Why Work with an Independent Agent in West Virginia?

To protect yourself against all kinds of disasters, having the right type of insurance is key. But unless you're an insurance expert yourself, you might not know what type of policy you need or where to find the best coverage. That's where independent agents come in.

Though you have many options these days when shopping for insurance, an independent insurance agent can greatly simplify the process for you. Not only that, but they'll make sure you walk away with the right blend of coverage and cost. Here's a breakdown of why independent agents are the superior choice for many folks when shopping for insurance.

Different Types of West Virginia Insurance Agents

Independent agents aren't the only type of agent out there, of course. Here are your main options when it comes to shopping for insurance in West Virginia:

• Online agents: As you can deduce from their name, online agents are found selling insurance products on the internet. While they can typically offer you cheap policies, you might be sacrificing coverage quality to get these prices.
• Captive agents: These guys work for the big-name companies you see on insurance commercials, or in the ads that pop up on numerous websites. Captive agents also have limited options to present you because they buy a franchise and stick to their products. Insurance from major carriers may be popular, but that doesn't mean it's right for you.
• Independent agents: These guys are the ones who truly have your best interests at heart. Not being tied to one insurance company, they're free to browse many different options from a ton of carriers for you to find your best match. They're also experts in coverage options and discounts, so they have the greatest chance at getting you set up with the right policy at the right cost.

Independent insurance agents work for you, the customer, not the insurance company. If you're looking to make the choice that'll present you with many options from different carriers, an independent agent is the right one for you.

What’s the Difference Between an Independent Agent and a Broker?

This can be harder to distinguish, but you can tell the difference between independent agents and brokers through these factors:

• Agents have niches: Brokers don't tend to have niches, and instead specialize in everything. This makes brokers handy when you're looking for a rarer type of coverage that might only be provided by a little-known carrier. Brokers are also licensed insurance professionals, just like agents.
• Brokers don't have contracts: Brokers are free to browse options at any insurance carrier since they don't have contracts with companies. However, this gives independent agents the edge in having the ability to provide you with more background info about a specific company and their products, since they've got established relations with several. 
• Brokers can't write policies: Brokers can submit insurance applications on your behalf, but they can't actually write a policy for you as agents can. However, brokers do create a binder, or temporary policy, that matures into a permanent policy after one to two months.
• Agents are a one-stop-shop: Since independent agents have trusted relationships with various insurance companies, they know the best places to get a bundle of home insurance, car insurance, boat insurance, life insurance, etc., together in one place for you. 

Note that not all states actually have independent brokers, because the licenses aren't offered in that area. In these states, you'll only find independent agents.  

Which Costs Less: An Insurance Broker or an Independent Agent?

Well, the cost shouldn't vary much, if at all, between an independent agent and a broker. But it's important to point out that brokers can charge fees in addition to commissions, so they could end up being more expensive in the end. 

Brokers do have to disclose if they're charging fees upfront. This can help you make your decision between an independent agent and a broker before you sign any contracts. Both types of professionals are highly capable of matching you to affordable coverage that works right for you.

So, What Makes Independent Agents Better?

Here's why many folks still choose independent insurance agents over brokers:

• They're experts: Independent agents not only sell coverage, but they're also experts in many types of insurance. That means they understand the products you're looking for.
• They're affordable: Since you can find multiple products together in one place, an independent agent can save you money from the get-go.
• They're like an insurance friend: Since independent agents establish a personal relationship with their customers, they get to know your specific needs and lifestyle. That way they're better able to recommend the right product for you.
• They're accessible: Independent agents not only simplify the process of shopping for insurance but also in maintaining your policy. They can help you add coverage or change your options, as well as file claims for you throughout the life of the policy.

Perhaps it's clear by now that independent insurance agents really do have the greatest edge over all others when it comes to matching you to the type of coverage that best meets your needs.

Well, How Do You Find Independent Insurance Agents in West Virginia?

All you have to do is head over to our database of West Virginia independent insurance agents. From there, you're just a few quick questions away from entering a massive catalog featuring over 250,000 independent insurance agents. Our handy database will match you up to recommendations based on your coverage needs and location, and then you're ready to go.