Insurance can be a complicated purchase. You’re not buying bread or milk. You’re buying a promise of protection that could potentially make or break your financial well-being. How do you know that you’re making the right choices about coverage? Are you sure you’re getting the best possible value for your dollar? The options can seem bewildering, and here’s the thing – where you buy it determines your future with that policy. You buy a house, you get a homeowner’s policy. You obviously want one at the best price, with the right coverages, and a great agent who is always there when you need help. What some people don’t realize is that their entire experience is going to be determined by the type of insurance agent they purchase their policy through – a direct agent or an independent agent. Direct agents, otherwise known as captive agents, are the everyday guys with the little gecko and the catchy jingle. An independent agent is an agent who partners with many insurance carriers (including the little gecko company) and offers coverages customized for you at the best price available. Independent agents are advisors, not salesmen. Here are 7 reasons why we believe you should choose an independent insurance agent:
They give you a choice
Independent agents represent many different insurance companies that offer a wide variety of coverage options and price points. Most on average sell for five to eight different insurance companies (just so you know, we partner with over 60, including every big-name carrier you’ve ever heard of). There’s no need for you to accept one quote from one company, and there’s no need for you to spend time filling out many different online applications to get your own quote comparisons. With their connections and their knowledge of the market, independent agents can often find a better value for your insurance dollar than you might find searching on your own. Agents do the shopping. You do the saving. They find you the right blend of price, coverage, and service.
They are licensed experts
Independent agents can explain the complexities of insurance in simple terms, helping you make smart decisions. They make a career out of assessing their customers’ insurance needs and matching them with the insurance carrier(s) best equipped to meet those needs at a price the customer can afford. Think about it. While you might research wording for wills on the Internet, you’ll likely go to an attorney to ensure that the document is drawn up correctly. Why wouldn’t you seek the advice of a licensed insurance professional to be certain that your home, your auto, or your business is properly protected?
They are personal advisors
Independent agents not only find you competitive pricing, they make sure you’re adequately covered. Working with you face-to-face, your agent becomes your personal advisor, taking the time to listen to you and understand your individual needs. They know it’s not just about finding a price you can afford; it’s also about making certain you are appropriately covered so that you don’t end up insurance-poor if you do suffer a loss.
They are your advocate
If you have a billing or claim concern or need to change your coverage, your agent can be your advocate, working with the insurance company on your behalf.
They are right around the corner
Independent agents are your neighbors…they share your interest in the community where you live and understand the benefits and challenges of living in your locale. They are often highly involved in the community, sponsoring youth sports teams, buying from your local businesses, supporting school organizations, and voicing opinions at the monthly Chamber of Commerce meeting. They are right around the corner, ready to help.
They offer one-stop shopping
Independent agents can often meet all of your insurance needs with the companies they represent, providing auto, home, renter’s, and business coverage. Like Momentum, many also offer home insurance, flood insurance, auto insurance and life insurance in the woodlands and even very unique niche-coverages.
They are consultants for a lifetime
Independent agents periodically review your coverage. They are there to help you through all the changes in your life, whether you’re going from renting an apartment to buying a home, starting a business, getting married, renovating your home, adding a teen driver to your auto policy, or looking to cover that retirement condo.
These are just 7 of the many reasons to choose an independent insurance agent. Interested in learning more? Visit Momentum Insurance for more information on who we are and what we represent as a company and your neighbor. We’re always available to help, any time, any day. Please reach out with any questions you have about your current coverage and to get a free quote.
