What would be an advantage to working with an insurance broker?

Asked by: Linnea Wintheiser II  |  Last update: December 16, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (16 votes)

Because brokers are working with you and not the insurance companies themselves, they are able to compare the coverage of various insurers to get you the best rates and conditions in the market. In simpler terms, they provide you with the most unbiased, cost-effective, and strongest policy recommendations.

What is the advantage of using an insurance broker?

Unlike an insurance agent who works for one insurer, brokers work with multiple insurers to find the best insurance policy for your needs. Using an insurance broker ensures you get the best coverage at the best price. They handle everything from policy comparisons to binding coverage, saving you time and money.

Do you save money going through an insurance broker?

This personalized service saves me time and money, and you just can't get the same results getting quotes from individual insurance companies. That's why I believe using an insurance broker is the best way to save on homeowners insurance and other insurance premiums.

What are the disadvantages of using an insurance broker?

For instance, brokers might not have access to every insurer on the market, potentially limiting your options. They may also charge a fee for their services, which might not be cost-effective if your insurance needs are relatively straightforward.

Do insurance brokers make money off of you?

The broker guides the client through the process and explains various options. Once the client makes a purchase, the broker receives a commission. This initial commission is usually higher, given the effort and time involved in acquiring a new client and understanding their specific needs.

PROS & CONS OF BEING AN INSURANCE AGENT

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Is it good to work with an insurance broker?

Because brokers are working with you and not the insurance companies themselves, they are able to compare the coverage of various insurers to get you the best rates and conditions in the market. In simpler terms, they provide you with the most unbiased, cost-effective, and strongest policy recommendations.

What percentage do insurance brokers take?

They typically earn 5–10% of the premium as a commission. Business insurance brokers may charge a broker fee for complex risk assessments or securing specialized policies for unique business needs.

Is it better to go with an insurance broker or insurance company?

Access to a Wide Range of Options

Brokers can compare different policies and find one that best suits your needs and budget. In contrast, when buying directly from an insurer, your choices are limited to their offerings.

How much do insurance brokers make per policy?

An insurance broker makes money off commissions from selling insurance to individuals or businesses. Most commissions are 2% to 8% of premiums, depending on state regulations. Brokers sell all insurance types, including health insurance, homeowners insurance, accident insurance, life insurance, and annuities.

What are the disadvantages of using a broker?

7 RISKS OF USING A BUSINESS BROKER (PLUS 1 BONUS RISK)
  • Cost. Engaging a business broker comes at a cost. ...
  • Lack of Control. ...
  • Conflicts of Interest. ...
  • Compatibility and Understanding. ...
  • Lack of Alignment and Understanding. ...
  • Confidentiality Concerns. ...
  • Dependency on Broker Performance. ...
  • BONUS RISK: Poorly Written Broker Contract.

Can you negotiate with an insurance broker?

While far, far less common of an occurrence in the world of insurance than it is in car sales, the answer is that it may be possible to negotiate for reduced fees and commissions with a broker.

Why do insurance brokers quit?

There's two big reasons why insurance agents quit: they don't feel valued, and they aren't given the technology they need to do their jobs well.

Do insurance brokers help with claims?

But, the journey with a broker doesn't end with the purchase of an insurance policy. They can continue to provide personalized advice and help clients navigate the technical aspects of their insurance coverage, acting as advocates during the claims process and adjusting coverage as their clients' needs evolve.

What is one of the main advantages of using a broker?

Unlike dealing directly with an insurance company, brokers have access to multiple insurers and their diverse policies. This broad reach allows them to present you with a range of options, increasing the likelihood of finding the most competitive rates and comprehensive coverage.

Why a broker is better than an agent?

Brokers have more control over business operations, policies, and the brokerage's overall direction. This includes setting commission splits, managing the company culture, and choosing marketing strategies.

Is it good to use a broker?

They can conduct research on your behalf and offer personalized advice, as well as keep you up-to-date with market trends, stock performance and tax laws. A full-service broker is best for individuals who have a significant investment portfolio that they want managed by an expert.

Do insurance brokers work for you?

Unlike agents who represent insurance companies, brokers work for you, the client, offering a broader view of what's available. They guide you through the maze of insurance options, helping you understand various policy options and providing invaluable advice and clarity.

What is the average profit margin for an insurance broker?

According to industry experts, most insurance agency owners operate with an average profit margin of 2% to 10%.

What is the difference between an insurance agent and a broker?

Agents represent insurance companies. Brokers represent their clients. Brokers have a fiduciary duty to their clients, which agents do not. This means that agents do not play an advisory role in the process as brokers do.

Why deal with an insurance broker?

Brokers offer expertise

With a broker you will have the advantage of their experience and expertise in selecting the right coverage options for you from all of the different coverage that insurers offer. A broker will help you secure the best value for your needs.

Is insurance more expensive when you use a broker?

Commissions don't affect the amount you pay for insurance.

Instead, the car insurance company will make less money on your policy. However, commissions are often a percentage of the policy price. In addition, some brokers earn a commission and charge a broker fee.

How do insurance brokers make money?

Brokers make a commission on your premiums from the carrier that will depend on the coverage and if the business is new or renewal. Their pay follows your rates, so it goes up when carriers push rate and you grow your exposures, it shrinks when you reduce your exposures or policy premium.

What is a good brokerage fee percentage?

The amount charged by a brokerage firm for its services can vary greatly. Some firms may charge a flat fee for their services, while others may charge a percentage of the overall value of the transaction. The average fee charged by brokerage firms is typically between 1% and 2% of the total transaction value.

How many insurance brokers fail?

You Don't Get Fired As A Life Insurance Agent... You Quit. We often hear about the statistic that 93% of agents leave this business within the first three years, but one thing that struck me during the live session is that agents don't actually fail out of this business.

How much does it cost to start an insurance brokerage?

You need sufficient funding not just to sustain your daily operations but also to maintain a positive cash flow, especially in the first few years of your business. Depending on the size and structure of the business, industry experts estimate startup capital of between $50,000 and $500,000, possibly even more.