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Is There Value in Using an Independent Insurance Agent?

By April 8, 2021May 3rd, 2023Business Insurance
About Our Agency - Portrait of the Team of at Barnard Donegan Insurance Company Posing in Front of a Food Bank After Volunteering Their Time to Give Back to Their Community

Insurance can be a complicated purchase. It is not the same as buying a cup of coffee or pair of shoes. What you are buying is a promise of protection that could potentially make or break your financial well-being. How can you be sure that you are making the right choices about coverage? How do you know you are getting the best possible value?  

The options might seem bewildering.

This is why it is so important to utilize the services of a trusted independent insurance agent. 

Big-name insurance companies are widely known because of their ability to saturate the media with commercials about the policies they provide. These insurance companies can be a reliable choice because they’ve been in the industry for so long. However, that doesn’t always mean they’re the best choice for your personal insurance needs. 

Independent insurance agents can be extremely valuable when finding the right policy for you. The reasons are many. Below are a few of the top reasons why you should always buy insurance through an independent insurance agency.

One-Stop Shopping

Shopping online can take a lot of time and lead to frustrating results when you have no experience in the industry. An independent agent does the legwork for you. You needn’t search for hours looking for the best deals. Instead, you can discuss your insurance needs with one agent and let them present you with the best options. 

An independent agent can save you time and provide more options than you can find alone. 

Offers More Choices

Independent insurance agents represent many different insurance companies. They work for you, not the insurance companies. Because they are not employed by or beholden to a specific insurance company, they are able to offer you a wide variety of coverage options and price points. 

When you use a single insurance company, you can only choose between the policies they offer. However, an independent insurance agent has access to many companies and, therefore, many more options. This makes it possible to personalize your coverage for your specific needs.

Forges a Long-Term Relationship

When you work with an independent insurance agent, you build a long-term relationship. It’s not a matter of just buying a policy and renewing each year. They get to know you and your insurance needs, which often change. They are there for you when your child starts to drive or heads off to college, when you decide to start a business, and when you buy or sell your home. They don’t recommend generic, broad coverage policies, but policies specifically suited to you and your changing needs.

This personalized service helps you avoid the frustrations of long waiting periods on the phone to talk to an agent in another state or even country who doesn’t know you or your story. 

Working with a trustworthy agent gives you the peace of mind that you have an insurance ally dedicated to getting you and your family the best policy to fit your life. 

Offers Expert, Unbiased Advice

Think of your agent as your personal insurance advisor. They can help you sort the hype from the hard facts. They draw on their industry knowledge, the track records of different insurance companies, and past experiences with other customers to help you find the best policies. 

They have the reputation and the expertise to evaluate not only your current coverage needs but also the changes in your insurance needs over time and then guide you to the right decision.

Your agent knows the industry, understands policy language and follows recent trends. They are also available to answer your questions, clarify grey areas and know the best practices for optimal coverage.

Participates in the Community

About - Portrait of the Team of at Barnard Donegan Insurance Company Working in a Food Bank

A local insurance agent works, and often lives, in your neighborhood. They shop where you shop, drive where you drive, and worship where you worship. They understand the needs and concerns of the community and they often participate in local events and contribute to local charities. 

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 part of the world. They are often highly involved in the community, sponsoring youth sports teams, buying from your local businesses, and supporting local charities. 

Local insurance agents are right around the corner, ready to help.

Assists with Claims

A very strong advantage of working with an independent insurance agent is that they are on your side when you need to make a claim. Insurance companies typically don’t want to pay out more than necessary, but your agent can help you through the claims process for a fair settlement. Since they work in the industry, they speak the same language as an insurance adjuster and know the paperwork.

They are 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.

BDI is proud to be your trusted insurance advisor since 1911. We assist with almost any type of insurance. Call us. We’d love to help you!