In these tough times, almost everyone is concerned about saving money. It is crucial that you get the lowest rate on your homeowners and auto insurance policies. It is now easier than ever to get insurance at a fantastic rate. In the past you could only accept whatever insurance an agent recommended. Nearly every insurance company began offering their products online around ten year ago. People began to feel like they could handle their insurance policies online and felt confident. In many cases, this was a good thing. There are downsides to directly working with insurance companies. Many customers don't know what kind of coverage they require. The customer may choose to take the lowest rate without considering the possible consequences. They may be able to take the lowest rate possible, but they will eventually need something from their insurance company. Independent agencies are still the best way to get insurance. An agent will help you find the right coverage at an affordable price. Many agencies offer additional features to make the process even simpler. In some instances, you may be able to compare quotes for insurance online. These tools allow you to easily compare apples with apples, rather than trying to visit each site individually. You will not only save as much as you can, but you also get the coverage that you require. Take some time to research the available options and choose an independent agency who will simplify things and help you save money.