Erie vs. State Farm: Need Advice
I’m currently facing a tough decision between Erie and State Farm for our insurance needs. My wife and I own one vehicle and we have our home insured with State Farm. I also have two other vehicles covered by Farm Bureau (we recently got married).
I’ve received quotes from various companies in our area here in Tennessee, and Erie has offered the best deal—saving us approximately $300-$400 a year and providing a significantly higher replacement cost on our house ($100,000 more).
My main concern lies with the Erie agent; I felt he was trying to upsell some additional coverage at our first meeting. It’s really important to me to have an agent I can trust—someone who will advocate for us during claims. While I’ve heard great things about our State Farm agent, and we even go to the same church, I’m worried about the overall reputation of State Farm as a company and what I’ve seen in reviews.
The State Farm agent also cautioned me about new client low rates and warned that rates might increase after the initial period with Erie.
Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions?
It sounds like you’re at a crucial decision point, and it’s understandable to feel torn between your options. Here are a few points to consider that might help you make your decision:
Trust and Relationship: Since you mentioned a personal relationship with your State Farm agent, that can be invaluable, especially during stressful times like dealing with a claim. Having a trustworthy advocate in your corner can make a significant difference.
Cost vs. Coverage: While the savings with Erie are appealing, consider the long-term implications. If Erie raises rates after your initial period or if the coverage isn’t as robust as State Farm in the long run, those savings may not be as beneficial. Make sure to look into customer reviews and claim experiences for both companies over time.
Claims Experience: Research online about the claims experiences of both Erie and State Farm customers. What you may find can provide insight into which company is more responsive and helpful during the claims process.
Make a List: Weigh the pros and cons of each option, focusing on factors that matter most to you – price, customer service, reliability, and the personal touch versus the cost savings and coverage benefits.
Consider Your Future Needs: Are you likely to purchase more vehicles or a new home soon? Think about how each company’s offerings might change your overall insurance needs and benefits in the future.
Consult Reviews & Ratings: Beyond what you’ve heard in person, look at online reviews from customers who have had experiences with claims at both Erie and State Farm. You can often find more transparent feedback about their services.
Ultimately, it boils down to what you value more: the reliability of a trusted local agent or the potential cost savings and coverage enhancements offered by Erie. Take your time, and choose the option that resonates most with your family’s peace of mind.