Most people start the insurance process the wrong way – with “a quote”.
As a concept it works: the consumer gets multiple options, presumably companies compete and is perfectly non-committal fitting today’s consumer. But rarely does it actually help the consumer.
And as much as we’d like to argue its not true we know it’s not working. Here’s why.
Providing as little detail possible to an unknown or unverified individual or company and start comparing numbers — without ever knowing what those numbers actually mean can’t actually be what you need.
The truth? A quote isn’t a policy. And if you don’t build the policy first, you’re just comparing random prices for random coverage.
Before you ask for a quote, you need to know what you’re asking for.
1. Coverage First. Price Later.
Insurance pricing only makes sense once coverage is defined. Every carrier will price differently depending on:
- The amount your home is insured for
- The deductibles you select
- The optional coverages or endorsements you include (or leave out)
If you don’t decide on those pieces first, your quotes won’t be comparable — and you could end up underinsured just because something “looked cheaper.”
2. Start by Defining What You’re Protecting
Ask yourself:
- What would it cost to rebuild my home from the ground up at current construction prices?
- What’s the cost to replace my household contents like furniture, clothing, electronics etc.
- What would it cost to rent a home like mine if I had to move out for reconstruction?
- What are my total assets at stake if I were to be sued for personal liability?
Those answers form the foundation of your policy — and help your agent structure coverage that fits your actual risk, not a generic template.
3. Understand Coverages from “A to F”
Every homeowners policy has the same basic building blocks:
- Dwelling Coverage (A) – cost to rebuild your dwelling structure
- Other Structures (B) – detached garages, fences, sheds.
- Personal Property (C) – your belongings including furniture, clothing and electronics
- Loss of Use (D) – covers temporary living costs after a loss.
- Liability (E) – protects you if you cause injury or property damage.
- Medical Payments (F) – small coverage for guest injuries.
When you “build” your policy, you decide how strong each of these pillars should be — before you ever look at the premium.
4. Ask for the Policy You Want — Not the Price You Think You Want
When you ask for a quote, specify exactly what you want:
“Please quote $500,000 dwelling coverage, $2,500 deductible, full replacement cost, water backup coverage, and $500,000 liability.”
That’s how you create a real apples-to-apples comparison — and how you avoid the trap of a “cheap” policy that cuts out the coverage you’d actually need in a claim.
5. Build With an Advisor, Not a Salesperson
The right agent won’t just take your order — they’ll explain these items and ask questions on what you are comfortable. A good one will:
- Discuss each coverage in plain language
- Help you balance risk tolerance and budget
- Point out coverage gaps you might not see (like flood, sewer backup, or ordinance/law)
- Explain company specifics and underwriting guidelines
- Guide you through deductible and discount options that make sense
Think of it like building a house: you need a blueprint before you get a price from contractors.
Final Thought
Getting a quote should be the last step — not the first.
When you build your homeowners policy intentionally, you get more than just a number.
You get clarity, control, and confidence that the price you’re paying actually means something.
And always remember…Quotes Lie. Choose AllStar.