Bruce Bennett's Farmers Blog

When it comes to insurance, bundling is having multiple discounts with one insurer. I know I preach that it’s great to shop around but once you are satisfied with one policy, there are a lot of good reasons to stay with the same company for other policies. These are some of the great benefits of bundling: You save money Almost all insurance companies (including mine) offer a discount to customers who have two or more policies with them, whether its home, auto, life, umbrella, RV, etc. This is because agents want to be your go-to guy (or girl) for all your needs. How much money can you save by bundling? Well that depends on what state you live in and which company you are switching to  and from. People in New Jersey typically save about 12% by bundling. You save on your deductible Let’s just say lightning strikes the tree in your backyard causing damage to your car and home. Instead of paying two deductibles to different companies pay one deductible that will cover b...

Did you know that every 13 seconds a home intrusion is committed, and only 17% of homes have the proper home security systems. You may live in a very safe neighbor but there is no downside to being too prepared. Here are some tips to help you protect your home.   Hide Spare Keys This is a pretty simple tip that most people ignore. I would recommend not having spare keys outside your house at all but if you’re the type of person who constantly forgets their house keys, don’t leave the spare ones under the doormat or in the mailbox; find a spot in your garage or your backyard where no one would think to look. Change Locks If you misplace your keys make sure you change the locks. You don’t know who has them now so you’re best off changing them to be safe. Also change the locks if you move into a new house. You don’t know who previously owned the house so don’t trust them. Porch Lights Get motion sensored lights for your porch. This makes pote...

Any fellas out there who haven’t figured out a Valentine’s date/gift yet? Even if you’re too shy to admit it, there are probably more than a few out there. Here are some of my favorite last minute date ideas! Karaoke Hit the bar, get a couple of drinks in you and take the stage with your lady and sing a couple romantic songs with her. Drag your friend and his woman along and make it a double date. Maybe have a contest between them and show your girl who the better man is. Some good song suggestions: “Summer Nights”, “Don’t go breaking my heart”, “Endless Love”, “Time of my Life”. 2) Ice Skating Ice skating is a great way to get close, especially if one of you can’t skate. This force you to hold hand and stay near each other; a great way to talk about things you haven’t discussed in a while. Go to the city; Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center for maximum romance but if you don’t have the time there are many local ice skating rinks, including one in the Palisades Mall not t...

Most insurance agents sell the standard home, auto, life, business, maybe motorcycle and RV; but there are some strange insurance policies out there that you wouldn’t believe are true. Here is my top-ten list counting down: 10) “Change of Heart” Insurance This insurance covers a wedding cancellation. So if the bride or groom gets cold feet before the wedding (at most 365 days) the families will receive their money back. This must be an awkward policy to sign with your fiance. It’s like asking for a prenup. 9) Multiple Birth Insurance If you buy this policy at the time of pregnancy, you will receive a check if you are receiving more than one child. This one could actually come in handy, however the odds of twins are very low; less than 2%. 8) Bed Bug Insurance Homeowners and renters insurance does not cover the extermination of bed bugs, which could cost you up to $2,500. This may be a good investment if you are terrified of these little critters. ...