Why an Independent Insurance Agency Matters
How an Independent Insurance Agency Helps Clients
Discover how having more carrier options is not only better for us, but you too!
Comprehensive Coverage
Tailored Policies
Expert Guidance
Local Expertise
The “Why” Behind Customers First Insurance Group
Customers First Insurance Group was founded on a simple belief: good people deserve good insurance options.
Michael Vereecke, President of Customers First Insurance Group, started the agency because he grew tired of seeing responsible, loyal customers lose affordable insurance rates for reasons that often had little to do with the kind of client they truly were.
Too often, good-paying customers were penalized because an insurance company changed direction. One year, they were a great fit for a carrier. The next year, that same carrier adjusted its pricing model, changed its underwriting appetite, or shifted its growth strategy — and suddenly that same customer was facing a much higher premium.
Why does this happen?
Insurance Scores Play a Big Role
Auto insurance companies often use something called an insurance score as part of the process for determining premiums. They also look at factors like claims history, payment history, and driving record when deciding what a customer will pay.
Pricing Models Are Not Always Perfect
Behind the scenes, actuarial teams analyze large amounts of claims data to predict which customers are less likely to file claims in the future. While that may make sense from a business standpoint, those models can sometimes be affected by things outside a customer’s control, including fraud trends, catastrophic events, inaccurate data, or broader market shifts.
Carriers Sometimes Change Strategy
In some cases, insurance carriers lower rates intentionally to grow market share quickly. Later, after bringing in enough new business, they may raise rates or tighten underwriting guidelines, knowing that many customers will stay simply because shopping for insurance can feel time-consuming and frustrating.
Good Customers Deserve Fair Treatment
That approach never aligned with the philosophy behind Customers First Insurance Group. To Michael Vereecke, a good customer is someone who pays on time, files legitimate claims when truly needed, and is honest throughout the process. Those are the clients who deserve to be treated fairly.
Common Questions About Independent Agents
Understanding the difference between independent and captive agents. Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you.
What makes Customers First Insurance Group different?
Customers First Insurance Group focuses on service, honesty, and helping clients understand their options. The goal is not just to sell a policy, but to build long-term relationships by being kind, helpful, and matching people with coverage that makes sense for their situation.
Why did Customers First Insurance Group become an independent agency?
Customers First Insurance Group was founded because Michael Vereecke saw too many good customers lose affordable insurance rates when a carrier changed its pricing model or underwriting direction.
What does it mean to be an independent insurance agency?
An independent insurance agency is not tied to just one insurance carrier. That means Customers First Insurance Group can compare multiple companies and help match clients with coverage and pricing that better fits their needs.
Why do insurance rates sometimes go up even when nothing changed?
Insurance rates can change for many reasons beyond an individual customer’s control. Carriers may adjust their pricing models, respond to claims trends, change their underwriting appetite, or shift strategy to grow or shrink in certain markets.
Do insurance companies always reward loyal customers?
Not always. Some carriers offer very competitive rates to win new business, then later raise rates or become less competitive over time. That is one reason it is helpful to work with an independent agency that can review other options when needed.
What makes someone a good insurance customer?
At Customers First Insurance Group, a good customer is someone who pays on time, files legitimate claims when needed, and is truthful throughout the process. Those are the kinds of clients the agency believes deserve fair treatment and strong service.
What is an insurance score?
An insurance score is one of the tools many auto insurance companies use to help determine premiums. It is typically considered along with factors like driving record, payment history, and claims history when pricing a policy.
How does an independent agency help when rates change?
If one carrier changes its rates or underwriting guidelines, an independent agency can often shop the policy with other companies. This gives clients a better chance of finding a more favorable option without starting from scratch on their own.
Is cheaper insurance always better?
Not necessarily. The lowest premium is not always the best value if the coverage does not properly fit the client’s needs. A good insurance policy should balance price, protection, and the quality of the carrier behind it.
What Our Clients Say
★★★★★
Mike is very easy to work with and very accommodating! He went the extra mile to make sure we got the best rate!
Megan F., Harrison Twp, MI
★★★★★
Mike has been such a big help the last few years finding me the best home and auto insurance. Even living in Grand Rapids he has worked with me remotely for my best options. I have always never fully understood how to shop around for the best deal and most places took advantage of that. It was so nice to be able to have someone help me understand what I was getting and find me a great deal in a very short amount of time.
Christina L., Grand Rapids, MI
★★★★★
Working with Mike has been great. Been working with him just about 2 years and its been such a pleasant experience. Him
and his team our knowledgeable and kind. I also had never used an insurance broker in the past but now i wish i wouldve started using him sooner. Theres never any guesses hes always on top of changes and updates. Super responsive and very helpful 10/10
Amelia P., Shelby Twp, MI
Ready to test the Customers First advantage?
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you? Get the coverage you need, at a price you can afford.
Insurance Agency in Chesterfield, MI | Customers First
Independent Insurance Agency Serving Chesterfield, New Baltimore, Macomb County, & Beyond Personal and Commercial Insurance for Michigan Families and Businesses Customers First Insurance Group helps Michigan families and business owners compare coverage options from multiple insurance carriers, so you can make confident decisions without feeling pressured or confused. Based in…
Errors & Omissions Insurance aka Professional liabilty
Why Errors & Omissions Insurance aka Professional Liability matters Mistakes happen—even when you do everything right. If a client claims your advice, services, or failure to deliver caused them a financial loss, E&O (also called Professional Liability) can cover legal defense, settlements/judgments, and related costs—whether the claim has merit or…
Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist for Business Coverage
COMMERCIAL LINES COVERAGE SPECIALIST (CLCS) DESIGNATION Commercial Insurance Expertise That Helps Protect Your Business From Costly Coverage Gaps Commercial Insurance Guidance Backed by CLCS Coverage Expertise Business insurance is not something you want handled by guesswork. At Customers First Insurance Group, we believe commercial coverage should be reviewed by someone…
RV insurance in Michigan
What Coverage You Actually Need Before You Hit the Road RV Insurance in Michigan Whether you use your RV for a few weekends a year, park it seasonally, or spend months traveling, your insurance should match how you actually use it. RV insurance is about more than protecting the camper…
Start Your Insurance Career with Us – Submit Your Application Now
Insurance Careers at Customers First Insurance Group Looking for an insurance career where relationships matter, growth is real, and your experience in sales, service, or a captive agency actually gives you an advantage? Apply Now Upload Resume (Max File Size 1MB) Send Δ
Join Our Team – Explore Career Opportunities at Customers First Insurance Group
Join Our Team – Explore Career Opportunities at Customers First Insurance Group Below are current open positions at this time. Check back frequently for new availabilities. LICENSED INSURANCE AGENT Hybrid Work $54,000 - $86,000 a year - Full-time Job Responsibilities: Generate new business through networking, referrals, and other lead-generation methods. Provide clients…
Protect Your Property with Reliable Flood Insurance Coverage
Protect Your Property with Reliable Flood Insurance Coverage Floods are unpredictable and can cause significant damage to your property. Protecting your investment with the right flood insurance is essential. Most people think if their Mortgage company doesn’t require flood insurance, they do not need it. But ALL homeowners policies…
Protect Your Home with Comprehensive Insurance – Serving Michigan & Beyond
Protect Your Home with Comprehensive Insurance – Serving Michigan & Beyond Your Home is generally your biggest asset. At the same time, most will never make a claim on their homeowner's policy, when you do make a claim the payout amount tends to be in the tens of thousands of…
Secure Your Family’s Future with Our Life Insurance Plans
Secure Your Family's Future with Our Life Insurance Plans At Customers First, we allow you to shop your Life Insurance through several A-rated carriers to find you the best rate, at your leisure without the pressure of a sales person. There are plans for every budget and life stage.…
Secure Your Business with Surety Bonds Available Across the U.S.
Secure Your Business with Surety Bonds Available Across the U.S. A surety bond is a financial guarantee that one party (the obligee) will be financially compensated for any losses incurred as a result of the failure of another party (the principal) to meet their obligations. Surety bonds are often required…
About
At Customers First Insurance Group, we put the needs of our clients first. We take the time to examine each clients unique risks and assist them in finding the coverage they need at a price they can afford. Located at 49696 Gratiot ave., Chesterfield Twp, MI 48051 in Macomb County, Michigan.
Get in Touch
Want to book a review of your current coverage? Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment.
Ready to review your Insurances?
Get the coverage you need with guidance you can trust. Contact Customers First Insurance Group today for a personalized quote on your auto, home, or business insurance. Call 586-221-6870 or request a quote online to see how much you could save.