Many factors affect the cost of home premiums. Understanding them can help when choosing a policy fitting your budget.
How much does the average homeowners insurance premium cost?
The average homeowners insurance premium is about $1,200 per year. This amount changes greatly based on numerous factors, like property characteristics, location, deductible, policy coverage and more.
For example, you may have an older home, which can increase your monthly premium. Why? Older homes may be subject to more damages during perils due to the age of the materials used, wear and tear.
How do I pay my homeowners insurance premiums?
There are two primary ways to pay insurance premiums:
- Your mortgage lender pays for the insurance on your behalf through an escrow account.
- You can pay funds directly to the insurance company and choose between different payment intervals.
Do I have to pay homeowners insurance after closing?
How you pay for your home determines whether you have to pay for homeowners insurance costs immediately after closing.
Typically, mortgage lenders usually require borrowers to pay insurance costs - which may be split - at closing through an escrow account. This amount is paid before and right at closing.
How do I buy homeowners insurance?
You can purchase a policy online or over the phone. You can also speak with a live representative at a local insurance office near you.
If you’re still unsure where to start searching for the right plan as a new homeowner, insurance premium information may be available from a connection in your real estate agent’s network.
About the Author
Kyung Kim
Hi, I'm Kyung Kim. I immigrated from South Korea to the United States in 1968 when I was 7 years old. I have seen my mom struggle with the English language and work hard to raise her four kids by herself. Still to this day, I don't know how she pulled it off, but she bought her first home in 1979 for $70,000 and because of that decision, she was able to live without worrying about her financial future. I want that for everyone, to feel the pride of home ownership and to build their financial wealth using real estate as part of their financial portfolio. I feel so blessed to play a small role in helping others reach this goal.
I live in Beaverton with my husband, Richard. My mom, who lived with us for several years, passed away in our home in February 2022. Her first home purchase in 1979 made it possible for her to live to the very end, without worrying about her finances. As of August 2022 with a little downpayment assistance, our four children own their own homes. Being in real estate, I quickly realized that if they didn't buy now, they may be priced out of the market in the future. Whether that would have been the case, we will never know, but what we do know is that they are all realizing some good, healthy appreciation in their home values.
As passionate as I am about people owning their homes, I'm also passionate about giving back to our community. I support Compassion First, a non-profit organization that provides aftercare for sex trafficked girls in Indonesia. My husband and I also feel called to financially support social injustice organizations.
I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
