U.S. nationwide survey shows homeowners more concerned about housing market value than natural disasters

An American survey of homeowners across the country which was completed in October 2011 showed that 58 percent of respondents feel that the largest threat to homeownership is the housing market value. This figure was larger than the combined risk perceived about the impact of hurricane (8 percent), tornado (9 percent) and fire (15 percent). When asked whether they felt that homeownership is now the American Dream or the American Nightmare, a shocking 48 percent felt that it was a Nightmare, while only 52 percent clung to the belief that…

Read More

Report calls for more action from consumers to help mitigate the costs of natural disasters

This year has been host to a large number of natural disasters that have born a heavy price tag to the insurance industry. While natural disasters may not be happening more frequently, they are certainly happening in areas of dense population, making the damage they cause astronomical. Consumers often look to the insurance industry to provide protections against natural disasters, but the industry can only do so much. A new report from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School suggests that government policy, as well as consumer initiative, may significantly reduce…

Read More

Rates for homeowners insurance are on the rise

Homeowners insurance rates are expected to experience a notable increase following a year that has seen significant severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, and where forecasts predict that the 2011 hurricane season will be more active than the average. In fact, in areas where the storms have been the most damaging, policyholders may find themselves paying up to 20 percent more to their insurers. Though some homeowners are counting on a lower increase because the value of their homes have decreased, it is important to recognize that it is not the market…

Read More