Home values are rising, does this leave you underinsured?

As a real estate agent, I know that rising home values can be exciting for homeowners. It means that your investment is growing in value and that you may have more equity to leverage when you go to sell or refinance your home.

However, it’s important to make sure that your insurance coverage keeps up with the rising value of your home. If you don’t adjust your insurance policy to reflect the current market value of your home, you could be left vulnerable to financial losses in the event of a covered loss.

Why does my home value matter for insurance?

Your insurance policy is designed to protect your home and personal belongings in the event of a covered loss- such as a fire, theft, or severe weather event. When you purchase a policy, you agree to pay a premium based on the estimated cost to rebuild or repair your home, including any upgrades or improvements you’ve made.

However, if the value of your home increases due to rising home prices, inflation, or home improvements, the cost to rebuild or repair your home may also increase. This means that your insurance coverage may no longer be enough to protect your investment. At least not in the current market.

To make sure that your insurance coverage reflects the current value of your home, here are some steps you can take:

1. Get a Home Valuation:
   Determine the current market value of your home by working with a real estate agent, an appraiser, or using online tools to get an estimate.
2. Review Your Policy:
   Check if the coverage amount matches the current replacement cost of your home. If it doesn’t, contact your insurance provider to discuss your options.
3. Consider Additional Coverage:
   Depending on your insurance needs and the current value of your home, you may need to consider additional coverage options, such as umbrella insurance or flood insurance, to fully protect your investment.
4. Re-Evaluate Annually:
   Remember to review your policy annually and make updates as needed. If you make any major home improvements, be sure to update your policy to reflect the increased value of your home.

So just remember, rising home values can impact your insurance coverage. To make sure that you have adequate protection for your investment, regularly review and update your insurance policy, and don’t hesitate to contact your insurance provider if you have any questions or concerns.