Which is better? Buying online versus from an agent? What role(s) do you as a consumer wish to play?
Purchasing Online the CONSUMER becomes:
- The Shopper - the consumer must be able to quote, compare and select insurance that fits their needs.
- The Advisor - the consumer must be able to recognize the coverage and options available that are appropriate for the exposures to risk they face.
- The Company Liaison - when problems or disputes arise, the consumer must take it upon themselves to fight for their best interest.
Purchasing from an Independent Agent the AGENT becomes:
- The Shopper - an Independent Agent can shop many companies with one phone call. Comparing the options available from each company in the process.
- The Advisor - an agent can outline the coverage options that best address the exposures to risk faced by the clients they serve.
- The Company Liaison - when trouble comes, the agent is the client's advocate, steering you through the nuances of the complicated world of insurance for your benefit.
The majority of insurance companies allow for online interaction whether that company sells direct to the consumer or through an agent. If you prefer to transact business online for billing and policy administration, your choices in today’s world are not limited to direct (online) insurance companies.
Some people may believe that purchasing insurance directly from a company results in a lower price. The reality is an agent performs many duties that a company which sells direct will have to pay someone to execute.
The task of shopping for your insurance is one of those duties that can result in a much better rate through an Independent Agent. Many times much more efficiently than the effort necessary to seek quotes yourself through numerous companies directly.
