Whether you choose to pay off your debt or take action to improve your personal health, the resolution you choose can not only motivate you to achieve goals fast, but can also improve your outlook on life.

Your property can provide you with many possibilities for practical resolutions. We’ve gathered 6 options for brand new, or life-long homeowners alike.

Find the right security system

What kinds of home security measures do you currently have in place? An alarm system? Outdoor light sensors? If the answer is none, now is the time to consider your options. Finding the right home security system can take time and research – with so many options available in a wireless world, it can be hard to determine what you really need.

No matter which option you choose, the end-goal of your home security system should be safety and peace of mind. Find out what to look for in your best home security system.

Take a home inventory

Over the years, we accumulate many possessions, from furniture to artwork and more, and many of these may have high value. Having an inventory of your property contents on hand will help you greatly in the event that you experience a loss and need to file a claim.

To begin calculating the value of your possessions, create a table that includes the following information: purchase date, brand and model number, and purchase number. A comprehensive inventory of your property only takes a few minutes, and can be invaluable if you experience a loss.

Reassess your insurance policy

There are 3 main reasons you should regularly assess your home insurance policy:

• Receive coverage that suits your current actual needs
• Benefit from the fairest and most equitable premium
• Avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of a claim

Many changes may affect your premium, such as a change in your home alarm system or major renovations. Need help assessing your home insurance? To determine your needs, refer to Choosing the Right Kind of Home Insurance.

Consider customizing your coverage

Your basic property insurance covers risks like fire, theft, or other certain unexpected events. Many homeowners often choose to customize their policy to meet their specific needs by adding optional coverages of interest to them.

One of these includes “All Risk” insurance, which provides coverage on accidents you may not think of when you buy insurance, like spilling paint on a rug. Even if an accident in your home if your fault, all risk insurance still covers the damage. If you haven’t reviewed your policy in some time, consider customizing your policy to meet your new needs.

Make extra mortgage payments

Making extra payments on your mortgage can greatly reduce your amortization period (the time it takes to completely pay off your loan), help you save on interest costs, and will have the effect of raising your home equity faster.

To find out how much you can reduce your amortization rate and interest rates with each accelerated payment, use our free online mortgage payment calculator.

Manage your policy online

Being able to view and change your home insurance policy online can make a connected homeowners’ life easier and more convenient. By taking advantage of the ability to access your home insurance policies in just a few clicks, you can modify your policy, change your payment methods and contact information quickly and easily. Get greater control over your property and sign up for online policy management today.

Even if you’re not a homeowner, you still have a responsibility to protect your property. Think about every item of value you own – your electronics, clothing, kitchenware, furniture, books – what would you do if a fire started while you were out and they were all destroyed?

Unless you have tenant insurance, you wouldn’t receive anything to help you recoup your losses and start over. Our affordable tenant insurance options can give you peace of mind. Happy New Year!