with Tyler Beverage
If you live near the water (or plan to), insurance isn’t just a checkbox — it’s part of the strategy. In Episode 006 of the ILMrealtor Podcast, I’m joined by Tyler Beverage of FinPoint Insurance Group to break down coastal coverage in real-life terms: what homeowners insurance actually covers, what it doesn’t, and how flood, wind, boats, golf carts, and even e-bikes fit into the picture.
Hey friend — I’m Tabetha (Tabi) Klein, aka theILMrealtor. I help people buy and sell homes in Wilmington, North Carolina (and all over New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender). My goal with this podcast is to make homeownership feel way less intimidating — and a lot more doable.
Watch or listen: YouTube · Spotify · makingilmhome.com · @theILMrealtor
Why this matters in Wilmington
Living near the coast is the dream — beaches, boating, salty air, sunrise runs… all of it. But coastal living also means insurance can get confusing fast: flood maps, wind deductibles, “named storm” language, older roofs, older plumbing, and that one question everyone asks: “Is this covered… or not?”
What we cover in this episode
- Homeowners vs. Flood Insurance: what’s included, what’s not, and why flood is usually separate
- Wind + named storm deductibles: how they work and why they can change your out-of-pocket costs
- Water damage vs. flood: two words that sound similar… and mean very different things
- Boats + water toys: how coverage often works (and what people forget to ask)
- Golf carts + e-bikes: when you need a separate policy or endorsement
- Umbrella policies: the “quiet hero” that can protect you when life gets messy
The coastal insurance “gotchas” I see all the time
- Flood insurance is usually separate. Even if your lender doesn’t require it, it may still be smart depending on your risk tolerance and location.
- Wind deductibles can be percentage-based. That means your deductible might be a percentage of the dwelling coverage — not a flat amount.
- “Water damage” ≠ “flood.” A busted supply line is different than water entering from rising ground water or storm surge.
- Older roofs and systems can impact coverage or pricing. Not always a dealbreaker — just something to plan for early.
Quick Definitions (No-Dumb-Questions Edition)
Premium: what you pay for the policy (monthly or annually).
Deductible: what you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in.
Endorsement: an add-on that extends or changes coverage for a specific item or risk.
Exclusion: something the policy does not cover.
*Note: Always talk to a licensed insurance professional about your specific situation. This post is educational and not insurance advice.
My “before you close” insurance checklist (save this)
- Ask early: Get quotes as soon as you’re under contract (or even before, if possible).
- Confirm deductibles: Especially wind / named storm deductibles.
- Ask about flood: Required or not — understand the risk and the option.
- List your toys: Boats, golf carts, e-bikes, trailers — ask how they’re covered.
- Understand replacement cost vs. actual cash value: This matters when you file a claim.
- Consider umbrella coverage: If you want extra liability protection, ask about it.
Local ILM takeaway
In Wilmington, two homes can be five minutes apart and have completely different insurance considerations. That’s why I love having pros like Tyler in my corner — so we can help you make decisions with your eyes open, not crossed.
About our guest: Tyler Beverage (FinPoint Insurance Group)
Tyler Beverage is an Account Executive at FinPoint Insurance Group in Wilmington. Born and raised in Pender County, Tyler spent years as a licensed real estate agent before moving into insurance — which is exactly why he takes an education-first approach and explains coverage in clear, simple terms. Outside of work, he’s usually cooking, boating, or spending time outdoors with his family.
Website: finpointinsurance.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (910) 218-2669
Facebook: Tyler Beverage
Want help planning your move (and your costs) the smart way?
If you’re thinking about buying in Wilmington (or you already live here and want a second set of eyes on the “what should I expect?” stuff), call or text me at 910-983-8963, visit www.makingilmhome.com, or DM me on Instagram @theILMrealtor. I’m happy to help you map out your next steps.
PS: If this episode helped you, share it with a friend moving to coastal North Carolina — it’ll save them a headache later.
Tabetha Klein | Making ILM Home — REALTOR® • Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage • 910-983-8963 • www.makingilmhome.com • @theILMrealtor
This podcast is for general education and local insight, not insurance advice. Coverage details vary from one situation to the next — always talk with a licensed insurance professional about your specific property and goals. Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.