A Homes Market Value versus Replacement Cost
A homeowner’s decision to purchase an existing house or to build a new structure depends on various factors that range from cost, location and personal tastes among other considerations. In obtaining a homeowners insurance quote and ultimately a homeowners insurance policy, regardless of whether you are buying a new or previously constructed property in Beaverton Oregon, Portland Oregon or elsewhere, the amount of homeowners insurance covering the structure is normally determined by the replacement cost rather than the market value of the dwelling. In case of a catastrophic loss, the cost of replacing a home will commonly incur unprecedented replacement costs, which are often greater than the market value of the property. The replacement cost is the amount of money required to repair, or rebuild a house with the same kind and quality of materials that were used in constructing the house. Although the replacement cost of a property does not include the land value (unlike market value), the property location can affect the property repair or replacement costs based on local material costs, labor costs, law and ordinance provisions, and potential added costs if the property is on a slope. The cost of these repairs or reconstruction can often exceed the properties current market value even if home sale prices are increasing on a daily basis. The market value of a property, which unlike a homes replacement cost does consider the properties land value, is defined as the value determined from a real estate appraisal or the selling price of your home. Even though home market values have recently been increasing rapidly, property replacement costs are still commonly greater than the corresponding market value of the property It is therefore important that when getting homeowners insurance quotes and purchasing a homeowner’s insurance policy, you must consider such issues carefully.
Do your Homework
Insurance companies base the cost of homeowners insurance premiums on many factors not the least of which being the dwellings replacement costs. While considering the worst case scenarios such as fire wind devastation, the homeowner’s insurance should be at least 80% of the total replacement costs although insuring a home to value at 100% of it’s replacement value is generally recommended if not required by the insurance carrier. It is therefore essential to do an accurate survey of all features on site of the property to establish the total cost of replacement. In today’s market, reconstruction depends on homeowner’s tastes and preferences, the availability of skilled laborers, the demographic position of the house, among other factors.
Estimate the cost of Home Replacement
Construction expenses, including materials and labor, have continued to increase despite the slowdown in the economy. In recent years, the cost of lumber, flooring, masonry, roofing and other materials have been on the rise. Also, the cost of labor has increased to match the rate of inflation, meaning that the overall cost of home replacement has also increased. Home replacement costs, that include consultancy fees, permits, and legal issues such as Law and Ordinance requirements associated with home repair can affect the total price of home renovation and repair.
Consider the Hidden Costs
While renovating, meeting the local codes and standards can add a significant cost to reconstruction. Today, the local councils are keeping an eye on the home design and building standards with a goal to avoid the common hazards of the sick building syndrome. In some states, the recent amendments have introduced a myriad of issues that insist on indoor fire suppression (sprinkler) systems, abolition of asbestos, adequate lighting, and prevention of mold development in the wet areas. In some local communities, there are several requirements that can add to the overall cost of repair and replacing your home, and you must consider the hidden costs before making any commitments.
Talk to a Home Inspector
A competent home inspector can help you to decide whether to renovate your home or start from scratch. Some jurisdictions may require the demolition of a structure depending upon the extent of the damage. If you want to avoid frustration and potential out of pocket expenses, check your homeowners policy for coverage that takes care of the extra cost in case the house is earmarked for demolition. Natural calamities may have insurance restrictions and limitations such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods,or wildfires to mention a few, that can destroy huge swaths of houses resulting in shortages due to demand of labor and building materials. Obviously, the shortages will lead to a sharp increase in the prices of various building materials.
Choose the Right Home Insurance Policy
There are three broad types of coverage; guaranteed rebuild, replacement cost, and actual cash value. Guaranteed rebuild entails reimbursing the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home using the same materials, workmanship, and construction techniques. The basis of this coverage is the appraised replacement cost value of the home based upon an inspection. The replacement Cost policy covers the cost of renovating your home and its unique features using techniques and styles in a manner that meets the current building codes. In the case of antique homes, the prospect of using similar materials is a daunting task. In simple terms, you cannot rebuild a deluxe or a custom home with basic materials or unskilled laborers. The home value calculator is instrumental when it comes to estimating the current value of an antique home. If you have a homeowners claim that is not fully covered by your insurance company, you will have to meet the extra repair or replacement cost out of your own pocket. An Actual Cash Value policy considers the appreciation or depreciation of a home after years of wear and tear in determining the settlement value of a claim.
Work with a competent Insurance agent
Your homeowner’s insurance agent is in the best position to advise you on the most appropriate policies that will fit your situation. Different insurance companies have different valuation methods, which affect the replacement cost of your house. Talk to your Fox Insurance independent insurance agency specialists to determine your need for homeowners insurance and the best fitting insurance policy for you! Contact Fox Insurance Agency for a quality and reliable home insurance and auto insurance policy in Beaverton, Oregon, Portland Oregon and beyond!
The information in this article was obtained from various sources and is not all inclusive regarding the subject matter. This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements, nor is it intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
