Your home is your bastion against the elements, a place where memories are made and your home is protected. Choosing the right home insurance policy is more than just another item to mark off your homeowner checklist; it’s also peace of mind. So how do you go about navigating the varied and complex insurance market?
Homeowners often face a choice: working with insurance companies directly or using the services of an independent insurance agent. While both options have their place, independent insurance agents offer distinct benefits that can impact the cost of your insurance policy, provide exceptional value, and personalize your insurance coverage for your unique needs.
Keep reading to explore the reasons to work with an independent insurance agent and tips for finding one who can be your partner in buying insurance.
At a glance:
Independent insurance agents are licensed professionals who either work for themselves or for an independent agency. Unlike captive agents, or those employed by a single insurance company, independent agents are able to represent multiple carriers, offering consumers unparalleled flexibility and options.
Independent agents can access and compare policies and quotes from various insurance companies. As such, independent insurance agents have the ability to prioritize your needs over promoting a specific company's products.
Whether you prioritize competitive pricing, specific policy features, or want an adaptable policy that can change to fit an evolving lifestyle, independent agents offer options that single-carrier representatives just can't.
Independent insurance agents don't take a one-size-fits-all approach. They take the time to understand you, your family situation, and assess how much insurance you need—and your budget. This personalized approach allows them to offer tailored recommendations and answer your questions in detail.
For example, if your home has a swimming pool, an independent agent can help you understand swimming pool insurance requirements and target policy options that will cover your pool and any related unattached structures. Not only does this save you time reaching out to fourteen separate insurance providers on your own, but also reduces the risk of choosing an ineffectual policy.
Beyond standard homeowner's insurance, independent insurance agents can create customized solutions to address any special needs you might have as a homeowner. This could include high-value possessions requiring specialized endorsements, or insurance for rental units needing specific landlord policies.
For instance, high-net-worth homeowners with valuable artwork or collectibles may require additional coverage options. Similarly, if you own a rental property, your agent can recommend home insurance providers with landlord policies, like Openly, to protect your investment.
Beyond sourcing the best home insurance rates for homeowners, independent agents provide significant added value that goes above and beyond the initial transaction. As they do not work for a single company, independent agents are focused on finding the best coverage for you. They are your personal advocate, helping you understand complex policies, navigate claims, and tailor insurance to your needs and circumstances.
This personalized support ensures you have a trusted partner to help you understand your coverage, make informed decisions, and feel confident in your insurance protection. As an added bonus, independent insurance agents often prioritize building lasting relationships with their clients, so you can have peace of mind that they will provide ongoing guidance and support.
Independent agents often live and work in the communities they serve. This gives them unique insight into the region’s risks and local expertise that could influence policy recommendations.
For example, an agent in a major city with a higher crime rate may suggest additional personal property coverage to ensure your home and belongings are adequately protected against theft, while an agent on the coast may advise you to consider a separate flood or hurricane coverage policy. This localized insight adds immense value to the experience of working with an independent agent.
Beyond initial policy selection, independent agents provide ongoing support. They can assist with claims filing, ensure your policy stays up-to-date as your needs change, and advocate on your behalf with insurance companies, should the situation arise.
Having an experienced advocate simplifies the claims process and keeps you informed about opportunities to optimize your coverage over time. This ongoing support ensures your home remains protected as your life evolves.
Choosing the right independent insurance agent is an important step toward ensuring that you receive the best possible insurance coverage and service to fit your needs. By researching and interviewing potential independent agents, you can not only identify a business partner, but you’ll also be able to build a relationship with someone who understands and prioritizes your individual insurance requirements.
Start with asking for recommendations. Speak with your friends, family, and even colleagues, about their insurance providers. And don’t just rely on those you know; look for reviews on Google, Yelp, and more.
Once you have a list of recommended insurance agents, consider your own individual needs, as they may differ from those you sought recommendations from. Look for an agent who specializes in homeowners insurance and has the expertise you are looking for.
Are you concerned mostly about having options in regards to price? Comprehensive coverage? Or is customer service the main driver for you? All of these are valid considerations and will help you identify an appropriate insurance agent to work with.
You can take your search a step further and verify agent credentials to confirm you are working with an agent who is licensed to do business in your state. This can typically be found on your state’s insurance department website.
Above all else, choose an agent you feel comfortable with. Building a relationship with your insurance agent is critical to ensure you secure the coverage you need at rates you can afford. Having someone you can trust and be confident in can make a world of difference.
Before choosing an independent insurance agent to do business with, it's important to ask questions to ensure they are the right partner for you.
Think of it as conducting an interview. We’ve all been on the receiving end of an interview, but if you haven’t been on the hiring end before, here is a list of questions you can ask to learn about the agent and their processes:
Don’t feel pressured to make a decision immediately, if you have any qualms. Take your time because building a strong relationship with your chosen agent who can support you before, during, and after a claim will also ensure you’re getting the best value.
Choosing an independent insurance agent offers numerous benefits when securing your home. Not only do they provide personalized service and access to a wider range of carriers, but by leveraging your agent’s expertise, you can find a policy that truly safeguards your home and assets.
Here at Openly, we work with a network of trusted independent agents who are dedicated to finding the perfect insurance plan for every homeowner. We can help connect you with an agent in your area and secure you real-time quotes.
Let us help you find the peace of mind you deserve.