In this day and age, it's wise to choose a home insurance company that's easily accessible online. Why? We live in a world of extreme technological advances, and sometimes writing letters or waiting forever on customer service to get to your call just doesn't make sense. So, as you search for a homeowner insurance company, keep these website characteristics in mind:

• Basic information – A home insurance website should clearly inform you about the specific kinds of homeowner insurance policies the company provides. Do they offer renter insurance? What about coverage for mobile homes? Find information specific to your needs.

• Agent information – Sure, it's nice to do most things online, but when it comes to making a major purchase such as homeowner insurance, you want to eventually speak with, and possibly meet, a live insurance agent. A great home insurance website will provide you with agent name, location, and contact information.

• Tools – Online tools make the overall process of purchasing homeowner insurance easier. Such a tool may be a rate calculator. Although the results may not be 100% accurate, they will give you an idea of what to expect. The element of surprise is not attractive when purchasing any kind of insurance!

• Control – Once again, with the advances in technology, we should be able to do many things online. If the home insurance website allows you to manage your account, pay your bills, and file claims online, it means they're interested in making things easier for you.

• Educational resources – Let's face it: Unless we work in the insurance industry it's highly unlikely any of us are experts. A great home insurance website will provide educational resources, such as a library of homeowner insurance-related articles, to peruse. It's easier to talk with a live insurance agent about your homeowner insurance needs if you have some knowledge base rather than just meeting an agent and saying “Help me.”