Ethan Jaeger
Ethan founded Six Corners Insurance after a career in management consulting at PwC and executive roles at a Chicago startup. He focuses on giving busy people real advice — comparing plans, explaining what actually matters, and helping clients across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota & Wisconsin find the right coverage. Based in Chicago.
Articles by Ethan
Openly Home Insurance in Indiana: Why We Recommend This Premium HO-5 Policy
Openly offers Indiana homeowners HO-5 coverage, guaranteed replacement cost, code upgrades for older homes, and add-ons like sump pump backup. What it covers, who it fits, and how to get a quote.
October 28, 2026
Openly Home Insurance in Illinois: Why Six Corners Recommends This Premium HO-5 Policy
Openly writes premium home insurance in Illinois on an HO-5 form: broader coverage for your belongings, guaranteed replacement cost, code upgrades for older Chicago homes, and add-ons like sewer backup. Why we recommend it.
October 27, 2026
Should You Bundle Home and Auto Insurance in Illinois? How Much You Really Save
Illinois bundle discounts run from 10% to 23%, but the biggest discount is not always the cheapest bundle. What bundling saves, when separate policies cost less, renters, condo, and umbrella bundles, and a checklist for comparing.
October 24, 2026
Hitting a Deer in Illinois: What Car Insurance Covers and What to Do
Illinois had 14,529 deer crashes in 2025, and Cook County led the state. How comprehensive coverage pays for a deer strike, why swerving changes your claim, Illinois reporting rules, and what to do after you hit a deer.
October 23, 2026
Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage: What Chicago Drivers Should Carry
What comprehensive and collision each cover, how car theft, break-ins, potholes, hail, and flooded streets play out in Chicago, how to pick deductibles, and when to drop coverage on an older car.
October 22, 2026
Home Insurance in Roscoe Village and North Center: A Chicago Neighborhood Guide
A neighborhood guide to homeowners insurance in Roscoe Village and North Center: frame cottages, two-flats, big renovations, basement water backup, and homes near the North Branch of the Chicago River.
October 20, 2026
Ice Dam Damage and Home Insurance in Illinois: What Is Covered This Winter
Does homeowners insurance cover ice dams? What Illinois policies usually pay for ice dam leaks, roof damage, and snow collapse, what they leave out, and how to prevent ice dams before the first snow.
October 19, 2026
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Illinois: What Chicago Drivers Need to Know
About one in seven Illinois drivers has no insurance. How uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage works, what Illinois requires, hit-and-run rules, and how much to carry.
October 14, 2026
Best Chicagoland Insurance Tips for October: A Fall Checklist for Home and Auto
October insurance tips for Chicago and the suburbs: deer season and comprehensive coverage, Halloween liability, furnace safety, fall storms, winter storage for boats and bikes, and renewal reviews.
October 11, 2026
Home Insurance in Portage Park, Jefferson Park, and Irving Park: A Bungalow Belt Guide
A neighborhood guide to homeowners insurance around Six Corners: brick bungalows, the Villa District, finished basements, water backup, and older wiring and plumbing.
October 9, 2026
New Homeowner Insurance Checklist for Wicker Park and Lincoln Park
Just moved into a greystone, rowhouse, or condo in Wicker Park or Lincoln Park? Here is the homeowners insurance checklist for your first 30 days.
October 8, 2026
First-Time Home Buyer Insurance Guide for Chicago and the Suburbs
What first-time home buyers in Chicago, Portage Park, Jefferson Park, Berwyn, and Des Plaines should know about homeowners insurance before closing.
October 7, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. Progressive: Which Is Better for Chicago Auto Insurance?
Compare Progressive with a Chicago independent insurance agency on Illinois auto limits, coverage choices, discounts, bundling, claims, and local service.
October 1, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. Travelers: Which Is Better for Chicago Home and Auto Insurance?
Compare Travelers with a Chicago independent insurance agency on home, auto, bundling, coverage choices, pricing, claims, and local service.
September 30, 2026
Insurance for Your Toys in Chicagoland: Bikes, Boats, ATVs, and More
A Chicago, Antioch, and Fox Lake guide to insuring bikes, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, golf carts, and other recreational toys when a home policy may not be enough.
September 29, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. Liberty Mutual: Which Is Better for Chicago Home and Auto Insurance?
Compare Liberty Mutual with a Chicago independent insurance agency on home, auto, bundling, coverage choices, pricing, claims, and local service.
September 28, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. Farmers: Which Is Better for Chicago Home and Auto Insurance?
Compare Farmers with a Chicago independent insurance agency on home, auto, bundling, coverage choices, claims support, pricing, and local service.
September 22, 2026
Chicago Renters Insurance: What It Covers and How to Choose a Policy
A practical Chicago renters insurance guide covering personal property, liability, loss of use, replacement cost, lease requirements, roommates, water risks, and how to compare quotes.
September 20, 2026
Condo Association Building Insurance in Chicago: What Your HOA Needs to Know
Does your condo association need building insurance? A Chicago guide to master-policy property coverage, common areas, liability, deductibles, water risks, and how unit-owner HO-6 policies fit alongside it.
September 17, 2026
Townhome Insurance in Chicago: What Owners Need to Know
Buying or owning a townhome in Chicago? Learn how HOA master policies, HO-6 or homeowners coverage, replacement cost, loss assessment, water backup, and liability fit together.
September 15, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. USAA: Which Is Better for Chicago Auto Insurance?
Compare USAA with a Chicago independent agency on eligibility, price, coverage choices, discounts, bundling, claims support, and local service.
September 14, 2026
GEICO Auto Insurance in Chicago: What Should Drivers Compare Before Buying?
Compare GEICO with a Chicago independent agency on Illinois auto coverage, price, discounts, claims support, local agents, bundling, and service.
September 13, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. COUNTRY Financial: Which Is Better for Illinois Home and Auto Insurance?
Compare COUNTRY Financial with a Chicago independent agency on Illinois home, auto, bundling, coverage choices, claims support, and local service.
September 9, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. Erie Insurance: Which Is Better for Chicago Home and Auto Insurance?
Compare Erie Insurance with a Chicago independent agency on home, auto, bundling, coverage choices, claims support, and local service.
September 8, 2026Chicago HOA Insurance: Master Policy, D&O, and Coverage Guide for Condo Boards
A Chicago HOA insurance guide for condo and townhome boards covering master policies, D&O, crime, water risks, deductibles, umbrella coverage, and HO-6 gaps.
September 6, 2026
State Farm vs. Six Corners Insurance: A Fair Chicago Home & Auto Comparison
A balanced comparison of State Farm and a Chicago independent agency for home, auto, bundling, coverage options, pricing, claims guidance, and local service.
September 5, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. Allstate: Which Is Better for Chicago Home and Auto Insurance?
Compare Allstate’s exclusive-agent model with a Chicago independent agency on home, auto, bundling, coverage choices, claims support, and local service.
August 24, 2026
Wicker Park Landlord Insurance: A Chicago Rental Property Guide
A practical Wicker Park landlord insurance checklist for Chicago two-flats, three-flats, condos, and mixed-use rental properties — building, rent, liability, water, and vacancy coverage.
August 19, 2026
Chicago Two-Flat Insurance: Owner-Occupied vs. Landlord Coverage
Own a Chicago two-flat? The right policy depends on who lives in each unit. A practical guide to owner-occupied coverage, landlord insurance, loss of rent, liability, and the gaps that surprise two-flat owners.
August 17, 2026
Six Corners Insurance vs. GEICO: Direct Carrier or Independent Agent?
GEICO quotes one company’s price; an independent agent quotes many. How the two models compare on price, coverage choice, claims support, and service for Chicago households.
August 13, 2026
Water in Your Basement: Which Insurance Coverage Applies?
Burst pipe, sewer backup, failed sump pump, rising groundwater, or a broken service line? The source of the water decides the coverage — and one incident can touch several policies at once.
August 7, 2026The Best Auto Insurance for Chicago Drivers: What Actually Matters
Illinois minimums leave Chicago drivers exposed. The coverages that matter most for city driving — real liability limits, uninsured motorist, comprehensive for theft and hail — and how to pay less without gutting the policy.
August 6, 2026
The Best Renters Insurance for Chicago Apartments: A Renter’s Guide
What your landlord’s policy doesn’t cover, what Chicago leases increasingly require, and the six questions that separate a solid renters policy from a cheap one — plus how bundling can make it cost close to nothing.
August 3, 2026
The Best Homeowners Insurance for Older Homes in Chicago: What Actually Matters
The best policy for a Chicago bungalow, greystone, or two-flat isn’t a brand — it’s replacement cost, ordinance or law coverage, roof settlement terms, and water endorsements matched to older housing stock.
July 29, 2026
Before the Next Midwest Storm: How to Prepare Your Home for Heavy Rain and High Winds
A practical Midwest homeowner checklist for securing the exterior, clearing drainage, preparing for power outages, and reviewing the insurance details that matter before the next severe storm.
July 21, 2026
Service Line Coverage in Chicago: What Homeowners Need to Know Before a Pipe Breaks
Who pays when a buried water, sewer, gas, or electrical line fails? A practical guide to the homeowner-owned side of Chicago service lines, what the optional endorsement can cover, how it differs from sewer-backup coverage, and what to check before a contractor starts digging.
July 24, 2026
Condo Insurance in Chicago: What Unit Owners Need Beyond the HOA Master Policy
Buying a condo in Chicago is one of the smartest ways to own real estate in the city — and one of the easiest places to leave coverage gaps. What the HOA master policy actually pays for, where it stops, and the HO-6 elements unit owners should never skip (loss assessment, sewer backup, walls-in coverage, and personal liability).
July 14, 2026
Sump Pump & Sewer Backup Coverage: What Illinois Homeowners Need to Know Before the Next Big Storm
A flooded basement is one of the most common — and most uninsured — losses a Midwest homeowner can suffer. What standard homeowners coverage actually pays (hint: less than you think), how water backup and sump discharge riders work, the right limits for Illinois homes, and the practical steps that keep your basement — and your wallet — dry.
July 3, 2026
Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Illinois: A Small Business Owner’s Guide
A practical guide for Illinois small-business owners on workers’ comp — what it covers, who must carry it under Illinois law, what it really costs, and the Chicago-area claims and misclassification pitfalls we see most.
June 26, 2026
Fireworks, Grilling & Backyard Liability: What Your Home Insurance Covers This Fourth of July
Hosting a Fourth of July cookout in the Midwest? Here’s what your homeowners policy covers for fireworks injuries, grill fires, and backyard guest accidents — plus where personal liability and umbrella coverage come in.
June 19, 2026
Hail & Summer Storm Damage: What Your Homeowners Policy Covers and How to File a Claim
June is peak hail and severe-storm season across the Midwest. What your homeowners policy actually covers for wind and hail, the deductible and roof-value surprises to check now, how to document damage, and how to file a claim the right way.
June 8, 2026
Adding a Teen Driver to Your Auto Policy: An Honest Midwest Parent’s Guide
Graduation season is here. What adding a teen really costs, the discounts that actually work, the umbrella conversation most parents aren’t having, and how to keep your premium from doubling overnight.
June 5, 2026
Boat & Watercraft Insurance in the Midwest: What Most Boaters Get Wrong
A practical guide for boat and PWC owners across IL, IN, MI, MN, and WI — what your homeowners policy actually covers, where it falls short, and the coverage to ask about before the season starts.
May 27, 2026
Why Midwest Home Insurance Rates Keep Climbing in 2026 — And What Illinois SB 1486 Could Change
Premiums are surging across IL, IN, MI, MN, and WI. Here’s what’s actually driving the hikes, what the new Illinois rate-regulation bill would do, and what homeowners can do right now.
May 22, 2026
Home Insurance in Bucktown: A Local Guide for Chicago Homeowners
A neighborhood guide for Bucktown homeowners on home insurance — vintage 2-flat replacement cost, sewer backup, service line coverage, and what we see locally.
May 8, 2026
Logan Square Home Insurance: What Chicago Homeowners Need to Know
A Logan Square neighborhood guide — vintage greystones, courtyard condos, loss assessment coverage, and the local gaps we see in policies.
May 6, 2026Lincoln Park Home Insurance: A Guide for Chicago Premium Properties
A Lincoln Park neighborhood guide for high-value home insurance — replacement cost, scheduled property, umbrella coverage, and the local considerations we see.
May 4, 2026Why Landlords in Arlington Heights Need Rental Property Insurance
A standard home policy may not cover a rental. Learn what landlord insurance protects — building, rent, liability — and what Arlington Heights owners should check.
July 16, 2026How Schaumburg Contractors Can Protect Their Tools and Equipment
Stolen tools stop jobs. Learn how commercial property, inland marine, and equipment coverage protect Schaumburg contractors — and where policies leave gaps.
July 16, 2026Chicago Landlord Insurance: A Practical Guide for Rental Property Owners
A practical guide for Chicago-area rental property owners on landlord insurance — dwelling fire coverage, loss of rent, liability, umbrella, and the local gaps (sewer backup, vacancy, short-term rentals) that cost owners the most.
April 23, 2026
Auto Insurance Essentials for Rideshare Drivers in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, & Minnesota
Ridesharing continues to grow across the Midwest as more people turn to Uber, Lyft, and similar platforms for flexible income. But many drivers don't realize their personal auto insurance doesn't fully protect them.
Mar 31, 2026
Why Personal Umbrella Insurance Is Worth a Second Look
Personal umbrella insurance is often overlooked, but it plays a key role in protecting your finances when standard policies fall short. As lawsuit costs continue to rise, many households are discovering that traditional limits aren't enough.
Mar 24, 2026
Spring Driving Safety Tips Every Driver Should Remember
Spring may seem like a safer driving season, but the warmer months come with their own set of challenges. Changing weather, increased road activity, and leftover winter damage all create conditions that require extra attention.
Mar 17, 2026
8 Common Insurance Myths You Should Stop Believing
Many homeowners and drivers rely on outdated or misunderstood information about insurance, which can lead to costly coverage gaps. Here's a fresh look at eight common myths along with the facts you should know.
Mar 10, 2026
Why Commercial Umbrella Insurance Is Essential Today
Commercial umbrella insurance has become increasingly important as legal costs and jury awards continue to rise. Many businesses rely on standard coverage, but those limits can run out quickly when a major claim occurs.
Feb 25, 2026
Essential Insurance Questions Every Small Business Owner Should Understand
Running a small business means juggling countless responsibilities, and insurance is often one area where many owners feel unsure. Here are the questions you should be asking.
Feb 18, 2026
Overlooked Home Insurance Riders: Are You Missing Crucial Coverage?
Many homeowners feel confident that their insurance policy protects them from nearly anything—until a claim proves otherwise. Some of the costliest risks require additional protection in the form of riders.
Feb 11, 2026
Understanding Umbrella Insurance: Extra Protection for Families & Small Businesses in the Midwest
Life can bring unexpected twists—accidents, lawsuits, and major claims that go far beyond the coverage in your home, auto, or small business policy. That's where umbrella insurance comes in.
Feb 3, 2026Auto Insurance 101: What Drivers in Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin & Minnesota Need to Know
Whether you're commuting through Chicago or navigating snowy Wisconsin backroads, having the right auto insurance matters. Every state has different requirements, and understanding your options helps you stay protected.
Jan 27, 2026How to File a Home Insurance Claim in Illinois: A Step-by-Step Guide
A step-by-step guide to filing a homeowners insurance claim in Illinois after storm, fire, water, or liability damage — what to do in the first 24–72 hours, how to document the loss, the Illinois-specific deductibles and sub-limits to know, and where an independent agent makes the biggest difference.
January 14, 2026
Maximize Your Home Insurance: Essential Riders You Might Be Missing
Many homeowners trust their insurance policies to cover every possible mishap, only to discover gaps during a claim. These vital coverage gaps can be filled with home insurance riders.
Dec 22, 2025
Ensure Your Holiday Treasures Are Protected
The holiday season is a time of joy, filled with the excitement of gift-giving. As we exchange treasures with loved ones, it's essential to remember the importance of protecting these valuable items.
Dec 15, 2025Is Your Home Underinsured? Understanding Rebuilding Costs
With rising construction costs, many homeowners face a critical challenge: their homes might be underinsured. This gap in coverage can lead to unexpected financial burdens when rebuilding costs climb higher than expected.
Dec 8, 2025
Essential Winter Prep Tips for Your Home
As the colder months approach, ensuring your home is safe and warm becomes a top priority. By taking proactive steps, you can prevent stress and costly insurance claims.
Dec 2, 2025
Smart Strategies to Save Money When Your Insurance Premiums Spike
Insurance is essential for protecting your assets and peace of mind, but what do you do when premiums spike unexpectedly? Here are practical strategies to help manage your costs effectively.
Nov 6, 2025
Understanding Umbrella Coverage: When Do You Need It?
While auto and home insurance are typically top of mind, one often overlooked but essential insurance policy is umbrella coverage. But what exactly is it, and when might you need it?
Oct 14, 2025
When to Re-shop Your Home and Auto Insurance Renewal
As life changes, so do your insurance needs. Re-shopping your home, auto, and umbrella insurance renewals is about ensuring your coverage remains aligned with your lifestyle and assets.
Oct 7, 2025
Benefits of Using an Independent Insurance Agent
Unlike agents who work for a specific insurance company, independent agents offer numerous advantages that make the insurance shopping experience more efficient and personalized.
Oct 3, 2025
The Distinctions Between Independent and Captive Insurance Agents
When navigating the maze of insurance, understanding the difference between an independent insurance agent and a captive agent is crucial. Both play pivotal roles, but their operations significantly differ.
Sep 2, 2025
Why Are Illinois Insurance Premiums Skyrocketing? Your Guide to Saving Money in a Tough Market
If you're an Illinois homeowner or driver, you've likely felt the sting of rising insurance premiums. The reasons behind these increases are complex, but understanding them is the first step toward taking control.
Aug 29, 2025
What You Need to Know About Insurance Costs in Deerfield, Illinois
Deerfield, Illinois, is a thriving community known for its top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of local pride. Here's what residents need to know about protecting what matters most.
Aug 25, 2025
Navigating Rising Insurance Costs in Illinois
Many Illinois residents have raised concerns over increasing insurance premiums, a trend that's becoming particularly evident with the larger insurance carriers. Here's how to navigate these choppy waters.
Aug 20, 2025Want Advice From Our Team?
Get a free, no-obligation review of your coverage from a real independent agent.
Contact Us