When it comes to buying insurance, most Oregon families have more options than they realize — and the choice of how you buy can be just as important as what you buy. Working with an independent insurance agent like Gerald Ross Agency gives you access to the entire insurance market, not just one company's products. Here's what that means for your coverage, your rates, and your peace of mind.

Independent vs. Captive: Understanding the Difference

There are two main types of insurance agents: captive agents and independent agents. A captive agent works exclusively for one insurance company — think State Farm, Allstate, or Farmers. They can only sell that company's products, and their loyalty is ultimately to their employer, not to you.

An independent agent, by contrast, represents multiple insurance carriers — sometimes 20, 30, or 50 or more. Gerald Ross Agency works with more than 50 carriers, which means we can shop the entire market on your behalf and find the policy that genuinely fits your needs, your risk profile, and your budget. We work for you — not for any insurance company.

The 7 Key Advantages of Working with an Independent Agent

• Market Access: We compare rates and coverage options across 50+ carriers to find the best fit for your specific situation — something a captive agent simply cannot do.
• Unbiased Advice: We have no financial incentive to steer you toward any particular carrier. Our recommendation is based entirely on what is best for you.
• Claim Advocacy: When you have a claim, we advocate for you — helping you navigate the process, communicate with the adjuster, and ensure you receive the full benefit of your policy.
• One-Stop Shopping: We can handle your auto, home, marine, farm, commercial, and life insurance — all under one roof, with one point of contact.
• Policy Reviews: We proactively review your coverage at renewal to ensure it still fits your needs and that you are not paying for coverage you no longer need.
• Local Knowledge: We live and work on the Oregon Coast. We understand the unique risks of coastal living — from wildfire to flooding to marine exposures — and we know which carriers handle these risks best.
• Long-Term Relationship: We build relationships with our clients that last decades. Many of our clients today are the children and grandchildren of original clients.

Does Using an Independent Agent Cost More?

This is one of the most common misconceptions about independent agents. The answer is no — using an independent agent does not cost you more. Independent agents are compensated through commissions paid by the insurance carriers, the same way captive agents are paid. The commission is built into the premium regardless of whether you buy through an agent or directly from the carrier.

In fact, because independent agents can compare multiple carriers, they often find you a better price than you would get by going directly to a single carrier. The combination of market access and professional expertise typically results in better coverage at a lower cost — not a higher one.

Serving Oregon Coast Families and Businesses Since 1937

Gerald Ross Agency has been serving the Oregon Coast as an independent agency since 1937 — nearly 90 years of community-focused insurance service. We serve clients throughout the coast, including Brookings, Gold Beach, Bandon, Coos Bay, and Newport.

We offer personal lines including auto insurance, home insurance, and umbrella coverage, as well as commercial lines, marine insurance, farm and ranch, and specialty coverages. Whatever your insurance needs, we have the market access and expertise to find the right solution.