Do I Need a Home Safe?

Do I Need a Home Safe?

A home safe is a fortress for your prized possessions and a sanctuary for your peace of mind. In an unpredictable world, a safe might be exactly what you need to protect your valuables. How do you know if one is right for you, and which one do you need? Read on.

Reasons to buy a home safe:

There are many reasons why people buy home safes. These include:

  • Protecting valuables from theft
  • Storing firearms safely
  • Safeguarding important documents
  • Keeping items safe from damage during fires, floods, and natural disasters

 Types of Safes

The reasons that you want a home safe will determine the type of safe that you need. Safes are specially designed with certain features, depending upon their use. Note that you can get safes that combine features such as a burglary safe that is also a fireproof safe. Here are some of the most common types:

Burglary Safe

This type of safe protects your cash and other valuables from being stolen. While no safe is 100% secure, a burglary safe is designed with sturdy material that can withstand attacks by hammers and cutting instruments. Burglary safes are often classified based on the tools and techniques required to break into them. Common burglary ratings include:

  • Residential Security Container (RSC): Suitable for residential use, providing basic protection against burglaries.
  • TL (Tool Resistant): Indicates resistance against common hand tools like hammers, chisels, and drills.
  • TRTL (Torch and Tool Resistant): Resistant to torches and more advanced tools.
  • TXTL (Explosive and Tool Resistant): Provides high-level protection against explosives and advanced tools.

Data Safe

A data safe is used to store electronic data such as hard drives, USB sticks, DVDs, film, tapes, and more. These products can be damaged by heat, humidity, dust, and electric/static charges. Not all safes will protect computer media and data. A data safe uses specially insulated material to keep the inner part cooler than traditional safes.

Fireproof Safe

This type of safe protects its contents from heat, fire, and smoke damage. Fireproof safes usually have a thin metal exterior, a middle core made of flame-retardant material, and an inner layer of felt or carpet. However, since the metal on a fireproof safe is typically thin, it can be easily punctured or cut with simple tools. Fireproof safes are tested to see how long they can maintain a certain internal temperature without damaging the contents. Common ratings include:

  • 30-minute
  • 60-minute
  • 90-minute
  • 2-hour
  • 3-hour

Floor Safe

A floor safe is embedded in the floor, usually in the concrete foundation. Floor safes are great for concealing valuables. They protect well against burglaries and fire. However, in the event of a fire, floor safes often fill with water so you will want to include any contents in waterproof containers. Floor safes also can be expensive and messy to install. You need to install them in a concrete foundation which means the location might be inconvenient.

Gun Safe

A gun safe is ideal for guns and ammunition. These safes can be small enough to fit in a nightstand drawer or larger depending on how many weapons you must store. Many people keep them easily accessible but out of view, so guns are safely tucked away from children, guests, and importantly criminals. Look for a gun safe with a minimum of a 1-hour fireproof rating, a secure locking mechanism, and half-inch or thicker steel.

Jewelry Safe

While you might keep your necklaces, earrings, and bracelets in a jewelry box, you might consider a jewelry safe for higher worth items. After all, jewelry is an easy “grab and go” option for thieves and it’s relatively easy for them to resell precious gems and gold. Jewelry safes often include fabric-lined drawers for organizing your collection. You’ll want to have a burglary safe and fireproof version to keep jewelry from being damaged in the event of a fire.

Wall Safe

These safes are installed in your wall and can be concealed. They’re usually mounted between support beams. You’re limited by size and weight. You don’t want the wall safe to stick out into another wall; nor do you want it too heavy to be held up when attached to drywall and wood studs. While wall safes may be placed in convenient locations, they are less secure than a safe bolted to the floor. A wall safe can be cut out of the wall.

Waterproof Safe

A waterproof safe keeps its contents dry even when the safe is fully submerged in water. While no safe is truly waterproof, there are different water protection ratings. Look for ETL water protection ratings that identify the timing and depth, such as up to 8 inches deep for 24 hours or fully submerged for up to 72 hours. Waterproof safes can help in cases of extreme weather.

Types of Locks

When you buy a safe, not only do you have to consider the body, but the lock that secures it. Following are the different kinds of locks available.

  • Key – If you have the key that fits the lock, you gain access. Certain key locks allow you to change keys for times when keys are lost, stolen or if you think they’ve been duplicated.
  • Mechanical Combination – Similar to a combination lock that you may have had on your locker or to secure your bike, a mechanical combination lock relies on a dial or wheel that you spin in a certain sequence. The combination locks for safes can have as many as 1 million code variations, and the four-wheel variety can have 100 million code combinations.
  • Digital Combination – These combination locks use a keypad rather than a dial to enter your numbers. Codes may be changed as necessary. Digital combination locks rely on batteries, so make sure yours are up to date.
  • Dual – A dual key and combination lock gives you the option to use either method to open your safe.
  • Biometric – These locks work by scanning your fingerprint, palm print, face, or eye. There’s no need to remember a code or carry a key. They can be set up to store more than one user’s credentials to allow access to several people.

 Safes come in many sizes.

You will usually see measurements in cubic feet. To find the interior size of a safe in cubic feet, multiply its height, width, and depth, then divide by 1728. For instance, if a safe is 20” x 15” x 20”, its interior is approximately 3.47 cubic feet. It’s wise to select a slightly larger safe than you initially think you need, as your storage needs may grow over time.

Whether or not you decide to purchase a safe, you can take steps to prevent a burglary. Finally, protect the things inside your home with personal property coverage. This will help ensure your valuables are fully covered.

 

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

Non-Permanent Remodel/Redecorating Hacks for Renters

Non-Permanent Remodel/Redecorating Hacks for Renters

Your home is your canvas, even if you’re just renting. With a little creativity and some renter-friendly tricks up your sleeve, you can plan a room makeover that reflects your personal style—all while keeping your security deposit intact. Here are some of our favorite remodel/redecorating hacks for renters.

Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: Transform those white walls into a style statement. It’s easy to do with peel-and-stick wallpaper. This type of wallpaper doesn’t require glue, and it’s easy to peel off when you’re ready to move out. Not only can you update your place with trendy patterns and colors, but you can also find removable decals with inspirational quotes.

Temporary Backsplash: An easy way to spruce up your kitchen or bathroom is with a temporary backsplash. Like peel-and-stick wallpaper, these options are easy to install and remove. However, if you’re putting up a backsplash near your stove, make sure to use one that is rated for long-term heat exposure. Thoroughly clean and dry your wall before applying for best results. To remove, apply heat with a hair dryer before peeling it off.

Peel-and-Stick Floor Tile: Give your floor a makeover with peel-and-stick tiles. You can apply adhesive tiles right over the current floor. Note that these tiles are not stickers. They’re thick and rigid and must be cut to size. In addition, they take some work to remove. Research the removal process before you commit. It involves adhesive remover, putty knives, a pry bar, and pliers.

Cabinet Hardware: Upgrading the hardware on your cabinets is an easy way to modernize your kitchen or bathroom. Replace the cheap brass with some matte black pulls for an elegant look or find one that’s uniquely you. Just keep the old hardware so you can replace it when you move.

Light Switch Plates: Chances are your light switch plates are old, faded, and ho-hum. Change them to bright white for a fresh look. Or take them to the next level and decoupage them with your favorite print. Again, keep the original plates to replace when you leave.

Decorative Lighting: Swap out those basic builder-grade light fixtures for something with pizzazz! Choose trendy pendant lights or chic table lamps to illuminate your space in style. Battery operated wall sconces are easy to install and they provide a cozy feel. Just remember to keep the original fixtures stored safely so you can reinstall them before you move out.

Colorful Curtains: Don’t underestimate the power of curtains to elevate your space! Choose bold colors and designs to add drama and personality to your room. They’re easy to install and can be taken down and rehung in your next place.

Furniture Makeovers: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your furniture! Add a fresh coat of paint to a drab dresser, swap out hardware for something more stylish, or cover an old sofa with a colorful throw blanket. These simple updates can breathe new life into your space without causing any damage.

Decorative Room Divider: Freestanding room dividers not only separate and define spaces but they can add to your décor. Use them as a display to hang accessories or art. Just make sure the items are lightweight and non-breakable should they get tossed when the divider is moved about.

Large Mirror: Lean a large mirror against the wall to create a spacious, airy feel and make your apartment seem immediately bigger. By leaning it, rather than attaching it to the wall, there are no holes to fill.

Window Film: If you don’t have window curtains or shades, try a patterned window film. It sticks to the window with just static cling or water and provides privacy without blocking the light. Plus, the pattern adds style to your space. Then, when you’re ready to move out, simply peel it off.

Showerhead: Chances are you have a standard showerhead. Replace it with a larger one to create a spa-like experience. Because showerheads just screw off and on, it’s easy to do. Just keep the original so that you can reattach it when you leave.

Paint: If your landlord allows it, paint is one of the easiest ways to renovate your space. It has an immediate impact, and it’s relatively easy to DIY. Since you will have to restore the original color when you move, consider painting a single statement wall.

Balcony Upgrade: If you have a balcony or porch, there are so many ways to create an inviting space. See our blog on easy apartment balcony upgrades.

Finally, protect your belongings with renter’s insurance. It is surprisingly affordable. For as little as $10 a month, you can get a renter’s policy at California Casualty.

 

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

Home Windows: Repair or Replace?

Home Windows: Repair or Replace?

We love light-filled rooms and beautiful views. But inevitably, our windows will let us down. They will stick, they will leak, and they will let in unwanted drafts. Whether to replace or repair them, that is the question.

 

Types of Windows and Frames

Knowing the type of windows is the first step. That will help you to understand what to look for in terms of repairs and replacements.

  • Awning windows are horizontal top-hinge windows that swing outward.
  • Bay windows have 3 panels at an angle that create an alcove.
  • Bow windows have 4-6 panels and are like bay windows.
  • Casement windows are hinged at the side and crank to the outside.
  • Single slider windows slide horizontally in one direction.
  • Double slider windows slide horizontally to either the left or right.
  • Single hung windows have the top sash fixed in place, with a bottom that slides up and down.
  • Double hung windows have both the top and bottom that slide up and down.

 

Window Wellness Check

An annual window inspection is a good idea to flag problems before they become expensive repairs or replacements. Schedule a time each year, such as when you replace your smoke detectors, to do a window checkup.

  • Check that your window opens and closes easily, and that your window locks.
  • Check the weatherstripping to make sure it’s intact and even all around.
  • Open the window a quarter of an inch or so. Make sure the opening is even across the bottom of the window.
  • Inspect panes for cracks and signs of moisture.
  • Check screens for rips or holes.
  • Check for signs of mold or mildew.
  • Aluminum windows: Check corner welds and exterior caulking. Make sure opening mechanisms are well lubricated.
  • Wood windows: Check the caulking on the exterior between the siding and the window frame. That’s where potential problems can arise. Regularly paint and seal the exterior finish and interior finishes.
  • Vinyl windows: Check exterior caulking and opening mechanisms.

 

Common Problems and What to Do About Them

Following are some common problems that you may encounter with your windows—and some guidance on whether to repair or replace.

  • Sticking/Not Opening

Windows are meant to be open, and when that doesn’t happen, it can be frustrating. If your window doesn’t open easily or at all, consider the following.

Repair: Some wooden windows are painted over so many times that they don’t open. Other times, dirt, dust, and pollen get lodged in the tracks. You can try removing the debris or paint and lubricating the tracks.

Replace: Aluminum windows that have broken corner welds are nearing the end of their lifespans. Similarly, steel frames that have deteriorated due to rust need to be replaced.

Leaking

As windows age, your seals and caulk can dry out, leaving gaps. This can lead to water leaks when it rains.

Repair: Go around your window and reseal any cracks with caulk and weatherstripping. Almost all windows have bottom “weep” holes where water can drain out. Do not caulk over these holes. Otherwise, water can be trapped in there, freeze, expand and crack the window frame.

Replace: In some cases, windows can be defective and need to be replaced. In addition, if the leak has occurred for some time, the water may have caused the wood frame to rot.

Drafts

If it’s cold outside, you don’t want to feel it through drafty windows. Check that you don’t have any openings and where you can, add extra protection.

Repair: Apply weatherstripping to your windows. Reglaze loose panes.

Replace: You can replace single pane windows with double pane windows that do a better job of blocking the heat of direct sunlight and still let the light come in.

Condensation

Foggy windows could be a sign of expensive repairs to come so you’ll want to address this problem right away.

Repair: Condensation could be due to lack of ventilation. It can soak into the window trim and damage it. It can also lead to mold. You can try a dehumidifier with the windows closed to see if that eliminates the fog.

Replace: Fogging between double pane glass panels cannot be fixed and must be replaced. See the section on soft wood if the water has gotten into the wood.

Sagging Casement

Casement windows can be heavy, and the hardware must be strong enough to hold up over time.

Repair: You may notice the downward movement of the window sash on casement windows. You’ll need to reset the windows and replace the hardware.

Replace: While you can replace worn out crank mechanisms, you’ll need to replace them if they are bent or worn.

Soft or Rotted Wood

You may notice dampness and a darker color on the wood around your window. That could mean it’s structurally unsound.

Repair: When wood is soft to the touch, it is a sign of rot. Flashing protects the window frame from moisture, so make sure yours is not damaged or missing.

Replace: When water leaks into the walls, it can cause a more significant problem. It can attract carpenter ants, termites, and bugs. It can also affect your walls and foundation. Replace any rotted wood right away and eliminate the source of the moisture.

 

What You Need to Know About New Windows

New windows can boost your energy efficiency and help you save on heating and cooling bills. They can reduce exterior noise, increase security, and improve the look and value of your home.

However, new windows can cost $450-$1,400 per window or more. That means it’s expensive to replace all of them at one time. Also, even if you find a close match, new windows will look different. Consider replacing just a few on the same side. Ask about warranties. You will want protection that cover glass replacement up to 20 years.

Finally, your home is one of your greatest investments. Protect it with the right insurance for added peace of mind.

 

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

Celebrating National Craft Month

Celebrating National Craft Month

Embrace your inner artist and let your imagination run wild. Whether you prefer glue and glitter or pottery and paint, it’s fun to get creative. In honor of March, National Craft Month, we compiled some of our favorite crafts for home and the classroom. So, whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or searching for a fun activity to share with your students, join us in celebrating National Craft Month.

Benefits of Crafting

Crafting is good for our brains and our spirits. Working with our hands and exercising our creative skills helps with hand-eye coordination, concentration, critical thinking, and problem solving. Crafting teaches us patience and resilience, and how to fix things when they don’t exactly go our way. The process of creation can also reduce stress and anxiety, improve our mood and self-confidence. When we create with others, we also build community and a sense of shared accomplishment.

Here are some ideas to get you started. Feel free to improvise; after all, creativity is what it’s all about!

Colored Mason Jars

https://modpodgerocksblog.com/colored-mason-jars/

These decorative mason jars make great gifts. Personalize them with your favorite stencils.

Supplies: Clear mason jars, Mod Podge, food coloring or acrylic paint, foam brush, adhesive stencils, glitter, scissors, wax paper (Use food coloring if you want the final result to be clearer, and acrylic paint if you want more color.)

Process: Wash and dry the mason jars to ensure the best result. Add some Mod Podge to a bowl with a few drops of food coloring or paint. Put about two tablespoons into the mason jar and roll it around to coat it. Add more as needed, one tablespoon at a time. Shake it over the garbage can to get rid of excess Mod Podge. Place the jars face down on wax paper and allow to dry for 24 hours. Affix your stencil on the outside of the jar. Cover the stencil area with Mod Podge. Peel off the stencil and apply glitter right away. You can tie the jar with baker’s twine for a festive touch.

DIY Sharpie Mug

https://feelingnifty.com/sharpie-mugs-diy-tutorial/

This personalized mug makes a great gift and it’s so easy to create.

Supplies: a plain and inexpensive ceramic mug, oil-based Sharpie marker (regular Sharpies will wash away)

Process: You can draw any design on the mug or write a meaningful quote. Try affixing a large alphabet sticker and using your Sharpie to make colorful dots around it. Then peel off the sticker and you’ll have a monogrammed mug. Once the marker paint is dry, put the mug in a cold oven. Turn it to 250 degrees and bake your Sharpie mug for 2 hours. Turn the oven off and let it cool completely. Note that color changes can happen while baking. If you are concerned, you can skip the baking and simply coat the mug with Mod Podge.

Flower Pens

https://parents.highlights.com/how-to-make-flowers-out-pens

Create a beautiful bouquet of pens with just a few supplies. Make it extra special by choosing favorite flowers or colors.

Supplies: Pens, silk or plastic flowers with stems, floral tape

Process: Place the flower stem against the bottom of the pen. Wrap floral tape around the stem and pen to attach it. Continue wrapping the tape all the way to the top, then bring it back down again. Cut off the excess once the pen is fully wrapped. The floral tape will self-adhere with some pressure.

Glitter Sensory Bottles

https://onelittleproject.com/sensory-bottles/

These bottles are easy to make, and kids love them. Use them as a sensory tool in class or as a free time reward once work is done.

Supplies: Clear, empty water bottles, baby oil, glitter, pony beads, buttons

Process: Fill the bottles three-quarters of the way with baby oil. Add glitter; start with a small amount. The glitter will sink to the bottom. Add other items such as beads or buttons. Put the cap on. Turn the bottle upside down and right side up a few times. Watch the glitter fall. Add more as necessary. When it’s finished, fill the bottle to the top with baby oil.

Paper Plate Dream Catchers

https://onelittleproject.com/how-to-make-a-dreamcatcher/

These dream catchers are easily customizable. Tie them into a social studies curriculum on Native American crafts.

Supplies: Paper plates, yarn, feathers, pony beads, hole puncher, markers, glue

Process: Cut out the inner circle of the paper plate. Punch 8 evenly space holes around the inside cutout circle. Decorate the plate with markers. Cut a 55-inch length of yard. Tie it to one of the inner holes and knot it in place. Thread the yarn through the other inner holes in any pattern that you like. Punch one hole at the top and tie a piece of yard to hang the dream catcher. Punch three holes at the bottom where you will hand yarn with beads and feathers. Cut three pieces of yarn, 12 inches long. Tie the feathers to the end of the yarn. Add some glue to keep them in place. Slide beads down over the yarn above the feathers. Tie the feathered and beaded yarn on the bottom. You are now ready to hang your dreamcatcher!

Salt Painting

https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/salt-painting/

Experiment with color and texture as you create a beautiful piece of art.

Supplies: Glue, table salt, watercolors or food coloring, paintbrush, pencil, cardstock

Process: Draw the image on the cardstock. Trace the lines using glue. Keep glue lines thin. Sprinkle salt over the glue. Use a lot so it coats every part. Shake off the excess salt. Dip your paintbrush in the watercolor and gently tap the salt. Watch the color spread. Let your painting dry. Spray with a sealer.

Tissue Paper Painting

https://thelittleredhen.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/05/painting-with-tissue-paper.html

Create a masterpiece of color with this easy technique. Make sure to buy tissue paper that is not shiny. The cheaper tissue paper found at Dollar Stores will not “bleed” easily.

Supplies: Watercolor paper or cardstock, tissue paper, a spray bottle, water

Process: Tear up the tissue paper into small pieces. Arrange it on your paper in a design. Make sure to overlap some colors. Spray the tissue with water until it is wet. Then, let it dry. Once the project is completely dry, remove the tissue paper and see the colorful results. It is very important that everything is completely dry. Removing the tissue too soon will damage the paper underneath.

Yarn Pumpkins

https://onelittleproject.com/yarn-pumpkins/

These yarn pumpkins can also be yarn apples or decorative balls. They make beautiful centerpieces and are so easy to make.

Supplies: Balloon, yard, white glue (one full 2-ounce bottle per pumpkin – Tacky glue works best), pipe cleaners, tape measure, scissors, plastic fork

Process: Blow up the balloon about half full. Pour glue into a bowl. Tie one piece of yarn to the end of the balloon and use it to hang the balloon from a kitchen cabinet or other location so that it’s easier to manage. Dip a piece of yard in the bowl of glue and swirl it around with the fork. Then holding the end of the yarn with your fingers, run it through the fork tines to remove extra glue. Press it against the balloon, winding it around. Repeat until much of the balloon is covered. Allow it to dry for 24 hours. When you’re ready to pop the balloon, press your fingers down under the yarn all around to detach the balloon. Make a very small hole near the balloon knot to let the air leak out slowly. Pull the deflated balloon out. Add pipe cleaner stems and vines. Create spirals by wrapping the pipe cleaners around your finger.

Do you have a favorite craft that’s not listed here? Share it with us in the comments.

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

Buying a Vehicle Online

Buying a Vehicle Online

You’re ready for a new set of wheels. Time to head to the dealership, test drive some models, and negotiate like a pro. Or you could boot up your laptop and start clicking from the comfort of your couch.

Online car shopping is a game-changer. You can shop anytime, anywhere, with access to a multitude of vehicles without the sales pressure. But is it right for you?

What it Means to Buy a Car Online

Many of us shop online for everything from clothes to groceries. A car, of course, is a larger purchase. It costs much more and so there is more at stake. You might be comfortable researching a car online, and even calculating loan payments. But there’s a comfort level to continuing the car buying process in the dealer showroom. However, more and more people are taking the plunge into online car shopping. They’re buying online from start to finish.

Pros & Cons

It’s ultra-convenient to shop for a car online.

  • You don’t have to go to a dealership during business hours. You can shop on your schedule from any place.
  • There is likely more inventory available online than at your local dealership.
  • You can get pre-approved for a loan before you even start shopping.
  • There is less sales pressure and no haggling. Prices are clearly posted, and what you pay ultimately depends on the base price, any trade-in, and your credit rating.
  • You can fill out paperwork online at your leisure.
  • Many online marketplaces have a short return window, so if the car wasn’t what you expected, you can return it.
  • You can get the car delivered to your driveway.

Of course, there are some downsides.

  • You can’t physically see the car or test drive it before you buy it. (Some services are offering test drives, however, and you can always test drive at a dealership before buying online.)
  • You can’t negotiate the price.
  • Online purchases often come with extra fees. It can cost $1,000 or more to deliver a car.
  • Your financing choices may be limited. The seller may restrict you to a single lender.
  • You cannot get your car the same day, as you would at a dealer.
  • You can potentially get more incentives onsite at a dealer, such as lease specials or cash rebates.

 Online Sellers

There are a variety of online vehicle sellers. Some new car dealers offer the full online experience, including car delivery. There are also services that sell used vehicles in online marketplaces. Still others connect buyers with private sellers. Each site has different terms and warranties, so make sure you understand them before you buy. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Carvana offers used cars, auto loan prequalification, and a 7-day return window. Car delivery is not available everywhere and may include a shipping fee.
  • CarMax also sells used cars. They can deliver a car for test driving (fees may apply). CarMax offers financing and has a 7-day return window.
  • Vroom sells used cars with a 7-day or 250-mile return window. Vroom also offers access to online financing.

You may buy from private sellers on sites such as these:

  • eBay Motors connects you with private sellers. The site offers free vehicle purchase protection that can cover you if there are problems with the sale.
  • CarGurus also connects you with private sellers and offers support for paperwork including title transfers. They offer financing through their partner, Auto Pay.

Red flags

  • Be careful with sellers that are not vetted by a third party. While you can find cars on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, it is more difficult to know if it’s a scam.
  • Avoid bait-and-switch scenarios, where the car you want is suddenly not available, but another similar more expensive model is. If a seller does that, chances are there will be problems later with other items such as warranties.
  • Beware of fraudulent websites. Make sure the site and the seller are legitimate. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Do not make a deal without a written agreement. Remember to read the fine print.

Ready to buy?

  1. Know what you can afford for a monthly payment, and then work backwards to determine how much you can finance.
  1. Know your credit score. Your credit rating is used to determine your interest rate.
  1. Pre-qualify for a loan. You can get a loan from a bank or credit union, or from the dealership or online marketplace where you will get your vehicle.
  1. Determine the type of car that fits your needs. Do you need a large SUV for off-roading and camping with the family? Perhaps you need the right car for your teen driver? Browse the online inventory to find the car that meets your budget and needs.
  1. Comparison shop across at least three websites to determine the best options. Consult Consumer Reports, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book to ensure that your car is priced at current market value.
  1. If you’re able to arrange a test drive, do so. You want to make sure that you can fit comfortably in the car, and you like how it handles. If all checks out, then go ahead with the purchase.

 

A car is one of your greatest investments. For added peace of mind, protect it with the right insurance.

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

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