Hey everyone, I saw in another post that the best way to shop for car insurance is through a local independent agency because they know where to find good deals.
But I’m worried it might cost more since they could add extra fees. Should I be concerned about this? For context, I’m in California.
It might seem like using an independent agent costs more, but usually it doesn’t. In my experience, an agent can actually help you find better deals and save money in the long run. They know different policies and can match you with the right one. I’ve found that the personal service they offer is really worth it. It’s definitely worth seeing if they can get you a better rate or coverage.
Nope, they get paid by the insurance companies, and sometimes it can even be cheaper than doing it on your own.
@Masitsa Good to know! Do you have any other advice for someone shopping for insurance?
@Juneta Yeah, first, don’t get upset with the agent if the price seems high. They don’t set the rates; the insurance company does. The agent is just there to help explain things and find the best coverage. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront can save you a lot in the long run if something happens.
Be honest with your agent about any claims or driving history. They can only help with the info you give them, and the insurance company will pull your record anyway. In California, agents who sell admitted insurance can’t add extra fees—the fees come from the insurance company.
Using an independent agent can be a good move, especially if you need personal advice. I was dealing with student loans and a tight budget, and my agent helped me find a great policy without adding extra fees. Just make sure to ask upfront about any fees. They compare different options for you, so it’s worth checking out.
I get why you’re worried, but in my experience, using an independent agent doesn’t usually cost more. They have access to lots of insurance companies and can find the best rates. They do get a commission, but it doesn’t mean you’ll pay more. I’ve used an agent and it really helped me find a good deal. It’s worth talking to a few agents to see what they can offer.