Why Insurance Advice Is Better Than A Policy

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The quality of your agent will determine the value of your insurance policy.

If you watch any TV, you have seen the typical insurance ads that tell you their coverage is better than their competitors. Many of these ads are very clever, but they mislead the viewers into buying insurance the wrong way.

We want to offer you a different way of looking at insurance. That is, your agent should be your trusted advisor guiding you through the insurance purchasing process. Insurance policies like insurance companies are all different, and you need someone you can trust to help you find the highest-valued insurance, not the lowest-priced insurance. What many people fail to understand is that policies or “promises” differ from company to company.

If We Ran An Insurance Ad, It Might Look Like This

  • We place people before policies.
  • Collaboration always leads to greater value.
  • Insurance is a promise, not a product.
  • We would educate you and then sell to you.
  • Insurance is not a one size fits.

Let Get Practical

What does this look like to the average insurance buyer? It starts with us asking questions and listening to you. We help you identify your needs and risks, talk about possible solutions then provide options. Sometimes we might recommend not buying insurance.

What Are the Benefits To You?

Our clients have security and peace of mind knowing that their agent is a partner with them. They have a trusted relationship with someone who understands their individual needs and is not trying to sell them a policy but protect their assets. Our relationship approach provides our clients with the knowledge that someone understands their needs and that they have more than just an insurance product they have a valued relationship that goes beyond a policy.

While the massive national agencies spend millions on television ads and offer barebones policies, they do not know you. When your needs change or your situation complicates, you don’t want an automated phone tree or cold cyber-agent. You want to talk to compassionate, honest insurance experts, close to home, right here in Beavercreek, OH – that’s our team. You shouldn’t have to spend hours researching and comparing policies. Let the specialists at Reichley guide you through the complex insurance industry.

Call today to alleviate the worry and get covered – (937) 429-0655.

Insurance Mistakes

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There are a number of common mistakes some businesses make when it comes to purchasing commercial insurance. Insurance is the product you buy in case the unexpected happens. Unfortunately, by the time you need it, it’s too late to make sure you have the right type and amount of insurance coverage. Make sure you don’t make the following mistakes while buying insurance.

Mistake One

Having two agents is better because they keep each other competitive.

Having two agents duplicates effort and can create coverage gaps. For example, there are certain coverage’s that can be included under a liability policy and auto policy. One agent is better able to manage your entire insurance program.

Mistake Two

The lower the premium, the better.

Premiums are determined by a combination of exposures and coverage. If you get a lower premium you may be missing needed coverage. For example, does the lower premium include replacement cost coverage on buildings and equipment?

Mistake

Buying from a national company is always better.

Don’t listen to the entertaining advertising on TV. Most national agents only represent one insurance company. They can’t shop your account to determine the best combination of price and coverage.

Mistake

The internet is a great place to get good insurance deals.

Low cost internet insurance usually allows you to select the coverage and limits you want. But in most cases you end up with a limited and inadequate program. You find this out after you have an uninsured claim.

Mistake

Umbrella insurance is only high net worth companies or individuals.

A small electrical contractor was at fault for the total loss of a historic property, a loss that exceeded his general liability policy. The contractor’s umbrella paid the loss in excess of $7,000,000. Umbrella or excess coverage is some of the least costly insurance you can buy. Don’t risk a loss for a little expense.

Mistake

I don’t need employement liability insurance; I only have five employees, and they are like family.

This is the fastest-growing area of litigation for small businesses. The average claim cost in 2022 was $95,000.

Mistake

Not knowing what is in your policy.

Consumers’ biggest mistake is not knowing what’s in the fine print of their policies. Take time to read the policy. Ask your agent to meet with you at least annually to review your coverage.

Mistake

Flood insurance is only for businesses in high-risk areas.

Big mistake; we recommend you ask for a flood quote to at least review the cost-benefit of the coverage.

Mistake

There isn’t anything I can do to manage my insurance costs except shop price.

There are many things you can do to reduce your premiums; here are a few:

  • Consider increasing your deductibles.
  • Consider the vehicle model when making a purchase; some are more expensive to insure.
  • Add smoke and security alarms.

While the massive national agencies spend millions on television ads and offer barebones policies, they do not know you. When your needs change or your situation complicates, you don’t want an automated phone tree or cold cyber-agent. You want to talk to compassionate, honest insurance experts, close to home, right here in Beavercreek, OH – that’s our team. You shouldn’t have to spend hours researching and comparing policies. Let the specialists at Reichley guide you through the complex insurance industry.

Call today to alleviate the worry and get covered – (937) 429-0655.

 

 

 

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Are You Looking In The Right Places For Your Insurance?

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A More Effective Way To Think About Insurance

Everyone is looking for a good deal on their personal insurance. Many people define a good deal as getting the lowest price, much like buying gas or other products of a similar kind.  However, there is a different way to define the best deal in insurance terms, and we think of it as the best value.  Let me describe what I mean.

You Are Hiring An Agent Not Buying A Policy

Rather than shopping for low-cost insurance, why not shop for an agent who can help you find the best value for you? Independent agents represent many different insurers. You want an agent who represents many insurers, especially an insurer who have experience with what you need. Allow the agent to market your risk with many different insurers; this is an excellent way to bring value to the process. You want a relationship, not a policy.

Insurance policies are not all created equal. Insurance is not like a commodity; insurance companies offer many different kinds of policies; these offer coverage you may need or may not need. Why pay for insurance you don’t need? Or worse, you paid for coverage you thought you had but didn’t.

This is not about selling you more insurance, but providing the right insurance. We may even tell our clients not to buy insurance.

Ask your agent about their experience and qualifications. Are they investing in extra training and or do they have accreditations?

A good agent will:

  • Ask questions
  • Educate you
  • Bring their knowledge and skills into the relationship
  • The will act an advisor not a sale person
  • Become a trusted partner

Agents Help Fill The Gap

Many insurance policies are filled with coverage gaps. These are areas where you need certain coverage, but the policy may not provide it. A coverage gap may also be having policy limits or deductibles not designed for your needs. An agent acting as your advisor can help you identify these gaps and offer solutions.

We often use the phrase “you often don’t know what you don’t know.” Our job as your trusted partner is to listen to you, educate you then partner with you in developing the right insurance solutions.

Here Is How You Benefit

  • The complex becomes clear. When you have a relationship with the agent who is serving you, they will make the complex world of insurance understandable and how best to manage it.
  • Is Insurance the only option? Clients may not always understand that there may be other ways to handle risk.  A trusted advisor is in the education business – not the selling business.
  • Value-added benefits. With a trusted advisor, you the buyer will have all the resources and knowledge of the agent and his/her team.
  • You have access to other experts. Wouldn’t it be great if your agent brought to your team attorneys, accountants, claims experts, loss control professionals and more?  Well, a trusted advisor will do just that.

Give me a call and let talk about how we are different and can help you understand your insurance purchase with clarity. I want to earn your trust.

 

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Why We Place Importance on Customer Service

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In a world that’s being changed rapidly by technology, it only makes sense that the same is happening with customer experiences. As we progress forward with new, innovative developments from telephones to computers to the internet to social media, the insurance industry has adapted, too. Today’s customer experience is giving customers more power. They get to control how, when, and where they interact with service representatives.

Why Good Customer Service Is Vital To Agency Stability

73% of business leaders report that there is a direct link between their customer service and overall business performance. In addition, 64% of business leaders say that customer service has a positive impact on their growth.

Customers want a personalized experience. When someone reaches out to your team, they want to be treated like a person, not a number. They want to feel like their issue is important and that your agent cares deeply about solving their issue. It shouldn’t feel like your team is applying a one-size-fits-all approach to every customer interaction. Since every support case is a little different, each one should be treated as such.

What Good Customer Service Can Do For Your Business

  • Boosts employee retention
  • Reinforces company brand and values
  • Creates satisfied customers
  • Proactively addresses customer issues

 How to Improve Customer Service

  • Respond to customer’s needs quickly
  • Know your products and services
  • Listen first
  • Keep your promises
  • Ask a question to clarify issues
  • Say thank you
  • Ask for feedback

In today’s highly competitive business environment, there’s a constant and never-ending struggle that every entrepreneur must face. Those who can adapt will survive and thrive, resulting in near-boundless financial success and market saturation.

While the massive national agencies spend millions on television ads and offer barebones policies, they do not know you. When your needs change or your situation complicates, you don’t want an automated phone tree or cold cyber-agent. You want to talk to compassionate, honest insurance experts, close to home, right here in Beavercreek, OH – that’s our team. You shouldn’t have to spend hours researching and comparing policies. Let the specialists at Reichley guide you through the complex insurance industry.

Call today to alleviate the worry and get covered – (937) 429-0655.

 

Why You Need An Insurance Agent?

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If you’re too young to remember a world without the Internet, you’ve probably asked yourself this question at some point. Similarly, you may have questioned the necessity of a travel agent, a piano instructor, or a bookstore. Everything they offer is available online. But do you really need an insurance agent?

Dealing with an agent who takes the time to get to know their clients and explain choices gives the buyer a sense of confidence and the peace of mind that things will be taken care of if something happens. It can be challenging to understand the implications of an insurance purchase.

Although most clients won’t suffer a claim event, everyone should feel more at ease knowing that they have a well-thought-out plan and coverage program that would respond if one were to happen. They need to have access to persons who they can consult with for advice as necessary in that strategy.

Agents do more than collect price quotes. Yes, we understand that cost is likely your concern. Who, after all, has extra funds for something they hope they will never use? But insurance agents have the training and experience to help you comprehend all the different things that could go wrong and why the cheapest option may not be the best.

An independent insurance agency represents you, the client, in locating the best coverage at the most affordable price. This may include your home, automobile, apartment, condominium, and business coverage. Insurance policies are not products that can be purchased from a store’s shelves, so “shopping” is not the most inclusive term.

Independent insurance agencies have access to various insurance carriers. Truly diversified agencies, such as ours, have relationships with multiple carriers. In addition, some of these insurers will only work with insurance purchasers through an agency. Therefore, if you shop for insurance on your own (which we do not recommend), you will miss out on some of the best options available today.

There is still a human desire for social interaction, and the value you provide cannot be replicated in the digital world.

Give us a call today and let us know how we can serve you.

12 Insurance Tips Of Christmas Present

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We are full into the holiday season, and while you’re caught up with holiday cheer, here are our 12 gits of Christmas present. Remember, as your life changes, so should your insurance. A quick call to our office can help us educate you on the insurance coverage you need to protect your home, car, family, and life.

12 Insurance Tips for Christmas Present

  1. Your tree needs water every day. It is essential to water your tree daily, or else the branches will dry out quickly. A single spark from a nearby candle or fireplace could cause catastrophe.
  1. Check your insurance. If you have purchased an expensive item, you may need to adjust your homeowner’s coverage.
  1. Update your auto insurance. Whether you’re heading to the mall for holiday shopping or traveling to see family, make sure your insurance is current! Due to storms and ice, automobile accidents tend to increase as the temperature drops. Plan additional travel time and eliminate distractions to ensure safe holiday travel.
  1. Use caution when online shopping. Consider asking your insurance agent about adding identity theft protection to your homeowner’s insurance for added protection when shopping online. Typically, this can be added to your homeowner’s or renters’ insurance for a nominal fee, but there are also standalone plans.
  1. Holiday Lights. When installing outdoor lighting, use outdoor-rated lights and extension cords, ensure they are plugged into GFCI outlets, and avoid overloading cords, as they can become hot enough to burn.
  1. Stop porch pirates. Delivery confirmation is a good way to prove the package was delivered. Thieves will follow delivery trucks, waiting for the perfect target. These thieves commonly strike during working hours as many homes are empty at that time. You can insure your packages. Consider having a person there when the delivery is scheduled. Install a security camera.
  1. Never drink and drive. Did you know that in some states, party hosts can be held liable for injuries caused by intoxicated guests?
  1. Use caution with candles. Never leave candles burning at night. Place candles in open areas, away from walls and items that might catch on fire.
  1. Set your alarm. During the holiday season, you will likely run many errands. Develop the routine of always activating your home security system. Thieves can break into your home in a matter of minutes, so you should always leave it protected.
  1. Theft From Vehicles. While you are in the store, criminals are in the parking lot looking for easy ways to get into your vehicle. Keep all packages in the trunk; always lock your car, and park close to the store and in a well-lit area.
  1. Stovetop safety. Never leave cooking food unattended. The most common cause of cooking fires is leaving the stove (or fryer) unattended.
  1. Ladder Safety. When putting up holiday decorations, always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places. Don’t stand on chairs, desks, or other furniture.

 

 

 

 

How To Find A High Value insurance Agent

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When searching for the right commercial insurance agent for your business, you should find someone who focuses not only on providing excellent coverage but also on providing excellent customer service. They serve as an additional business partner to assist you in enhancing your business operations.

If you are a small business owner seeking a new insurance policy for your company, we have included some information on how we can assist you in selecting the policy that best meets your company’s needs.

There are two prevalent types of insurance agents: captive and independent. A captive agent represents a single insurance company and can only sell policies from that company. An independent agent is not limited to a single carrier; therefore, they are able to shop around for you with multiple carriers and assist you in obtaining coverage for all the different types of insurance your business requires.

What To look For In Your Agent?

  • Provides information
  • Offers solutions other than insurance
  • Discusses risk management
  • Has a professional team
  • Understands your ‘business
  • Value customer service

How can you tell if your commercial insurance agent is looking out for your best interests? The first thing to observe is whether they ask numerous questions to better assist your business. In addition, they will follow up with multiple (not just one) solutions for all your coverage needs and give you options that fit your business and budget.

 

 

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When Is A Good Time To Cal My Agent?

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We strongly believe in developing relationships with our customers. Insurance is not a product; it is a trusted relationship between the agent, insurer, and customer. We are always ready and willing to help you better understand your insurance and help with any questions you may have.

The Value of Your Local Independent Agent

  • Local independent insurance brokers can tailor your insurance coverage to your specific needs because they work directly with you and the insurance companies.
  • Insurance is what independent insurance agents live, think, and breathe. Because it’s their business, they’ll be able to explain any problematic policies or rate adjustments in a way you can trust. They’ve dealt with a variety of insurance providers throughout the years and are familiar with how each one operates.
  • Because your independent insurance agent is not employed by an insurance business, he or she is referred to as “independent.” They work with a variety of insurance carriers, but they are mostly focused on you!

Good Reasons To Connect With Your Agent

  • If you no longer live in your covered house, please contact us; your policy will need to be revised or amended to reflect this change.
  • If you purchase or receive new valuables such as jewelry, antiques, art, or collectibles, contact your insurance company to ensure you have adequate coverage.
  • You make the decision to work from home (home-based business). A basic business insurance policy might be necessary to protect you and your new venture.
  • You may need to make adjustments to your home insurance coverage if the people who live with you or in your home change. Your auto insurance rates may be affected by changes in your household.
  • Significant renovation or additions to your property will almost certainly necessitate a change in the amount of dwelling coverage on your home insurance policy.
  • Insurance is required for vacation homes, cabins, rental properties, hunting land, and leased property. Please contact us if you are interested in purchasing a new property or making changes to an existing one.

If you have any questions about your insurance, please call our office; we are here to help.

There Is No One-Size-Fits-All Insurance Policy

While the massive national agencies spend millions on television ads and offer barebones policies, they do not know you. When your needs change or your situation complicates, you don’t want an automated phone tree or cold cyber-agent. You want to talk to compassionate, honest insurance experts – that’s our team. You shouldn’t have to spend hours researching and comparing policies.