Home Inventory

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homeCan you list everything you own from memory? Didn’t think so.

One of our favorite sayings is: “Home is where the heart is.” That saying rings true for many who find “home” a safe haven and a place to cherish, convene with family and friends, raise children, cook meals, rest, retire and celebrate.

Most will agree a home is not just a pile of bricks and mortar. Rather, a true “home” comprises much more, including everything inside it.

Some of the things inside your house that helps make it your home include your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports equipment, and electronic goods. These items are considered personal property – and it’s really important to protect it all.

How do I protect what really makes my house a home?

Protecting the important stuff inside your home begins with an understanding what you have. If you’re like many people, you may find your home contains much more personal property than you realize.

To understand how much stuff you have, develop a careful inventory of your personal property following these tips.

  • Use a video camera to record and audibly describe items as you move through your home. If you don’t have access to a video camera, use a standard camera or phone camera.
  • Whether you use still photos or video to develop your inventory, include brand names and descriptions where possible, especially on high-cost items.
  • Keep any and all receipts on high-dollar purchases. Keep these receipts filed together with any instruction booklets, warranties, etc. that accompany the items.
  • Store your video or photo inventory offsite or back it up with an additional drive.
  • When you make new purchases, be sure to add them to your inventory.

Download Your Free Home Inventory Worksheet Today!

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If you have high-value items, be sure to check with your agent at CityScape Insurance so we can review your homeowners coverage to make sure you’re properly protected.  We understand that your home is not just a house, and we are here to help ensure that everything important to you is protected—both outside and inside your home.

Seven Shopping Strategies For New Car Buyers

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Buying the Right CarNew car shopping can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re a car enthusiast. But others can find the experience stressful and tedious. Either way, there’s a lot to think about. According to a survey of car shoppers, overall purchase price is the most important factor when shopping for a new car (46 percent), followed by make and model (31 percent).

Safety and performance come in a distant third, tied at seven percent. But whether you’re turned on or turned off by the dizzying array of car choices, trim options, “expert” reviews, incentives and other deals, it definitely pays to approach car buying strategically.

So if you’re in the market for a new vehicle and you find yourself having trouble keeping a clear head, just keep these 7 strategies, in mind:

  1. Decide how much money you can spend and what type of vehicle best suits your needs. Just looking for the basic transport capability of a small or medium sedan? Or do you need the hauling capacity of a van or SUV? Something practical? Something sporty? Something in between?
  2. Research crash tests and accident data available from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
  3. Shop around for financing. If you can, apply for and get approval for a loan from a bank, credit union or other financier before you even visit the dealership. Being a “cash buyer” gives you an advantage when you do finally meet with the dealership’s financing person.
  4. Test drive the car. Try to drive in conditions that will be similar to those under which you’ll drive every day.
  5. Check pricing for your desired make and model at two or three dealerships and use that information to help you negotiate the best deal.
  6. Get a firm quote, in writing. This should include not only the cost of the car, but any fees and the sales tax.
  7. Inspect your new car carefully before driving off the lot. Make sure all the options you’ve ordered are included and that the body and paint are free of scratches or dents.

Finally, it’s important to consider the cost of auto insurance, although it seems that few people realize that what they pay for insurance can add significantly to the vehicle’s total cost.

Wise car buyers know to shop around for insurance and find out how costs compare. They also know to visit an independent insurance agency – like CityScape Insurance. We can check with several companies to find the best combination of coverage and price.