid Moving Scams This Summer, www.bbb.org/article, visited January 18, 2011.

Tips brought to you by Farm Bureau Financial Services. For more information about products and
services, call Tammy at (515) 957-1524 or Chris at (515) 957-1616.

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West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860-2904, Member SIPC. Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance
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"