Tag: online insurance

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The Difference Between Types of Insurance Agents

Ben Johnson of Bob Johnson Insurance in TN

Those insurance commercials on TV can be so amusing, but when it really comes down to it, which kind of insurance agent do you want?  Let’s take a look.

There are three types of insurance agents:  independent, captive and direct through the internet.  Our post “Why should you choose an independent insurance agent over online insurance?” explains why getting insurance online may not be your best choice.

A “captive agent” works for just one insurance company.  The benefit is that they are very well-trained in their company’s products, and they usually will know fairly quickly if you qualify for a particular product. They also generally offer good customer service as well. They will be able to answer your insurance-related questions and help guide you through purchasing a policy. On the other hand, they are limited in options that they can provide to you, because they can offer products from only one insurance company.

Why an Independent Agent is the Best Choice

An independent agent stands out from the rest. Because they do not have an exclusive relationship with one company, they do not have the limitations of online insurance or a captive agent.  The result is you get more from an independent agent.

  • They can provide quick quotes across multiple insurance companies to help you find the best rate.
  • Based on their experience and knowledge, they can advise you about the differences between companies as well as the benefits of each insurance company so that you can choose the one that balances the coverage you want with the rate you can afford.
  • You get personalized service centered around your needs and wants.
  • If you need multiple policies (such as auto, home, and life), you are not limited to one company for all your insurance needs. Your independent insurance agent can provide you with information about your options so that you can make the best choice for which company or companies will provide your insurance.

We would like to help you!

We would love to answer any questions you may have or to provide a quote for you. For questions, please give us a call at 865-922-3111 or click here and fill out our contact form. One of our experienced agents will contact you as quickly as possible.  If you prefer, you can click any of the links under “Quotes and Information” (in the upper menu bar) to receive a free quote.

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Why should you choose an independent insurance agent over online insurance?

Ben Johnson of Bob Johnson Insurance in TN

Did you know?

Online insurance companies cannot provide you with the personalized attention and answers that you will receive from an independent agent who is working in your best interest to help you find the best coverage at the best price for what you need.

What coverage is best for your house? What about those special additions or situations that need extra attention? What can you do to decrease the rate of your homeowner’s insurance?

The situation is the same for your car. Are you sure that you are getting all the discounts to which you are entitled? What can be added or what can you do to reduce your premium?

What you get with an independent agent

Answers to these questions are all readily available and easily accessible through your independent insurance agent via phone, fax, email or even a visit to their office where a real person can help you. They are working in your best interest to help you find the best coverage at the best price for what you need.

What you miss with online insurance

With online insurance, everything is up to you, what you know, and how much time you have to search for answers. Sure, all your options may be available right in front of you on the screen, but which is the best for you and your situation? How do you know if you chose the correct or enough coverage? With online insurance, there is a good chance that you may not know for sure.

Getting answers from a live person who is working for you

If you want answers to your questions, you still have to contact someone. With online insurance, many times you have to use their online services (contact form, online, etc.). They may have a phone number to call, but it’s a rather impersonal process, and you do not know that they have your best interests at heart. The person you get may simply be working from a computer screen and not actually have the depth of knowledge to help you make the best decision.

With an independent agent, you can get quick, reliable answers from a person you know is working in your best interest. They are knowledgable and can help you make the best decision possible.

The bottom line

The bottom line is that, with an independent insurance agent, you get face-to-face, personalized service from an experienced agent you know you can trust.

Can we help you?

We would love to answer any questions you may have or to provide a quote for you. For questions, please give us a call at 865-922-3111 or click here and fill out our contact form. One of our experienced agents will contact you as quickly as possible.  If you prefer, you can click any of the links under “Quotes and Information” to receive a free quote.