Everyone needs one form of insurance or another — and most people need multiple types. From business and home insurance to auto and health insurance, it’s a commodity you can’t ignore.
But do you ever wonder how other people purchase their insurance? There are three basic ways to do it:
- No Agent or Buying Direct: Buying direct means avoiding the use of an agent and simply going directly to the insurance company. You’ll often see ads online and on television for free and easy quotes, obtained online with companies like Geico or Esurance.
These companies make buying insurance seem like a breeze. But once you end up at the site, ready to get your free quote, you’ll instantly notice that navigating your own insurance can be both a challenge and a hassle. You’ll have a long list of choices to choose from, limited price options, and confusing fine print that can often lead to huge financial problems if you end up needing to make a claim down the line.
- Working With a Captive Agent: There are both pros and cons of working with a captive agent. First, let’s explain exactly what a captive agent is.
A captive agent is an independent, professionally licensed insurance agent who sells insurance from one major insurance provider, such as American Family Insurance or Farmers Insurance. These individuals are local, so it’s convenient to be able to meet in person with them.
Although they’ll work hard to find you the best deals, you’ll need to remember that they only work for a single insurance provider, so they’re only going to give you price quotes from that company, and they’ll try to tell you that they are the only company you’ll want to work with. As you know if you’ve ever shopped around for insurance, this probably won’t be the case all the time.
- Working With an Independent Agent: Independent agents are very similar to captive agents. They, too, are local and will advocate on your behalf to help you find optimal coverage in all your insurance plans. In fact, that’s another great thing about independent insurance agents: they can help you gather all of the insurance policies you need to run your life successfully. These policies include auto, home, life, business, health, and others too.
There are essentially no drawbacks to working with an independent agent. They have a wide range of flexibility when it comes to providing you with quotes, and they are generally outgoing and personable individuals. You can form a relationship with them that lasts for years. Even when you drop a policy because of rising rates, you can stick with your agent and know that they’ll be loyal to you. They aren’t allegiance to just one company (like captive agents are), so they’re more trustworthy, flexible, and all-around a better value for you.
Insurance Is Complicated. Let an Independent Agent Help
As we all know, buying any type of insurance can be a huge hassle. It takes an exorbitant amount of time, energy, and money, and even then, you might not find a policy you can be happy with. Fortunately, independent agents cut out all the hassle and get the legwork done for you.
Pagel & Associates Insurance Agency has highly experienced and personable independent insurance agents on staff who can help you meet all of your insurance needs. Call us or stop by our Green Bay office today to find out more.
