When trying to find a good South Portland agent, it’s recommended you begin your search by comparing prices online rather than looking in the yellowpages. It’s likely you not only want a highly trained agent, but also the lowest possible price.
With insurance companies like independent agents, Allstate and State Farm having offices in South Portland, it can be hard to know which provider will have the best rates, service and coverage. Thankfully, it’s easy to use online quoting in order to build a list of agencies and thier coverage prices.
Why do I need an agent?
Good agents can answer important questions and give you someone to call. The biggest benefit of comparing rates online is that you can obtain the lowest rates and still choose a local agent. And providing support for local insurance agencies is important especially in South Portland.
Once you complete this short form, your coverage information is emailed to participating agents in South Portland who will battle to get your business. You never need to leave your computer as quotes are delivered immediately to your email address. It doesn’t get any easier! Get lower rates AND an agent nearby.
Multiple types of insurance agents in South Portland
When finding a good insurance agency, you must know there are a couple types of agencies to choose from. South Portland agents are either captive or independent.
Independent Insurance Agents
These agents are not employed by any specific company so they have the ability to put coverage with any number of different companies depending on which coverage is best. If you are not satisfied with one company, your agent can switch companies without you having to go to a different agency.
When searching for an agent, it’s a good idea to contact at a minimum one independent agency for the best price selection.Many can place coverage with different regional companies which can save you money.
Below are independent insurance agencies in South Portland who may be able to give you price quote information.
- J F Hayes Insurance and Fncl Svc – 9 Karynel Dr – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 799-9533
- Amy Alward Agency – 95 Ocean St – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 767-3334
- Liberty Mutual Insurance – 324 Cummings Rd # 202 – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 871-9000
- Bay Agency – 520 Ocean St – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 772-5220
Captive Agents
Captive agents can only place business with one company like Liberty Mutual, State Farm, Allstate and AAA. They usually cannot place coverage with different providers so they are skilled at selling on more than just price. Captives are trained well on their products and sales techniques which helps them compete with independent agents. Some people will only choose to use a captive agent primarily because of loyalty to the company and strong financial ratings.
Shown below are South Portland captive insurance agents that are able to give comparison quotes.
- State Farm Insurance – 146 Ocean St – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 767-3223
- Allstate Insurance Co – 725 Main St – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 773-0770
- Liberty Mutual Insurance – 324 Cummings Rd # 202 – South Portland, ME 04106 – (207) 871-9000
To view a complete directory of South Portland captive agents, please click here.
Choosing an auto insurance agent shouldn’t rely on just the price. Agents should be asked these questions:
- Is their price quote a firm figure or are their hidden costs?
- What is the agency’s Better Business Bureau rating?
- Can they provide you with a list of referrals?
- If your car is in the repair shop, do you have coverage for a rental car?
- What will you get paid if your car is a total loss? How is that amount determined?
- Which insurance companies are they affiliated with?
- Do clients work directly with the agent or are most inquiries handled by a CSR?
- Is working in the agency their full-time job?
Upon getting reasonable responses for all questions you ask as well as a affordable price, it’s possible that you found an insurance agent that meets your needs to properly service your auto insurance policy.
Online companies can help you save
Local insurance agents serve a purpose, but you can also buy Maine car insurance direct over the internet. Some specific companies, such as State Farm, Allstate and Farmers, who sell through agents in South Portland also allow you to buy a policy online, and that can save time as an alternative to contacting agents.
If you’re worried about not having professional advice, don’t sweat it. Auto insurance companies have customer service departments to answer your questions. Most companies also provide help pages and frequently asked questions to help you make a buying decision.
Is pricing better online? A lot of shoppers won’t buy anywhere else, but it’s impossible to say because of the number of factors that impact your premium. Some people will tell you that buying direct saves money by not requiring a commission. For most online online companies, however, it’s expensive to advertise and that can quickly cost more than paying an agent.
Additional information is available on the Maine Bureau of Insurance website through this link. Consumers can discover disciplinary actions, learn about specific coverages, and file complaints about a company.
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Affordable insurance is out there
Consumers who switch companies do it for a variety of reasons including high prices, being labeled a high risk driver, an unsatisfactory settlement offer or even denial of a claim. Regardless of your reason, choosing a new company can be pretty painless.
Cheaper auto insurance can be found both online as well as from independent agents in South Portland, so compare prices from both to have the best selection. Some insurance providers don’t offer the ability to get a quote online and usually these small insurance companies provide coverage only through local independent agents.
