Insurance can be a complicated purchase. You’re not buying bread or milk. You’re buying a promise of protection that could potentially make or break your financial well-being. How do you know that you’re making the right choices about coverage? Are you sure you’re getting the best possible value for your dollar? The options can seem confusing.
Aitken & Ormond has sold its coverage as an independent agency for over 70 years. We’ve seen first-hand how the advice and support of agents benefit our policyholders. Here are seven reasons why we believe the independent agency experience benefits you:
They give you a choice
Independent agents represent many different insurance companies that offer a wide variety of coverage options and price points. We currently have over eight different insurance companies. There’s no need for you to accept one quote from one company, and there’s no need for you to spend time filling out many different online applications to get your own quote comparisons. With their connections and their knowledge of the market, agents can often find a better value and premium coverage than you might find searching on your own. Our Agents find you the right blend of price, coverage, and service.
They are licensed experts
Independent Agents can explain the complexities of insurance in simple terms, helping you make smart decisions. They make a career out of assessing their customers’ insurance needs and matching them with the insurance carrier best equipped to meet those needs at a price the customer can afford. Think about it. While you might research wording for wills on the Internet, you’ll likely go to an attorney to ensure that the document is drawn up correctly. Why wouldn’t you seek the advice of a licensed insurance professional to be certain that your home, your auto, or your business is properly protected?
They are personal advisers
Agents not only find you competitive pricing, they make sure you are adequately covered. Working with you face-to-face, your agent becomes your personal adviser, taking the time to listen to you and understand your individual needs. They know it’s not just about finding a price you can afford; it’s also about making certain you are appropriately covered so that you don’t end up insurance-poor if you do suffer a loss.
They are your advocate
If you have a billing or claim concern, or need to change your coverage, your agent can be your advocate, working with the insurance company on your behalf.
They are right around the corner
Independent agents are your neighbors, they share your interest in the community where you live, and understand the benefits and challenges of living in your area. They are often highly involved in the community, sponsoring youth sports teams, buying from your local businesses, supporting school organizations, and voicing opinions at the monthly Chamber of Commerce meeting. They are right around the corner, ready to help.
They offer one-stop shopping
Independent agents can often meet all of your insurance needs with the companies they represent, providing auto, home, renter’s, life and business coverage.
They are consultants for a lifetime
Independent agents periodically review your coverage. They are there to help you through all the changes in your life, whether you’re going from renting an apartment to buying a home, starting a business, getting married, renovating your home, adding a teen driver to your auto policy, or looking to cover that retirement condo.
Call, email or drop by any of our three Aitken & Ormond locations to speak with one of our Agents. We have been serving the community since 1948, and are here to help you with all your insurance needs.