Who are the best non-standard carriers in the NY/NJ/CT for personal lines? Which do both home and auto?Which are a must have and easy to get appointed with ?
For NY & CT
Progressive is strong for auto, Foremost claims to be... but they really aren't so great.
Safeco used to be very very strong for non standard auto but they have cleaned up a bit. They still tend to be competitive it just depends on the total situation.
For non standard homeowners, Castlepoint which is part of Tower Group companies is very competitive but i can only access via MGA. Even though I have Tower personal lines direct.
Tower bought one beacon and adirondack. They are not as competitive as years past, Narragansett Bay is very good non standard carrier for NY and NJ HO.
oooh captive fun =)
Good luck! If you're going INDY focus on commercial if you can, once you loose the leads from being captive personal lines isn't as profitable.
My office pretty much only actively pursues commercial and takes the personal from the business owners as they tend to have nicer homes and more cars. just my 2 cents.
Pearl River most likely which is on the boarder of NJ. Are you and IA agent out in New City?
Rob I do plan on focusing on commercial however the carrier that is interested in giving me a direct appointment is primarily focused on PL's which at current captive position is all I do, so I will be putting a big focus on that as well.