How are you protecting your home’s possessions?

We don’t like to think about the unthinkable happening, but being a responsible homeowner means preparing for the worst. One fire or burglary can send us back to square one, and getting life back on track as fast as possible becomes our top priority.

Homeowner’s insurance is there to make sure that when the worst happens we’re able to recover. One place many people are notoriously lax, however, is in keeping a thorough inventory of their home’s many possessions. Often those who do keep an inventory keep it somewhere in their house. Unfortunately this isn’t much help when the computer where the inventory is stored is destroyed or stolen in the night.

One great solution to keeping an accurate home inventory is using web-based technology to make sure the information is safely stored away from home. There are many ways to do this, but the idea is the same: Keep photos, serial numbers, descriptions, and values stored in a secure place online where you can download the information later should you need to file or prove a claim.

You should choose a method you’re comfortable with, but two popular options include using Evernote (www.evernote.com), cloud-based software to “remember everything” and the home-specific service Stuff Safe (www.stuffsafe.com). Each offer affordable options for recording and storing your home’s inventory, including mobile device apps to make the recording that much easier.

Using cloud-based software such as Evernote or Stuff Safe has a number of benefits: 1) It’s secure. 2) It’s searchable. 3) It’s easy to create “reports” for insurance companies. 4) It’s painless to make quick updates or modifications.

While Evernote offers a completely free option, Stuff Safe has a free trial period. Both, however, have very inexpensive “premium” options which can provide significant peace of mind.

Get protected! Get your “stuff” in the cloud.

We always like to keep our clients updated on neat tech tips for managing their home. Like us on Facebook for updates – http://www.facebook.com/HanleyHomeTeam or give us a call at 904-422-7626 Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com or http://www.HanleyShortSales.com