Doesn't seem to matter if it's Real Estate or Insurance -- Customer service is an interesting phenomenon. We never know exactly what form it might take when it's opportunity comes our way. We struggle to gain new clients, leads and Spheres of Influence, but to we have the same passion when it comes to serving our existing clients? Somtimes I'll see these opportunities as chores or 'necessary evils' of my business. Sometimes I see them for just what they are: A golden opportunity to bless the life of another person because of what I know, who I know, and what I can do with that knowledge and experience. Here's just one such occasion where I think I "got it right...."
A policyholder of mine called me. She's been insured with me for over 20 years and has been a great State Farm customer. I've been very helpful to her over the years surviving a family break-up and some financial setbacks she suffered. All that to say, we have a great working relationship.
Apparently her 20-somthing son returned to his car to find the gas flap open and the cap off. Looked as if someone had been getting some 'discounted gas.' Car was down to 1/8 of a tank. The car started up ok and he drove to school. After school, the car wouldn't start. First thought was that 1/8 of a tank isn't going to take you very far.
Took the car to their mechanic who said something was put into the tank and everything from the tank, to the filler valve, to the filter, to the fuel pump, and on into the fuel injection system was clogged w/ 'gunk'. He didn't know the source of the gunk, but it was gunk nonetheless.
The State Farm estimator looked at the car. The estimator is the eyes and ears of the adjuster (who sits in the office and makes the decisions). The estimator believed it all to be deferred maintenance and wear and tear. There was a report, photos and many of years of experience behind the estimator to support his findings. It all made sense to me, but it didn't support the surrounding facts. You know.... Tank open, car not running, problems with everything in the fuel system and the rest of the car has been kept in great shape. Sounds fishy, right. OF COURSE RIGHT!
First I called the shop doing the work. Dewey told me that there was some kind of gunk in the tank and he was sure there was something going on besides wear and tear. I made notes and then called the adjuster.
Lucinda, the adjuster (the one making the decision) was pleasant and very business-like. I pleaded the case on behalf of my long-term customer. She was resolute that the estimator had made the right call of WEAR AND TEAR. She cited verbatim from his report and indicated where there were photos to back the conclusions. She also said that the mechanic, Dewey, had indicated that there was NO SIGN OF FOUL PLAY! Now that was exactly contrary to what he had told me. I simply listened to the information, made notes and thanked her for her time and thourough explanation.
Then I paid a little visit to Dewey.
Dewey was busy with an emissions test running the car on those big rollers so he can to 60mph while staying in one place. I LOVE THOSE THINGS! Anyway.... He sent me to Si (pronounced See), the owner in the office. Long story short... Si said he didn't really know what happened to the car but there was NO WAY it was deferred maintenance or wear and tear. That was all I needed to hear.
I called Lucinda's (the adjuster) supervisor, Randy. Explained the situation: Long-time policyholder, adamant about the vandalisim claim, only damage to the car was ALL ALONG THE FUEL SYSTEM... tank, filler valve, filter, etc.... with no damage anywhere else. Pointed out to him that if this went to small claims court, we'd LOSE! BIG TIME! He agreed and thought it reasonable to pay the claim.
I was honestly a little shocked at his 'reasonableness'. I'll have to make a note of this guy for NEXT TIME!
Needless to say, the customer was thrilled at the "sudden" turn of events. I gently reminded her that she wouldn't get this kind of service with GEICO or AAA or 21st Century. She heartily agreed.
All this to say...
Customer service is key in our type of business. All we sell is what we do and what we know. I knew how to maximize my chances of turning this claim in our favor. I knew how to massage the system to get the best results. I'll tell you, it's not with high decibles and harsh words. It's about knowing the language of your business and how to best use your knowledge and experience to extract the desired results from less than desirable situations.
Till next time...
It's a Good Life !
Dennis Volz Insurance Agency
10783 Jamacha Bl, Suite 1, Spring Valley, CA 91978
OFFICE: (619) 670-1000 - FAX: (619) 670-1121 - Cell (619) 339-1339
Email: Dennis@DennisVolzInsurance.com
Websites: DennisVolzInsurance.com
You can also check out our HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE INFORMATION PAGE.
My 'Other Blogs'
The San Diego Insurance Blog
Working By Referral
Musings from California
WHAT KIND OF INSURANCE IS BEST FOR ME?
If you’ve read any of our other reports, you’ll know that even though insurance has been part of our culture for over 100 years, to most people – It’s still a just a mystery. And because they don’t understand it, a lot of people think they’re being “ripped off” by the Insurance Industry; aka “The Club”
I want to end that for you.
I know that not all insurance is "created equal". Life insurance is certainly no exception. Placing all your coverage in TERM LIFE INSURANCE can be one of the costliest mistakes you could make.
To help us get started, please answer this question for yourself:
WHEN DO I WANT MY LIFE INSURANCE TO BE IN FORCE?
(IN FORCE means that it’s paid, current and ready to pay a death benefit if you should die. )
Well, the obvious answer is: WHEN I DIE!! Of course…
OK, when do you plan to die????
The next obvious answer (at least MY answer is) When I’m old.
VERY OLD.
THE OLDER, THE BETTER!
Let’s face it. You purchase life insurance really hoping that you’re NOT going to use it any time soon. And you know what? Odds are that you probably won’t. Most likely you’re going to die when you’re older – Much older. But just in case you don’t, you purchase life insurance to protect the financial future of those you love.
So let’s look at the facts of term life insurance. Nothing emotional or prejudged – Kind of like an FBI agent just examining the evidence to see where it leads.
Here’s what Term Life Insurance life rates look like. This is just a typical example for a $100,000 5 year Term Policy, Male, non-tobacco rates. You can get different rates from a hundred different companies. What will be the SAME from ALL THE COMPANIES is the UPWARD TREND of the rates.
-----------------------------------------
FACT #1 – Term life insurance is not very expensive when you are young. Notice how the rate doesn’t even change for the first 3 years.
FACT #2 – Term life insurance premiums increase as you get older. Take a look at the chart. Except for the first few years, the rate increases EVERY YEAR.
FACT #3 – Term life insurance gets VERY EXPENSIVE when you’re older. Notice how it increases VERY SLOWLY until about age 50 when it really starts to take off.
FACT #4 – The premiums you pay for term life insurance never come back to you. You see term insurance is kind of like renting an apartment. Certainly cheaper every month than buying a house, but when you leave you leave all your hard earned money with your landlord.
FACT #5 – At some point in time, you’ll look at your monthly premium for your term life insurance and say, “I just can’t afford this any longer.” It usually happens just about the time you retire and your income is going down a little and the cost of your life insurance is rocketing through the roof! Check the premium at AGE 71… WOW!
Could be a problem, don’t you think?
At age 71 you may not need the insurance any longer. But let’s just say that you do. Maybe the house isn’t quite paid for, there’s some money you’d like to leave to family, grandkids, spouse, your church… could be a hundred different reasons. The problem is that if you want to keep your insurance, you probably can’t because it’s just become too expensive for you.
Wouldn’t you like to have the option to keep it or not?
Let me show you how you can have that choice then by making a simple decision today.
Get a small permanent life insurance policy today that will give you options when you are older.
Here’s what permanent insurance can do for you.
1. Provides you with insurance you can keep for the rest of your life.
2. NEVER increases in premium.
3. Usually allows you to stop paying the premiums just about the time you retire and REMAIN INSURED FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE.
4. Sometimes you can even have the policy PAY YOU a monthly income.
(I’ll include a few more for you at the end of this section…. Look or this little guy again. ---------------------->
Remember -- Odds are you’re going to live and your term insurance isn’t going to pay a death benefit for you. But it fills a need when you’re young. Generally in your younger years 30-55, your financial responsibilities are high. You have kids, house payments, extra cars, college to pay for, on and on and on…
Usually, when you hit 55-60 or so, those obligations are MUCH LESS! You don’t need the amount of life insurance you needed when you were younger. The kids are out of the house, you have fewer cars to “support”, college is done, the house is paid for (or nearly so…).
BUT…. There will still be expenses to handle when you die – Funeral, maybe some small debts to pay off, or possibly you need to provide an income for your spouse at the loss of you retirement income.
The cheapest way to pay those expenses is ALWAYS WITH SOME LIFE INSURANCE. Much cheaper than drawing money out of the savings account.
But here’s the problem with that…
If you need $500,000 of insurance coverage today because your obligations are still in the fast lane, you probably can’t really afford to buy all of your life insurance as PERMANENT insurance.
$500,000 or permanent insurance would cost you at least $300-$400 per month.
And here’s the answer….
Life insurance is the ONLY kind of insurance you buy where you’re GUARANTEED to make a claim. Your term insurance may or may not be in force when you die. Your permanent insurance will be.
And here’s the real rub! Even if you decide to pay the additional premiums, TERM insurance is usually only renewable to a certain age. You may live longer than the policy can be renewed
Here’s some more benefits of permanent insurance if you choose UNIVERSAL LIFE as your policy:
5. Your earnings are TAX DEFERRED which means Uncle Sam actually is helping you pay your insurance prem
iums.
6. Your policy PREMIUMS are flexible which means that if you hit a period of financial hardship you can actually STOP PAYING for a short period of time and continue to be insured.
7. You can adjust the amount of your coverage up and down depending on your changing needs. (you’ll need to be insurable of course to increase the coverage unless you’ve planned ahead by adding GIO to your policy. Good to get, but too much to explain here. Ask me when I see you.)
Get the numbers on your own permanent insurance plan. For just the price of a Starbucks a day OR LESS, you can have the peace of mind that comes with owning a permanent insurance plan that can make your life so much easier when you are older.
NO obligation, no pressure, just take a look then decide.
Just give me a call 619-670-1000 or drop me an email to dennis@DennisVolzInsurance.com.
I just need to know three things:
1. Your age
2. If you want $50,000, $75,000, or $100,000 or permanent insurance (you can choose any amount above $50,000 of course, but most choose one of those three.)
3. Do you use tobacco in any form?
I’ll print out an illustration of your policy and meet with you for about 15 minutes and then let you decide.
It just doesn’t get any better -
OR EASIER - than that…
You’ve got everything to gain and NOTHING to lose.
I look forward to talking with you soon!
Sincerely,
It's a Good Life !
Dennis Volz Insurance Agency
10783 Jamacha Bl, Suite 1, Spring Valley, CA 91978
OFFICE: (619) 670-1000 - FAX: (619) 670-1121 - Cell (619) 339-1339
Email: Dennis@DennisVolzInsurance.com
Websites: DennisVolzInsurance.com
You can also check out our LIFE INSURANCE INFORMATION PAGE
My 'Other Blogs'
The San Diego Insurance Blog
Working by Referral
Musings from California
This post contains only a general description of coverages and is not your insurance contract. Details of coverage or limits can vary. All coverages are determined by the terms, provisions, exclusions and conditions of your policy along with any endorsements.
How much coverage do I need on my house? What deductible should I have? Answers to these questions and more. JUST CLICK THE -READ THIS FIRST! 91910, 91911, 91913, 91914, 91915
Getting the most for your insurance dollar starts with getting the best quote you can. There's few things in life more (seemingly) complicated than shopping for coverage like Homeowners Insurance.
Let me offer you a comprehensive view of all of these questions. Take a look at my blog post at THE SAN DIEGO INSURANCE BLOG
There you'll find all the answers to these questions and more.
Once you've decided how to best configure your coverage, then make a few calls. Ask some friends who their insurance company is and how do they like it. Ask if they've had any claim experience there. Be sure that when you call, get the same coverages for each quote. If they want to quote you some different limits and deductibles, that's great, but make sure you have the one configuration that you started with. That way it makes it easy for you to compare prices and companies.
Remember it's NOT just about the price. There's convenience of use and claim service to consider. Do you want a local office or are you happy with a 1-800 number in some far off state? Lots of questions to answer. Just be organized and think through what you want. WRITE IT DOWN and keep track of the answers and prices you get.
Alsoo keep in mind, the ease and convenience which gets you the quote is probably an indicator of how other things like car changes and claims might go in the future.
Feel free to call me if you have any questions.... GOOD LUCK!
It's a Good Life !
Dennis Volz Insurance Agency
10783 Jamacha Bl, Suite 1, Spring Valley, CA 91978
OFFICE: (619) 670-1000 - FAX: (619) 670-1121
eMail:Dennis@DennisVolz.com
Websites: Company Site: DennisVolzInsurance.com
Client Convenience Site: 6701000.com
My 'Other Blogs'
Working by Referral
The San Diego Insurance Blog
Musings from California
Jamul, 91935
Serving San Diego, El Cajon, Spring Valley, Lakeside, Jamul, Santee, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, La Jolla, North Park, Kennsington, East County, Fallbrook, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
How much coverage do I need on my house? What deductible should I have? Answers to these questions and more. JUST CLICK THE -READ THIS FIRST! 91910, 91911, 91913, 91914, 91915
Getting the most for your insurance dollar starts with getting the best quote you can. There's few things in life more (seemingly) complicated than shopping for coverage like Homeowners Insurance.
Let me offer you a comprehensive view of all of these questions. Take a look at my blog post at THE SAN DIEGO INSURANCE BLOG
There you'll find all the answers to these questions and more.
Once you've decided how to best configure your coverage, then make a few calls. Ask some friends who their insurance company is and how do they like it. Ask if they've had any claim experience there. Be sure that when you call, get the same coverages for each quote. If they want to quote you some different limits and deductibles, that's great, but make sure you have the one configuration that you started with. That way it makes it easy for you to compare prices and companies.
Remember it's NOT just about the price. There's convenience of use and claim service to consider. Do you want a local office or are you happy with a 1-800 number in some far off state? Lots of questions to answer. Just be organized and think through what you want. WRITE IT DOWN and keep track of the answers and prices you get.
Alsoo keep in mind, the ease and convenience which gets you the quote is probably an indicator of how other things like car changes and claims might go in the future.
Feel free to call me if you have any questions.... GOOD LUCK!
It's a Good Life !
Dennis Volz Insurance Agency
10783 Jamacha Bl, Suite 1, Spring Valley, CA 91978
OFFICE: (619) 670-1000 - FAX: (619) 670-1121
eMail:Dennis@DennisVolz.com
Websites: Company Site: DennisVolzInsurance.com
Client Convenience Site: 6701000.com
My 'Other Blogs'
Working by Referral
The San Diego Insurance Blog
Musings from California
Serving San Diego, El Cajon, Spring Valley, Lakeside, Jamul, Santee, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, La Jolla, North Park, Kennsington, East County, Fallbrook, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Answer these important questions BEFORE getting any quotes
Getting the most for your insurance dollar starts with getting the best quote you can. There's few things in life more (seemingly) complicated than shopping for coverage like Renters Insurance.
Let me offer you a comprehensive view of all of these questions. Take a look at my blog post at THE SAN DIEGO INSURANCE BLOG :
There you'll find all the answers to these questions and more.
Once you've decided how to best configure your coverage, then make a few calls. Ask some friends who their insurance company is and how do they like it. Ask if they've had any claim experience there. Be sure that when you call, get the same coverages for each quote. If they want to quote you some different limits and deductibles, that's great, but make sure you have the one configuration that you started with. That way it makes it easy for you to compare prices and companies.
Remember it's NOT just about the price. There's convenience of use and claim service to consider. Do you want a local office or are you happy with a 1-800 number in some far off state? Lots of questions to answer. Just be organized and think through what you want. WRITE IT DOWN and keep track of the answers and prices you get.
Alsoo keep in mind, the ease and convenience which gets you the quote is probably an indicator of how other things like car changes and claims might go in the future.
Feel free to call me if you have any questions.... GOOD LUCK!
It's a Good Life !
Dennis Volz Insurance Agency
10783 Jamacha Bl, Suite 1, Spring Valley, CA 91978
OFFICE: (619) 670-1000 - FAX: (619) 670-1121
eMail:Dennis@DennisVolz.com
Websites: Company Site: DennisVolzInsurance.com
Client Convenience Site: 6701000.com
My 'Other Blogs'
Working by Referral
The San Diego Insurance Blog
Musings from California
Serving San Diego, El Cajon, Spring Valley, Lakeside, Jamul, Santee, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, La Jolla, North Park, Kennsington, East County, Fallbrook, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
92020, 92021, 92019
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auto insurance quotes, renters insurance, homeowners insurance, car insurance, landlord insurance, motorcycle insurance, motorhome insurance, long term care, 619-670-1000 -- DennisVolzInsurance.com
We're a 30+ year, San Diego insurance agency that provides world class service to our customers and comprehensive insurance coverage backed by one of the biggest and best insurance companies in the world
Visit my Agency Web Site...at www.DennisVolzInsurance.com
I've been in the insurance business for over 30 years. I absolutely love what I do and couldn't imagine any other kind of profession...(well, maybe zillionaire actor or a famous musician, but other than that)....I'm happy doing what I do.
Our agency is comprised of me and 2 highly trained and licensed insurance professionals, Yvonne and Barbara. We strive to be the "small-town", personable insurance agency that comes with a tremendous insurance company.
Our mission is to enable our policyholders to effectively manage the risks of everyday life, help them recover from the unexpected when it happens and to realize their dreams through conservative, conscious, methodical investment opportunities.
Our insurance company and our agency specialize in insuring "middle America." Mom, dad, a house, a couple cars and some life insurance describes our typical client.
We love to work with first-time home buyers and renters who are on their way to homeownership. We encourage all our clients to have a regular savings plan and written budgets to help them acheive their dreams.
We also help families manage the hazards and blessings of raising a family with excellent coverage for youthful drivers and offering to counsel them on the habits of safe driving along the way.
Finally, we love to protect the most important asset, the bread winners in the household with cost-effective, comprehensive life insurance protection.
![Dennis Volz](/image_store/uploads/4/7/5/6/0/ar120120673106574.JPG "The "REAL" me")
Graduated from San Diego State University in 1974. (yes it was in existence then...:) ) After that I spent 3-1/2 years in the United States Marine Corps as a Supply Officer (right choice for me..."We Stay in the Rear with the Gear")
Married to one lovely lady for almost 35 years now. Three amazing children all twenty something. One grandson, 2 dogs.
Did some stunt flying in my younger years for fun. Had a blast doing that. Once our first child was born, thought it best to knock that crazy stuff off. Had lots of fun growing up in the 60's. Saw concerts by Joe Cocker, The Temptations, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Stevie Wonder, Neil Diamond, The Turtles. Never managed to catch my fav group of all time in concert -- The Beatles. Have all their stuff on my iPod though and love to drive around San Diego rockin to the Sound of the Sixties.
Now I'm thrilled to be a dad and a grandpa and enjoy times spent w/ the fam just hanging around doing everything and nothing.
It's definitely a good life and I look forward to making many good friends here on ActiveRain.
ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
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