Deciding Between Erie and State Farm
I’m currently facing a tough decision regarding my insurance options. My wife and I insure our house and one vehicle through State Farm, while I have two other vehicles covered by Farm Bureau since we recently got married. After getting quotes in our area in Tennessee, Erie has come out on top, offering us a potential savings of about $300-400 per year, along with $100,000 more in replacement cost for our home.
However, I’m a bit hesitant about the Erie agent because I felt like he was trying to upsell me on some services during our conversation. It’s really important for me to have an agent I can trust, someone who will advocate for us when we need to file a claim. On the other hand, our State Farm agent has a solid reputation, and we even go to the same church, so I know he’ll be there for us in our time of need.
That said, I’ve been reading concerning things about State Farm as a company. Plus, the Erie agent warned me that new client rates can rise after the initial period, which adds to my uncertainty. Does anyone have any advice or insights on this situation?
It sounds like you’re weighing some important factors in your decision. It’s great that you’ve already gathered quotes and considered the financial aspect. Here are a few points to think about:
Customer Service and Trust: Your existing relationship with your State Farm agent is a valuable asset. Having someone you trust, especially during stressful times like claims, can make a huge difference. If your concerns about Erie’s agent persist, it might be worth considering the quality of service you’ll receive in the long run.
Long-Term Costs: Your agent’s warning about potential rate increases with Erie is something to keep in mind. It’s not uncommon for companies to offer lower initial rates to attract new clients. It would be wise to inquire about how rates typically change over time and what kind of customer retention strategies they have in place.
Coverage Details: While the financial savings with Erie are substantial, it’s essential to thoroughly compare the coverage details. Make sure that the coverage amounts and types (e.g., liability, replacement cost, etc.) meet your needs. Sometimes a lower rate can come with less comprehensive coverage.
Reviews and Reputation: Look up customer reviews and ratings for both Erie and State Farm in your area. Understanding others’ experiences can provide valuable insight into how each company handles claims and customer service.
Consider a Local Agent: If you’re leaning toward Erie for cost, consider speaking to a different Erie agent in your region to see if you have a better rapport with someone else. This could alleviate some of your concerns about trust and service.
Ultimately, balancing trust in your agent with the benefits of cost savings is key. It might be helpful to make a pros and cons list for both options, considering both short-term savings and long-term service reliability. Good luck with your decision!