Ensure that Your Jewelry is Covered

Name: Vargas & Vargas Insurance
Address: 1133 Washington St, Dorchester, MA, 02124
Telephone: 617-298-0655

Posted on November 20, 2017November 16, 2017 by cvargas

Everybody loves a little bit of bling. Whether your passion is precious metals, gemstones, hand crafted statement pieces, or any of the other dozens of types of jewelry out there, you need to make sure that your valuable items are properly covered – just in case. Thankfully, there are two coverages for your valuable jewelry, general coverage that comes with home and renter’s insurance, and jewelry riders for additional protection.

General jewelry coverage is a part of almost every home insurance and renter’s insurance policy that we offer here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. This will cover most casual, everyday jewelry. Check with your insurance agent to make sure that you have this basic coverage, and see how much coverage it offers.

If you have valuable items, you may want to check your insurance policy’s coverage offered for theft and mysterious disappearance. There is often a limit on the general coverage that may be less than some of your more valuable items, like a family heirloom or your engagement and wedding rings. For these cases, you may want to inquire about adding protection in the form of a jewelry rider on to your existing insurance policy.

To speak to an experienced insurance professional, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. One of our agents can tell you if you have enough coverage, and will help you add a jewelry rider to your existing insurance policies if you need some extra protection. These are typically very inexpensive, and are well worth the coverage they offer. So, don’t let your jewelry go uninsured or underinsured any longer – call us today!

Make Your Thanksgiving a Breeze

Posted on November 9, 2017November 2, 2017 by cvargas

It is hard to believe that it’s already November! The Holiday Season is quickly approaching, and that can only mean one thing: Thanksgiving is right around the corner. If you’re planning on hosting Thanksgiving dinner for your friends and family, use these tips to keep things stress-free and running smoothly:

Start with a calendar – Print out a blank calendar for the week leading up to Thanksgiving. You can use it to plan out when you will be shopping, decorating, preparing for company, and doing your preparation. And don’t forget to figure out when to take the turkey out of the freezer if you’re using a frozen bird!
Start shopping early – You probably have an idea of what you will make ahead of time, so don’t wait to start buying the nonperishables that you will need for the day. It will save you a lot of hassle (and cart space) when you make your big holiday trip to the store.
Do everything you can ahead of time – You will have enough on your (both proverbial and literal) plate on Thanksgiving Day, so make sure that you do all that you can in advance. This includes make-ahead dishes like pies, but can also include tasks like setting the table. Before you go to bed, make sure that the dishwasher and trash cans are empty – they’ll need to be ready for heavy use on Thanksgiving!

One more thing that you can do to get ready for the big day is to call your insurance agent and ask them for a home insurance review. It will give you peace of mind to know that you are protected during the holiday season, and all you have to do is call 617-298-0655.

Home Insurance: Should You File a Claim?

Posted on October 30, 2017October 26, 2017 by cvargas

Imagine this: your home is affected by a fire or a flood. No one wants this to happen, but there is always the chance that it will, and you need to be ready just in case that it happens to you. Chances are you would be in financial trouble if your home were destroyed if it wasn’t for your home insurance policy.

Thankfully, massive claims due to fires, floods, and other major disasters are few and far between. Smaller claims are much more common for Boston home insurance policies. But how do you know when it’s worth filing an insurance claim, and when to cover the damage yourself?

There are two major factors that affect whether you should file an insurance claim: your deductible and the number of previous claims on your policy. Deductibles are different for every policy, and can vary quite a bit. If the cost to fix your damage is less than your deductible amount, there is no reason to file a claim. If your deductible is less than the damages, you need to weigh the amount of money you would receive vs. the cost of filing the claim. After all, having a claim on your policy may raise your premium in the future.

Your home is a very valuable asset. Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance, we would hate to see something happen to it without the right protection. That’s why we offer top of the line Massachusetts home insurance policies for all of our clients. For a free quote, just call 617-298-0655 and speak with one of our agents.

Is It Time to Redecorate Your Home?

Posted on October 23, 2017October 20, 2017 by cvargas

Your home should be a place you look forward to being – somewhere that makes you happy and at peace. Unfortunately, it is a part of human nature to need change, so there’s a good chance that your home will start to feel a little stale after a while. That’s a clear-cut sign that you need to do something to update your décor.

Here is a simple trick that you can use – take a good look at each piece of decoration in your home, and ask yourself, “Does this give me joy?” If the item no longer brings you happiness, it may be time to get something new. Take a look at Pinterest (while you’re there, follow me!) and find an idea that you can use to redecorate your home that will bring joy to you and your loved ones.

If you want to bring a new energy into your home without breaking the bank, there are some easy things that you can do to redecorate on a budget. Instead of splurging on wallpaper, make your own stencil and use paint. Thrift stores and estate sales can be a bargain-hunter’s best friend, and are especially great for finding shabby-chic décor. Bathrooms in need of a spruce will be brand new with a new shower curtain, and DIY artwork is always an affordable and effective project.

And remember – if you do any major redecoration (or especially if you go one step further and remodel) call your insurance agent at Vargas and Vargas Insurance to update your Massachusetts homeowner’s insurance. Doing so will ensure that your new decorations are all protected in case you need to make a claim in the future.

Why Buy Flowers for Your Home?

Posted on October 12, 2017October 5, 2017 by cvargas

Have you ever felt like your home needed a little burst of freshness and color? It’s easy to get into a groove (or, rather, a rut) when it comes to your home’s accessories – but fear not! All you need to do if you want to cheer up a room in your home is add a bouquet of freshly cut flowers!

First, a fun fact. Did you know that hospital patients who have plants or flowers in their room often need less post-operative medicine? In addition, these patients had lower blood pressure and less anxiety. And you can take advantage of the stress relief at home by simply adding a small plant or vase of flowers to a room that you spend a lot of time in.

In addition, the color of the flowers that you choose can impact the mood that your bouquet creates. Choose lighter, similar colors to increase your relaxation, or a bright and varied bunch for an energizing vibe. Even consider bringing in some flowers or a plant to the office to boost your productivity and be the envy of your coworkers!

Adding a plant to your Massachusetts home or office will also act as a natural humidifier, and plants can remove 87% of toxins from the air every day! So whether you’re looking for some inspiration, relaxation, energy, or health benefits, a bunch of flowers or a potted plant may be the answer!

If you would like to buy a lovely plant or a bunch of flowers for your home, stop by one of my favorite local flower shops, Cedar Grove Gardens. And if you want to add to your peace of mind with more than just flowers, call 617-298-0655 for a free Boston home insurance review from your friends here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency.

Tips and “Tricks” for Handing Out Halloween Candy

Posted on October 5, 2017September 29, 2017 by cvargas

There’s no doubt about it – Halloween is right around the corner. No doubt you’ve noticed the huge displays of decorations, costumes, and candy in your favorite stores. If you’re planning to get in the spooky spirit and pass out candy to trick-or-treaters this year, here are some tips to make sure that you are one of the ‘cool houses’ on the block:

Let trick-or-treaters know that they should come to your home for candy on Halloween night. This should be done by decorating your home (it doesn’t have to be extravagant) and by leaving the porch light on.
Kids love when they are recognized, so do yourself a favor and brush up on this year’s most popular costumes, including Marvel and DC superheroes, Disney princesses, and more.
Only give out candy that is sealed in its original packaging. While it is a nice thought to give kids homemade treats, most parents won’t allow their kids to eat these kinds of treats from strangers.
Your trick-or-treaters will be looking for sugar, so don’t disappoint by handing out pencils (or worse – toothbrushes). If you want to give something like a pencil or small toy, do so alongside a piece of candy.
If you don’t want to be bothered by your doorbell all night long (and you don’t mind missing all the cute costumes), you may choose to put out a small bowl of candy. It’s best to put out less and refill often so that latecomers aren’t disappointed by an empty bowl.

Before the big day, make sure that your home is ready for any ‘trick’ with the right Massachusetts home insurance policy from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. One quick call to 617-298-0655 will help you ensure that no ghouls, goblins, or poltergeists get the best of you this Halloween.

Prepare for Fall and Winter Storms

Posted on September 25, 2017September 22, 2017 by cvargas

In the Fall and Winter, New England can get hit with some nasty hurricanes and blizzards. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare your family – do a little bit of prep now and you will be ready when a storm threatens the area. Here is a list of some of the things that you should have to get you started:

Food and Water – You should always have enough nonperishable foods and water for each member of your household to last one week or more. This typically means one gallon of water per day, plus foods like canned goods, and dry foods like cereal, nuts, crackers, and protein bars. And don’t forget to keep an emergency food supply for pets also!
Clothing – Each person in your household should have access to plenty of warm clothing, including hats and gloves.
General Supplies – If a storm is coming your way, make sure you have essential supplies handy. These will include flashlights and extra batteries, a first aid kit, paper dishware and plastic cutlery, paper towels, toilet paper, medications, and more.
Tools – You will need a few tools to weather a storm. Scissors and a manual can opener are a must. In addition, it would help if you had access to a pocket knife, multi-function tool, and a fire extinguisher.

While you’re preparing for potential storms, you should gather digital items as well as physical. There are certain phone numbers you should have stored in your cell phone. These include your local fire and police lines, the power company, the nearest hospital, and your insurance providers. To find out if your insurance is ready for a fall or winter storm, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655.

Everyone lives in a Flood Zone!

Posted on September 7, 2017September 26, 2024 by cvargas

Hurricane season is upon us, and based on the devastation that Houston is going through (and with another hurricane on the way) this season may not turn out to be a walk in the park for homeowners and renters.

I am not sure if you are aware, but flood damage (and earthquake damage) are excluded under all homeowners, condominium, and renter’s insurance policies. If you are in a Federally Mandated Flood Hazard area, you are required to purchase flood insurance to satisfy your Mortgage Company or bank. But there is a misconception that if you are not in a Federally Mandated Flood Hazard area, you are not able to purchase flood insurance – that is incorrect.

Everyone who owns a home or condominium or rents an apartment is able to purchase flood insurance, and if you are NOT in a Federally Mandated Flood Hazard area, you could receive a “preferred rate.”

As an example, the flood insurance policy that Kathy and I carry on our home costs us $1389 per year for $50K on contents and $50K on the building because we are in a Federally Mandated Flood Hazard area. If we were NOT in a Federally Mandated Flood Hazard area our rate would be around $499.00 per year for up to $250K on the building and $100K on contents, a big difference.

Here is the second misconception to flood insurance: many people think that they will purchase a flood policy when they need it or a hurricane is heading in their direction. It does not work this way, as there is a 30-day waiting period on all new flood insurance policies (unless you are purchasing the coverage for a closing or refinance).

Here are some statistics for homeowners:

1. In the past several years, 60% of all declared disasters involved flooding
2. 25% of all insurance claims paid by FEMA involved losses outside Federally Mandated Flood Hazard areas.
3. 51% of all homeowner insurance claims are related to weather or flooding

And it gets worse for business owners. Here are 3 statistics that every business owner should know:

1. Almost 40% of small businesses never reopen their doors after a flood disaster.
2. Floods happen everywhere. 25% of all flood damage occurs in low to moderate flood risk areas. Business owners should not rely on a line of credit at their bank for protection.
3. Business insurance policies exclude flood damage. Only flood insurance pays qualified claims quickly so a business owner can get back to business

I strongly urge you to call Vargas & Vargas Insurance (your Lolocal independent insurance agent) and request a FREE flood insurance quote. Or click here.

If you are inclined to make a donation to help the wonderful people of Houston Texas, my mortgage friend, Richard Smith, recommends making a donation on this site, click here.

Thank you!

Carlos

Flooding: What to Do Before, During, and After

Posted on July 20, 2017 by cvargas

You never know when a flood will strike. Hurricanes often bring flooding, and flash floods can happen at any time. Make sure that you’re prepared for the chance of a sudden flood, know how to stay safe during the event, and know how to deal with the fallout of a flood with these tips:

Before – Make sure that you have a well-stocked emergency kit and a family disaster plan. When a flood is forecast, keep up with the weather news. If you have time, you may choose to move valuables and hazardous materials to higher levels of your home, and disconnect electrical appliances (but only do this if it is safe!). Depending on the severity of the forecasted flooding, you may want to evacuate the area.
During – Continue to monitor news about the flood. Once the flooding starts, don’t travel unless you have to, and never drive on flooded roads. If you are advised to evacuate, do so in a safe and timely manner. In short, find high ground and stay there until you are told by officials that it is safe to leave.
After – Do not enter any building that is still flooded. If necessary, have your home checked for structural damage by a professional before you enter. Homes that have been affected by floods are sometimes unsafe – when in doubt, ask for professional assistance. Make sure that you call your Massachusetts insurance provider right away to start the claim process.

You may be surprised to learn that your Massachusetts home insurance, condo insurance, or renter’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding. For that, you need a special flood insurance policy or rider. Call Vargas and Vargas Insurance at 617-298-0655 today to find out how affordable this critical coverage is

Tips for Buying Your First Condo

Posted on July 10, 2017 by cvargas

Condominiums are one of the best-kept secrets of the real estate world. When looking for a new home, some people still only consider buying a house or renting an apartment, without realizing that purchasing a condo may be the perfect balance between the two – allowing you to have the ‘best of both worlds.’ If you’re in the market for a condo in Boston, check out these buying tips:

Hire a professional Real Estate Agent to help you with your search. If you need a referral, please let us know so that we can connect you to a top-notch agent in the area.
When you’re looking for a unit, make sure that you consider resale value. More bedrooms and bathrooms, scenic views, and better school districts are just a few of the features that will make your condo more appealing the next time you look to move.
Consider the amenities offered at each condominium you tour. Does the complex have a gym? Laundry facilities? Rentable event space? These are all important things to think about when making your decision.
Before you make a final decision, make sure that you are clear on the extra fees associated with the unit you choose. Condos often have monthly maintenance fees, and some will charge property taxes separately.

Once you’ve found your perfect Boston condominium, make sure that you call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655 to get a quote on Condo Insurance. This policy is tailored specifically for the needs of a condo owner, and will cover your personal belongings, your unit, and anything else not covered in your association’s master policy. For more information, or if you have any questions, simply call our office and speak to an agent!

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