07/27/2016
Agents offer more than quotes!
As we watch television shows, or events there are extreme amounts of insurance commercials on. I never really thought about it before until my daughter mentioned it. Just about every cable channel, media outlet or online streaming site has insurance commercials. We are bombarded with getting quotes here or saving money there. There are so many options and promises it is hard to make a clear decision.
What do we do when we need to compare options? Get online! That's how you ended up here after all. The question many don't ask themselves is am I really getting the best deal by going online or should I go old fashion and talk with an agent?
Buying direct online insurance quotes:
I have to admit, online quotes are the easiest route to go. You do it on your own time, don't have to speak with anyone, you can do it with a glass of wine, and online quotes have evolved making the insurance recommendations to better fit your needs. Buying insurance direct (using companies like Esurance) is an extremely convenient way to go. Depending on the person they may also have knock out quotes.
Theoretically online insurance quotes are great. You get what you need without any hassle and sometimes with great rates. Unfortunately, unless you are an expert in the insurance industry how do you know if you are getting exactly what you need?
I love the fact that technology has taken us to the point where we can explore prices and plans online. I do not like the way it is leaving people under insured and scrambling for the best price. For some the decision to buy insurance is as important as buying toilet paper. We just want something that will work good enough at the best price.
It is 100% understandable to want the best quotes for your insurance and doing it in a convenient way, but have you ever bought a new piece of technology and had to call their call center with a problem? Everytime it's a new person who has no idea who you are, what you need, why you even purchased the products and it's always a long irritating conversation. Do you want the same for your insurance every time you file a claim or need policy information? For some this is a small price to pay for others it is unacceptable. Is quoting through a local agent realistically better than quoting direct online?
Agent quotes...
Local insurance agents have a bit longer of a quoting process than online quotes. Local agents are basically a middle man so they need to collect your information, collect quotes from different companies then get a hold of you again. Getting quotes from agent's are not always the most convenient option, but they can lead to you getting the best insurance for your needs. Having an insurance agent is like having a personal insurance consultant. They know your needs, they know the laws, and they generally know the products inside and out. A local agent knows your situation first hand and can make appropriate suggestions which will benefit you best. Many local agents with websites will also provide online quotes. These quotes are just as convenient as the direct buy companies but may not include all of the quotes an agent can give in person. Overall would an agent's quote be cheaper than buying direct online? The answer is maybe. Each individual is different as well as each insurance company's pricing criteria.
What's truly the best option?...
Honestly if you are just online browsing for quotes I would go direct first. Drink a beer at home, relax, do it in the morning or evening whenever your computer time generally is. I would NOT purchase insurance direct.
Online quotes are great for you to get an idea of what you will be paying in your area, but there's much more that goes into it. Contacting an agent will allow the agent to assess the situation to make sure 1) you are getting the proper coverage you need and 2) you are not paying for something you really don't need.
Along with helping you find the best insurance plan, local agents bring special advantages that buying direct does not. Like many independent businesses, local insurance agencies provide customer tools that make the experience a better one. Local insurance agents can also open up the flood gates for discounts and special savings.
When it comes to big investments like your car, your home and even your family's well-being you want an expert on your side. Someone to help you make sense of what you're actually buying and who can be there with you through the claims process.
I can't tell you if you will receive better quotes from an agent or a website. It's hit or miss from person to person. I can tell you that if you want to ensure that you are properly covered, can reap full advantage of discounts and will have help when claim time comes around then it's best to go with a real live agent.
So feel free to call me! Take advantage of the savings and personal attention you will receive! 😊
