Homeowner's Insurance
This insurance covers replacement costs for damages caused by fire, wind or other disaster that might affect the value of the property. Typically, the insurance also includes personal liability and theft coverage. Each policy can vary so be sure to discuss this with the insurance company of your choice.  If you need assistance in choosing a company, feel free to let me know and I can provide you with names of local insurance companies for your consideration.

Flood Insurance
Additional hazard insurance coverage that is required for homes located in a designated hazard zone as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Before you decide to make an offer, I will check the property disclosure for information on whether the home is located in a hazard zone.  Need for further discovery can be determined at that time. This is typically confirmed by several processes.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Insurance required for conventional mortgage loans when the borrower's down payment on the house is less than 20 percent of the loan value. At 22%, lenders are required to remove the PMI but can be removed by you providing an appraisal or acceptable form of value to show 20% already paid.

Title Insurance
This policy protects both the buyer and lender by insuring a clear chain of title. (In other words, it insures that that the person who sells the house has the legal right to do so.)  It is a one time charge and is strongly recommended with all purchases...those that are required when lenders are involved as well as cash transactions where there is no controling entity to mandate it.