From the Front Lines: Homeowners

How did you get started at your agency?

I started my career in personal lines insurance three years ago when I joined Pearl Carroll. Prior to that, I was a financial adviser where I saw firsthand the importance of insurance.

Why homeowners?

For most people, a home is the largest purchase they will make in their lifetime. It gives me great pride to help them protect it.

Biggest homeowners challenges?

As the market continues to change, there is fluctuation in the value of homes. It is often difficult to explain to the insured the difference between market value vs. replacement cost value.

What do you tell a millennial client considering homeowners coverage for the first time?

Millennials are often referred to as the most underinsured generation, but they comprise the largest group of homebuyers and renters in the U.S. Education needs to always come first. It is important to review what is covered, and equally important to explain when and how to file a claim when it is necessary.

Homeowners advice for a fellow agent?

Listen to the customer—every customer is different and so has different needs. There are no quick answers. The time to properly review and quote an insured will vary, as every insured’s needs vary.

Future of homeowners insurance?

I think we will see additional needs as technology continues to grow. People will always need homeowners insurance to protect their homes and the valuable assets they have inside those homes. Millennials don’t like to be advertised to, often viewing it as an invasion of their time and life. Innovation and the ability to leverage technology will be important, as will greater transparency about underwriting policies in order to garner this generation’s trust.

Favorite success story?

Every day we get to witness success stories when someone experiences a disaster and we are able to help them put their lives back together. It’s a great feeling!