When it comes to home insurance, it’s one thing to find a policy that fits your home. It’s another to find a policy that fits your budget. Surplus lines carriers can check both boxes. These “non-admitted” carriers don’t come with California Insurance Guarantee Association protections. But they’re a flexible option if your current provider kicks you to the curb. Just run the numbers using a service like A.M. Best to make sure they’re financially sound.
Insurance companies are shying away from new policies in California and raising rates on existing customers after years of wildfires have devastated their bottom line. How can you keep your current plan or find a new policy that fits your budget?
If your insurance company tells you they’re not renewing your policy, don’t panic! You’re entitled to 45 days notice before the policy expires, which gives you time to shop around for a replacement policy or renegotiate with your current provider. If you don’t receive proper notice, don’t hesitate! Call the California Department of Insurance (DOI) at 1-800-927-HELP or go online to insurance.ca.gov and check to see if your policy has a guaranteed renewal provision. And if you think you’re out of options, you’re not. Call the California FAIR Plan at 1-800-339-4099. FAIR warning: This policy can be expensive, and it only covers certain losses, so you may need to buy Differences in Conditions (DIC) insurance too.
Who wants to spend all day and night and part of the weekend filling out forms and running themself ragged with research? Okay, some of us love this kind of stuff. But for the rest of us, I recommend getting an insurance agent. The DOI website offers a tool to help you find an agent or broker near you, as well as other resources. Before you decide on an agent, check to see if they work exclusively with one insurance company or have access to multiple carriers so you know you’re getting the best deal. And come prepared with questions for your agent such as: What is covered and what is not? Can I get the full cost to rebuild if disaster strikes? Does it cover demo or debris removal? Is there a coverage limit?
It’s hard to believe that the longest day of the year has already come and gone, but the solstice arrived like clockwork on Wednesday. So Bring on the parades and homemade ice cream and (legal) fireworks. It’s Summertime!
With more than 1.37 million people (according to the recent Census), San Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and the second-largest in California. But did you know the median age in San Diego is around 35, with one quarter of the city’s population under 20 and only 12% over 64? That makes it one of the youngest big cities in the country. On top of that, nearly 41% of the people speak one of more than 100 languages at home — other than English.
Recently, we took a road trip to San Diego to visit some sister Compass offices and get a feel for the diverse neighborhoods that make up this exciting city. There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches, walkable villages, and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a quick look at a few of our favorites.
Just 20 miles up the coast from San Diego proper, Del Mar is a cute seaside village with a small-town vibe, boutique shopping, fabulous food, and inviting beaches! And for the kids, it’s also home to the San Diego County Fair! This used to be where movie stars would come to take a break from Hollywood. It could be the perfect fit for you and your family.
A few minutes’ drive from Downtown, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld, Mission Valley and Old Town are home to restaurants, cantinas, galleries, and theaters that showcase the rich and diverse history of the city. There are also plenty of shopping options, and the schools are among the top-rated in the nation. Enjoy a margarita while listening to street music in the summer sun.
La Jolla (pronounced la HOY-uh) is 20 minutes north of Downtown and an absolute jewel of the Southern California coastline. Surrounded by the ocean on three sides, with white sand beaches and cliffs, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean! This sophisticated enclave is only becoming more popular, so get in while you can!
Downtown is the heart of the city, and the pulse is getting louder every day. From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to Petco Park to fine dining and walkable commutes, this is the place to be for anyone who wants an urban living experience. You are literally 20 minutes from anywhere via foot, bike, bus, or train. Cars are entirely optional, and family outings are encouraged. Want to see more?
