Is getting a good deal on your insurance policies on your to do list? Who doesn’t love getting a good deal? But did you know that there are a few things to look for that are much more important than the PRICE of your insurance policies? In fact, don’t buy your next policy until you look for these five things.
First: Pick an A Top Rated Insurance Company
You want an insurance company that will be around if or when you have an insurance claim. Don’t choose a company that you’ve never heard of just because the price is cheap. Cheap and insurance don’t mix well. If the price seems too good to be true, it most likely is! If you aren’t familiar with the insurance company that your agent is recommending, ask for more information and what their ratings are. Find out what they are rated in your state, how long they’ve been around and if they are based here in the United States.
Second: You want and need choices and options. Choose a LOCAL Independent Insurance Agency!
While all the commercials on TV and on the radio are cute and, it’s great seeing a lizard talk to you about calling a 1-800 number for a quote, let’s remember who’s paying for the billions of dollars in ads. That’s right – the policy holder. A local independent insurance agency gives the same great coverage that you’re looking got but allows you to deal with one person on a regular basis. They do business with many different carriers, which allows them to get you quotes from a number of different insurance companies without you having to do all of the work. It’s nice to have a local agent who you can go visit when needed. You won’t get lost in the shuffle! Also, you want an agent who will be there for you when you have a claim, someone who can visit your home at the time of a loss. Insurance is NOT a commodity; many people think it is until they have a claim. If you have a reason to put in an insurance claim, the only thing that will be on your mind is “am I covered?” and “will I come out of this OK?”
Third: After-Hours Support from your Independent Insurance Agent
Then there are the “What if” questions:
- “What if I have an emergency in the middle of the night?”
- “What if I need to talk to someone after hours?”
- “What if I do not want to wait until tomorrow to get assistance?”
Look for an agency that offers after-hours support! Local Independent Insurance Agencies, like Paradiso Insurance, can provide you with 24/7 claim assistance numbers along. You’ll also have the ability to contact me, the owner, through our agency App 24/7.
Yes, even on weekends.
We want to be here when you may need us most. Make sure to ask for the information and keep it in your cell phone or, in our case, download our free Agency App (Apple| Android).
Fourth: Choose an Agency that’s EASY to Contact and Find Our if they Offer Annual Reviews.
You don’t want to have to chase your insurance agent down every time you need something, especially at the time of an insurance claim. Ask if the agency is available by email, text, and or by cell phone while doing your shopping. Ask them about their annual review process. Why are annual reviews important? Things change and change often, especially when it comes to your insurance and your insurance needs! You want an independent agency that will regularly meet with you to review your coverage and make sure you’re protected properly. Ask them about their review process and procedures and how they will make sure there aren’t any gaps in your insurance protection.
Fifth: Excellent Customer Service is a MUST!
When it comes down to it, this is the most important factor in your whole buying process! Choose an independent insurance agency that wants your business and is willing to WORK for it. They should want to give you the best possible customer experience! Ask them to prove that they have excellent customer service. Ask them how they provide excellent customer service. Customer service is very important and you have a right to the best customer experience because you’re paying for it.
We hope to have the opportunity to earn your Connecticut insurance business and we will give you our 12 step Paradiso Promise, which is all about how we are going to treat you here at Paradiso Insurance.