As you’re out shopping for insurance, you are likely getting quotes from multiple insurance agents. The best way to choose between multiple insurance quotes is to look beyond just the policy amount. Yes, the price matters and you should consider it especially if some policy quotes are extremely high. However, if they are all comparable, consider other factors.
For instance, how do you feel about the agent you’re speaking to? Sometimes you should listen to your gut feeling. The good news in this area is that you can validate the reputation of an agent or agency by simply going online to find reviews and see what others think of them. We definitely recommend doing your research in that regard.
In addition, it’s important to look beyond cost. If the policies are all within $10-$15/month of each other, then paying the higher rate might be worth it for the peace of mind knowing that the agent is going to look out for you and work on your behalf. The level of personal attention you will get is important and can help you save money in the long term, whereas a less engaged agent who you only speak with at renewal might not help you save and improve your coverage as your situation changes.
How To Analyze & Choose Between Insurance Quotes – St. Clair Shores, MI
Video Transcription
“A big part of its kind of gut feeling, right? Because you’re spending time on the phone with that person, you’re communicating with them. I think in the 15, 20, 30 minutes that you spend on the phone with that person, you kind of get a good feel. Can I work with this person? Do I feel like they’re putting forth effort? Do they sound like they’re well versed in what they’re doing? Right? Reputation is is a big thing too. Look at what other people are saying about the business. So, look them up online. Google is a place I’d say go to; look at Google reviews and, you know, search the business. And is there feedback provided from clients? Is it good? Is it bad? What are those negative reviews? Are they you know, really glaring? What are the people saying good about the business. Get a sense for their track record, right, because that’s going to be very telling as to how well they’ve taken care of their clients. And, you know, pairing that with your feeling of that individual on the phone can help steer you in one direction versus the other. Sometimes that extra 10 bucks a month, because you think or feel that that agency or that agent is going to do more and be better for you, is worth the peace of mind.”
4 Tips for Selecting Between Multiple Insurance Agents
Examine Their Reputation: The reputation of your insurance agent is extremely important. Take the time to examine each agents reputation by looking online, asking for testimonials, speaking to someone you know that works with them, etc. Treat it like a job interview and do your research to determine which agent is the best fit for you and your insurance needs.
Seek Independent Agents: We believe strongly that independent agents or insurance broker agents have the ability to offer your more options than the traditional “captive” agents (think State Farm, Allstate, etc.). Independent agents work with multiple insurance companies, sometimes including these large national brands, to help you find the best coverage at the lowest rate possible.
The Policy Coverage & Quote: Make sure the quote you get is transparent and easy to understand. Have them walk you through it. Make sure the quote offers you the coverage you and your family need. In some instances agents are motivated to make a sale and therefore find ways to present the lowest possible quote, but once the process is underway, additional coverages may be required, driving the rate up. Make sure you get the right quote up front and take the time to discuss it with the agent.
Accessibility: Working with a local agent isn’t always necessary, but it is a nice benefit, especially when discussing your policy can get complicated as life changes arise. Find an agent near your work or home so that you can meet in-person as needed. Of course, given the current COVID-19 pandemic, it may be better to meet remotely, but in the future you may still want to have that option.
