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Insurance agents are unique - all like the customers they serve. So when buying an agent, do not forget an insurance agent must do more than simply sell you a policy.
Jack Hungelmann, Risk Officer and author of "Insurance for Dummies."
"The big one thing someone who did not have much experience," said Hungelmann.
Here are four tips for finding the right agent.
1. Request a trusted person from a local agent
Word of mouth can be an excellent way to find a security agent. Request to friends and family members for the reluctant. However, make sure the copains recommend the agent for good reasons.
"Ask for unrelated references on who sends birthday cards to their gold customers who is the most genteel guy or gal," says Hungelmann.
Chad Bitterlich, Vice President of Navion Insurance Associates in Anaheim Hills, California, who is best advised to impound an agent located near the house.
"Many people prefer to have appointments in person with their agents and most agents prefer their clients personally," he said. "There is no real substitute for a local agent who is an active member of his community."
Some agents represent a single insurance - like State Farm or Allstate - while others work independently.
The Bitterlich says, "The benefit of your company's various insurance companies and the flexibility of finding good society for your particular needs.
"However, you may feel that it is more important to have your insurance firmly established with a company."
2. Interview all potential insurance agents
Hungelmann said, it is better to interview two or three agents. Ask them for details, as you would with an accountant or a lawyer.
"Talk to them about your situation and see what gives you the best advice," says Hungelmann.
He acknowledges that these in-depth interviews can be a bit tedious.
"But once you get the expert from your team, you have someone who really knows what he's doing," he says. "Your property will be better protected accordingly, there's nothing worse To find that an application does not come up properly at the time of the complaint ".
Do not be afraid to speak and ask questions about an agent's experience, says Bitterlich. If necessary, ask to see a curriculum vitae.
"Ask for references," he said. "A good agent should have several clients provide enthusiastic recommendations."
The very nature of the client agent relationship implies that the insured describe "all kinds of personal information," his agent says Bitterlich. Therefore, trust and professionalism are important.
"If you think your agent is just interested in selling a policy, you should look elsewhere," he said.
3. Find an insurance expert
Look for agents who are real insurance experts. This expert "can guide you in how to complete an application correctly, doing the maximum for your claim is paid," says Hungelmann.
An experienced agent will also be able to make his case to the claims department if you enter into a dispute over the payment of claims.
A good agent will also keep an eye on how their insurance needs may change over the years.
"Many people do not realize that their insurance needs can change from year to year, and it is important for your agent to communicate the potential of these changes," says Bitterlich.
Look for agents with advanced designations such as CPCU, Certified Insurance Advisor (CIC), Certified Life Insurer (AVA) or Accredited Insurance Advisor (ATI).
Bitterlich agrees that advanced certifications reveal important information about an agent.
"An advanced designation shows that your agent has a commitment to education and to increase their knowledge," says Bitterlich.
Do not reject other types of industry experience, says Bitterlich.
"Agents with additional experience in sales outside the insurance sector - such as underwriting or claims - can have a unique view of the insurance industry, "He said.
4. Check an insurance agent's background
Make sure an agent's licensing is up to date and meets state requirements.
"You should not hesitate to ask for a copy of your agent's license, especially if there is no easy or convenient way to independently verify his/her license status," says Bitterlich.
Also, check for any complaints against an agent.
"Generally speaking, state insurance offices should have a website where you can check the license status of your agent, and some will also allow you to check if there are any complaints," says Bitterlich.
Remember, the goal is to find an agent who is properly licensed, has a good track record and puts your interests first.
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