Name: Avalue Insurance
Address: 7700 E Arapahoe Rd., Ste. 330, Centennial, CO, 80112
Telephone: 303-773-3332

Insurance Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Posted on August 25, 2024August 25, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

What You Need to Know Before You Buy

So, you’re buying your first home. Congratulations! This is a huge milestone, and you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and stress. From picking out the perfect paint colors to figuring out where to put the couch, there’s a lot to think about. But before you start decorating, there’s one important thing you need to check off your list: home insurance.

If you’re scratching your head thinking, “Where do I even begin,” then don’t worry. You’re not alone. Many first-time buyers aren’t sure where to begin with home insurance. That’s why we’re here to break it down for you! Here’s everything you need to know about home insurance.

What Does Home Insurance Actually Cover?

Think of home insurance as your protection against those worst-case-scenarios — like if your roof springs a leak, a fire breaks out, or your belongings are stolen. Here’s a quick rundown of what a typical policy covers:

Dwelling Coverage: This protects the actual structure of your home—walls, roof, floors, etc. If a covered disaster like a fire or storm damages your house, your insurance helps pay for repairs.
Personal Property: All the stuff inside your house—furniture, electronics, clothing—falls under personal property coverage. If your things are stolen or damaged, your insurance helps replace them.
Liability Protection: If someone gets hurt on your property (say your neighbor trips on a loose step), liability coverage can help pay for their medical expenses and protect you if they sue.
Additional Living Expenses: If your home is unlivable due to a covered disaster, this coverage helps pay for temporary housing and other costs while repairs are being made.

Why Do You Need Home Insurance?

Besides giving you peace of mind, most mortgage lenders actually require you to have home insurance before they’ll approve your loan. So, it’s not just a good idea; it’s a must. Plus, having the right coverage means you won’t be left footing a hefty bill if something unexpected happens. Trust us, you don’t want to be stuck paying for a new roof out of pocket!

Tips for Choosing the Right Home Insurance

Now that you know why home insurance is so important, here are a few tips to help you choose the right policy:

Shop Around: Don’t just settle for the first quote you get. Compare policies from different companies to find the best coverage at the best price.
Know What You Need: Consider the value of your home and belongings, as well as the risks in your area (like flooding or earthquakes), to determine how much coverage you need.
Understand Your Policy: Make sure you know what’s covered—and what’s not. Ask questions if anything isn’t clear, so there are no surprises later.
Bundle Your Insurance: Many companies offer discounts if you bundle your home insurance with other policies, like auto insurance. It’s a great way to save some cash!
Review Your Policy Annually: Your insurance needs can change over time, so it’s a good idea to review your policy every year to make sure you’re still adequately covered.

Ready to Protect Your New Home?

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so it’s worth taking the time to protect it with the right insurance. Whether you’re just starting your home search or you’ve already picked up the keys, Avalue Insurance is here to help you find the perfect policy for your new home.

Give us a call today at 303-773-3332, or request a call-back right here online! We’re all about making home insurance easy so you can get back to what really matters: enjoying your new home!

We Just Raised $5,000 for CrossPurpose

Posted on August 20, 2024August 20, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

(And You Can Help Us Raise More)

Many of you know me as “Sarah Lampard, the proud owner of Avalue Insurance and passionate CrossPurpose volunteer.” But today, I’m coming to you as “Sarah Lampard, the woman who really needs your support right now.”

See, “giving back” is something that I take very seriously, and right now, we are on the cusp of raising $10,000 for CrossPurpose. We just need your support to make it happen, and all it takes is a couple of clicks! Vote for Avalue Insurance at https://www.agentgiving.com/Avalue-Insurance/, and help us reach our goal for CrossPurpose!

What is CrossPurpose?

CrossPurpose has been a transformative force in central Colorado for many years. This ambitious non profit organization is committed to abolishing relational, economic, and spiritual poverty through career and community development. Avalue Insurance has been deeply involved with CrossPurpose (and our entire office even had the opportunity to sponsor and work the graduation program that took place at the South Denver location this past May)!

As a mentor, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many inspiring men and women. I’ve watched so many participants rise above their circumstances, achieve their career goals, and transform their lives. And I’ve got to tell you: I can’t wait to see many more!

That’s why I’m committed to doubling my impact for CrossPurpose.

We Just Hit our First Goal!

Recently, Avalue Insurance was honored with the 2024 Make More Happen Award, presented by Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance. This award was more than just a recognition of our volunteer work; it was an opportunity to make a real difference in our community. As part of this award, Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance awarded CrossPurpose, our nonprofit of choice, with a $5,000 donation.

But Now, We’re on a Mission to Double It.

Here’s where we really need your help: we have the chance to double that donation to $10,000, and all it takes is a few clicks!

Avalue Insurance is currently being featured on the official Make More Happen microsite. If we receive at least 500 votes and comments on our story, Liberty Mutual and Safeco will double their donation to $10,000! This additional funding will go directly towards covering the tuition costs for CrossPurpose participants. These funds will help them gain industry-recognized certifications in fields like commercial driving, nursing, insurance, and trade skills, setting them on a path toward stable, career-track employment. (I can’t emphasize enough how life-changing this support will be for the men and women involved!)

Voting is simple and only takes a minute, but the impact you’ll have is long-lasting. Your support will help thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs gain access to the training and certifications they’ll need to build brighter futures for themselves and for their families.

So, Can We Make it Happen?

The suspense is killing me!

I’m so proud of the work we’ve done so far, but we’re not done yet. We’ve reached our first goal of raising $5,000, and now we’re aiming to hit that second $5,000 mark. Every vote and comment on our story brings us closer to making that happen. So please, take a moment to visit our story on the Make More Happen microsite, cast your vote, and leave a comment. Together, we can double the impact of this donation and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs in Colorado.

Thank you so much for your continued support! To help us reach our goal, please vote for us here:

Lifting up the business leaders of tomorrow

The Best Coverage for Road Tips

Posted on August 12, 2024August 12, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

Ensuring a Safe and Insured Adventure

Ah, the open road! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of freedom that comes with hitting the highway for a summer road trip. Before the autumn leaves start falling, it’s time to pack your bags, fill up the gas tank, and, most importantly, make sure your insurance is ready to roll with you. Let’s dive into the types of auto insurance coverage you’ll need to enjoy a great summer road trip without turning it into a comedy of errors.

General Liability Coverage: A Road Trip Essential

First things first, let’s talk about general liability coverage. This is the backbone of your auto insurance policy, covering you if you’re responsible for causing injury to others or damaging someone else’s property. Think of it as your safety net for those “Oops, I didn’t see that stop sign” moments. It keeps your wallet intact while you keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.

Collision Coverage: When Bumps in the Road Aren’t Metaphorical

Next up is collision coverage. Picture this: you decide to make a pit stop when suddenly, a rogue shopping cart comes out of nowhere. Boom! Collision coverage helps pay for the damages to your car, whether you hit another vehicle (or that shopping cart had a mind of its own).

Theft Coverage: Keeping Your Ride Secure

As you travel through different states and towns, you’ll want to ensure your car is protected from any native thieves. Theft coverage will cover the costs if your vehicle is stolen. So, lock your doors, hide your valuables, and sleep soundly knowing that your theft coverage will you’re your back.

Coverage for Animal Damage: When Wildlife Gets a Little Too Friendly

Speaking of unexpected encounters, what if Bambi decides to introduce himself to your front bumper? Animal damage coverage has you covered for any wildlife encounters that go beyond a friendly wave. From deer to raccoons, this coverage ensures you’re not left footing the bill after an unplanned wildlife meet-and-greet.

Roadside Assistance: Your Road Trip Savior

Flat tire? Dead battery? Run out of gas in the middle of nowhere? Roadside assistance can help. With a simple call, help is on the way, ensuring you’re back on the road faster than you can say “roadside rescue.”

Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Insurance: Protection Against the Unprepared

You’d be surprised how many motorists are underinsured, or even completely uninsured! Trust us: the last thing you want to deal with on a road trip is an unexpected hit-and-run and out-of-pocket expenses. Underinsured/uninsured motorist insurance protects you when someone without enough coverage (or any at all) crashes into you. You’ll be fully covered, even if the other driver was not.

Rental Reimbursement Policies: Keep the Adventure Rolling

If your car needs repairs due to a covered loss, rental reimbursement ensures you’re not stuck on the side of the road watching the fun drive by. This coverage helps pay for a rental car while yours is in the shop, so you can keep the adventure rolling without missing a beat.

Ready, Set, Road Trip!

Before you embark on your summer adventure, make sure your insurance is ready for every twist and turn. From protecting against wildlife and rogue shopping carts to roadside assistance for those unexpected circumstances, these coverage options will keep your road trip smooth and stress-free.

At Avalue Insurance, we’re here to help you find the perfect coverage for your summer adventures. We’ll make sure your road trips are fun, full of memories, and mostly importantly, fully insured. Contact us today to get started! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a call-back right here online!

A Night to Remember: Join Us for Another Cross Purpose Pitch Night

Posted on August 6, 2024August 6, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

As many of you already know, I have the incredible privilege of volunteering with an organization that’s close to my heart: Cross Purpose. For those of you who might not be familiar with it, Cross Purpose is a nonprofit based in Denver dedicated to helping individuals rise above poverty through career and community development. We call our participants “Change Agents” because they are exactly that — people who are determined to change their lives and, in turn, the world around them.

I’m thrilled to announce that, on September 11th at 6:00 PM at the DCPA Seawell Ballroom, we’re hosting one of our most exciting events of the year: Pitch Night! This is the night when our Change Agents take center stage to pitch their innovative ideas to a panel of expert “Dolphin” leaders and potential investors. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to showcase their hard work, creativity, and passion.

I’m thrilled to share that this year, the Mayor of Denver may be attending, along with several wealthy investors. This is a huge opportunity for our Change Agents, and we’re excited to celebrate the hard work and creativity of these aspiring entrepreneurs.

But I’m particularly excited to announce that Mercedes Covarrubias will be presenting at the upcoming Pitch Night. Mercedes, who I’ve had the joy of mentoring, is brimming with excitement to share her project. I can’t wait for everyone to see the amazing work she’s done!

Events like Pitch Night are what makes Cross Purpose so special. They provide a platform for our Change Agents to not only present their ideas but also to build confidence and expand their professional networks.

I’d love for you to join us for this incredible event. Whether you’re familiar with Cross Purpose or are curious about the work that we are doing, your presence would mean the world to us. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference in our community!

So, if you’re in the Denver area or can make the trip, I encourage you to RSVP for Pitch Night. Come be a part of something truly special and witness the power of dreams in action. Let’s cheer on Mercedes and all the Change Agents as they take this bold step towards achieving their goals.

To RSVP for Pitch Night, please visit: https://bebids.me/bidapp/index.php?slug=crosspurpose

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We hope to see you on September 11th!

Fictional Characters and the Insurance They Would Need

Posted on August 1, 2024August 1, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

Have you ever wondered what kind of insurance coverage your favorite fictional characters would need? After all, fictional characters tend to lead some pretty exciting lives! So what would it take to cover the damages of characters like Tony Stark, Marty McFly, and (dare I say) Michael Scott? Let’s talk about it!

Restaurant Insurance for Monica Geller

Monica Geller from Friends would need top-notch restaurant insurance for her dream bistro. This policy would cover everything from property damage to liability in case a customer has a not-so-friendly encounter with one of her experimental dishes. Avalue Insurance could also provide business interruption insurance, ensuring Monica’s restaurant stays afloat if she ever needs to close temporarily. Plus, she’d get peace of mind knowing her prized kitchen equipment is protected.

Cyber Insurance for Tony Stark

Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, is a tech genius with countless inventions and a massive tech company. With great technology comes great responsibility – and risk. Tony would definitely need cyber insurance to protect against data breaches, hacking attempts, and other cyber threats that could jeopardize Stark Industries. This coverage would help him protect his intellectual property and keep his advanced tech safe from cyber villains.

Business Insurance for Leslie Knope

Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation is the ultimate government employee, but let’s imagine she starts her own nonprofit organization. Leslie would need business insurance to cover liability issues, property damage, and any potential lawsuits. This way, she can focus on making Pawnee a better place without worrying about unexpected setbacks.

Auto Insurance for Marty McFly

Marty McFly’s DeLorean is no ordinary car, so standard auto insurance just wouldn’t cut it. With time travel capabilities, he’d need a custom auto insurance policy covering everything from high-speed chases to potential damage from 1955 lightning strikes. Flux capacitor coverage? Absolutely!

General Liability Insurance for Michael Scott

Michael Scott from The Office is always up to some kind of shenanigan that could easily result in a lawsuit. General liability insurance would be perfect for Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton branch, covering any potential legal issues arising from Michael’s well-meaning but often misguided actions. This would help protect the company from financial losses and keep the office running smoothly.

Need Insurance Help? Call Us!

Just like these fictional characters, real life can be unpredictable. But having the right insurance coverage can make all the difference. At Avalue Insurance, we’re here to help you find the perfect policies to fit your needs. Whether it’s home, auto, business, or any other type of insurance, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect you and your loved ones from life’s unexpected twists and turns!

9 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know Were Insurable

Posted on July 19, 2024July 19, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

When you think about insurance, the usual suspects come to mind: cars, homes, health, maybe even your smartphone. But did you know there are some pretty surprising things out there that people have taken out insurance policies for? Yep, insurance isn’t just for the obvious stuff. Here are some of the most unexpected and quirky things people have insured.

1). Celebrity Body Parts

This one might sound bizarre, but it’s true! Celebrities often insure their body parts. Take, for example, soccer legend David Beckham, who insured his legs for a whopping $195 million. Then there’s singer Mariah Carey, who insured her vocal cords for $35 million and even her legs for another $35 million. It’s all about protecting what brings in the big bucks!

2). Taste Buds

Top food critics and wine tasters sometimes insure their taste buds. It’s their livelihood, after all. Insurance for a professional taster’s taste buds can run into the millions. Imagine the stress of losing the ability to taste when your career depends on it!

3). Fantasy Football

For the die-hard fantasy football fans, there’s insurance to cover the cost of their league fees if a star player gets injured. This can save you from financial heartbreak if your number one draft pick goes down in the first game of the season.

4). Lottery Wins

Some companies take out insurance policies to cover lottery wins in employee syndicates. This way, if a group of employees hits the jackpot and decides to quit, the company isn’t left in the lurch trying to replace everyone at once.

5). Beards and Mustaches

A beard insurance policy might sound like a joke, but it’s a real thing. For example, members of the facial hair club might insure their prized beards and mustaches. And it’s not just for looks; professional Santa Clauses and actors whose roles depend on their facial hair might also insure their whiskers.

6). Weddings

Of course, we all know that weddings can be expensive, but did you know you can insure the entire event? Wedding insurance can cover everything from a ruined dress to a no-show vendor, or even if the bride or groom gets cold feet and cancels the big day. It’s all about making sure your special day doesn’t turn into a financial nightmare.

7). Hole-in-One

Golf tournaments often offer big prizes for a hole-in-one. The sponsors of these prizes don’t want to foot the bill themselves, so they take out insurance policies. That way, if someone does get that perfect shot, the insurance company covers the cost of the prize, whether it’s a luxury car or a cash prize.

8). Voices

If you’re a professional voice artist, singer, or even a public speaker, insuring your voice is a smart move. It’s the same concept as athletes insuring their legs. If something happens to your vocal cords, insurance can provide financial support while you recover.

9). Espresso Machines

This one might seem a little mundane compared to beards and lottery wins, but high-end coffee shops often insure their espresso machines. These machines can be incredibly expensive, and any downtime can mean lost revenue.

Ready to Cover Your Bases?

Insurance isn’t just for the standard stuff; there’s a policy for almost anything you can think of. So, if you have something unique or valuable that you want to protect, it might be worth looking into some unexpected insurance options.

At Avalue Insurance, we offer a wide variety of insurance policies. From life insurance to business insurance, we’ve got you covered. And while we can’t insure your prized beard or your fantasy football team, we can help you protect the things that matter most to you and your family! Contact us today to explore your insurance options!

How Commercial Insurance Can Save Your Business from Financial Crisis

Posted on July 19, 2024July 5, 2024 by admin

Conducting business in Centennial, CO, presents its fair share of risks and uncertainties. Fortunately, acquiring commercial insurance can be a game-changer for your business. This essential safety net can keep your business afloat in challenging times, especially during a financial crisis. Let’s delve into how commercial insurance can play a crucial role in these situations.

Unexpected Property Damage

Whether due to natural disasters or accidents, sudden property damage can severely impact your business finances. Commercial insurance helps cover the costs of such unforeseen repairs or replacements, sparing your business from significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Liability Claims

In today’s litigious society, a single liability claim can derail your business and lead to sizable financial losses. Commercial liability insurance helps shoulder the financial burden resulting from such claims, notably legal defense costs, judgments, or settlements.

Business Interruption

Certain unforeseen events can halt your business operations, leading to loss of income. Here, business interruption insurance, a common inclusion in commercial insurance policies, compensates for lost revenues, thereby safeguarding your business during a financial dip.

Employee Injuries

If an employee suffers a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation insurance helps cover medical expenses and wage replacement. This coverage, part of most commercial insurance policies, thus protects your business from potential financial strain.

In conclusion, commercial insurance can be a lifesaver for your business during a financial crisis, covering a plethora of risk scenarios. By leveraging its benefits, businesses in Centennial, CO, can navigate through challenging times and protect their long-term financial health.

Do New Parents Need Life Insurance?

Posted on July 12, 2024July 12, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

It’s Never Too Early to Start Planning for Your Baby’s Future!

First off, congratulations on the newest addition to your family! As you navigate the sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and countless baby giggles, there’s something else you might need to think about: life insurance. And while it doesn’t sound nearly as exciting as picking out cute onesies or planning the first birthday party, it could be one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make for your baby’s future. And hey, it’s never too early to start planning for their future, right?

So, let’s talk about why new parents need life insurance and how you can get started right away. And don’t worry; it’s quick and easy, so you’ll be finished before the baby wakes up!

Why New Parents Need Life Insurance

Becoming a parent changes everything. Suddenly, you’re responsible for this tiny human, and you want to make sure that they’re taken care of no matter what. That’s where life insurance comes in. Here are a few reasons why it’s crucial for new parents:

Financial Security for Your Child: In the unfortunate event that something happens to you, life insurance can provide financial support for your child’s upbringing, education, and other needs.
Covering Outstanding Debts: The last thing you would want to do is leave your baby with debt! If you have a mortgage, car loan, or other debts, life insurance can help cover these costs so your family isn’t burdened.
Replacing Lost Income: If you’re the primary breadwinner, life insurance can replace your income, ensuring your family maintains their standard of living.
Support for a Stay-at-Home Parent: If one parent stays home to care for the baby, losing the working parent’s income could be extremely challenging. In the event that the working parent dies, life insurance can provide financial support, allowing the stay-at-home parent to continue providing care without needing to rush back to work. This also works in reverse, too; if the stay-at-home parent dies, then life insurance will rush in to help support the working parent, covering childcare costs and various other expenses.
Ensuring Your Child’s Future Financial Needs: In some cases, life insurance can help with setting up funds for your child’s future needs, such as starting a business, college tuition, or any other significant life events. This provides a cushion that can support them in achieving their dreams.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your baby will be taken care of can give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the joy of raising your child.

How to Choose the Right Life Insurance Policy

Okay, so you’re convinced that life insurance is a must. But how do you choose the right policy? Here are some tips to help you out:

Determine How Much Coverage You Need: Consider your financial obligations and how much money your family would need to maintain their lifestyle. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a policy that’s 10-12 times your annual income.
Choose Between Term and Permanent Life Insurance: Term life insurance covers you for a specific period (like 20 or 30 years) and is usually more affordable. Permanent life insurance, on the other hand, covers you for your entire life and has a cash value component.
Consider Your Budget: Look for a policy that provides adequate coverage without straining your budget. Remember, the best policy is one you can afford to keep.
Look at the Fine Print: Pay attention to the policy details, including exclusions, riders (additional benefits), and renewal options.
Talk to a Trusted Professional: Speak with an insurance agent you can trust. They’ll help you navigate your options and find a policy that fits your needs.

Let’s Make It Easy

Trust us, we get it. Life insurance can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling the demands of a new baby. That’s why we’re here to help. At Avalue Insurance, we understand the unique needs of new parents, and we’re committed to making the process as smooth as possible.

Ready to take the plunge? Contact Avalue Insurance today to claim your personalized life insurance consultation! Our friendly agents are here to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect policy to protect your family’s future. Don’t wait! Secure your baby’s future today! Give us a call at 303-773-3332, or request a call-back!

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Commercial Auto Insurance

Posted on July 8, 2024July 8, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Here are the top mistakes that people make when buying commercial auto insurance:
- Underestimating Coverage Needs
- Not Including All Drivers
- Ignoring Vehicle Types and Uses
- Choosing the Wrong Deductible
- Overlooking Additional Coverage Options
- Failing to Review Policies Regularly
- Neglecting Employee Training
- Not Shopping Around
- Ignoring the Fine Print
- Skipping Professional Advice

Commercial auto insurance is crucial for any business that relies on vehicles. Whether it’s a delivery service, a construction company, or a delivery business, your company vehicles deserve the best possible coverage. But navigating the world of commercial auto insurance can be tricky, and many business owners make avoidable mistakes that can cost them dearly in the long run. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them when you’re insurance-shopping.

10 Mistakes People Make When Shopping for Commercial Auto Insurance

1). Underestimating Coverage Needs

One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating how much coverage you actually need. Many business owners opt for the minimum coverage required by law, thinking it will save them money. But this can actually leave you vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket expenses if an accident occurs. It’s crucial to evaluate your specific risks and ensure your policy covers all potential scenarios, including liability, property damage, and medical costs.

2). Not Including All Drivers

Another common mistake is not listing all the drivers who will be using the insured vehicles. Insurance companies need to know who will be driving the vehicles to assess the risk accurately. Failing to include all drivers can result in denied claims if an unlisted driver gets into an accident. Make sure you provide a comprehensive list of all employees who might drive the company vehicles, even if they only do so occasionally.

3). Ignoring Vehicle Types and Uses

Commercial auto insurance policies can vary significantly based on the type of vehicles you have and how they are used. A policy that’s perfect for a fleet of delivery vans might not be suitable for a construction company with heavy trucks. Be upfront about how each vehicle is used and ensure your policy is tailored to these specifics.

4). Choosing the Wrong Deductible

Selecting the right deductible is a balancing act. A higher deductible can lower your premiums but may require you to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim. And a lower deductible can increase your premium but reduces your out-of-pocket expenses. Consider your financial situation and risk tolerance carefully when choosing a deductible.

5). Overlooking Additional Coverage Options

Basic commercial auto insurance policies cover liability, collision, and comprehensive damage, but there are many additional coverage options that can provide extra protection. For instance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, roadside assistance, and rental reimbursement can be invaluable. Evaluate these add-ons and consider which ones make sense for your business. Skipping these options to save on premiums might leave you regretting it when an unexpected event occurs.

6). Failing to Review Policies Regularly

Business needs change over time, and so should your insurance policy. A common mistake is purchasing a commercial auto insurance policy and then neglecting to review it regularly. As your business grows or changes, your insurance needs will evolve. Schedule annual reviews of your policy with your insurance agent to ensure it still provides adequate coverage and adjust as necessary.

7). Neglecting Employee Training

Your drivers’ skills and behaviors have a direct impact on your insurance premiums and claims history. Neglecting to provide adequate training for your employees can lead to accidents and increased insurance costs. Implement a comprehensive driver training program to ensure all employees understand safe driving practices. This not only helps in reducing the likelihood of accidents but can also positively affect your insurance rates.

8). Not Shopping Around

Loyalty to a single insurance provider might seem convenient, but it can prevent you from finding the best rates and coverage options. The commercial auto insurance market is competitive, and rates can vary significantly between providers. Take the time to shop around and compare quotes from different insurers. This doesn’t mean you have to switch providers every year, but regularly comparing options can ensure you’re getting the best deal.

9). Ignoring the Fine Print

Insurance policies are filled with fine print that can be easily overlooked. But ignoring these details can lead to misunderstandings about what is and isn’t covered. Take the time to read through your policy thoroughly and ask your insurance agent to explain any confusing terms or conditions. Understanding the fine print will help you avoid surprises when you need to file a claim.

10). Skipping Professional Advice

One of the biggest mistakes is trying to navigate commercial auto insurance without professional advice. Insurance agents and brokers specialize in different policies and can provide some much-needed guidance.

Ready to start shopping for commercial auto insurance with a seasoned professional? Contact Avalue Insurance today! We’ll help you find the right policy at the right price. Give us a call today at 303-773-3332 or request a call-back right here online!

A Rocky Road to Success

Posted on June 28, 2024June 28, 2024 by Emilie Hagopian

The Inspirational Journey of Mercedes Covarrubias

Every once in a while, you meet someone whose resilience and determination are so inspiring that their story must be shared. Mercedes Covarrubias is one such individual. It has been my privilege to watch her transform her challenging past into a promising future as she recently launched her own bookkeeping business. Her journey is a testament to her tenacity, drive, and unwavering spirit.

A Tough Start

Mercedes has always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit – one that was born out of both determination and survival. Raised in “the projects” of Denver, Colorado, Mercedes grew up in a severely poverty-stricken home.

“My mom would send me to the store and tell me to buy the cheapest candies with food stamps so she could get change for cigarettes or beer,” says Mercedes.

Although she was never taught or shown how to budget or live within her means, Mercedes managed to learn the value of money on her own at a very young age. She took a shine to the idea of saving and earning money, and by the age of 13, she landed her very first job at a car wash. This job marked the beginning of her bumpy journey towards financial independence, and eventually, business ownership.

Early Struggles and Hard Lessons

Mercedes’ childhood was far from easy. With her mother often drunk and her older brother in charge, any money she earned was frequently given to her family. Despite these challenges, she persisted, securing multiple jobs to make ends meet. By the time she was 14, Mercedes had obtained a work permit and was working as much as legally possible, taking on three jobs to ensure that she could help her family.

The Turning Point

At age 16, Mercedes and her siblings were taken from their mother, a turning point that led her to seek emancipation. Through this process, she learned how to budget and responsibly spend and save her money. At 18, she moved into her first place and secured a full time job at Elitch Gardens Human Resources. Having achieved a sense of independence, Mercedes was feeling excited for the future. But she would soon take on the massive responsibility of raising her 10-year-old brother, forcing her to learn very quickly how to become a provider.

Overcoming Adversity

The weight of responsibility was a heavy one for Mercedes, and the pressure would only continue to mount when she went from “provider” to “young mother”. She gave birth to her first son at age 19, and then she gave birth to her second son very soon after. All the while, she was still raising her kid brother. Despite these hardships, Mercedes never lost sight of her goal: to make sure her kids never grow up the way she did.

Embracing a New Life

After years of working numerous jobs and climbing the career ladder, Mercedes’ life suddenly came to an abrupt halt when she suffered a severe ATV accident. Being the busy-body that she is, she was reluctant to take time off of work to recover. But during her recovery, she had a revelation: she was ready to start her own business. Armed with her tried-and-true financial skills, Mercedes decided to open her own bookkeeping business. While Mercedes started her entrepreneurial journey with no prior business ownership experience, her knack for problem-solving was her greatest asset. Her path took a significant turn when she connected with Cross Purpose, where she was connected with a Change Agent (yours truly) and invaluable resources. With plenty of expert guidance and emotional support behind her, she quickly progressed through the program, gaining invaluable insights and practical tools that would later help her launch her business. Her determination paid off, and she is now the proud owner of her very own bookkeeping business, A Breeze Bookkeeping and Tax— an achievement that still fills me with tremendous pride to this day.

A Bright Future

Mercedes Covarrubias is a shining example of resilience and determination. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful business owner is nothing short of inspirational. Mercedes’ story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and a whole lot of determination, you can overcome any obstacle.

I am so honored to have been a part of her journey, and I’m excited to see where her determination takes her next. Mercedes, your journey has only just begun, and I have no doubt that you will continue to achieve great things. Here’s to your continued success and the incredible future that lies ahead!

Check out her website at:

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