My Homeowners insurance is up for renewal soon, I'm looking at suggestions for insurance companys to explore.
I live in Chicago, I'm not sure that all insurance companys write policys in all areas of the country.

I would also like opinions on bunching homeowners and Auto policys.
I currently do not have memberships with Costco or Sams club. I had a Costco policy for years and always used there insurance providers until it seemed they were constantly switching providers, I would consider joining again if the savings were worth the membership.

I also own a Motorhome and would be interested in insurance on that ( I have not used it for a while and keep it at my home on my property).

I used to have StateFarm for Home and RV for several years that are bundled. That gives me discounted rate. However, about 3 years ago, Statefarm started increasing my premium for 3 consecutive years. I switched to AAA. The rates were lower. Then AAA increased my premium on the first renewal (still cheaper than Statefarm). I stayed. My renewal is up again this month. Premium with AAA increased a little again. Went to StateFarm last week for a quote. StateFarm is MUCH higher. Will be staying with AAA again this year.

One thing AAA pointed out to me was that to make sure my Home Insurance policy covers the ACTUAL (real time) value of the house. When I was with StateFarm, the premium was cheaper, because they insured the property value of the house for LESS.

Talk to a local insurance agent. They can shop around your policies with multiple companies to get you both the best rate and coverage.


Source: I spent 6 years working at one of the largest insurance companies in the country.

What ryan says - buy your agent. I've got a great agent that I have stayed with for 30 years. He did have me with Safeco for home/auto/umbrella but now with Cincinnati Financial. I'm in southern Indiana and I guess cost of living is about as low as it gets. I hear others talk about the amount of car insurance policies and I'm grateful for my clean record and great agent.

I did the insurance quest last year. Insurance companies like to cherry pick--safe drivers, no claims, new roof, GPS location that is safe.

Home owners discounts--monitored alarm system, water leak detector, upgraded electric panel, new hot water heater, exterior in good condition, proximity to fire hydrant.

Auto insurance--newer car with safety features, blind spot indicators, ABS, National Safety Drivers Certificate.

Bundle--discount
Pay in full-discount
Electronic billing --discount
Umbrella policy--discount
RV--you can keep "basic" insurance in effect when not using the vehicle, take liability, collision, injury, uninsured driver "off".

When you are looking for a local agent, look for a "broker" who represents a number of companies. Also compare their results to some of the bigger companies like State Farm or AAA that may have dedicated agents.
I also highly recommend bundling in an umbrella policy.
Worked for a large insurer and we'd have monthly meetings to review select claims over $1 million.
It's amazing how easy it is for a claim to exceed that. I carry a $4 million umbrella myself as a result. I want my carrier to have skin in the game if there is a nasty claim.