Hames & Co.

05/28/2026

Meet Avery Dodd - Agency Manager & Insurance Producer

I joined the insurance industry at the start of 2024 here at Hames & Co., after spending more than a decade in vocational ministry. It was a big career change for me, but the insurance world wasn’t entirely unfamiliar territory.

My grandfather, Bill Dillard, founded an independent agency — Cornelia Insurance Agency — in 1968, and my uncle, Doug Dillard, ran it for many years after my grandfather retired. My father, Wes Dodd, was an accountant by trade, but he also served on the national board of directors for Woodmen Life (formerly Woodmen of the World) for over a decade. My grandfather, uncle, and father were all passionate about their work — but even more so about the people they worked with and for.

I’m grateful to Gus for the opportunity to work alongside him and the rest of the team at Hames & Co. For me, insurance has always been about so much more than a transaction. I love getting to serve, befriend, and connect with the people who come through our doors every day.

Northeast Georgia has been home to my family for generations, and I have a real desire to keep serving and building up the community I’m proud to call home.

My wife, Lauren, and I have three children, and we love being part of our church family at Christ Presbyterian Church in Clarkesville. When I’m not in the office, you’ll likely find me with my CrossFit Change family in Cornelia or spending time out on Lake Rabun with my family.

If you have questions about your coverage — or you’d just like to put a face to the name — stop by and say hello, or give us a call at Hames & Co. I’d love to meet you.

05/18/2026

The Upstairs Suites

🏛️ Historic Office Suites Overlooking Washington Street
Heart pine floors. Tall windows. Downtown Clarkesville at your doorstep. This is the office your clients will remember.

📍 Washington Street | Historic Preservation District | Second Floor

✨ Available space includes:
• 165 sq ft office (11' x 15')
• Adjacent 225 sq ft office (15' x 15')
• Original heart pine floors
• Large windows overlooking Washington Street
• All utilities included — no surprise bills
Rent one or rent both. The adjacent layout is ideal for:
• A professional plus a reception/admin space
• Two practitioners sharing a suite (therapists or attorneys)
• A growing solo practice ready for room to expand
Perfect for anyone who wants character, light, and a downtown address — without the overhead of a whole building.

📞 Give us a call @ 706 776 9010 to schedule a walkthrough — these don’t come available often.

05/18/2026

The Standalone Building

🏛️ Your Own Private Office Building in Historic Downtown Clarkesville
Why rent a room when you can have the whole building?

📍 Washington Street | Historic Preservation District

✨ Available space includes:
• 234 sq ft office (13' x 18')
• Full private bathroom
• Entire building is yours — no shared walls, no shared lobby, no shared entrance
• Exposed brick walls
• New LVP flooring
• Tall windows and French doors
• Class A finishes in a historic setting
• Steps from downtown shops, dining & coffee
Perfect for the solo attorney, CPA, therapist, or consultant who wants a professional front door that makes the right impression the moment a client walks up.

The privacy of your own building. The charm of historic Clarkesville.

📞 Give us a call @ (706) 776 9010 to schedule a walkthrough — spaces like this don’t sit long

05/14/2026

About Gus Hames - Agency Owner

My career in insurance and financial services began in 2003, and in 2008, I founded Hames & Co. Over the years, I’ve built my practice on two simple principles: trustworthy advice and a high standard of service. I believe the growth and durability of our business reflect the genuine appreciation we have for our clients and staff. What I find most rewarding is the relational side of this work. This career has led me to a place where I can now spend much of my time working alongside and for people whom I call friends.

Our insurance operation is an independent agency with many carrier relationships, ensuring our clients receive competitive pricing and quality coverage. We continually seek ways to better serve our clients, and we take time to listen to new clients — to understand their goals and ensure they understand what they’re paying for and how their policies work.

Habersham County has been home to my family for more than six generations. I grew up on a dirt road in the north end of the county, in a community called Hollywood, and this place will always be home. My sense of community shapes how I serve my clients. Whether I’m helping a family create a plan for retirement income, finding insurance for a family’s household, or helping people work through a painful loss, I feel personally responsible for my work.

My wife, Mara, and I are the proud parents of five grown children and three sons-in-law. Our church family is Christ Presbyterian Church in Clarkesville, where we have had the privilege of attending and serving for many years. We live on a farm in Turnerville, and we share that place with many animals, including everything from old dogs to baby ducks. Outside the office, I spend a lot of time on our family farm, love reading, and occasionally try to catch a fish.

05/07/2025

Why Hames and Company is your ideal Insurance Partner!

In the ever-evolving landscape of insurance, finding a reliable partner is crucial for safeguarding your future. Hames and Company stands out as a beacon of trust and excellence, making us the perfect choice for your insurance needs. Here's why: Tailored Solutions : At Hames and Company, we unde

04/16/2025

Worried about insurance during the uncertain financial state of our country? Check out our most recent post for some tips and tricks when times are challenging!

In times of financial strain, finding ways to cut costs while maintaining essential coverage becomes crucial. Insurance is often a significant expense, but strategic teamwork can help individuals and families save money without sacrificing protection. By collaborating with others, you can explore va

03/19/2025

Is 2025 the year you make the switch to a Multi-Provider Agency? Check out our latest post on why it just might be.

As we approach April 2025, the insurance landscape is evolving, and consumers are becoming increasingly savvy about their choices. One significant trend is the shift towards working with insurance providers that represent multiple carriers. Here’s why making this switch in 2025 could be one of the...

02/24/2025

Check out our latest blog post on the value of collaboration with an insurance management team representing multiple carriers!

In a world where insurance needs can be as diverse as the individuals and businesses that require them, collaborating with an insurance management team that represents multiple carriers offers unparalleled advantages. This collaborative approach not only enhances the selection of insurance products

02/11/2025

Take a look at our latest post about the importance of Home Insurance and why it is so important to protect you and your family.

Homeownership comes with many responsibilities, one of the most critical being the protection of your property. Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, causing significant damage and financial loss. Understanding the common types of natural disasters and the importance of home insurance can help

01/21/2025

Check out our latest blog about trends to watch in February!

As February rolls in, the insurance industry often experiences a shift in focus and trends. This month serves as a pivotal time for insurance companies, brokers, and consumers alike, paving the way for emerging patterns that can influence decisions throughout the year. Here’s a closer look at the ...