11 First-Time Home buyer Tips

Posted on April 5, 2023March 30, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Nationwide Blog | March 14, 2023 | Home | Home Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Few experiences are more exciting or rewarding than purchasing a home for the first time. However, the process can be more complex than it may seem. Working with a skilled agent can make things go more smoothly, but remaining involved at all phases is essential. Anticipating and addressing critical issues directly can make the buying experience easier and more enjoyable. It can also help ensure you come away with the best deal. Consider the advice for first-time homebuyers below:

1. Identify your needs in a home.

You have options when purchasing a residential property, including a single-family home, a duplex, a townhouse, a condominium, or a multifamily building with two to four units. Each option has pros and cons, so you must decide which property will help you reach your homeownership goals. [1]

2. Begin building your home savings in preparation

Browse first-time homebuyer programs in the city and state where you want to buy. Look at your weekly and monthly expenses to find ways to trim your spending. Rather than saving in an account that pays little to no interest, compare interest rates on options to park your money, such as CDs or high-yield savings accounts. [2]

3. Be prepared to commit to a home loan.

The most popular type of mortgage is the 30-year home loan, which gives homebuyers three full decades to pay it off, meaning smaller payments over a more extended period. Search for help finding the best personal loan and get prequalified loan offers in 2 minutes or less. [3]

4. Make sure you understand important terms.

Many homebuyers begin the process of getting a home loan with little or no knowledge of how mortgages work. Here are a few mortgage terms you should consider before signing anything with the lender. [6]

Annual percentage rate (APR) — The interest rate on a mortgage. This is the percentage of the loan amount that you will pay each year in interest.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) — also known as a variable-rate mortgage. Interest rates on an ARM change based on a specific index or benchmark interest rate. With an ARM, the buyer’s payments may fluctuate significantly over the loan term.
Closing costs/settlement costs — This covers any costs associated with buying or selling a home and can include origination fees, escrow payments, attorney fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, and any other fees required by the lender to complete the transaction. Review these with your mortgage broker to better understand each fee’s purpose.
Fixed rate mortgage (FRM) — Interest rates on an FRM stay the same through the life of the loan.
Mortgage Term — The length of the mortgage loan in years. Common term lengths are 15, 20, and 30 years.

If you aren’t sure what a term means, you should ask your mortgage broker; you can also search for it online.

5. Use internet research to help find a real estate agent.

You want to find a real estate agent who understands the market and what you want. Get customer reviews on specific agents in your desired location and discover their recent sales online.

Have you ever seen a house for sale and wanted to learn more about it but didn’t want to call the selling agent? With Homesnap, take a photo of the home, and you’ll get instant information about the property.

6. Take a closer look during the neighborhood search.

You may think you’ve found the right home in price, size, and style. But sometimes, less obvious details are more important than what is readily apparent. It may take extra legwork to uncover important points or to confirm your initial judgment about a property; start with a neighborhood search.

You might take a closer look at whether a neighborhood fits your lifestyle. Is it close enough to shopping? To parks and recreational opportunities? Is the neighborhood close-knit? What types of individuals live in the community? Speak with local homeowners about their likes and dislikes.

Calculate your commute to your job. Longer commutes can add stress and additional costs to your budget when paying for gas, parking, or public transportation.

Check the quality of the local schools regardless of whether you plan to have children. Areas in higher-quality school districts often maintain higher property values. However, when considering school districts, you may also want to assess property taxes; in some communities with outstanding public schools, property taxes may be as high as private school tuition.

Finally, visit the neighborhood throughout the day, especially in the evening. The atmosphere could be very different after dark. You want to feel comfortable at all hours.

7. When negotiating a home’s price, act quickly and walk away when necessary.

As a first-time homeowner, list your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers. Then, if a house fits your needs and budget, don’t be afraid to make an offer. In hot real estate markets, and especially in high-demand neighborhoods, you have to move fast to get the house you want.

However, if you make an offer and find something about the house is a deal-breaker, such as a compromised foundation, don’t be afraid to walk away. It’s much easier to change a visually imperfect house into a comfortable and stylistically pleasing home than to deal with much more serious fundamental flaws.

It’s also easy to become emotionally attached to a house when negotiating home prices. Getting caught up in a bidding war over a property can devastate your budget. Before making an offer, have a clear expectation of how much you’re willing to pay should another buyer outbid you. Then, if you’ve hit your maximum, do yourself and your budget a favor and walk away.

It may seem strange to make one of the most significant purchases of your life after spending so little time looking at it. But when buying a house, you will often need to make an offer after only spending around an hour or so inside. But if you make your offer contingent on inspection, you can withdraw the offer should the inspector find something wrong with the home. This is a critical step that can secure your bid on a property while mitigating the risk of unknown flaws in the house.

8. Have a professional home inspection.

Home inspections allow a buyer to identify and assess any significant issues with a home before closing. Hire an unbiased construction expert or professional inspector to thoroughly inspect the foundation, roof, other major structural components, and electrical and plumbing systems. Your agent will likely have a recommendation for the inspector.

Stay professional home inspection process and ensure that the contractor you hire is looking at hard-to-see areas. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions. If you have concerns about something, it’s better to ask them before the sale is complete.

Avoid using inspectors recommended by the seller’s agent or employing someone unqualified. That can result in a less thorough inspection and, in some cases, raise conflict-of-interest issues. [4]

9. Check local zoning ordinances.

If you plan to make improvements, such as adding a bedroom or expanding a home’s footprint, contact the local zoning board before you buy. Most municipalities try to work with homeowners, but ensuring your project meets local guidelines is best. That may be particularly important for homes in hillside communities or near water because those areas may have more restrictive ordinances.

10. Don’t underestimate the hidden costs.

Even after you find a desirable home that fits your budget, you’ll still need to account for other costs, such as closing costs, property tax, utilities, mortgage insurance, homeowners insurance, and a maintenance fund. Allocate about 1% to 4% of the purchase price for annual maintenance. [7]

Closing costs are typically about 2% to 5% of your loan amount, with a smaller percentage for larger loans. Some closing costs are set in stone, but many aren’t. Lenders have a lot of flexibility over the fees they charge. Borrowers like you can shop around for the lowest closing costs as well as the lowest rate. [5]

11. Protect your new home.

Purchasing a first house ranks among life’s most memorable moments. But, after all the work it took to buy your first home, ensure it is protected. If you have questions about homeowners insurance or other aspects of starting life in your new home, Nationwide has resources to help you make the right decisions.

Sources:

[1] “First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide,” Amy Fontinelle, investopedia.com/updates/first-time-home-buyer (Nov. 4, 2022).

[2] “How much money do you need to buy a house?” David McMillin, bankrate.com/mortgages/how-much-money-do-you-need-to-buy-house (June 1, 2022).

[3] “U.S. mortgage statistics and FAQs,” David McMillin, bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-statistics (July 11, 2022).

[4] “What Is a Home Inspection Contingency and Why Is It Important?” Amy Fontinelle, investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/08/home-inspection.asp (Aug. 12, 2022).

[5] “Average closing costs in 2023: Complete list of closing costs,” Gina Freeman, themortgagereports.com/35800/guide-to-mortgage-closing-costs-what-average-mortgage-costs-are-and-how-to-keep-yours-low (Oct. 17, 2022).

[6] “Mortgages key terms,” consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/mortgages/answers/key-terms/ (Mar. 7, 2023).

[7] “How much does the average home cost to maintain per year? $3,000, according to Angi,”usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/real-estate/2022/02/12/average-american-home-costs-3-k-per-year-to-maintain/49780837/ (Mar. 8, 2023).

Disclaimer:
The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state, or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates, and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Shield Insurance Agency. © 2023

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When a Car Recall includes your auto.

Posted on April 3, 2023March 28, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Nationwide | January 27, 2023 | Car Recall | Auto Insurance | Start your quote today!

A car recall can hit home, but the process may be relatively painless.

It can be quite unsettling to discover that your car has been recalled. And it’s happening more than ever: There were over 400 recalls in the U.S. in 2022 according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Recently, the NHTSA issued a recall on Takata airbags, one of the largest and most complex safety recalls in U.S. history, affecting approximately 47 million vehicles. Visit NHTSA for details and see if you’ve been impacted. [1]

“With so many new cars on the market every year, the chance of yours being recalled at some point during its life span is pretty good,” says consumer auto expert Kristin Varela of Cars.com.

What is a car recall?

For starters, car recalls can result from a number of events. Car manufacturers will put their products through multiple tests and may issue a recall based on subsequent findings. NHTSA can also ask for a recall after investigating a number of complaints from owners. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, don’t panic; it doesn’t necessarily mean that the car has a defect. Sometimes a recall is intended to check for potential defects, Varela says.

“Recalls are issued because the defect or possible defect might make the vehicle unsafe in some way,” she says. “You don’t have to wait to be contacted by mail, which happens 2 or 3 months after a recall is announced. After all, chances are that you’re transporting your most precious cargo: your family. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.” To stay connected, NHTSA provides recall notifications and updates. You can sign up there to receive notifications via email or have alerts sent directly to your phone through NHTSA’s Safer Car app.

What happens if your car is recalled?

The recall letter should have instructions on how to proceed. Typically, you will be advised to take your vehicle to an authorized local dealer to conduct a maintenance check for defects, update software or replace parts. Make sure to call and set up an appointment beforehand.

Is there a cost to car recall?

For any recall, defective parts are replaced at no cost to the owner. As for anything else, that depends upon the manufacturer in question. However, automakers have been known to provide free rentals, taxi reimbursements, and even the free pickup and return of the vehicle in question. 

In addition to paying attention to vehicle recalls, having the right auto insurance is another safety essential. Learn about Nationwide’s available car insurance coverage options today.

Sources:

[1] “Automakers With The Most Recalls In 2022,” carpro.com/blog/automakers-with-the-most-recalls-in-2022 (Jan. 5, 2023)

Disclaimer:

The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state, or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates, and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Shield Agency. © 2023

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How Does Investing Work?

Posted on March 30, 2023March 27, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

IN A NUTSHELL

Investing is when you purchase assets you expect to earn a profit from in the future.

Compounding (aka when the returns on your money generate their own returns) the longer your money is in the market, the longer it has to grow.

Investing small amounts regularly over time is a habit that will help you build wealth throughout your life called dollar-cost averaging.

You may have heard that investing is the best way to grow your money and reach your biggest financial goals. But what is investing, exactly? How does investing work? And how can you get started? Find the answers to those and other investing questions below.

What is investing?

At its simplest, investing is when you purchase assets you expect to earn a profit from in the future. That could refer to buying a home (or other property) you believe will rise in value, though it commonly refers to buying stocks and bonds.

How is it different from saving?

Saving and investing both involve setting aside money for future use, but there are a lot of differences, too. Check out this chart:

Investing	Saving
Always involves risk. Even the safest investments involve some risk that could cause you to lose money.	Rarely involves risk. If your cash sits in an FDIC-insured savings account (which protects up to $250,000), you typically don’t need to worry about losing any.
Higher potential for growth. Depending on how much risk you’ll accept, it’s possible to earn a large return on your investments. With stocks, for example, the long-term average is nearly 10 percent per year.	Lower potential for growth. Virtually all savings accounts will pay you interest for keeping money in your account. But it probably won’t be much and often fails to keep up with inflation (the rate at which prices are rising).
Usually best for mid or long-term goals. Generally, it’s best to only invest money you won’t need for a little while, as the stock market fluctuates and you don’t want to be forced to sell stocks that are down because you need the money.	Good for short-term goals. A savings account, being essentially risk-free, is ideal for immediate purchases as well as any money that you can’t afford to lose in the short term (such as an emergency fund).
May be difficult to access quickly. Before you can spend any of the money you’ve built up through investments, you’ll have to sell them. With stocks, it could take days before the proceeds are settled in your bank account, and selling property can take months (or longer).	Readily accessible. Generally speaking, you can access money in your savings account anytime.

What’s the difference between investing and trading?

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Microplastics

Posted on March 29, 2023March 27, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Liberty Mutual Business | Commercial Insurance | Microplastics | Start a Quote Today!

Microplastics are fragments of any type of plastic less than 5 millimeters (mm) in
length and are an increasing topic of risk discussions due to their prevalence in
the environment and the negative impacts they potentially pose on the earth and its
inhabitants. The term microplastics was first introduced to differentiate these smaller
fragments from their larger counterparts, macroplastics, which describe larger plastic
waste, such as plastic bottles.

Two classifications of microplastics are
currently recognized

Primary Microplastics

Primary microplastics include any plastic fragments or particles that are already 5 mm (5,000 mm) in size or less before entering the environment. Primary microplastics are purposefully manufactured and can include feedstock for manufacturing plastic products, such as plastic pellets (also known as nurdles), microfibers from clothing, microbeads in personal care products, glitter, and industrial abrasives. Once in the environment, microplastics can degrade to be even smaller in size.

Secondary Microplastics

Secondary microplastics arise from the breakdown of larger plastic products through natural weathering processes after entering the environment. Sources of secondary microplastics can include water and soda bottles, fishing nets, plastic bags, shedding of fibers from polyester/nylon clothing, and tire wear. Over time, a culmination of physical, biological, and photodegradation can reduce the structural integrity of plastic debris to a size that is eventually undetectable to the naked eye. This process of breaking down large plastic material into much smaller pieces is known as fragmentation. Microplastics can be further divided into four sub-groups based on particle size:

Large microplastics (100–5000 mm)
Small microplastics (1–100 mm)
Sub-micron plastics (100–1,000 nm) (0.1– mm)
Nanoplastics (1–100 nm) (0.001–0.1 mm) Because of their smaller size, nanoplastics can present additional risks and challenges:

They may bypass filtration methods intended for larger microplastics.

They may be less likely to settle, have greater mobility, and may be transported further. • They may be more likely to enter and bioaccumulate in the food chain.

Due to their higher surface area, faster leaching of plastic additives can occur.

They may act as pollutant “vectors” because their higher surface area also allows for more adsorption of metals and other pollutants.

Microplastics can also be categorized according to type of polymer, additives used, and shape.
U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the European Chemicals Agency (Note: 1 mm = 1,000 micrometers [mm] = 1,000,000 nanometers [nm])

Source of microplastics in the environment There are countless sources of both primary and secondary microplastics in the environment, including the following:

Cosmetics: Microplastic “scrubbers”, “microbeads”, or “micro-exfoliates” used in hand cleansers and facial scrubs have replaced traditionally used natural ingredients, including ground almond shells, oatmeal, and pumice. These products are typically composed of polyethylene, a common component of plastics, but they can also be manufactured from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and nylon. The beads may be washed into the sewage system immediately after use.

Textiles and clothing: Many synthetic fibers, such as polyester, nylon, acrylics, and spandex, can be shed from clothing and persist in the environment. The process of washing clothes causes garments to lose an average of over 100 fibers per liter of water. Each garment in a load of laundry can shed more than 1,900 fibers of microplastics, with fleeces releasing the highest percentage of fibers.

Tires: Car and truck tires. which are composed partly of synthetic styrene-butadiene rubber, erode into tiny plastic and rubber particles as they are used. The estimated per capita emission ranges from 0.23 to 4.7 kg/year, with a global average of 0.81 kg/year. In air, 3–7% of the particulate matter (PM2.5) is estimated to consist of tire wear and tear.

Plastics manufacturing: Plastic pellets (aka nurdles), 2.0–5.0 mm in size, which are used as a raw material to create other plastic products, can enter the environment through spills and other accidents.

Air blasting: This process involves blasting acrylic, melamine, or polyester microplastic scrubbers at machinery, engines, and boat hulls to remove rust and paint. As these scrubbers can be used repeatedly until they diminish in size and their cutting power is lost, they may become contaminated with heavy metals such as cadmium, chromium, and lead.

Fishing industry: Recreational and commercial fishing, marine vessels, and marine industries can be sources of macroplastics and secondary microplastics.

Wastewater treatment plants: The size of microplastics prevents them from fully being retained by preliminary treatment screens at wastewater plants, thereby allowing some to enter rivers and oceans. Wastewater treatment plants only remove an average of 95–99.9% of microbeads. This leaves an average of 0–7 microbeads per liter being discharged. Sewage sludge that is reused as fertilizer after the wastewater treatment has also been known to contain microbeads. Persistence of microplastics in the environment Microplastics are persistent and ubiquitous in the environment, particularly in aquatic and marine ecosystems. The most significant transport pathways to surface water are presumed to be via dust and stormwater runoff. It has been estimated that there are 51 trillion individual pieces of microplastics in the world’s oceans, estimated to weigh 236,000 metric tons. Microplastics can also accumulate in the air and terrestrial ecosystems but the cycle and movement of microplastics in the environment is still not fully understood. Microplastics have also been found in deep layer ocean sediments and in the high mountains, at great distances from their source. According to the U.S. EPA:

Of the total plastics released to oceans (4.8–12.7 million tons (Mt)/year), 15%–1% originate as microplastics from homes and industrial products.

About half of the total (3.2 Mt/year) microplastics released, or about 1.5 Mt/year, ends up in oceans. The following are the estimated sources of microplastics to oceans:

Washing synthetic textiles (35%)
Tire wear (28%) • City dust (24%)
Road Markings (7%) • Marine Coatings (3.7%)
Microbeads (2%)
Plastic pellets (0.3%) It has been estimated that 80% of microplastic pollution comes from textiles, tires, and city dust

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Scooter safety tips

Posted on March 28, 2023March 24, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Foremost | Scooter Safety | Shield Insurance | Start a quote today!

With increasing gas prices it’s hard not to notice the spiking trend of people choosing scooters as alternate transportation. Whatever make or model you choose to fit your style, you can’t deny the money-saving and environmental effects riding a scooter has over driving a 2-ton motor vehicle that only gets 20 miles to the gallon.

A growing problem with having more people on scooters is how to safely share the road. State legislation varies on scooters; some states equate scooters with bicycles, in-line skates, and skateboards, while other states put scooters in the same category as motorcycles, requiring helmets and regulating where scooters can be ridden. Check your state’s DMV Web site for the appropriate laws and licensing rules for your state.

Regardless of where you live, scooters are most likely sharing the road with vehicles that significantly outweigh them and can easily overtake them. By using common sense and some very simple safety tactics, scooter riders can effectively, and safely, share the road with other vehicles.

Scooter safety tip: Wear a helmet

Even if your state does not require you to, studies show helmets significantly minimize head injuries if an accident occurs.

Scooter safety tip: Use your lights

Always turn on your headlight when you’re riding your scooter even during the day, especially if it’s raining, and of course always in the evening. Make sure you can be seen by other cars.

Scooter safety tip: use turn signals

Just like in a car, you need to let people know where you are going. In addition to a signal light, it’s also a good idea to use hand turn signals that motorcyclists and bicyclists use when they are sharing the road with cars. Based on U.S. standards, for a left turn, extend your left arm straight out in the direction of the turn, parallel to the road. For a right turn, extend your right arm straight out in the direction of the turn, parallel to the road.

Obey speed limits and road markings

Obey all posted limits and follow lane markings. Don’t attempt to make a right turn by coming up next to a vehicle on the shoulder, unless there is a lane. You could easily be in a car’s blind spot and be hit if they turn right as well and can’t see you.

Scooters are a fresh alternative to getting around town while saving money and the environment. Riding scooters present challenges that any motorist faces when sharing the road with vehicles of all sizes and speeds. Keep your head about you and make sure you put safety first when taking your new scooter out for a spin.

Looking for Scooter Insurance?

Foremost offers scooter insurance on all scooter makes and models and offers coverages such as:

Physical Damage and Liability
Total Loss Replacement Coverage
Towing and Roadside Assistance
Safety Apparel and Optional Equipment when Physical Damage coverage is purchased.

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Top Five Uses for a Trailer Hitch

Posted on March 27, 2023March 24, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Foremost | by Rachel Neva | Trailer Hitch | Auto Insurance | Click here to start a quote today!

A trailer hitch just might be the most inventive way to add more cargo space, value, and extra opportunities for fun to your vehicle. While some vehicles like trucks and SUVs may come with a factory-installed hitch or tow package, it’s very common for drivers to install a hitch or tow package to their vehicle as an after-market accessory.

Wondering what the difference between a hitch and a tow package is? Depending on what you plan to tow, you may need more than a standard hitch with a trailer ball attached to your vehicle. In addition to the tow hitch itself, a tow package (especially if it’s factory-installed) may include things like a wiring harness and circuitry to power the lights and accessories on a trailer, heavy-duty suspension and brakes to handle the extra weight, an enhanced engine and transmission cooling system, larger battery and alternator to help power your vehicle and what you’re towing with ease, and additional driver-assistance systems that can help with overall spatial awareness while towing.

Depending on what you’re towing and where you’re going, this article provides some helpful information if you’re deciding between a factory-installed tow package or an aftermarket tow package for your vehicle.

If you’re thinking about adding a hitch to your vehicle … here are our top five uses for a trailer hitch:

Hitch-mounted bike rack — If you like to hit the mountain bike trails, go on scenic family bike rides in your area, or take bikes along on family vacations, a hitch-mounted bike rack is an easy way to transport bicycles of all kinds. While this type of bike rack extends the overall length of your vehicle (something to be aware of when parking), loading and unloading bikes can be much easier than bike racks that are mounted on a vehicle’s roof.
Utility trailer — A small utility trailer can be ideal for many towing tasks such as hauling plants and supplies for a garden or landscape project (and any debris resulting) or moving large items that won’t fit in your vehicle, like furniture or appliances.
Travel trailer — From pop-up camper trailers to luxury, fifth-wheel travel trailers, there’s a camping travel trailer to fit almost every kind of person who enjoys camping and exploring the great outdoors.
Boat trailer — If you don’t live on a lake or body of water but want to take nearly any kind of boat — a small fishing boat, a ski or wake boat, a pontoon or sailboat – out on the water, you’ll need a trailer that’s specific to the boat. Unless you have a boat slip at a marina that offers haul-out and storage service, you’ll likely need a trailer for your boat at some point.
Off-road vehicle trailer — There are many types of off-road vehicle trailers from simple, utility-type trailers for things like ORVs and off-road motorcycles to enclosed cargo-type trailers for ORVs and snowmobiles. If you like to explore new trails on your ORV or snowmobile, you may want to invest in a trailer to haul them with you wherever you go.

If you add a trailer hitch to your vehicle and have questions about insuring the things that you’ll tow, give Shield Insurance A call to shop for coverages that can help you protect the things you tow.

Four things you might not realize about boat insurance

Posted on March 27, 2023April 10, 2023 by admin

Boat Insurance | Start a quote Today!

Purchasing boat insurance is important for boat owners in Michigan. Shield Insurance Agency provides boat insurance policies that can cover your watercraft.

Before you buy boat insurance, it’s a good idea to spend some time researching how boat insurance works and what the different coverage options are.

The following are four things you might not realize about boat insurance.

A boat insurance policy typically offers some coverage for belongings in your boat.

If you keep valuable items in your boat, these items can be covered up to a certain amount by your boat insurance policy.

Boat insurance is frequently required by marinas.

You aren’t required by law to have boat insurance in Michigan. However, boat owners often need coverage because it is a requirement of the marina they use to store their boats.

Boat insurance policies specify a certain geographic area.

Boat owners need to realize that they won’t be covered if they travel in their boat outside of the coverage region that’s specified by their policy. That’s why it’s important for boat owners to let their boat insurance provider know where they’ll be traveling with their boat when they buy their policy.

A number of boat insurance policy add-ons are available.

When you buy a boat insurance policy, you may want to take advantage of various policy add-ons. Add-ons available for boat insurance policies include coverage for dock contract liabilities, ice and freezing issues, towing, boat trailers, and equipment like fishing tackle.

Reach Out To Us

Do you have questions about boat insurance coverage in Michigan? Get in touch with us at Shield Insurance Agency to learn more about boat insurance coverage. Contact us today for a policy quote!

Helping turtle friends cross the road

Posted on March 23, 2023March 21, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Foremost | by Niki King-Todd | Turtle | Start a Quote with Shield Insurance | Auto Insurance

Did you know that May 23 is World Turtle Day? It’s all about raising awareness for turtles and encouraging people to help them survive. Participating can be as simple as helping a turtle cross the road.

Most turtles begin to move as the weather warms. This may be for mating, nesting or many other reasons. Of course, turtles move much slower than cars (and don’t understand human traffic laws), which makes crossing the road incredibly dangerous. To celebrate and protect all of the turtles out there, here are some tips for safely helping them reach their destination!

Turtle Safety First

If you see a turtle on the road, remember to use the correct signals when pulling over. Keep your flashers on to warn oncoming vehicles and always check your surroundings.

Moving the Turtle

If the turtle is moving at a decent pace, you may be able to stand nearby and watch it cross. If the turtle is stagnant (or if you are uncomfortable touching the turtle), you may use a blunt object to help push it. Make sure the object isn’t sharp, and be gentle! This will be your best option for moving a snapping turtle, they may bite if you use your hands.

Picking up the Turtle

Most turtles will hide in their shells if they are frightened, which makes it easier for you to pick them up. Place both of your hands behind the front legs and towards the back legs. The turtle may try to kick, so don’t hold it up high – you don’t want to drop it! Also, it’s very important to never pick up a turtle by the tail, as this can severely injure them.

Car Mat

Another option for moving the turtles is using a car mat. This works best for larger turtles that you may not be able to lift. You can allow the turtle to walk onto the mat, or help gently push it onto the mat. Be sure to carry the mat low to the ground in case the turtle falls off.

Going in the Same Direction

Be sure to move the turtle in the same direction it was trying to go. If you place it back where it was coming from, it will most likely turn around and return to the road.

Do Not Take it with You

Turtles and other wildlife are meant to stay in the wild. No matter how cute turtles can be, resist the temptation to bring them home. When taken out of their home areas, they will most likely try to go back. They are not pets so they need to be in their natural environment.

Injured Turtles

An injured turtle may look dead, so if you are unsure as to whether or not the turtle is injured, there are a few tricks you can try. Try gently touching the back of their foot, or touch the corner of its eye to test for a reaction. The turtle may try and kick, or move its head or eyes. If a turtle has a crack in its shell, it might drown if it returns to the water. If the turtle you find has a damaged shell, or seems seriously injured, contact a professional. Many veterinarians, animal shelters and wildlife rehabilitation centers will treat them for free.

7 Surprising Facts About St. Patrick’s Day

Posted on March 17, 2023March 17, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

History Channel | Feb 22, 2023 | St. Patrick’s Day | Shield WebSite | Start a quote

Who was the real St. Patrick? Was that legend about the snakes true? And why did so many St. Patrick’s Day traditions start in America?

While St. Patrick’s Day is now associated with wearing green, parades (when they’re not canceled) and beer, the holiday is grounded in history that dates back more than 1,500 years. The earliest known celebrations were held in the 17th century on March 17, marking the anniversary of the death of St. Patrick in the 5th century. Learn more about the holiday’s history and how it evolved into the event it is today.

The Real St. Patrick Was Born in Britain

Much of what is known about St. Patrick’s life has been interwoven with folklore and legend. Historians generally believe that St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Britain (not Ireland) near the end of the 4th century. At age 16 he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and sold as a slave to a Celtic priest in Northern Ireland. After toiling for six years as a shepherd, he escaped back to Britain. He eventually returned to Ireland as a Christian missionary.

There Were No Snakes Around for St. Patrick to Banish from Ireland

Among the legends associated with St. Patrick is that he stood atop an Irish hillside and banished snakes from Ireland—prompting all serpents to slither away into the sea. In fact, research suggests snakes never occupied the Emerald Isle in the first place. There are no signs of snakes in the country’s fossil record. And water has surrounded Ireland since the last glacial period. Before that, the region was covered in ice and would have been too cold for the reptiles.

St. Patrick’s Day is Likely Based on Celtic Fairies

The red-haired, green-clothed Leprechaun is commonly associated with St. Patrick’s Day. The original Irish name for these figures of folklore is “lobaircin,” meaning “small-bodied fellow.” Belief in leprechauns likely stems from Celtic belief in fairies— tiny men and women who could use their magical powers to serve good or evil. In Celtic folktales, leprechauns were cranky souls, responsible for mending the shoes of the other fairies.

St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Was Considered a Sacred Plant

The shamrock, a three-leaf clover, has been associated with Ireland for centuries. It was called the “seamroy” by the Celts and was considered a sacred plant that symbolized the arrival of spring. According to legend, St. Patrick used the plant as a visual guide when explaining the Holy Trinity. By the 17th century, the shamrock had become a symbol of emerging Irish nationalism.

The First St. Patrick’s Day Parade Was Held in America

While people in Ireland had celebrated St. Patrick since the 1600s, the tradition of a St. Patrick’s Day parade began in America and actually predates the founding of the United States.

Records show that a St. Patrick’s Day parade was held on March 17, 1601 in a Spanish colony in what is now St. Augustine, Florida. The parade, and a St. Patrick’s Day celebration a year earlier were organized by the Spanish Colony’s Irish vicar Ricardo Artur. More than a century later, homesick Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched in Boston in 1737 and in New York City on March 17. Enthusiasm for the St. Patrick’s Day parades in New York City, Boston and other early American cities only grew from there. In 2020 and 2021, parades throughout the country, including in New York City and Boston, were canceled or postponed for the first time in decades due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus. They returned in 2022.

The Irish Were Once Scorned in America

While Irish Americans are now proud to showcase their heritage, the Irish were not always celebrated by fellow Americans. Beginning in 1845, a devastating potato blight caused widespread hunger throughout Ireland. While approximately 1 million perished, another 2 million abandoned their land in the largest-single population movement of the 19th century. Most of the exiles—nearly a quarter of the Irish nation—came to the shores of the United States. Once they arrived, the Irish refugees were looked down upon as disease-ridden, unskilled, and a drain on welfare budgets.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Was an American Innovation

The meal that became a St. Patrick’s Day staple across the country—corned beef and cabbage—was an American innovation. While ham and cabbage were eaten in Ireland, corned beef offered a cheaper substitute for impoverished immigrants. Irish-Americans living in the slums of lower Manhattan in the late 19th century and early 20th, purchased leftover corned beef from ships returning from the tea trade in China. The Irish would boil the beef three times—the last time with cabbage—to remove some of the brine.

Click here for more fun facts about St Patricks Day!

Pet Safety Tips for the Summer

Posted on March 17, 2023March 15, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Foremost Insurance | by Jenean McLoskey | Pet Safety Tips | Pet Insurance | Shield Insurance

Pet Safety Tips

Summertime means spending long days in hot, sunny weather with your furry loved ones by your side. It’s the perfect time for you and your pet to be more active. However, having a fur coat can pose some risks for your pets if they are in the sun for too long. Since they don’t sweat like humans, they can overheat a lot faster than we can. But don’t worry! There are plenty of precautions you can take to ensure they’ll be safe and content in the summer heat. Here are five pet safety tips to keep in mind while playing outside this summer:

Have plenty of water on hand.

Your pet will be thirstier than normal during the summer and can get dehydrated very quickly. Always provide plenty of fresh, cold water as needed. If you’re going on a long walk, have a few water bottles on hand for water breaks, and keep them in the shade as much as possible.

Never leave your pet in a car unattended.

This is extremely important! Leaving animals in a parked vehicle is incredibly dangerous. Even if the windows are down, they’re still at risk of fatal heat stroke.

Keep their paws protected.

Walking on hot cement or asphalt for long periods of time can cause your pet to overheat a lot quicker, and can burn their sensitive paws. Always feel the pavement before taking a walk to see how hot it is, and walk them in the early morning or evening when it’s not the hottest time of the day.

Never use fireworks around your pets.

Celebrating with fireworks during the summer is fun and exciting for most humans, but it can be traumatizing for your dog or cat. Loud noises can scare and disorient them, and lit fireworks could cause accidental severe burns. Always keep them away from the noise in a safe, sheltered area.

Know the symptoms of overheating.

Dogs and cats are at high risk of overheating during the summer. If you notice any heavy panting, thick drool, or vomiting, move them to a cool place and give them water immediately. You may get a damp towel and wrap it around them, but experts advise to never put them in cold water because it can cause shock. If symptoms don’t improve, take them to your local vet right away.

If you practice these safety tips, you should feel confident to enjoy the summer with your furry friends. Have fun and be safe!

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