For many Texas homeowners, homeowners insurance has become a much bigger consideration than a box to check at closing. Rising premiums, changing coverage options, severe weather and higher rebuilding costs are making insurance an increasingly important part of the real estate conversation.

For Realtors, that creates an opportunity to help clients understand an often-overlooked part of homeownership: making sure the property is adequately protected.

The Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS® encourages Realtors to remind clients that insurance coverage deserves a regular review, not just when buying or selling a home.

Affordability, availability and adequacy

Texas homeowners are facing three significant insurance challenges: affordability, availability and adequacy of coverage.

Insurance costs can significantly affect a homeowner’s overall housing budget. At the same time, some homeowners may find fewer coverage options depending on the property, location, age of the roof or other risk factors.

But affordability isn’t the only issue. Homeowners also need to make sure the coverage they have is sufficient to protect their investment.

Severe weather events, including hail, wind and storms, can create significant damage. Meanwhile, rising construction and labor costs can increase the expense of repairing or rebuilding a home. A policy that adequately covered a property several years ago may not provide the same level of protection today.

Realtors don’t need to be insurance experts, but they can encourage clients to ask the right questions and work with a qualified insurance professional.

Encourage buyers to shop before they make an offer

For buyers, insurance should be part of the home-shopping process, not an afterthought once they’ve signed a contract. And in a state like Texas where there are few insurance companies, the cost can price buyers out of a home.

Before making an offer, buyers should consider getting an insurance quote for the property they’re considering. The cost and availability of coverage can vary based on factors such as the home’s age, roof condition, construction materials, claims history and location.

Understanding those costs early can help buyers evaluate the home’s true cost of ownership and avoid surprises later.

Realtors can also encourage buyers to compare coverage, not just premiums. The least expensive policy isn’t necessarily the best value if it leaves significant gaps in protection.

Sellers have insurance responsibilities, too

Sellers should also pay attention to their coverage during the transaction. Maintaining appropriate insurance through the closing process matters, especially because unexpected damage can occur while a property is under contract.

Sellers should talk with their insurance provider about the transaction timeline and understand when they can change or cancel coverage. Buyers, meanwhile, should make sure their own coverage begins at closing, as appropriate.

Realtors can help keep insurance on the client’s checklist and encourage buyers and sellers to communicate directly with their insurance professionals.

Look beyond the premium

A policy review should go beyond asking, “How much is my premium?”

Homeowners should understand their dwelling coverage, deductibles, exclusions and limits, as well as whether the policy provides adequate protection for the cost of rebuilding the home. They should also ask about coverage for personal belongings, additional living expenses and other potential risks.

Flooding is another important consideration. Standard homeowners insurance generally does not cover flood damage, so homeowners in flood-prone areas should discuss whether separate flood insurance is appropriate.

Finally, homeowners should review their policies after major changes, such as remodeling, purchasing expensive belongings or making other significant changes to the property or household.

For Realtors, the takeaway is straightforward: Insurance is part of the homeownership conversation.

By encouraging clients to review coverage regularly, shop thoughtfully and consult with insurance professionals before buying or selling, Realtors can help clients make more informed decisions and better understand the true costs and risks associated with homeownership.

In today’s Texas housing market, helping clients prepare for the unexpected is another way Realtors demonstrate their value long after the “Sold” sign goes up.

Shawn Buck is the 2026 President of the Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS®.