June 28th, 2024 10:20 AM by Linda Holley
When purchasing a Florida home, getting insurance isn't going to be easy. Many times, insurance companies refer clients to Citizens Insurance, which is the state-backed company. But what about the other companies that want to continue to do business here? I've personally been a State Farm customer since I was 18...and although I've heard that they want to continue to do business in Florida, they certainly make it difficult.
I am selling a ground-floor condominium in a community with 2-story buildings built in 1973, and owners are responsible for only the interior. State Farm is requiring a 4-point inspection (roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing), which costs $180, in addition to the general inspection which is about $400.
This 4-point inspection isn't necessary and is an unfair expense to buyers purchasing a unit on the first floor. State Farm has also asked for the wind mitigation report from the condo association, which indicates when the roof was installed. Again, ground floor condos don't have roof leaks, but the customer service team at State Farm doesn't get it.
On the other hand, my buyers are finding that GEICO does not require a wind mitigation report or a 4-point for ground floor units. What a relief! So, in the future, I'll be recommending GEICO insurance to my Florida home buyers, and I may be changing over myself.
Life is difficult enough without putting an additional burden on people who are relocating to Florida.
Linda Holley, Realtor, GRI, SRES, CIPS, Fine Properties, 941-914-4914
Do you have a question? We can help. Simply fill out the form below and we'll contact you with the answer, with no obligation to you. We guarantee your privacy.