Do You Need Home Insurance After Paying Off Your Mortgage?

Posted on January 15, 2026January 2, 2026 by agentinsure

Have you ever wondered what happens to home insurance after a mortgage is paid? If so, you aren’t the only one. Here’s the inside scoop from Oliver Insurance, serving Canby, OR.

Home Insurance After a Mortgage Is Paid

If you are on the cusp of paying off your mortgage or have already paid it off, congratulations. You own your home outright and all that remains is the annual property tax cost. The home insurance ball is now in your court. Your mortgage lender previously mandated insurance up until the mortgage was paid. Take the proper steps with a proactive approach and you’ll ensure your prized home is properly covered.

Most homeowners opt for policy continuation. This approach means the home insurance policy remains intact. Keep in mind, the insurance policy isn’t automatically canceled after the mortgage is paid. The policy remains intact if the premiums are paid. Seize the opportunity to review your coverages to guarantee the policy suits your specific needs. If necessary, adjust the policy as the lender and its nuanced requirements are now out of the picture.

Coverage reevaluation encompasses everything from the home’s current value, changes to personal property and renovations. Review these factors, crunch the numbers and you might determine you need less or possibly even more coverage. Keep in mind, there’s always the option of shopping around for a better rate based on your desired coverages.

Address the Escrow

If your mortgage had an escrow account set up to pay property taxes and insurance, you can remove it after the mortgage is paid. Budget for property taxes and home insurance premiums on your own and you’ll sidestep coverage lapses.

However, paying those premiums might not be as difficult as some insurance providers offer discounts for customers who own their homes outright, meaning those without a mortgage. Shop around for insurance and you’ll find the best deal for your needs.

Oliver Insurance Is on Your Side

Serving Canby, OR, Oliver Insurance offers affordable home insurance. If you are a homeowner or in the market for a home, contact us today for a quote.

Holiday Hours, Team News & a Big THANK YOU!

Posted on November 10, 2025November 10, 2025 by Ryan Oliver

As the holiday season approaches, we wanted to take a moment to share some updates, celebrate a few highlights, and most importantly—thank you for being a valued client.

What We’ve Been Up To Halloween was a roaring success! Spoiler alert: we take our pumpkin spirit seriously. This year, we went “wild”—literally—with a Wild Kingdom theme. We also kept up our cherished tradition of handing out candy to local trick-or-treaters, bringing smiles (and sugar rushes) to kids in the community.

Holiday Closures We will be closed on the following dates to give our team time with loved ones:

Veteran’s Day: November 11

Thanksgiving: November 28–29

Christmas Eve: December 24 (limited hours 9 am – 1 pm)

Christmas: December 25 & 26

New Year’s Eve: December 31 (limited hours 9 am – 3:00 pm)

New Year’s Day: January 1

Highlights

This year brought meaningful milestones to Oliver Insurance. We were thrilled to welcome Toni to our team, while also celebrating the well-earned retirement of our longtime colleague, Kathy. Her contributions over the years have left a lasting impact, and she’ll always be part of our story.

We were honored to participate in the Wayne Oliver Foundation Tournament, raising an incredible $20,916—a true reflection of the generosity and trust of our community. It was a privilege to celebrate Wayne, our founder, and the enduring legacy of his commitment to philanthropy.

At Oliver Insurance, putting community first is more than a motto—it’s a mission. Through our referral program and sponsorships, we’ve been fortunate to support many local organizations that uplift kids and families across the greater area. We’re grateful for the opportunity to give back and grow together.

Coverage That Works for You Choosing an agency doesn’t mean paying more—it means having someone in your corner. We offer a wide range of carrier options to fit your needs and budget. And while renewals have always been a priority, we’re adding even more focus to make sure your coverage continues to work hard for you.

Stay Connected Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to catch our Cougars of the Week, referral program highlights, and more behind-the-scenes fun. It’s a great way to stay in the loop and learn tips about insurance and keeping your family, property and business protected.

From all of us here, thank you for trusting us with your coverage. We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to what’s ahead.

Warm wishes,

Ryan Oliver
President
Oliver Insurance

If I Own a Home, Why Do I Need Home Insurance?

Posted on September 30, 2025September 11, 2025 by agentinsure

Residents of Canby, OR, who own a home outright may wonder if homeowner’s insurance is truly necessary. Whether you’ve recently paid off your mortgage and feel there’s no need for coverage, or you’re buying a home and paying for it outright, deciding whether to maintain or purchase coverage is an important question. Our agents at Oliver Insurance are here to help you make an informed decision.

The Benefits of Having Home Insurance

Life is full of unexpected events, and when something happens to your home, you want to ensure your investment is protected. Homeowners insurance provides financial security and prevents you from facing out-of-pocket expenses during challenging times.

When you speak with one of our agents, we’ll explain why it’s recommended to have homeowners insurance, even if you own your property free and clear.

There are situations beyond your control, such as damage caused by weather-related events, floods, or fires. A policy can also cover damages from vandalism or theft of personal possessions. Additionally, homeowners insurance can help cover temporary living expenses, including housing and food, if your home becomes uninhabitable due to damage.

Home insurance also provides liability protection in case someone is injured on your property and files a claim against you. It can cover legal fees, medical bills, and other costs associated with a lawsuit. For pet owners, liability coverage extends to injuries caused by your pet, ensuring you’re protected in these situations.

Contact Oliver Insurance

By allowing our agents at Oliver Insurance to set up a home insurance policy for your Canby, OR residence, you’re taking a proactive step to secure this valuable asset and protect your financial future. Contact us today to learn more about your options.

Does Home Insurance Cover Land Clearing?

Posted on May 30, 2025May 16, 2025 by agentinsure

Home insurance covers various things, from trees that fall on your house to roof repairs. However, there are a few things it doesn’t cover. Does home insurance cover land clearing? Unfortunately, it’s not a simple yes or no answer.

The Reason Behind Land Clearing

Whether home insurance covers land clearing often depends on why you need land clearing services. For example, if a tree falls on the house, home insurance will likely pay to have it removed, which is classified as land clearing. However, many insurance policies won’t pay for removal if the tree doesn’t land on or damage structures on the property.

Preventative Clearing

Most insurance companies will not cover preventative clearing, such as removing a tree that can be a liability. Some providers will require that you remove the tree and pay for removal, or they may increase your insurance premium.

Aesthetic Appeal

Many homeowners want their Canby, OR, land to look nice, which includes brush removal. However, home insurance doesn’t cover aesthetic upgrades. Experienced agents at Oliver Insurance can let you know if there are any exceptions.

Building Necessity

Land clearing is necessary to build new structures on your property. While this will increase the value of your land, home insurance isn’t likely to help pay for the renovation.

Natural Disaster Clean Up

If you have proper coverage, many insurance policies will pay for land clearing due to a covered peril, including a natural disaster. For example, they may cover removing debris from high winds if your insurance covers wind damage, hurricanes, and tornadoes.

Insurance companies often follow strict guidelines regarding coverage. Our knowledgeable agents can help you determine whether your policy covers land clearing. Contact a representative at Oliver Insurance today to learn more. We currently serve the Canby, OR, area.

Tariffs Ripple Down on Insurance

Posted on April 9, 2025April 9, 2025 by Ryan Oliver

Why Home and Auto Insurance Costs Are Rising in 2025

A recent report from Insurify outlines several reasons why insurance premiums are going up across the country and here in Oregon & Washington. Here’s what homeowners and drivers need to know:

🏠 Home Insurance Increases

Home insurance premiums are expected to rise 8% nationally, reaching about $3,520 for a $400,000 home by the end of 2025.
New tariffs on building materials (especially from countries like China, Canada, and Mexico) may further raise costs, making home repairs more expensive and pushing premiums even higher.
States like Louisiana, Iowa, and Minnesota could see double-digit increases, largely due to recent severe weather events.
For example, in Iowa, insurers paid out $122 in claims for every $100 in premiums, signaling significant financial strain.
Florida still holds the title for the highest home insurance rates in the country, with an expected 9% increase this year.

🚗 Auto Insurance Impact

Car insurance premiums may also rise by 8%, going from $2,313 to $2,502 for full coverage on average.
A 25% tariff on imported vehicles and auto parts is driving up repair costs, since many parts are sourced internationally.
States like Maryland and New York may face even steeper auto insurance hikes.

🌪️ Weather and Climate Factors

Natural disasters like wildfires, floods, and tornadoes are becoming more common and costly, even outside traditionally high-risk areas.
These events are forcing insurers to raise rates to keep up with increased claims and repair costs.
Nationwide, home insurance premiums have gone up 24% in the past three years, and 95% of homeowners have seen their rates increase.

What This Means for You

If you’re a homeowner or driver, expect higher insurance costs in 2025. Reviewing your policy and talking with your agent at Oliver Insurance can help you find savings opportunities or ensure you’re getting the coverage you need at a fair rate.

Let us know if you’d like to schedule a policy review—we’re here to help! Check out this article for more info about tariffs and their impact on our insurance industry. https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/news/property /tariffs-threaten-to-push-insurance-costs-higher-for-us-households-531425.aspx?hsmemberId=1023933&tu=C2443B66-2A35-4180-97FD-678D3F9A32B8&utm_campaign=&utm_medium=20250408&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8jKi6cfKtgw9pMeShUTjhawB3r8XFIZiNMxats9-ZXnpmhk-yGvXlMKqhfmujMO5kzIPX7ONleaEf-aQdDjL3lrt2K27V-pKsiRe-fT3c6CCenzgU&_hsmi=355741080&utm_content=C2443B66-2A35-4180-97FD-678D3F9A32B8&utm_source=

Do You Know What Type of Insurance Agency You Use?

Posted on April 2, 2025April 2, 2025 by Ryan Oliver

Shopping for insurance can be confusing, with so many options and questions to consider. You may wonder, “What type of coverage is right for me?” or “Which insurance company best fits my needs?” Understanding the different types of insurance providers—independent agents, direct writers, and captive agents—can help you make the best decision for you and your family.

As a Trusted Choice® independent insurance agency in Canby, OR, we work with multiple top-rated insurance carriers to provide customized coverage tailored to your unique needs. Unlike direct writers who offer limited choices or captive agents who only represent one company, we have the flexibility to compare multiple policies, ensuring you get the best protection at the best value.

Our team understands the local risks and coverage needs of Oregon and Washington residents and businesses. We take the time to get to know you, helping you navigate policy options and adjust coverage as your needs change. With expert guidance and personalized service, we’re here to protect what matters most—your home, auto, business, and more.

To learn more about the different types of insurance agencies and how they operate, check out this article https://www.cinfin.com/cincinnati-insurance-resources/independent-agents/buying-insurance-agency-channels.

Contact us today to see how working with an independent agent can give you peace of mind and confidence in your coverage choices.

3 Things to Know About Keeping a Home Inventory for Insurance Purposes

Posted on January 31, 2025January 21, 2025 by agentinsure

Do you need to maintain a home inventory for your home insurance? If so, Oliver Insurance, serving Canby, OR, can answer your questions and provide the necessary advice!

A home inventory is a comprehensive list of everything you own in your home. In it, you may record information such as when an item was purchased, its value, and its model number.

If you’re keeping a home inventory, here are some things you should know about this list.

1. A Home Inventory Can Simplify Disaster Recovery

A home inventory can simplify recovery after a disaster. Home inventories provide homeowners with a list of items they owned before they lost their home. If you lose your home in a covered disaster, the home inventory can help you recall what you used to own so that you can buy a comparable product.

2. Some Insurance Companies Require a Home Inventory

While many insurance companies do not require customers to keep a home inventory, some do. If your home insurance company has this requirement, your insurance agent will be able to provide you with more specifics about how to meet this requirement for your insurance.

3. There Are Many Ways to Keep a Home Inventory

It’s still a good idea even if you’re not required to keep a home inventory. You can keep a home inventory in many ways, including with a simple spreadsheet. Some apps can help. One easy way to record everything that’s in your home without writing a list is to make a video of your home.

At Oliver Insurance, serving Canby, OR, we can answer your questions about the home inventory process. Call today to find out more about home inventories and whether you’re required to have one.

Tips for First Time Home Buyers

Posted on September 30, 2024September 13, 2024 by agentinsure

Buying a home certainly can be intimidating. For many first-time home buyers, their purchase will be the most expensive purchase ever. Further, not only can buying a home significantly impact your financial health right now, it could have a massive impact later on down the line. For many families, their home is their most valuable investment and may be crucial for funding retirement. If you’re looking for assistance with selecting a home insurance plan in Canby, OR, contact Oliver Insurance. With that said, let’s go over some crucial tips for first-time home buyers.

Tips Every Home Buyer Should Consider

When buying a home, you want to consider your needs not only now but also in the near future. If you’re looking to start a family in a year or two, for example, you may want to pass on that beautiful one-bedroom condo downtown. You should consider more bedrooms, perhaps a yard, and access to good schools.

It’s smart to make sure you don’t stretch yourself too thin with a mortgage payment. A more affordable mortgage payment can provide financial breathing room. Keep in mind as well that your mortgage won’t be the only monthly cost. You may have to pay property taxes and likely will have to take out a home insurance policy. Lenders usually require home insurance because the right insurance coverage protects the collateral (typically the home bought) that the mortgage is backed up by.

When looking at homes, it’s smart to bring in outside experts to inspect them for damage, expensive repairs needed, and other factors. Lenders may also require inspections. Likewise, folks shopping for home insurance should chat with experts. If you need assistance in Canby, OR, contact Oliver Insurance.

Three Ways to Reduce the Risk of a Home Insurance Claim

Posted on May 15, 2024May 9, 2024 by agentinsure

Ensuring your home in Canby, OR, remains safe and secure provides peace of mind and can significantly reduce the likelihood of having to file a home insurance claim. At Oliver Insurance, we believe in helping our clients take preemptive measures to protect their homes. Here are three ways you can reduce the risk of something happening.

1. Install a Security System

A robust home security system is one of the most effective deterrents against burglaries and break-ins. Modern systems offer features like remote monitoring, alerts, and even integration with local law enforcement.

By installing a security system, you can protect their property and may also qualify for discounts on your homeowner’s premiums. We at Oliver Insurance can help you check what security systems might qualify for a discount.

2. Clear Bushes From Around Your Home

Large bushes can provide cover for burglars if the bushes are close to your home. It’s harder to be seen opening a locked window if there’s a bush that provides concealment, rather than having to do so in the open.

Remove any bushes that are right up against your house to give would-be burglars less cover.

3. Upgrade to Storm-Resistant Windows

Canby, OR, like many areas, can experience severe weather conditions that pose risks to standard windows. Upgrading to storm-resistant windows may better protect your home from damage caused by high winds and flying debris.

Keep Your Home Protected

Make sure your home is as protected as possible. You’ll reduce the risk of something happening and of having to file a home insurance claim against your policy. Contact us today to ensure your home is properly insured in case something still happens.

Three Types of Protection in Home Insurance

Posted on January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by agentinsure

Owning a home generally requires you to have a home insurance policy. Even if a policy isn’t required for you, it’s important never to go without this insurance. These policies come with several different kinds of coverage in them. When you need home insurance in Canby, OR, call us at Oliver Insurance to learn more.

Home Protection

First and foremost, home insurance protects your home against damaging events. It can pay for the repairs you’ll need after such an event causes damage. The cost of repairs or rebuilding can be sky-high, so you need this essential protection in case of a destructive event. Without this coverage, you’d be responsible for all the repair costs.

Item Protection

Another type of coverage included in a home policy is protection for your items inside your home. Most of what you own, if not all of it, is inside your home. It’s also vulnerable to damaging events that can cause destruction to your home as well as your belongings. This coverage can help you replace your items after they have been highly damaged or otherwise destroyed. Replacing everything can be extremely expensive, and no one wants to be left without a policy to cover it all.

Liability Protection

When you have a home insurance policy, it also comes with a layer of liability coverage. This protects you financially in case an accident happens on your property to someone outside your household. It pays for things like medical expenses after such an accident to protect you financially. Many people don’t give a lot of thought to this coverage, but it’s important to have.

Get a Home Insurance Policy

When you need a home policy, we’re here to help. Call us today at Oliver Insurance in Canby, OR, to get started.

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