We hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July! In this week's Big I Buzz, we are discussing five reasons to join IMS and the most common homeowners claim.

Five Reasons to Join Independent Market Solutions

Independent Market Solutions was created with the goal of providing Wisconsin agents with access to quality insurance markets. Whether you're looking to diversify your current book of business or just need a little head start securing company appointments, IMS can help. 

If you haven't signed up with IMS yet, here are five reasons to join: 

1. It's free to join. There is no cost for IIAW members to join IMS, and agents own their book of business. The larger your strike zone, the easier it is to hit a home run, so we've made market access an integral part of your membership.

2. You can earn competitive commissions. Profitable growth is key to the success of an independent agency. That's why IMS offers agents competitive commissions as well as 100 percent ownership of expirations to help maximize agency income. 

3. You can graduate to direct carrier appointments. IMS opens the door for agents to more easily qualify for appointments that can often lead to "graduation" - a direct appointment after minimum premium thresholds and performance standards are met. 

4. You can earn contingency commissions. When agents consistently produce profitable business with certain IMS markets, they can qualify to participate in any earned program contingencies. IMS also shares 100 percent of any carrier production bonuses and incentives with agents, putting more money in the pockets of IIAW members. 

5. The IMS menu is always evolving. Thanks to the partnership among several state associations, the IMS program creates greater volume, leverage and ultimately, better terms for member agents. 

If you'd like to apply for an appointment or learn more about the carriers IMS can get you connected with, click here. 

Water Damage Most Common Homeowners Claim

The importance of homeowners insurance and being adequately covered is emphasized in the wake of natural disasters that can cause devastating financial loss. In 2022, the US experienced 18 billion-dollar disaster events, resulting in $171.5 billion in damage. While large-scale catastrophes are not common, millions of homeowners face property loss each year and need to file insurance claims. The most frequent claims are related to water damage, which can occur at any time. Homeowners are advised to conduct routine maintenance, repair leaks promptly, and turn off the main water supply when away for an extended period. Implementing smart home technology, such as water pressure sensors, can provide added protection and often leads to insurance discounts. Flood damage caused by rising water or fires are other concerns for homeowners. Fire damage can be prevented by avoiding negligence and taking precautions like not leaving lit stoves, fireplaces, candles, or portable heat sources unattended. Mitigating wildfire risks involves yard maintenance and ensuring roofs and gutters are cleared. Theft, although not a threat to the physical structure, can still be costly. Homeowners can safeguard against theft by securing doors and windows, avoiding obvious spare key locations, and utilizing smart home devices for remote monitoring and security system activation. Ultimately, the goal of insurance companies like Mercury Insurance is to help homeowners recover after a loss and return their lives to normalcy as quickly as possible.

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