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Independent insurance agents are those who do not work for a particular insurance company but can instead sell policies from multiple companies. By comparison, a captive agent works for only one type of insurance company and sells only its policies.
Find the Best Policy
One of the advantages of working with an independent insurance agent is that she can help you find the best policy for your needs. Captive agents can only provide you with insurance policies that are sold by the parent company. Independent agents can evaluate your insurance needs and then find a policy that meets those needs. The agent does not have to focus only on the policies of one company and can shop around for you.
Representing Customer
Another benefit of working with an independent insurance agent is that they represent you instead of an insurance company. Independent insurance agents look out for your best interests. They do not have to abide by the strict rules that come with being a captive agent and they can help you instead. If the insurance agent does not like something about a particular company, he can provide you with honest information so as to help you avoid bad policies.
Choice
Independent agents represent many different insurance companies that offer a wide variety of coverage options and price points. Most on average sell for ten to thirty different insurance companies. 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, 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.
Personal Advisors
Agents not only find you competitive pricing, but they also make sure you are adequately covered. Working with you face-to-face, your agent becomes your personal adviser, 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.
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 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, renters, and business coverage. Many offer life and travel insurance as well.
They are Advisors 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.
Insurance is a people business. When you meet with an agent in person, you develop a personal relationship with him or her. Over time, your agent will become more familiar with you and your business and will be able to provide more personalized service. For instance, your agent may contact you when new coverages become available or when prices on certain insurance drops. Your agent will review your coverages prior to renewal and may suggest changes or upgrades. Many small business owners value this individualized attention.