In the course of one day, how many insurance commercials
have you seen on TV, heard on the radio, or viewed online? 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’s hard to make a clear decision.
What do we do when we want to compare Florida insurance options?
Get online! Unfortunately, many folks aren’t asking themselves “Am I really
getting the best deal by going online or should I go old fashion route and
speak with an agent?”
Buying
direct online insurance quotes
Admittedly, online quotes are the easiest route to go. There are
so many conveniences - doing it on your own time and in your pajamas if you
choose, not having to speak with anyone, having a snack while doing it, and
online quotes have evolved making the insurance recommendations to better fit
your needs. Depending on the person, you could even get knock out quotes.
In theory, 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?
It’s great that technology has taken us to the point where we
can explore prices and plans online. However, it’s leaving people under-insured
and focusing solely on the best price. For some, the decision to buy insurance
is as important as buying toilet paper. We just want something that will work well
enough at the best price.
It’s understandable to want cheap 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? Every time it's a
new person who has no idea who you are, what you need, why you purchased the
product 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 middleman so they need to
collect your information, gather quotes from different companies then get a
hold of you again.
Getting quotes from an agent is 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.
So
what's the best option?
If you are just online browsing for quotes then go direct first.
Have a coffee, relax, do it when the time suits you. When it comes time to buy,
visit your local agent.
Online quotes are great for 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. Since they’re
local to your area, an agent is familiar with weather related disasters such as
hail damage or ice storms that have blown through your town. They are a part of
and support the community you live in. Local agents can ensure that you’re
getting discounts and special savings. They can help you make sense of what
you’re buying and be there to help you through the claims process. 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.
We can't say whether you’ll receive better quotes from an agent
or a website. It depends on the person and the insurance carriers. If you want
to ensure that you are properly covered, can take advantage of discounts and
will have help on your side during the claims process, then it's best to go
with a real live agent.
904-677-5884
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