What to Do After a Break-In

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

Posted on December 14, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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It’s a nightmare come true for every homeowner – you come in from being away only to find that your home has been broken into. Once the initial shock wears off, what should you do? Here are four steps that you can take to start down the road to normalcy:

Immediately Call the Police

The first thing that you should do is immediately call the police. Wait outside or at a neighbor’s home for the police to arrive, and do not touch anything in your home until the police are able to investigate. File a police report, and keep a copy for insurance purposes.

Talk to Your Insurance Agent

Your insurance provider will want to know about the break in right away, and may want to send an adjuster to assess the damage. They will likely need a copy of the police report, as well as a list of the items that were stolen or damaged.

Begin the Cleaning and Repairs

It can be very emotional to have your home invaded. When you finally need to start the process of cleaning up, consider rearranging the furniture or painting the walls to make the space feel fresh and new. This could help you and your family overcome some of the bitter emotions that often come with this kind of event.

Evaluate Your Home’s Security

If your home security system could use an upgrade, now is the perfect time to do so. Your local insurance agent may be able to help you get a discount on your home insurance policy if you have certain security features installed, such as a monitored security system and video surveillance.

Must Have Apps for Real Estate Professionals

Posted on December 11, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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A smartphone is a must in today’s world, especially for a Real Estate agent. You probably use yours several times a day to talk to clients and schedule showings, but are you using your phone to its fullest potential? Here are four areas where you may be able to leverage your app store to make your life easier:

Social Media – Social Media doesn’t rest, so you need to be prepared to post and interact with clients and followers at all times. Your phone is a key player in having your profiles at your fingertips. You obviously need Facebook, but also try apps like Instagram, Vine, Snapchat, HootSuite and (my favorite) Buffer
Organization – Staying organized on the go is a key trait for Realtor success. Apps like Dropbox, Tempo, and (my favorite) Evernote and more will help you have all of your documents and appointments at your fingertips, no matter where you are.
For Showings – Did you know that there are apps that you can use to help you with your listing appointments? Route 4 Me helps you determine an optimal route to get clients around town efficiently, and Supra eKey can turn your smartphone into a lockbox key!
For Listings – In addition to using your social media accounts to promote your listings, you can use apps like Camera+ to take and edit pictures of your listings for your social media posts, or you can use your iphone like I do. There is also a DocuSign app to help you send, track, and sign documents digitally to help sales go through smoothly.

What are the apps that you can’t live without? Tell us about the apps that we missed, and we may use them for another app feature in the future! And, as always, stay tuned to the blog for more technology tips.

Support Small Businesses This Holiday Season

Posted on December 9, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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The end of the year is quickly approaching, and for many people that means it’s time to start shopping. Whether you need presents or hostess gifts, you’re going to have a lot of options of where to shop this holiday season. Instead of going to a big box store or ordering online, try shopping at local small businesses! There are many amazing small businesses in our area, and supporting local small businesses has lots of benefits:

Encourages local character by promoting individuality
Increases community involvement and well-being
Keeps wealth local and encourages local prosperity
Boosts the local economy with more jobs and better wages
Fuels entrepreneurship and innovation in the community
Helps sustain the environment and reduce pollution by reducing sprawl

In addition to helping the community, you may find that you benefit personally from doing your shopping at smaller establishments. You will find more unique items than at larger retailers, and you will often receive more personalized and more attentive customer service while at smaller businesses.

If you want to take your support of small businesses to the next level, shop locally for the ingredients to your holiday meals! You can find great local produce around the Greater Boston area, and it will be fresher than what you get at the grocery store.

And one more thing – if you need insurance, you can get the same benefits that are listed above by shopping locally. Ask us for more information about why getting insurance from a local independent insurance agency is the way to go. We can help you with your Massachusetts automobile, homeowners, business and life insurance.

Have You Checked Your Car for These Problems Lately?

Posted on November 9, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

Simple ways to keep your car running

If a car is taken care of properly, it can easily last you for many years. Routine maintenance is a key factor in ensuring that your vehicle is in great shape, and there are a few things that you can do to make sure that your vehicle stays as healthy as possible:

If a dashboard light illuminates, have the issue checked by a professional right away.
Have someone help you check all of your car’s lights occasionally – headlights, turn signals, tail lights, and brake lights should all be operational.
Use an air pressure gauge to ensure that your tire’s PSI is within the manufacturer’s suggested range.
Check the amount of wear and tear on your tires, and replace your tires if it is significant.
Evaluate your fluid levels and top off fluid levels if needed, including engine oil, windshield wiper fluid, power steering fluid, and more.
Assess the state of your car’s windshield. If there are cracks or chips, have it repaired or replaced by a professional.
Make sure that windshield wipers are replaced at least once a year, or when they begin to leave streaks when in use.
Don’t be surprised by a dead battery – test your battery and cables and replace as needed.

Performing these rather simple checks occasionally will help you to ensure that your car runs smoothly for many years to come. Also remember to occasionally check on your auto insurance policy! You never know when you will need to use your coverage, so having an up-to-date policy is essential for all cars and their drivers.

Winter Weather Part 1: Before the Storm

Posted on November 8, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

It’s that time of year again – winter weather will be here before we know it. Are you prepared? As an insurance expert, I have seen firsthand what happens when people aren’t prepared, and I don’t want that to happen to you! So make sure that you add these three simple but critical tasks to your ‘to-do’ list so that you and your family are prepared for the upcoming winter:

Build your emergency kits: You need two types of emergency kits. One will help you stay safe at home when you’re weathering out a storm, and one will keep you safe on the road if you need to evacuate. Ensure that both are stocked with all of the recommended necessities.
Have a communication plan: Sometimes bad weather can strike without warning. For these times, it is crucial to have a family communication plan, and to review it often. If you need to build a new communication plan, you can use this template from FEMA to get started.
Prepare your smartphone: You should always make sure that your cell phone is fully charged before a storm (have an external battery on hand just to be safe). Make sure that up-to-date weather information is just a tap away with apps from The Weather Channel and The Red Cross.

There are two more things that you can do to prepare. First, share this post with your friends and family so that they can prepare. Then, make sure that your home insurance is ready in case of a disaster with a free home insurance review. And make sure to stay tuned to parts two and three of this series, that will detail what to do during and after a winter storm!

Avoid Kitchen Fires this Holiday Season

Posted on November 4, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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Did you know that the peak season for kitchen fires is during the fall and winter? It’s not surprising, especially when you consider that this is the time of year that families get together over a holiday meal. When you and your relatives gather during the holidays this year, make sure that you follow these kitchen tips so that everyone stays happy and healthy:

Wear the right clothing. Loose clothing (especially long, open sleeves) can be a fire hazard while cooking. Roll up sleeves when in the kitchen, and tie long hair back so that it doesn’t get in the way.
If you’re going to fry a turkey for one of your holiday meals, be very cautious, and make sure to read the instructions that came with your fryer thoroughly before you even begin to prepare your bird.
Make sure you always have the right tools on hand in case of a fire. For oven fires, turn off the oven’s heat and keep the door closed until the fire is out and cooled. Pots and pans are the same – carefully put a lid on the pan, then turn off the heat (if you can do so safely). And remember never to douse a grease fire with water!

Here’s one last tip to help you feel at ease when you’re hosting a crowd: Make sure that your home insurance is up to date! If it’s been a while since you last talked to your local insurance agent, touch base for a few minutes to make sure that you’re fully covered for any potential bumps in the road during the upcoming year. Updating your home insurance policy is a quick and easy process, but it could save you a lot of headaches in the future.

Trick or Treat! Halloween Safety Tips

Posted on October 23, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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If you have kids in the house, they’re probably giddy with excitement about putting on a costume and visiting all of your neighbors to get sugary sweets. In order to help you prepare for this momentous occasion, here are a few tips for you and your little ghouls and goblins:

Make sure costumes are safe before you leave the house. Nothing should drag on the ground (it’s a tripping hazard) and children should be easily visible with reflective gear or bright colors.
Plan out your route ahead of time, and choose a safe, well-lit path that will eventually lead you back home. Kids should wear comfortable shoes for the long walk.
To avoid dehydration, adults that accompany children should carry drinks along with their flashlights.
If any of the children in your group has a food allergy, be on the lookout for houses with a Teal Pumpkin – that is the signal that the house offers non-food treats.
Check your child’s candy when you get home. Throw away homemade treats, or anything that looks like the original wrapper has been tampered with.

And remember – Halloween can be unpredictable. Make sure that your home is ready for any and all ‘tricks’ that befall it by calling your home insurance agent to assess your protection. After all, there is a major liability risk when inviting many young children into your home and giving them candy. If you’re handing out candy, clear walkways of all tripping hazards, turn on all outdoor lights, and keep pets away from the spooky visitors.

Happy Halloween!

Room Upgrades That Will Save You Money

Posted on May 12, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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Your home is one of your biggest assets, so you should make it a point to keep it in good shape. When was the last time you took on a project to increase your home’s value? There are probably several opportunities, from simple things that you can do yourself to more complex projects. Here are several suggestions from home appraisal experts that will help you increase your curb appeal and increase the value of your home.

The Attic

While the attic is typically a room in your home that is best described as “out of sight, out of mind,” there are a few projects that you can take on to improve your home. The first is replacing the roof. While that sounds like a huge task (and there’s no mistaking that) it will be a major plus when you’re looking to sell your home. If you’re not ready for that kind of commitment, consider replacing your insulation to help with energy costs.

The Entryway

First impressions are very important – and that goes for houses as well as people. The first impression that others will get of your home is the entryway, so make sure that it is neat and tidy. Think about getting a new front door, or simply adding some shrubbery to add to your home’s curb appeal.

The Kitchen

If you are only going to upgrade one room in your home, you should give some serious thought to making it the kitchen. Having a modern and up-to-date kitchen is something that will make your home much more attractive to buyers if you ever list, and you can use the updates in the meantime. Often, retailers will run sales on appliances during holiday weekends, so wait for the right opportunity to grab a new oven or dishwasher at a great price.

The Bathroom

Another great option for a home upgrade is the bathroom. It’s the smallest room in your home, so you can make a big impact with little effort. Add water saving shower heads and low flush toilets to your home to save money on your monthly water bill. If you’re ready for a bigger project, add a new sink or countertop, or install a modern backsplash or a new medicine cabinet.

The Backyard

When the weather is nice, spend some time outside working on your home. For a few dollars, you can get some lovely new plants for your backyard – our friends at Cedar Grove Gardens can help you pick out ones that are low-maintenance and that look fantastic. While you’re outside, make sure that you also brush up on our backyard safety tips!

And here’s a bonus DIY project that can save you money – call your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent at 617-298-0655 to review your Massachusetts home insurance policy. We will make sure that you have the right coverage for your needs, and get you the discounts that you deserve. Also make sure to call and talk to your agent if you make any major updates to your home so that we may update your policy to reflect the changes.

Six Must-Know Kitchen Safety Tips

Posted on May 3, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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In the average American household, the kitchen is a busy place. It’s where meals are cooked, and where family often gathers. If you want your kitchen to remain a safe place, make sure that you read and follow these safety tips when preparing and cooking.

Handling Pots and Pans

Know how to handle your kitchen cookware – following the recommended care instructions is vital if you want your pots and pans to last. When handling hot cookware, make sure to always use oven mitts, and never take glass dishware from the fridge and put it directly in the oven.

Rinsing Meats and Produce

Everyone knows that you should give your fruits and vegetables a quick rinse under running water before you use them, but did you know that this rule also holds when the produce is labeled as ‘pre-washed’? Also, you should not rinse meat before you cook it – washing it only spreads harmful bacteria to your sink and the rest of your kitchen.

Preventing Illness-Causing Bacteria

Speaking of stopping the spread of bacteria, make sure that you put away your leftover food within two hours of cooking. It only takes two hours for harmful bacteria to grow, so anything left at room temperature for longer than that amount of time should be thrown out. Remember – you don’t want to risk anyone getting food poisoning, so when in doubt, throw it out!

Using your Microwave

It may come as a surprise when you find out that microwaves are the leading cause of serious scalding and burns in the kitchen. When you use the microwave to heat something up, let it cool before removing it from the microwave, and use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms. When removing a cover from something that was just microwaved, use extreme caution so that you’re not a victim of a steam burn.

Knowing How to React to Fire

Water is not the best way to prevent all fires. In fact, throwing water on a grease fire can make it much worse. When you’re cooking with grease, keep a lid nearby so that you can smother flames if a small grease fire starts. Baking soda is another useful tool when it comes to putting out grease fires, so keep a box nearby.

Sharpening your Knives

When a knife is dull, you are more likely to try to force it to cut – and this makes for a very dangerous kitchen situation. Keeping your knives sharp ensures that you only use the force needed to cut something, so get your own knife sharpening tool, or hire a professional to hone your knives.

Adhering to these six safety tips will help to ensure that you stay safe when you prepare and serve meals in your kitchen. To further protect yourself and your loved ones, ask Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency about getting a free home insurance review. Your Boston home insurance is an essential part of your financial safety net, so it needs a yearly checkup – just call 617-298-0655 now to speak to an experiences Massachusetts insurance professional.

Understanding the ABCs of Medicare

Posted on April 26, 2016April 2, 2017 by cvargas

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Do you know the four parts of Medicare and what they do? It may seem confusing at times, but once you understand the four distinct coverage types offered by Medicare, you will be on your way to being able to make your selections with confidence. Here is a quick guide of what each of the Medicare parts will cover:

Part A – Hospital Coverage

This coverage is a default part of every Medicare plan – in fact, you are automatically enrolled in Part A coverage when you sign up for Medicare. This coverage plan will provide hospital stays and nursing care, as well as some at home health services and nursing care. As long as you (or your spouse) paid enough Medicare payroll taxes while working, you will not need to pay monthly premiums. If you didn’t pay enough in payroll taxes, you can still purchase Part A coverage – you will simply need to pay a monthly premium.

Part B – Medical Coverage

While you are automatically enrolled in Part A when you sign up for Medicare, part B is optional coverage. It pays for a portion of your visits to the doctor, as well as some health care, medical equipment, outpatient procedures, rehab, lab tests and X-rays, and more. If you have coverage through a union or current employer, you may wish to discuss your coverage options with a health insurance expert, because you may wish to opt out of the coverage initially and switch over to Part B when the time is right for you.

Part C – Private Insurance Option

Also known as Medicare Advantage or Medicare Health Plans, Part C offers you the option of having a health insurance policy through a private company, provided that it is approved by Medicare. It is important to note that you must enroll in both Medicare Parts A and B before you are eligible to enroll in coverage through Part C. If you want to learn more about the advantages of enrolling in Part C, call your local Boston insurance agent today – a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent can help guide you through the process of enrolling in Medicare part C.

Part D – Prescription Drug Plan

If you are enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, you are eligible for prescription drug coverage with Medicare Part D. Like Part C, prescription drug plans are available through private insurance companies. When you have Part D coverage, you will pay a monthly premium and copayment for your drugs. In some cases, a deductible will also be necessary. Find out more about the coverage you could receive by talking to your Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent about your needs.

Hopefully, that explanation will help you understand the four types of Medicare coverage. If you need further explanation, or would like to speak with a Massachusetts health insurance expert from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, just call 617-298-0655. We will be happy to help you understand your health insurance coverage options, and select the plan that’s best for your unique needs.

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