In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, many homeowners in New Jersey returned to their homes to realize that they weren't habitable. 

According to The Associated Press, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie wants the federal government to allow the state to use $250 million in Sandy aid to buy out Garden State homeowners in flood prone areas, instead of having homeowners repair and rebuild on their own.

Recently, Christie has been focusing on rebuilding after last year's storm, but this proposed plan could help people and their property out of harm's way should a similar storm occur in the future. 

Environmentalists have been critical of the governor in the past when he announced his plan to spend $1.8 billion for unmet needs without setting aside any money to buy out homeowners in vulnerable areas. 

Shortly after, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced he wanted to put $170 million toward buying properties in the Empire State, which may have led Christie to develop a proposal with a buy out initiative of his own. 

Christie's plan to buy out homes in risk areas was supported by Stephen Sweeney, the Democratic President of the state Senate. 

"At the end of the day, Mother Nature is going to do what she wants," Sweeney said. "We have learned that lesson the hard way repeatedly over the last few years. That is why, as I have said in the past, it's not just about rebuilding after Sandy, it is about rebuilding smart. Buying out flood-prone homes is a good start."

Homeowners who choose to stay should make flood insurance a priority Although given the option of a buyout, there will be homeowners who will not want to participate and remain in their homes. These people should ensure they have the proper flood insurance so they are prepared for any future storms. 

These policies are available to homeowners who live in moderate-to-low and high-risk areas. 

Moderate-to-low risk: Most homeowners in these areas are eligible for flood insurance at a preferred rate, which are the lowest premiums available through the National Flood Insurance Program. 

High-risk: Those who live in areas that are at high risk of flooding only have standard rated policies available. These plans offer separate building and contents coverage. Premiums are calculated based on a number of factors, including the year of building construction, occupancy, number of floors and the location of the lowest floor in relation to the elevation requirement on the flood map.