The Mashcor Real Estate Forum

1. If you are planning to join a health club or buy exercise equipment, contact your health insurance carrier. They probably have a contact list of businesses that offer discounts on products and services that promote safety and good health.

2. If you you're young and in good health, compare prices before joining your company's health plan. While company group rates are usually less expensive for most people, those in their 20's can sometimes find better individual premiums.

3. If you're 55 years or older and retired, check with your fire insurance company to see if they offer a senior discount. The call may save you up to 10%. Some insurance companies offer this discount because retired people stay at home more and therefore spot fires sooner than those going to work everyday.

4. Invest in a safety deposit box for your important documents and valuables. Replacing items lost due to theft, fire or other disaster costs money. Safety deposit boxes are inexpensive and well worth the investment.

5. Maintaining a good credit rating can lower the cost of your insurance policies. Insurance companies use your credit rating as tool to predict your likelihood of filing a claim. A good credit rating will often entitle you to a discount on your insurance premiums.

6. Most people who are single do not need life insurance. Only purchase life insurance if someone is financially dependent upon you and would suffer financial hardship at your untimely death.

7. Raise your homeowner's and car insurance deductibles as high as you can afford. Choosing the maximum deductible over the standard can save you over 10% a year on insurance costs.

8. When getting insurance of any kind, take the time to research the insurer's record for claims service and its financial stability. Low insurance rates are a terrible deal if an insurer takes forever to handle your claim.