Two ways to buy insurance
When you shop for home or auto insurance, you can go to an insurance company directly or work with an agency. Both can get you a policy. The difference is how many options you see and who helps you sort through them.
How a direct insurer works
A direct insurer sells its own policies to you, often through a website, app or call center. You get one company's rates and coverage options. If you want to compare, you repeat the process with other companies yourself.
- Quick to quote if you know what you want
- One company's prices and policy forms
- You do the comparison shopping
How an agency that compares carriers works
An agency that is appointed with several carriers can quote your home and auto with more than one company at a time. An agent can explain the differences in coverage, deductibles and discounts, then help you pick.
- Several quotes from one conversation
- Help comparing coverage, not just price
- One point of contact when you need changes
- Help finding a new carrier if yours raises rates or won't renew
What to compare besides price
The lowest premium isn't the best deal if the coverage is thinner. When you compare quotes, line up the same items.
- Dwelling and liability limits
- Deductibles, including any separate wind or hail deductible
- Replacement cost vs. actual cash value
- Endorsements, like water backup
- Discounts, such as bundling home and auto
Questions to ask before you buy
Whether you buy direct or through an agency, a few questions help you compare fairly and avoid surprises later.
- Does this quote match my current limits and deductibles?
- Is my home covered for its rebuild cost?
- What discounts am I getting, and which ones am I missing?
- How do I file a claim, and who do I call?
- What happens to my price at renewal?
When an agent can help most
Some situations are harder to shop on your own. An older home, a recent claim, a teen driver, a rental property or a home in a storm-prone area can limit which carriers will write a policy. An agent who works with several carriers may know where to look.
Which one fits you
A direct insurer can work well if you like to handle things yourself and you're comfortable comparing policies. An agency can help if you want options side by side, have a home and car to bundle, or want someone to review your coverage over time. Many people try both.
How CapCenter Insurance works
CapCenter's in-house insurance agency compares rates from multiple carriers for home, renters and auto. Our agents are not on commission. We review your policy each renewal to make sure you are not paying too much for your insurance.
