In the age of online quotes and instant coverage, it’s tempting to think buying insurance directly from a company is faster, easier, and cheaper. But while direct-buy options might seem convenient, they often leave out one important thing: a real person who’s looking out for your best interest.
That’s where an insurance broker comes in.
At Buckler Insurance, we’ve been helping individuals and businesses in Ontario navigate insurance since 1959. We’ve seen the industry change, but one thing remains true: Having an experienced broker on your side gives you a clear advantage.
If you’re wondering whether you should go direct or work with a broker, this guide will break down the differences and help you make an informed choice.
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What Is an Insurance Broker?
An insurance broker is an independent advisor who works for you, not for a specific insurance company. Their job is to help you:
- Compare coverage and prices from multiple insurers
- Understand what you’re actually buying
- Customize your policy based on your needs
- Navigate claims and renewals with professional support
Think of a broker as your insurance guide, someone who makes the process easier, clearer, and tailored to your situation.
What Does “Buying Direct” Mean?
When you buy insurance directly, you’re purchasing a policy from one insurance provider, either online or over the phone. You’re responsible for:
- Comparing quotes yourself
- Understanding coverage options and exclusions
- Managing your own claims
- Hoping the policy you chose actually fits your needs
There’s no middle ground or professional advice, it’s a DIY approach to insurance.
Why Use a Toronto Insurance Broker Instead?
Here’s why working with a broker like Buckler Insurance offers more value than going direct:
1. You Get Access to Multiple Insurance Companies
When you go direct, you’re only seeing one company’s offerings. However, a broker can quote from a wide network of vetted insurers. That means more options, better pricing, and policies that actually match what you need.
At Buckler Insurance, we partner with top Canadian insurance providers, giving you access to competitive rates without you having to shop around on your own.
2. You Get Expert Advice, Not a Sales Pitch
Brokers don’t push a single product. We’re not tied to one brand, so our advice is unbiased. Our role is to explain the fine print, help you compare apples to apples, and make sure you’re not over or under-insured.
And we get it, insurance can be confusing. That’s why we break it down in plain language, helping you feel confident in every decision.
3. It Saves Time and Reduces Stress
Shopping around for insurance can be a full-time job. You fill out form after form, compare unclear quotes, and cross your fingers that you picked the right coverage.
A broker handles the legwork for you, saving hours of back-and-forth. You tell us what you need, and we do the rest.
4. You’ll Get Support If You Need to File a Claim
Here’s something people don’t think about until it’s too late: Filing a claim can be complicated. If you buy direct, you’re on your own to figure out what’s covered, how to report the incident, and how to follow up.
With a broker, you’re not alone. We walk you through the process, help you gather the right information, and advocate on your behalf if needed.
At Buckler Insurance, we’ve supported clients through all kinds of claims, including auto collisions, home damage, and commercial loss. And we’re just a phone call away if you need help.
5. Personalized Coverage: One-Size-Fits-All
Everyone’s situation is different. You might need extra coverage for high-value jewelry. Or protection for a rental property. Or a business policy that includes cyber liability.
Direct-buy platforms often offer cookie-cutter policies. But brokers build coverage around you, ensuring nothing important gets missed.
Whether you need auto, life, or home insurance, Buckler offers custom solutions that match your lifestyle, not just your budget.
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6. You Might Actually Save Money
There’s a myth that brokers are more expensive. In reality, we often find lower premiums than people can find on their own because we can compare multiple companies and negotiate better terms.
Plus, we help you avoid costly gaps in coverage or paying for things you don’t need.
7. You Build a Relationship, Not Just a Policy
Insurance isn’t a one-time transaction. Your needs change: new car, new home, new business, new risks. When you work with a broker, you’re building a long-term relationship with someone who knows your history and can advise you as your life evolves.
We’ve worked with many families and businesses for decades, not just through one policy but across generations.
How Buckler Insurance Makes It Easy
Here’s what you can expect when you work with Buckler Insurance:
- Personalized recommendations from experienced advisors
- Access to multiple insurance companies, not just one option
- Ongoing policy management, including help with renewals and adjustments
- Support during claims, with a real person to guide you
- User-friendly online tools to manage your coverage
- Clear communication and transparency at every step
We simplify the insurance experience without cutting corners. You get the best of both worlds: professional guidance and convenience.
What Our Clients Typically Ask
When people are deciding between using a broker or buying insurance directly, a few common questions come up. Here are some of the things our clients often want to know before choosing how to move forward.
Isn’t it faster to buy insurance online?
Yes, if you already know exactly what coverage you need and are OK without personalized support. But mistakes in coverage can cost you more time and money later. With a broker, the process is still fast but smarter and more thorough.
Do brokers charge extra fees?
At Buckler, we don’t charge you for our brokerage services. We’re compensated by the insurance providers, not by adding fees to your policy. That means our job is to get you the best deal, not the most expensive one.
What types of insurance can a broker help with?
Pretty much everything:
- Auto
- Home
- Condo and tenant
- Life and disability
- Business insurance
- Commercial property and liability
- Specialty insurance for contractors, landlords, fleets, and more
If it needs coverage, we can help protect it.
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When Does It Make Sense to Buy Direct?
To be fair, there are a few situations where buying direct could work:
- You’re buying a simple policy (like basic auto insurance) and don’t need advice
- You’re confident managing your own coverage
- You don’t plan to make changes, updates, or claims anytime soon
But even in those cases, most people still prefer having a trusted advisor who’s in their corner when something goes wrong.
More Than Just a Middleman
Insurance brokers aren’t a middleman you can skip, they’re a trusted partner who adds value, protection, and peace of mind.
At Buckler Insurance, we’ve been helping Ontarians protect what matters for over 60 years. We believe in advice you can trust, coverage that fits, and service that lasts.
If you’re looking for more than just a cheap quote, if you want clarity, options, and support, you’ll find it here.
Need help reviewing your current coverage or exploring new options? Contact Buckler Insurance today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you find the right protection for your life, your business, and your future.
