How do you get policy quotes?

Question

Hi everyone, thank you for reading this.

Im trying to acquire quotes for homeowners insurance/rental insurance but it seems the only way to get an accurate quote is to engage the company and ask for it. Seems like common sense right? I have done this before and I have been getting bombarded with calls/emails asking me to go forward with my "new policy" and no matter what I say..these guys keep calling. What do you say when you call for a quote? Do I tell them I'm only inquiring and I'm not actually interested in purchasing today? And if so, how do I get them off my backs post call?

THANK YOU

Andrew Wicklow · Answer

As a general rule, insurance agents don't need practice quoting.  I guess it's semi akin to me asking you to take me around the area and show me several properties, but really have idea whether I'll buy or not...at least not today.

That said, I work with several RE brokers who sell investment properties and offer them indications all the time (for their marketing materials as well as to pass along to the potential buyers.  This way they have something better than "industry norms" and I don't need to go full bore into a quote for something that MAY never materialize.

So, my suggestion is to develop a relationship with an insurance broker who is not a computer bot and ask them for some indications.  I'm open to this if you're looking for someone.

Best of luck,

James H. · Answer

@Andrew Wicklow

Wow I read your post then re read it again.I cannot believe that I get advice like this without paying for it. You took the time to reply to my question and you’re even offering to help me further. I’m very appreciative of you Andrew. Before I take anymore of your time I will need to solidify my REI strategy but I’ll keep that offer top of mind. I would love to have you in my corner for my insurance needs. Talk soon!

James H. · Answer

@Will Fraser Thank you Will! Anyone I meet with plans of moving to Oklahoma I’ll be sure to refer them to you. Than you again.

Will Fraser · Answer

Hi @James Hunt, for this very reason (and a few other good ones) I let an insurance broker I know, like, and trust do this heavy lifting.  It's their world and they already know it better than I do, plus if they do the heavy lifting I pay the same and nobody get's blown up by every sales rep under the sun.