I'll admit I'm a little biased, but there actually ARE some compelling reasons to buy SOME, possibly most of your insurance from a local independent agent. There are also some reasons to buy from online or non-local agents at times too.
If you are interested in purchasing a type of coverage which will be used in areas not necessarily close to home, such as travel insurance or to insure extremely specialized commodity-type coverage, (for example, like an extremely valuable coin or stamp collection, a very rare piece of antique furniyure or art, or if you have a jump shot like J.J. Reddick and you need to insure your arms and legs) you should possibly consider at least getting a quote from an agent who specializes in those tyoes of coverage.
But for conerage you're going to rely on for your daily peace of mind, such as dealing with your everyday medical issues, home and auto incident questions, concerns about your financial well-being, planning for your retirement and other similar situations, a local independent insurance agent can be a valuable resource.
First, let me stress the value an INDEPENDENT agent brings to the table. Independent agents are free to write insurance coverage for you with whatever company they represent which best suits your indivualized situation. While some agents CLAIN to be independent, in actuality they represent one primary company and are REQUIRED by their contracts with "XYZ" company to place any business they write with "XYZ" company if "XYZ" company offers that coverage, whether or not it is in your best interest, or "ELSE". A truly independent agent will have your best interests at heart, and will admit when you have a request or situation which requires more expertise or a different coverage than he or she has, or can offer,and will not hesitite to refer you to someone with that expertise or that can offer the appropriate coverage, and not worry about his/her commission.
Secondly, local, independent agents should have multiple carriers (insurance companies) for each type of cpverage you are seeking. Representing many different companies allows them to compare providers available to you, whether you need doctors, hospitals, tow trucks, drug stores, or body shops, who will work the best with, and for you.
Additionally, independent insurance agents are there to assist you in more ways than just helping you to obtain the right insurance. Once you are a client, and even sometimes when you are not, they are valuable advocates for you when you have a problem with a claim or with a billing problem. As independents we know that our reputation is key to our success and as a result we fight tenaciously for those we represent.
In conclusion, please consider this:
"The bitter taste of poor service
lasts far longer
than the sweetness of low price"
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