OT: Shopping for Home/Auto insurance

[TBLS]

Need to shop for a new insurer - haven’t shopped for new carrier in years

Existing carrier exiting Auto/Home in November so have some time

Any tips before I start the process of asking for quotes online?

Midwest state, no claims history, 65+

Thanks in advance

[eddief]

Not sure about home but I'd bet the least expensive out there for auto. No clue about customer service as I have not had any auto needs for years and years. Knock on wood. I just pay the damn invoice every six months.

[CAAD]

Have you considered using a local agent? If they are good they will know how to properly quote your home in your local area. What would it cost for a local contractor to rebuild your home in the event of a total or partial loss? Bring your current policy with you. The price is the price, agents don't have control over the rates. They might in some cases charge an office fee or something like that, so ask first. Don't lower limits or coverage to save a few bucks either. Maybe they can match the premium but provide better coverage. Try to find a non-captive agent, avoid franchise-type stores with only one insurer (Allstate, State Farm), and go with one that can quote several different companies. Again they know your market, some companies could be pretty aggressive (ina good way) with rates if they want to build that market.

[AngryScientist]

If you or your spouse is still working, some larger corporations have agreements/discounts in place for employees that might be available to you.

That may be totally inapplicable to you, but worth mentioning.

Also, if you have any association with the military, USAA is worth getting a quote from, they have been excellent for me.

[KJackson]

Allstate - suggest that you combine both home & auto if you have not done so already! Policies continue escalate from a pricing perspective and the service takes a dump, seems to be the way of the world these days.

I should add that it's helps to be claim free and drive like grampa walton

Good luck

[572cv]

Originally Posted by AngryScientist

If you or your spouse is still working, some larger corporations have agreements/discounts in place for employees that might be available to you.

That may be totally inapplicable to you, but worth mentioning.

Also, if you have any association with the military, USAA is worth getting a quote from, they have been excellent for me.

My former business partner was able to get USAA. Seems like a great operation. My insurance folks have us insured with Safeco.( House +Umbrella+ Auto. ) They have been fine on cost, excellent on service.

[.RJ]

If you can find a broker nearby, they can do this for you.

No cost to you, the insurance company gives them the feee.

[p nut]

I used some cut rate insurance for years. Found out why they were cheap after an auto claim when a driver with a suspended license crashed into us.

I made the switch to Auto-Owners Insurance for home/auto. Multiple people in the auto and home repair trade said they’re one of the best, if not, the best to work with. I haven’t had a claim yet so can’t verify. Knock on wood.

[OtayBW]

Big fan of Amica. I've had them for many years. They may not be the cheapest, but IMO they have arguably the best customer service and claims facilities in the business.

[Alan]

Both are very good. You need to be eligible for USAA but also try Amica. Look at Consumer Reports ranking on insurance cos as they have good info.

Not all insurance companies offer the same service so it is not all about price

Alan

[buddybikes]

Allstate quote was horrible for us. My wife, driving at night in fog hit animal on highway. Could not avoid, and insurance agreed. 5 years later asking for quotes (after we moved) Allstate said she had collision and rate was horrid. We both have meticulous driving records.

Our local agent ended us having all policies under Nationwide and rates have been manageable.

[jlwdm]

Goosehead Insurance local broker should find you the lowest rate.

Jeff

[tylercheung]

what have ppl's experiences been on AAA?

[biker72]

I had Allstate for about 5 years. No tickets or accidents. Initial price was great.

After the 3rd year prices escalated. At year 5 it went up 30%. That's when I went with USAA. I've been with them for 3 years with very modest price increases.

[CAAD]

A local agent will know which carrier is competitive in your zip code. AAA might be competitive in Florida and not in Georgia.