Is a Home Insurance Bundle Right for You?

You’ve probably heard that bundling your insurance is a great way to save money. While that’s often true, the real benefit is getting coverage that’s actually designed for your life here in Central Illinois. A generic policy from a national call center doesn’t understand the difference between living in Springfield versus East Peoria. Creating a home insurance bundle with a local agent means you get a personalized plan that protects your family and fits your budget. It’s about more than just a discount—it’s about smart, tailored protection. We’ll show you exactly how to find it.

Key Takeaways

Simplify your life and save money: Bundling your home and auto policies streamlines your insurance with one bill and one contact point, all while typically offering a significant multi-policy discount.
Do the math to confirm your savings: A bundle isn’t automatically the cheapest route. Always compare a bundled quote against the cost of two separate policies to ensure the discount provides real value for your specific situation.
Prioritize protection over price: The best bundle is one that adequately protects your assets. Pay close attention to coverage limits and deductibles to make sure your policy provides a strong financial safety net, not just the lowest monthly payment.

Is a Home and Auto Insurance Bundle Right for You?

If you’re juggling separate policies for your home and car, you might be missing out on one of the simplest ways to save time and money. Bundling your home and auto insurance means getting both policies from the same provider. It’s a popular choice for a reason—it streamlines your finances, simplifies your life, and can even give you access to better protection. Let’s look at why combining your policies might be the right move for you.

Cut Your Costs with a Multi-Policy Discount

Let’s start with the most obvious win: the savings. Insurance companies appreciate loyal customers, and they often reward that loyalty with a multi-policy discount when you bundle. How much can you save? Progressive notes that new customers who bundle home and auto insurance save over 25% on average. Other industry reports show that bundling can often save you between 10% and 20% on your total insurance costs. That’s a significant amount of money back in your pocket each year, just for keeping your policies under one roof. It’s one of the easiest discounts to get and can make a real difference in your budget.

One Bill, One Agent: Making Insurance Easier

Beyond the savings, bundling just makes life easier. Instead of dealing with two different companies, two bills, and two renewal dates, you have one single point of contact for everything. As MoneyGeek points out, bundling makes it simpler to manage your insurance because it’s all with one company. Think about it: one app to check, one number to call if you have a question or need to file a claim, and one less password to remember. This consolidation streamlines everything, giving you back valuable time and reducing the mental clutter of managing multiple accounts.

Gain Access to Better Coverage and Extra Perks

Bundling isn’t just about saving money and time; it can also lead to better protection. Sometimes, insurers offer unique perks to their bundled customers that you wouldn’t get otherwise. For example, some companies provide extra benefits with their bundles, like credit card protection or guaranteed replacement coverage for your home. You might also find it easier to secure higher coverage limits, which can provide greater financial protection if something unexpected happens. These added features can give you more comprehensive security and peace of mind, knowing you’re covered from all angles.

Which Companies Offer the Best Home and Auto Bundles?

When you start shopping for a home and auto bundle, you’ll quickly notice a handful of familiar names. Each insurance company brings something different to the table, whether it’s deep discounts, award-winning customer service, or hyper-local expertise. Understanding these strengths is the key to finding a provider that truly fits your life. Let’s walk through what some of the top contenders have to offer, so you can feel confident in your choice.

Feld Insurance: A Local Option for Custom Bundles

At Feld Insurance, we believe your policy should be as unique as you are. As an independent agency right here in Central Illinois, we specialize in creating personalized insurance solutions for our neighbors in Springfield and East Peoria. We take the time to understand your specific needs—from the car you drive to the home you’ve built—to craft a bundle that provides real protection. Our deep local knowledge means we can offer trusted guidance and competitive rates, ensuring you get comprehensive coverage without paying for things you don’t need. It’s not just about selling a policy; it’s about building a relationship and giving you peace of mind.

State Farm: A Top Pick for Comprehensive Coverage

It’s hard to miss State Farm, and for good reason. They have a long-standing reputation as a reliable choice for bundling home and auto insurance. Many people are drawn to their comprehensive coverage options and consistent customer service. According to an analysis by MoneyGeek, State Farm is often the best overall choice for most people looking to combine their policies. Their strong national presence and wide network of agents make them an accessible and dependable option for homeowners and drivers across the country who want a straightforward and solid insurance package.

Allstate: Famous for Its Big Bundle Discounts

If finding the biggest possible discount is at the top of your list, Allstate is a name you’ll want to know. They are well-known for offering some of the most substantial savings in the industry for customers who bundle their policies. The same MoneyGeek report highlights that Allstate provides the largest overall discount, potentially saving customers over $700 a year on average. For budget-conscious households, this level of savings can be a major deciding factor, making Allstate an incredibly attractive option for getting robust home and auto coverage without stretching your finances.

Progressive: A Leader in Customer Satisfaction

Progressive has earned a strong reputation for its user-friendly approach and focus on customer satisfaction. They work hard to make the process of managing insurance as simple as possible, which is a huge plus when you need to file a claim or adjust your coverage. Their website makes it easy to combine different insurance policies, and this seamless experience is often reflected in positive customer reviews. For those who value a smooth, modern process and responsive service, Progressive stands out as a strong contender in the bundling space.

GEICO: A Strong Contender for Competitive Rates

You’ve definitely seen the gecko, but GEICO’s real strength lies in its competitive pricing. The company consistently ranks as one of the most affordable options for both auto and home insurance, making it a go-to for anyone looking to get the most value for their money. Their bundling process is straightforward, designed to help customers secure coverage quickly and easily. While they may not always have the extensive local agent network of some competitors, GEICO’s commitment to providing quality coverage at a budget-friendly price makes them a popular and practical choice for millions of people.

Finding the Right Insurer for Your Unique Needs

The “best” insurance company is different for everyone. Your neighbor might swear by one provider, while your coworker prefers another. The right choice really comes down to your unique situation, lifestyle, and what you value most. Maybe you’re part of a military family, prioritize amazing customer service, or barely drive your car. Different insurers specialize in different areas, so finding the one that aligns with your specific needs is the key to getting the right protection.

Options for Military Families

If you or a family member has served in the military, you may have access to specialized insurance options. Companies like USAA are well-known for catering exclusively to this community. As Bankrate notes, USAA often provides some of the cheapest homeowners insurance rates, but its services are only available to active military members, veterans, and their families. This focus allows them to offer highly competitive pricing and benefits tailored to the unique challenges of military life. If you qualify, it’s definitely an option worth exploring for potentially significant savings and dedicated service.

Insurers Known for Top-Tier Customer Service

When something goes wrong, the last thing you want is a frustrating experience with your insurance company. That’s why customer service is so important. Some providers have built their entire brand around being easy to work with and responsive to their customers’ needs. For example, Progressive is recognized for its user-friendly approach, while State Farm is often considered a great overall choice for its reliability. This is also where working with a local, independent agent shines. At Feld Insurance, we pride ourselves on providing that personal, supportive service right here in our community, so you always know who to call.

Coverage for Low-Mileage Drivers

Do you work from home or mostly use your car for short trips around town? If so, you might be overpaying for car insurance with a traditional policy. Some modern insurance companies are changing the game by offering coverage based on how much you actually drive. Lemonade is a great example of this, with car insurance prices that, as CNBC points out, depend on the miles you drive. This pay-per-mile model can lead to significant savings for low-mileage drivers, ensuring your premium accurately reflects your time on the road. It’s a smart option if your car spends more time in the driveway than on the highway.

How Much Can You Actually Save by Bundling?

This is the million-dollar question, isn’t it? You hear about bundling all the time, but what does it actually mean for your wallet? The truth is, the savings can be significant, but they vary quite a bit depending on the insurance carrier, your location, and your specific coverage needs. Think of it less as a fixed coupon and more as a personalized discount that rewards you for keeping your policies under one roof. Let’s break down what those savings can look like and what you should know before you combine your policies.

Who Offers the Biggest Bundle Discounts?

When you look at the big national carriers, the discounts are pretty compelling. For example, Progressive notes that new customers who bundle their home and auto policies save over 25% on average. Other studies show that some companies offer even more. According to a recent analysis, State Farm has one of the cheapest home and auto insurance bundles on the market, with Allstate also offering substantial savings. While these numbers give you a great starting point, they represent national averages. Your actual savings will depend on your unique situation, which is why getting a custom quote is so important.

A Look at Real-World Savings and Premiums

While your exact savings will depend on your specific circumstances, industry data gives us a good idea of the potential. For instance, Progressive reports that new customers who bundle home and auto insurance save over 25% on average. Other industry reports show that bundling can often save you between 10% and 20% on your total insurance costs. For some, the savings are even more dramatic. Allstate, for example, provides a significant discount that can save customers over $700 a year on average. These figures show that bundling isn’t just a minor perk—it can lead to substantial, tangible savings that make a real difference in your monthly budget.

Beyond the Bundle: More Ways to Lower Your Premiums

Bundling is a fantastic starting point, but it’s not the only way to manage your insurance costs. Another effective strategy is to consider a higher deductible. By choosing to pay more out-of-pocket in the event of a claim, you can often lower your monthly premium. It’s a trade-off, but one that can make sense depending on your financial situation. You can also look for other discounts you might qualify for, like those for having a good driving record or installing security features in your home. Working with an independent agent at Feld Insurance can help you explore all these avenues to make sure you’re getting every discount you deserve while maintaining the protection you need.

Look for Loyalty Programs and Other Perks

The multi-policy discount is the most well-known perk, but it’s not the only way bundling saves you money. Many insurers offer loyalty rewards that can reduce your premiums over time. The longer you stay with them, the more you could save. On average, bundling your home and auto policies can lower your total insurance costs by 10% to 20%. Beyond direct savings, you also get the benefit of a single deductible in some situations. If a storm damages both your house and your car, for instance, you might only have to pay one deductible instead of two, which is a huge relief during a stressful time.

Common Myths About Bundle Savings, Debunked

One of the most persistent myths about bundling is that it’s always the cheapest option. While it often is, that’s not a guarantee. Sometimes, you might find a fantastic rate on auto insurance from one company and a better deal on home insurance from another. If one of your policies is with a specialty insurer (for a classic car or a high-risk property, for example), bundling might not make sense. The key is to never assume. It’s always worth comparing a bundled quote against the cost of separate policies to ensure you’re truly getting the best deal for your specific needs.

How to Compare Home and Auto Insurance Bundles

When you start shopping for a home and auto insurance bundle, it’s easy to get fixated on one thing: the price. While finding a great deal is definitely a goal, the cheapest option isn’t always the best one. A truly great bundle is about finding the right balance of price, protection, and service. Think of it less like a transaction and more like building a financial safety net for your family and your biggest investments. If something goes wrong—a fender bender in Springfield or a storm that damages your roof in East Peoria—you want to be confident you have the right coverage in place, not just the one with the lowest monthly payment.

Comparing bundles effectively means looking at the whole picture. You’ll want to understand the details of what you’re actually buying—the coverage limits that protect your assets and the deductibles you’ll pay out of pocket. It also means knowing what questions to ask so you can make a true apples-to-apples comparison between providers. Finally, you’ll need to decide how you want to shop: by contacting companies directly or by working with an independent agent who can do the comparison shopping for you. Taking the time to weigh these factors will help you find a bundle that gives you both savings and the peace of mind you deserve.

Look Beyond Price: Compare Coverage and Deductibles

The first step in comparing bundles is to look past the initial quote and examine the policy details. Your coverage limits—the maximum amount the insurer will pay for a claim—are crucial. Opting for higher limits will mean a higher premium, but it provides a much stronger safety net if a major event occurs. It’s also important to understand your deductible, which is the amount you pay before your insurance kicks in. The relationship between your premium and deductible is a balancing act. A lower deductible leads to a higher premium, while a higher deductible can lower your payments. Choose a deductible you’re comfortable paying unexpectedly.

Don’t Forget to Check the Company’s Financial Health

A low monthly premium is tempting, but it’s only valuable if the insurance company can actually pay your claim when you need them to. A cheap policy isn’t helpful if the insurer isn’t financially stable enough to handle a large number of claims after a major local storm. That’s why it’s crucial to look beyond the price tag and verify a company’s financial health. You can do this by checking their financial strength ratings from independent agencies like AM Best. These ratings provide an unbiased look at an insurer’s ability to meet its financial obligations, giving you confidence that your provider will be there for you. It’s a simple step that ensures the company you choose is not just affordable, but truly reliable.

Key Questions to Ask Every Insurance Provider

To make an informed decision, you need to ask the right questions. Don’t make the common mistake of focusing only on the price tag. When you get a quote, have a list of questions ready to go. Start by asking for a clear breakdown of all available discounts beyond the multi-policy one. Inquire about the claims process and what happens if you need to file a claim on both policies at once. It’s also smart to ask about any potential coverage gaps or exclusions in the policies. Getting clear, direct answers to these questions will help you understand the true value of each bundle and avoid any surprises down the road.

Independent Agent vs. Going Direct: Which Is Better?

You have two main paths for finding an insurance bundle: going directly to each insurance carrier or working with an independent agent. Shopping direct means you do all the legwork, getting individual quotes and comparing them yourself. This can work, but it’s time-consuming. An independent agent, on the other hand, works for you, not a single insurance company. We can compare options from many different carriers to find the best coverage and rates for your specific needs. This approach saves you time and gives you access to expert guidance, ensuring you find a bundle that’s truly the right fit for your life in Illinois.

Is Bundling Always the Cheapest Option?

Let’s get straight to it: bundling your home and auto insurance is a fantastic strategy for many people, but it’s not a magic bullet for savings. While the multi-policy discount is often a big draw, it isn’t always guaranteed to be the lowest-cost option. Think of it like buying a combo meal. It’s usually a good deal, but sometimes, ordering your favorites separately is actually cheaper and gets you exactly what you want.

The key is to look at the total price, not just the discount. Sometimes, an insurer might offer a great rate on your auto policy but have expensive home insurance. The “bundle discount” might just make their high-priced home policy look a little more attractive, but you could still be overpaying compared to buying from two separate companies. The smartest move is to compare your bundled quote against individual quotes for home and auto insurance. This helps you see if the discount is genuine savings or just clever marketing. Ultimately, the right choice depends entirely on your unique situation and the coverage you need.

When Should You Keep Your Insurance Policies Separate?

One of the biggest myths in the insurance world is that bundling always results in the lowest premium. While it frequently leads to a discount, it’s not a universal rule. There are plenty of situations where keeping your policies with different companies makes more financial sense. For example, you might have a perfect driving record that qualifies you for an incredibly low rate with a specialized auto insurer. If that same company’s home insurance rates are sky-high in your area, the bundle discount might not be enough to offset that cost. You’d likely save more by taking the great auto rate and finding a different company with more competitive home insurance prices. This is also true if you have unique needs, like requiring high-risk auto insurance or coverage for a historic home that only a specialty insurer provides.

Why Your Personal Profile Affects Your Savings

Insurance pricing is deeply personal, and what works for your neighbor might not work for you. As experts at MoneyGeek point out, the best home and auto insurance bundle depends heavily on your location, as rates and coverage options can vary from one town to the next. An insurer might offer the best auto rates in Springfield but be less competitive for homeowners in East Peoria. Factors like your credit history, driving record, and claims history are all weighed differently by each company. One provider might forgive a past speeding ticket, while another might raise your rates significantly. That’s why it’s so important to get quotes that are tailored to you and not just rely on a company’s general reputation.

How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Rates

It might come as a surprise, but your credit score has a big say in what you pay for insurance. Insurers use a credit-based insurance score to predict the likelihood of you filing a claim. While it’s not the same score a lender sees, it’s based on similar information from your credit report. The good news is that this is something you can control. In fact, one analysis found that working to improve your credit could save you around $1,500 a year on homeowners insurance. Every company weighs this factor differently, so a score that gets you a high rate with one insurer might be perfectly acceptable to another. This is another reason why getting a generic quote online might not give you the full picture or the best rate for your specific financial situation.

Red Flags: When a Bundle Isn’t a Good Deal

It’s easy to set up your bundle and let it auto-renew each year, but that can be a costly mistake. One of the most common errors people make is assuming insurance rates are the same across different companies, but they can vary by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. So, how do you know when it’s time to shop around? A major red flag is a significant rate hike at renewal time that isn’t explained by a recent claim or traffic ticket. Another warning sign is poor customer service. If you had a frustrating claims experience on one of your policies, do you really want to trust that company with more of your business? Don’t let a small discount trap you in a policy with weak coverage or a provider who isn’t there when you need them. If you’re seeing these signs, it’s time to get in touch with an agent and explore your options.

Understanding the Fine Print of Bundled Policies

The promise of a multi-policy discount is tempting, but it’s essential to read between the lines. A bundle isn’t automatically the best deal, just like a combo meal at a restaurant isn’t always cheaper than ordering your favorites separately. The key is to look at the total price, not just the advertised discount. Some insurers might offer a fantastic rate on your auto policy but have an overpriced home insurance plan. The “bundle discount” can make that expensive home policy seem more reasonable, but you could still be paying more overall than if you had purchased the policies from two different, more competitive companies. Always do the math to confirm that the combined total is truly lower than what you could get elsewhere.

When Bundling Saves More on Home vs. Auto

Bundling is often most effective when both your home and auto insurance needs are relatively standard. For most people, combining policies is a clear win, with average savings that can lower your total insurance costs by 10% to 20%. Some national carriers are particularly well-known for their competitive bundles. For instance, analyses often show that State Farm has one of the cheapest home and auto insurance bundles available. However, if you have a specialized need—like a classic car or a high-risk property—you might find better rates and coverage from separate, niche insurers. The real value comes from comparing these big-name bundles with other options to see what makes the most sense for your life here in Illinois.

How to Choose the Right Insurance Bundle

Finding the right insurance bundle feels a lot like finding the perfect pair of jeans—it needs to fit you just right. It’s not just about the price tag; it’s about feeling comfortable and confident that you’re covered. The good news is that with a little prep work, you can make a choice that protects your home, your car, and your peace of mind without any guesswork. Think of it as creating a custom safety net for your life. Let’s walk through the steps to find a bundle that truly works for you.

Your Pre-Quote Checklist: What You’ll Need

Walking into a quote conversation prepared is the best way to get accurate numbers and save yourself time. Before you start shopping, gather the details of your current policies. Know your coverage limits, deductibles, and any specific add-ons you have. For your car, you’ll need the vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, and year for every car you want to insure, plus the driver’s license numbers for everyone in your household. For your home, have your property address, square footage, and the year it was built handy. It’s also smart to note any recent upgrades or safety features, like a new roof or a security system, as those can often lead to discounts.

Make Sure Your Coverage Actually Covers You

The cheapest insurance isn’t always the best insurance. Your goal should be to find coverage that truly protects the life you’ve built. Take a moment to think about what you own. If you have significant assets or a high-value home, you’ll want higher liability limits to match. While higher limits might mean a slightly higher premium, they provide far greater financial protection if something unexpected happens. Also, consider your deductible—the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in. Choose a number you could comfortably pay tomorrow without stress. Your deductible is a key part of your overall financial strategy, so make sure it aligns with your savings and budget.

Making the Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you’ve found a bundle that offers the right protection at a competitive price, making the switch is easier than you might think. Your new agent will handle most of the heavy lifting. First, you’ll set a start date for your new bundled policy. It’s crucial to wait until your new coverage is officially active before you cancel your old policies to avoid any gaps in protection. Your agent can help you manage the transition smoothly, ensuring you’re never without coverage. They will guide you on how to properly notify your previous insurers and can even help you find out if you’re owed a refund for any prepaid premiums. This simple process streamlines everything, leaving you with one bill, one contact point, and the peace of mind that comes with a well-chosen policy.

Making the Final Call: Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When you have a few quotes in hand, it’s time to compare them carefully. It’s easy to fall into the trap of just picking the lowest price, but that’s one of the biggest mistakes you can make. A cheap plan might have high deductibles or coverage gaps that could cost you much more down the road. Be sure to read the policy details and understand what is and isn’t covered. And remember, bundling doesn’t always guarantee the biggest savings. It’s a great option for many, but it’s wise to compare the bundled price to the cost of separate policies. If you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to ask an expert for guidance. We can help you compare apples to apples and find the best fit.

Smart Strategies for Managing Your Insurance Policies

Once your home and auto policies are bundled, the work isn’t quite done. Think of your insurance as a living part of your financial plan—it needs attention to stay effective. Managing your policies well means more than just paying the bill on time; it’s about understanding what you have and making smart choices when life happens. A yearly check-in is a great habit to build. Life changes like a home renovation, a new teen driver, or buying a valuable piece of jewelry can all impact your coverage needs. A quick review ensures your protection keeps pace with your life, so you’re never caught underinsured when you need it most.

A proactive approach is your best strategy. Before your renewal date, take some time to look over your policy documents. Are your coverage limits still high enough to protect your assets? Are you taking advantage of every possible discount? This is also the perfect time to ask questions and clarify anything you don’t understand about the claims process. By familiarizing yourself with your coverage before an incident occurs, you can act with confidence when you need to. This simple habit transforms insurance from a confusing expense into a powerful tool for your financial security.

When to File a Claim (and When Not To)

Deciding whether to file an insurance claim isn’t always a straightforward choice. After a minor fender bender or a small bit of damage to your home, your first instinct might be to call your insurer. However, it’s worth pausing to do a little math. Consider your deductible and the potential for your premium to increase at renewal time. If the repair cost is only slightly more than your deductible, paying out-of-pocket could be the more cost-effective move in the long run. Filing a claim for a small amount might save you a couple of hundred dollars now, but it could lead to higher rates for years to come.

On the other hand, some situations absolutely warrant a claim. For any major damage, theft, or an incident where someone is injured, you should contact your insurance provider immediately. This is precisely why you have insurance. When you do file, be prepared to give your insurance company all the information they need. Most policies require you to report an incident within a specific timeframe, so acting quickly is key. Providing complete and accurate details from the start will help the process go smoothly and prevent unnecessary delays in getting the support you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m happy with my current auto insurer, but not my home insurer. Should I still consider bundling? This is a great reason to start shopping around. You should absolutely get a bundled quote from a new provider. You might find that another company can offer you a combined package that not only improves your home coverage but also matches or even beats the auto rate you currently like. The goal is to compare the total value—price, coverage, and service—of a new bundle against the cost of keeping your policies separate.

How difficult is it to switch and bundle my policies if they have different renewal dates? It’s much easier than most people think, and you don’t have to wait for your current policies to expire. You can make the switch at any time. Your old insurance companies will simply send you a refund for the unused portion of your premium. An agent can handle all the paperwork for you, ensuring the transition is smooth and that you don’t have any gaps in your coverage.

Will bundling affect my coverage? I don’t want to sacrifice protection just to save a few dollars. This is a smart question to ask, and the answer is no—a good bundle should never mean weaker protection. In fact, bundling can sometimes give you access to better coverage options that aren’t available on individual policies. The key is to focus on getting the right coverage for your assets first. Once you know what you need, you can then see how bundling makes that protection more affordable and convenient.

What if I have a more complex situation, like a rental property or a classic car? Can I still bundle? Yes, you often can. While a standard home and auto bundle is the most common, many insurers can accommodate more unique needs. You can typically bundle your primary home and auto policies and then add other specialized policies for things like a rental property, boat, or classic car. This is where working with an independent agent is especially helpful, as they can find the right mix of policies to cover everything you own.

Is the discount the only reason to bundle, or are there other real benefits? While the savings are a major draw, the convenience is just as valuable. Managing one account with one company simplifies everything from paying bills to asking questions. Perhaps the most underrated benefit is having a single point of contact for claims. If a storm damages both your roof and your car, for example, you only have to work with one claims department, which can make a stressful situation much easier to handle.