How to Insure Your Second Home in Florida
Florida is one of the most popular locations in the entire US for homeowners looking to purchase a second home. With glorious weather all year round, mile after mile of beautiful beaches and plenty of property types to choose from, investing in a second home in Florida is a sound move for those who live elsewhere but love it here.
Owning a second home is not just about snapping up a great piece of real estate though. Having your house monitored while it is empty, paying management or maintenance fees and other additional expenses can all add up very quickly. Potential buyers also need to consider what will happen if your vacation home is damaged or subject to a break-in, as well as how to make sure it is well looked after if you choose to lease it to other people while you are not there.
Buying a comprehensive second home insurance product will help keep your investment well protected, no matter where you are. If you are looking for coverage that takes care of your vacation home when you can’t, consider the following:
Look into Insurance Before You Buy
If you are new to the Florida real estate market, there are certain factors that can help to reduce the cost of your potential insurance coverage going forwards. Newer buildings, for example, often cost less to insure as they are covered by stricter building codes. The location of your purchase will also make a difference in the rates you pay. Being in a rural location or on the beach may transform homes into wonderful vacation getaways, but the location can also increase the amount you can expect to pay. Floods, wildfires and other geographical considerations can dramatically increase the associated risk, and therefore, the rates you pay.
Empty Houses Present A Greater Risk
You may only want to use your vacation home for 2 or 3 months a year, but shorter occupancy does not equate to lower insurance rates. Break-ins can easily occur when a property is empty, as well as damage from environmental conditions or decay. You can help to mitigate the risk that empty properties pose by enlisting the assistance of a property management company, who will check on your property on a regular basis.
Invest in Specialist Tenant Insurance
If you are planning on renting out your vacation home when you are not using it, you should consider investing in an insurance product that covers you for damages specifically related to rental usage. This type of insurance should also be able to help with repairs and replacements of items inside your second home should they become damaged during the time your property is rented out.
Homeowner Insurance with A Difference
As a homeowner already, you will be aware of all the benefits that comprehensive homeowner insurance coverage offers. You will want your second home to be just as well protected, even when you aren’t there. Coverage against break-in, damage or environmental factors like floods or storms will mean that you can be reassured that your second home is safe all year round.
Second Home Insurance from The Sena Group
If you would like to find out more about how best to insure your second home in Florida, speak to the experts today at The Sena Group at 561-391-4661.
For more information about how The Sena Group can help you with any
of your insurance needs, please contact us at 561-391-4661.
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