The Value of the Independent Agent

 

Where to start?

The insurance world is complicated, and it seems to be getting more complicated by the day.  We all know we need insurance, but few of us know how to fulfill that need. How much coverage do I really need? Do I need a separate policy for that? What if this happens? Or, perhaps worst of all, what am I overlooking? Insurance can get overwhelming rapidly. Having the right insurance agent in your corner can make all the difference, but how do you find the right one?

 

Getting to know you

 

The insurance you need is unique to you and your situation. A one size fits most approach could leave gaps in coverage, while racking up expenses for items you don’t need.  It’s important to find an agent who is going to sit down with you and learn your needs, your risks, and your budget. The first thing an Agent should do is evaluate where you are now, discuss any potential gaps and determine why your past insurance may have been dissatisfactory. After all, there is a reason you are looking to change your coverage.

 

This process can feel a bit like an interview. A good Agent will ask probing questions aimed to uncover a variety of information. If you are looking for business insurance this may include items like “How do you train your employees?” or “How are services delivered?” Personal coverage questions would be more in-line with “Have you renovated, or upgraded, any features of your home?” or “Who cuts your lawn?”  Some questions might not have an obvious relation to insurance, but an experienced Agent is familiar with potential gabs in coverage and is looking to fill in the “big picture.” After all, if the neighbor’s teenager cuts your lawn, what happens if she is injured while doing so?

 

Giving you Options

 

Once an Agent has determined what your insurance needs are, they should present you with options. There are many plans available, the insurance industry is vast. There is no reason for you to be pressured into a packaged plan that isn’t really what you had in mind. Of course, there are limits to what an Agent can procure, but a good agent will bring you 2 to 3 options that are, not only well suited to your needs, but be able to explain the advantages and short comings of each plan. Your agent should be able to discuss with you the risks of taking a lower coverage plan without pressuring you into something you cannot afford.

 

Some Agents are what is known as “Captive Agents”, this means they work for one carrier, and all the plans they offer you are written by the same carrier.  While these types of Agents may be able to offer you decent insurance options, that’s like only eating at one restaurant. Sure, there is a variety on the menu, but you’ll be missing out on a lot of choices, and possibly paying more for the same dish than if you tried a wider selection of establishments.

 

Independent Agents are able to quote a wider range of carriers. Optimal Insurance has relationships with over 15 insurance carriers. This means we have a larger selection to choose from when offering you options. Independent Agents are experts in selecting which carrier is going to offer you the best value, while keeping your interests in mind. We can get creative to finding solutions for your insurance needs without being limited by a single carrier, we may even be able to offer a portfolio made up of different carriers, ensuring all your insurance needs are covered optimally. There is no reason you should pay more to keep your insurance with a single carrier. The best part is, we will do the comparative shopping for you, meaning you only have one point of contact instead of trying to remember which Agent represents which policy under which carrier.  It really is the best of all worlds.

 

Being a Trusted Insurance Advisor

 

Independent Agents act more like Trusted Advisors.  We have your best interests in mind, even after coverage is bound. Like a Trusted Advisor, Independent Agents are your advocate if a claim should occur. Being in your corner means being there every step of the way, from deciding if a claim should be filed to talking with claims auditors and adjusters, the wellbeing of our clients is our number one priority. Independent Insurance Agents work with you to mitigate your loss, providing valuable insights on future risks. The goal is to build a relationship, not just provide a great insurance premium but to assist you with the management of that program.  By being in your corner, we have the ability to see the whole picture, not just one aspect.

Our experience and knowledge provide our customers with confidence that their current and future insurance needs will be met with solutions, that continue to adapt and grow, in this ever-changing world climate.

 

Meet Your Agent