Ever wonder if there’s a better way to buy insurance?
If you’ve had bad experiences with insurance in the past, it may be time to reexamine exactly how you purchase auto, home, business, and other insurance policies. After all, insurance is such an important commodity in your life; it’s worth taking the time necessary to do it right and find the best coverage and limits possible.
In the following post, we’ll discuss the top three options you have to begin with when purchasing insurance. Then, we’ll highlight the optimal option where pricing, ease of purchase, and long-term value are concerned.
Buying Insurance: 3 Options
Option 1: Using an independent agent
Independent agents are licensed insurance professionals who will meet with you locally to discuss your insurance needs and give you a broad array of quote options from a variety of different insurance companies. Their service is unmatched, and with their help, you are nearly guaranteed to find optimal policies with great coverage.
Option 2: Using a captive agent
Your next option is to use a different type of agent: A captive agent.
Captive agents are like independent agents in that they contract with larger insurance providers. However, there’s a key difference. As the name implies, they are essentially “captive” to just one insurance company.
This may be a company like State Farm, American Family, or Farmers Insurance. No matter what the company is, they can only sell their policies; they can’t offer all of the options that independent agents can.
Option 3: Buying direct from the insurance agency
Lastly, you can buy your policies direct from an insurance company. This is generally done online or over the phone. The drawback of this route is that you don’t get the personalized service and advocacy that agents provide. Moreover, you don’t get the array of options that an independent agent can provide.
What’s Your Best Option?
All of the options listed above have their own pros and cons, but one stands out above the rest: Buying insurance from an independent agent. Here are the advantages you can expect from an independent agent:
- Excellent value and choices, choices, choices
When you want choices, the only way to go is with an independent agent. While it is possible to search online for hours on end, looking for the best policies from an array of different providers and in an array of different areas, trust us when we say this will become your full-time job. Allow your agent to do the hard work for you. That’s what they’re there for.
P.S. If you’re worried about paying their commission, remember that the insurance company does that. Besides, you’ll be getting such a good value that you’ll still be saving money even with the commission factored in.
- Dedication and personalized advocacy
Independent agents are dedicated to serving your needs.
Unlike captive agents who want to sell you on their insurance provider’s policies no matter what, independent agents simply want what’s best for you. As such, they’ll provide you with the necessary advice and assistance in choosing optimal plans.
- Locality
Independent agents work locally. Whenever you need their assistance, simply make an appointment, and you can meet with your agent face-to-face.
- Everything you need in one place
Lastly, you can get all of your insurance from your independent, locally-situated agent. They’re a one-stop-shop — doesn’t that make life so much easier already?
If you already have an independent agent, tell your friends about their amazing value! If not, give Gutman Insurance a call. Our knowledgeable agents are ready and waiting to provide you with top-notch service.
