Insurance is essential, but that doesn’t mean you need to overpay. Whether you’re protecting your vehicle or your home, there are plenty of ways to save on your Auto and Home Insurance premiums without sacrificing coverage. Many people miss out on valuable discounts and optional endorsements that can drive down costs. Let’s break down how you can save on your auto and home insurance—often just by asking the right questions.
1. Bundle Your Auto and Home Insurance
One of the easiest and most effective ways to save is by bundling. Insurance carriers offer multi-policy discounts when you combine your auto and home coverage with the same company. This can save you 10–25% or more, depending on the carrier.
Pro Tip: Even renters can bundle. A renters + auto bundle sometimes qualifies for the same discount as homeowners.
2. Auto Insurance Discounts You Might Be Missing
There are dozens of ways to save on your auto insurance beyond bundling. Here are the most impactful:
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Multi-Car Discount – Insure more than one vehicle with the same company.
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Safe Driver Discount – No accidents or violations in the past 3–5 years? You likely qualify.
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Telematics/Usage-Based Discounts – Devices or apps that track your driving can result in up to 30% off.
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Good Student Discount – For drivers under 25 with a 3.0 GPA or better.
- Student Away Discount – Have a driver away at school, without access to a vehicle? If it is more than 100 miles from home there is a discount for that!
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Paid-in-Full Discount – Pay your premium upfront and save up to 20% depending on the carrier.
3. Home Insurance Discounts That Add Up
Just like auto insurance, your homeowners policy offers discounts for certain upgrades and responsible ownership:
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Monitored Alarm Systems – Burglar and fire alarms monitored by a service can lower your premium.
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New Roof or Plumbing – Recent updates reduce risk and often qualify you for lower rates.
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Water Leak Sensors – These small devices detect leaks early and may qualify for discounts with certain carriers.
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Non-Smoking Discount – Fewer fire risks mean potential savings.
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Gated Community or HOA Discount – Living in a community with extra security measures can reduce premiums.
4. Discount-Driven Endorsements You Should Ask About
Some optional endorsements actually increase your coverage while reducing overall costs in the long run. Here are a few worth exploring:
✔️ Auto Endorsements That Save
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OEM Parts Endorsement
Covers original manufacturer parts instead of aftermarket. It may slightly raise your premium but saves you from expensive out-of-pocket repairs and resale value loss. -
Accident Forgiveness
Prevents your rate from increasing after your first at-fault accident. One small endorsement could save you hundreds per year if something happens. -
Disappearing Deductible
Reduces your collision deductible over time for safe driving, possibly down to $0. This can save you hundreds after an accident.
✔️ Home Endorsements That Save
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Water Backup Coverage
Often excluded in base policies, this inexpensive add-on can protect you from thousands in sewer or sump pump backup damage—a common and costly claim. -
Equipment Breakdown Coverage
Covers appliances and systems like HVAC if they break down due to mechanical or electrical failure. It’s cheaper than a home warranty and can save you big repair bills. -
Service Line Coverage
Protects underground pipes like water and sewer lines. Repairs can cost $5,000+, but this endorsement often costs just $25–$50/year.
5. Review & Compare Annually
Even if you love your current insurer, it pays to compare. Many people overpay because they haven’t shopped in years. Your insurance agent can help you:
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Re-shop your coverage without reducing protection
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Add new eligible discounts
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Remove unnecessary endorsements or outdated vehicles
✅ Final Thoughts: Saving Is All About Strategy
Saving on insurance doesn’t mean going bare-bones. It means being smart about your coverages, asking about discounts, and choosing endorsements that prevent big losses down the road. Talk to your agent at least once a year to make sure you’re getting every savings opportunity you’re eligible for.
Michael Vereecke
Agent/President, Customers First Insurance Group
586-221-6870