Q&A
What Is The Difference Between An Independent Agent And A Captive Agent?
A captive agent only sells product for one company, so they can’t shop other carriers. An independent agent can shop multiple companies for the best value in terms of price and coverage options. The Brandes Insurance Agency does the shopping for you!
How Do I Know If The Agent I Am Speaking To Is Knowledgeable And Experienced Enough To Find Me The Best Policy?
Most consumers assume that the person they contact is a qualified agent. Many times, the person is not experienced in the insurance industry, they are simply a salesperson with minimal training who works on commission. Commission only employees are more concerned with meeting their sales quota by reducing coverage to complete the sale quickly than offering what you need to protect your belongings. As a professional insurance agency, my team is not commission only and is highly trained and experienced in the products and companies we offer. Coverage limits and options vary, so we offer the coverage necessary to fit your specific needs.
Why Are Insurance Premiums Higher Than Ever Before, And What Can I Do About It?
We are currently in a hard market. Company guidelines are stricter, prices are high, and insurance companies are leaving the Texas market. It is hard to make a profit in Texas due to the frequency and severity of our weather, among other factors like inflation, rising car prices, labor shortages, roofing material, building material, contractor costs, etc. We recommend a review of possible missing discounts, bundling multiple policies together, increasing deductibles and removing unnecessary optional coverage. We’ll find the best value from multiple companies.
What Is The Difference In Policies? Are They All The Same?
Most Texas automobile policies are standardized with few differences. Homeowners insurance, however, is not, so be aware that what you see on a proposal doesn’t tell the whole story. The contract behind the policy is what is important. For instance, roof coverage formerly was replacement cost for the life of the roof. Now, companies only offer replacement costs from six to 15 years depending on the company. A qualified agent understands the differences and can guide you to the one that is right for you. By offering multiple companies, we offer many different types and levels of coverage depending on how comprehensive you want your coverage.
What Coverages Are Important To Have In Texas?
Based on the location of your home, you may want coverage for hidden water leaks, foundation coverage, sewer back-up, flood, hail, and wind coverage. For automobile insurance, you may need coverage for extra equipment coverage for things added after the factory, such as bed liners and tool chests, classic car coverage, original part replacement coverage, and GAP. We tailor the policy to meet your needs instead of trying to fit you into a box. At Brandes Insurance Agency, we are your personal insurance shopper.
About The Expert
