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Are You Being Held Captive?

9/17/2015

The 411: Independent Insurance Agents vs. Captive Agents

There are two primary types of insurance agents: captive agents and independent agents. What's the difference? A "captive" agent represents one insurance company and can only write policies for that company. This means they are limited exclusively to their company's coverage plans. Sounds like a pretty captive situation if you ask me.

An independent agent on the other hand represents several different insurance companies; they are able to source from a variety of reputable national and local providers. They have the flexibility to offer a broader range of options at highly competitive prices, so you get a personally tailored plan to suit your needs and budget. Best of all, they are able to offer unparalleled and unbiased advocacy to their customers, from quote through claims. Now that's more like it!

Everyone has a unique situation. At ALINK Insurance Services, our Trusted Choice® Independent Insurance Agents are here for YOU. As your needs and your life changes, you can switch coverage, and companies if necessary, without finding a new agent.

Shopping for insurance is our job. Let our independent insurance agents handle the leg work for you. Request a quote today!

Denver Metro/Parker: 303-752-6479
Colorado Springs: 719-473-6262
Greeley: 970-475-0900
Surrounding States: 877-643-6148

We're your link to security!

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Home Efficiency

5/6/2015

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Is your home as efficient as it could be?

Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters.

All are common issues and they’re not only annoying — they also cost you money in decreased energy efficiency and higher utility bills.

Would you like to save $200 to $400 a year on your energy costs? That’s how much the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program estimates that homeowners can save by incorporating technologies to make their homes operate more efficiently.

Of course, helping to protect you and your family is our goal at ALINK Insurance Services, and keeping your home well-maintained usually means your home will be safer as well. Several of the tips below from the National Association of Home Builders will help you accomplish both.

Do a home-energy audit. Making your home more efficient can seem like an overwhelming task. But “auditing” your energy efficiency is something you can do yourself, and it’s relatively simple. This will show you where your home loses energy, how efficient your heating and cooling systems are, and ways you can decrease your electricity use. Just inspect the areas listed here and note the problems you find.

Where’s the air? Air commonly “leaks” from homes through gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets and windows or doors. Stopping these drafts can save up to 30 percent of your yearly energy costs. Be sure to check your home’s exterior as well, paying particular attention to areas where two different building materials meet. When you find leaks, seal them with caulk or weather stripping.

Don’t wait … insulate! Check to see if the amount of insulation in the ceiling and walls is sufficient. Your attic door should be insulated and close tightly. For walls, make a small hole in a closet or other inconspicuous place and probe into the wall with a screwdriver — the area should be completely filled with insulation.

Do a systems check. Efficient heating and cooling systems can save you frustration as well as money. Make sure ducts and pipes are insulated properly, and have your equipment checked and cleaned by a professional each year. Filters for forced-air furnaces should be replaced as soon as they are dirty, or every 30 to 60 days.

Let there be (efficient) light. Lighting can account for up to 20 percent of your home’s total electricity use, so consider compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs, which last longer and use far less energy than incandescent bulbs.

The only thing left to do after you complete your audit (and make any necessary changes)? Figuring out how to spend the money you’ll save each year! Add on the potential insurance savings through ALINK Insurance Services and that money will be burning a hole in your pocket.

Give us a call!

Denver Metro/Parker: 303-752-6479
Colorado Springs: 719-473-6262
Greeley: 970-475-0900
Surrounding States: 877-643-6148

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Are You Being Held Captive?

Home Efficiency

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