If you've opened your auto insurance renewal over the last few years and felt a little sticker shock, you're not alone.

Since 2021, drivers across Indiana and the country have experienced some of the largest auto insurance rate increases in decades. Many households saw premiums increase by 10%, 20%, or even more, despite having no accidents or tickets.

The good news? There are signs that the market is finally beginning to stabilize.

In a world of apps, websites, 15-minute quotes, and endless commercials, it’s fair to ask: “Do I really still need a local insurance agent?”

The short answer? Yes—now more than ever.

At Bragg Insurance Agency, we understand that insurance isn’t always exciting. Most people don’t wake up in the morning excited to review deductibles, liability limits, or policy exclusions. But when life happens—a storm damages your roof, your teenager has an accident, your business gets sued, or your rates suddenly increase—you want someone in your corner who knows your situation and is ready to help. Here’s why working with a local independent insurance agent still matters.

On March 18, 2026, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced an important update to property insurance requirements for federally-backed mortgages—and it’s one that could directly impact your borrowers, closings, and long-term client satisfaction.

The Big Change: Roof Coverage Flexibility

Historically, homeowners insurance policies for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans required Replacement Cost Coverage on roofs. As of March 2026 that has now changed.

• Replacement Cost is no longer required for roof coverage

• Actual Cash Value (ACV) coverage is now acceptable

This is a significant shift—and one that creates both opportunities and risks.

Life Insurance Is One of the Few Things That Gets More Expensive With Age

Life insurance pricing is based primarily on age and health. Even if you remain healthy, rates increase as you get older — and once you lock in a policy, that rate typically stays level for the length of the term.

Here’s what that looks like in real numbers.

A common rule of thumb is 10–15 times your annual income.

For example: $75,000 income → $750,000 to $1,125,000 in coverage is a good baseline, but most families need to look a little deeper.

Every November, as the leaves turn and families gather around dinner tables across America, we pause to reflect on what we’re grateful for. It’s one of the few moments in our busy year when the world seems to collectively agree on slowing down, sharing a meal, and appreciating life’s blessings.

But Thanksgiving isn’t just about gratitude, it’s about directing that gratitude. It’s about answering a simple but profound question:

To whom are we thankful?

Everything is more expensive now. Is your insurance keeping up with the changing times?

When you purchase a homeowners insurance policy, you might think the process is complete once you’ve signed the application and your coverage is bound. However, most insurance companies nowadays conduct post-closing home inspections within the first 30–60 days of coverage. These inspections are a standard part of the underwriting process, designed to ensure the property meets the company’s safety and maintenance standards.

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense — especially here in Indiana, where storms, hail, and heavy winds can do serious damage. Here’s my ranking of the Top 5 roofing materials, including a score of how they hold up in a storm.

At Bragg Insurance Agency, we care about protecting our families, friends, and neighbors—especially our newest drivers hitting the road for the first time. If your teen is learning to drive or has recently received their license, there’s something you should know: rural roads can be deceptively dangerous.

Sheridan is experiencing steady population growth with an increase from 2,665 residents in 2010 to over 3,250 in 2022. While growth brings new opportunities, it also impacts insurance rates in ways many you may not realize.

With Spring storm season upon us, protecting your home's electronics from power surges is essential, and a whole-house surge protector is the best way to do it. Unlike plug-in protectors that only cover individual devices, a whole-house unit safeguards your entire electrical system by blocking excess voltage at the main panel before it reaches your appliances.

In recent years, homeowners have faced significant changes in how insurance companies handle roof claims particularly concerning wind and hail damage claims. Many insurers are transitioning from offering Replacement Cost Value (RCV) to Actual Cash Value (ACV) settlements for roofs older than ten years when they are damaged by wind or hail. This shift has substantial implications for homeowners, affecting claim payouts and out-of-pocket expenses for the homeowner.

Recreational vehicles like golf carts, low-speed vehicles (LSVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are becoming increasingly popular for both work and play. Whether you're cruising around a neighborhood, managing a farm, or exploring off-road trails, these vehicles serve different purposes and require proper insurance coverage. However, many owners assume that their homeowner’s policy or standard auto insurance will cover them—which is often not the case.

Insurance is one of those things we buy hoping we’ll never need to use. And when we don’t, it can feel like we’re paying for something that doesn’t give us anything in return. But the real value of insurance isn’t in how often you “use” it—it’s in the security and peace of mind it provides every single day.

Roses wilt. 🍫 Chocolate disappears. Teddy bears collect dust.

But you know what never fades?
The peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved ones are protected.

This Valentine’s Day, instead of the usual gifts, consider something truly meaningful—life insurance. It might not be as flashy as jewelry, but it’s a gift that says:
"I’ve got you, Always & Forever!"

Have you noticed your home insurance premium creeping up lately? You’re not alone. Across Indiana—and the entire country—homeowners are seeing higher rates than ever before. But why is this happening, and more importantly, what can you do about it?

Renters insurance may be the most underrated yet essential types of insurance coverage available. Many renters mistakenly assume their landlord’s insurance policy protects their belongings, but this is not the case. Your landlord’s insurance typically only covers the physical structure of the building, leaving tenants responsible for their personal property and liability.

So, what does renters insurance actually cover? Let’s break it down.

Insurance is an essential part of financial planning. It providing peace of mind and protection against life’s unforeseen events. However, the cost of insurance can strain your budget. Along with everything else, inflation is causing insurance rates to rise. The good news is that you can save on insurance without compromising the quality of your coverage. Here are some tips to help you save:

Technology is no longer a complement to the insurance industry; it’s a driving force. Insurers who embrace these advancements are not only improving their operations but also delivering better experiences and outcomes for their customers. For policyholders, the future of insurance promises greater convenience, personalization, and transparency.