Experienced P&C Agent...looking to Go Out on His Own...lots of Questions

jwterry3 · 06-14-2009, 10:41 PM

I have been working for some of the best independent agencies in SC for 9 years and I have finanlly had enough and I am starting my own agency.

As obvious as it is, I am trying to keep my agency super effecient all the while keeping start up cost as low as I can year 1. Those who have done this before, your thoughts,experience, and ideas are priceless as is websites like this.

I know I will have: rent, biz insurance for agency, CPU/phone systems, area biz licenses, office supplies, taxes.

(1). In addition to these, I plan on having to use some sort of wholesaler to fill marketwise for the markets I can not get direct....thinking either Insurance Noodle, NIA, or Superior Access. Which would you recommend???? Do these companies issue certs for you??

(2). I am also going to entertain the idea of an agency managament system to handle prospecting, certs, policy managemnt,etc of the policies that I will not have issued through the wholesaler. Thinking about Quickfile or TAM Online. Thoughts and costs associated with each????

(3). The last cog of expense is going to be the develeopment and hosting of my website. My readings tell me that this is a great selling tool that I should invest some money in. Thoughts?

That is the first round of questions I have now.. Thanks in advance for your help

I will be selling in South Carolina. 60% commercial (small to medium) P&C and 40% personal P&C.

moeasadi · 06-16-2009, 01:30 AM

With your experience you are doing the best move possible.My suggestion is to focus on few lines and you will be fine.If you have some svings to last you 6 months, those expenses will be easily covered by your revenue.Good luck.

hdlabs · 07-10-2009, 03:03 PM

Where are you located in SC? Who have you worked for? Why are you going on your own? Just wondering as I am considering getting in sales myself. I've been an underwriter for small company for about 5 years.