09/05/2026
🔥 This FOX 10 story caught my attention, and I wanted to share it because I think homeowners and homebuyers in the White Mountains really need to be aware of what’s happening with homeowners insurance.
With some insurance companies dropping or not renewing policies because of wildfire risk, insurance needs to be considered much earlier in the buying and selling process.
For homeowners, now is a good time to look at your property and see what you can do to make it more firewise. Things like clearing vegetation, creating defensible space, and addressing areas around your roof, decks, siding and other parts of the home may become increasingly important. If you’re thinking about selling, taking care of these things before listing could also help when a buyer needs to get insurance.
For buyers, don’t wait until the last minute. During your inspection period, talk with an insurance professional, get quotes and verify that coverage is available and what requirements may apply. If you’re getting a loan, your lender will require insurance, and the premium is generally paid upfront at closing. Changing insurance at the last minute can require the lender and escrow company to rebalance the closing figures and potentially delay closing.
There are resources available to research wildfire risk, but those maps don’t determine whether a specific home can be insured. Insurance companies have their own guidelines and evaluate each property individually.
As an agent who works in the White Mountains, Insurance is something we are talking about more and more. It needs to be part of the conversation when you’re thinking about buying or selling a home.
Homeowners in Heber-Overgaard describe being dropped by long-term insurance carriers despite spending thousands on Firewise property improvements. State committees are reviewing regulatory responses. DETAILS ⬇️
