Hello, does anyone have experience purchasing Homeowners insurance from Costco or through AARP? Is the process any different as dealing with traditional insurance brokers? Of course I’m looking for best rates and coverage, preferably in a home/car bundle. Homeowner rates have skyrocketed in NC! Thanks a bunch!
The quote I got from Costco was higher than I was already paying so that’s that.
As for AARP, I’ll simply not associate with those snakes and what not. They are a tumor on older Americans. Just my opinion.
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I use a broker and bundle home, auto and umbrella insurance .
Same here, I was just wondering if these were better options…thanks.
Every year, go over your policies. Every year. There is no bonus for loyalty.
The other marketing gimmick that is nonsense is “bundling.” Get a broker who wants to keep your business and make them predatory on prices.
Yep, I’m with two separate companies now. Fortunately with nice older vehicles that I maintain myself and clean driving record auto coverage is cheap for me. Homeowners is the biggie, thanks.
Costco and AARP offer group insurance plans that often simplify the process of bundling coverage for home and auto and is sometimes less expensive. These plans typically work by way of an online option or a dedicated phone line, but offer little flexibility for truly customizing coverage.
A traditional broker can provide you with the ability to assess multiple carriers, offer options unique to your home or situation, and sometimes provide options or discounts that are not available in group plans. A broker can also help you think through challenging situations, whether that is owning a home in a high risk area or having unique features to the home itself, if you are in need of a high-value policy.
Tip: Get quotes from the group option and a broker, then compare the policy to coverage, not just price. Group plans are easy and convenient, but often a broker can provide you with more personalized options and support.
I evaluated all three alternatives - Costco, AARP, and brokers. They all have advantages and disadvantages. Costco (through CONNECT by American Family) often gives great discounts for a bundle, but coverage options vary by state. AARP’s plans through The Hartford get solid service ratings, but tend to be a little more expensive. Brokers evaluate multiple insurance companies all at once, which is particularly helpful since North Carolina has been seeing rising rates.
If you bundle home and auto, apply for identical quotes from all three - the same limits and deductibles - and then see which gives you the best deal after any discounts.
To summarize: Costco = price, AARP = service, Broker flexibility. Make sure you are comparing the same type of insurance before you choose.
Great input; However I’m amending my inquiry. I should add that my house is a manufactured home and finding coverage is limited to fewer companies. Making a unpleasant chore more frustrating. Can anyone advise further about manufactured home coverage? I guess I’ll be knocking on my neighbors’ door, they are all similar homes. Thanks.