Why Working With an Independent Insurance Agency Still Matters in 2025

Choosing insurance today can feel overwhelming. You’re hit with ads, apps, comparison sites, and big carriers promising everything from instant quotes to “one size fits all” coverage. It’s easy to assume insurance is the same no matter where you buy it.

But the truth is simple: the agency you work with matters just as much as the policy you choose.

That’s why independent agencies like Hallahan, McGuinness, & Lorys are still thriving after nearly four decades. People want real guidance, real relationships, and honest advice from someone who knows them by name.

The advantage of staying independent

Being independent means we’re not tied to one carrier. We’re able to shop, compare, and match you with coverage that actually fits your life instead of forcing you into whatever a single company is selling.

We partner with more than 20 insurance carriers across personal and commercial markets. That gives our clients flexibility, competitive pricing, and options they won’t find using a single-company agency.

It also means your insurance can evolve as your life changes. New house, new car, new business, new risks. We stay with you and adjust along the way.

A legacy built on relationships

HML was founded in 1988 by Gene Hallahan, George McGuinness, and Thomas Lorys. Their philosophy was simple: do right by people, put service first, and treat clients like partners.

It worked. The agency grew because clients trusted them enough to send their friends and family. Even today, many of our longest relationships started with a simple conversation at a kitchen table or small business office.

While Gene and George are no longer with us, their values remain part of everything we do. Tom and the next generation, Brian and Logan, continue to carry their legacy forward with that same relationship-first mindset.

Real people, real guidance

Insurance can be confusing, but it shouldn’t feel like you’re figuring it out alone.

Our team helps clients understand what they’re buying, why it matters, and where the real gaps might be. A cheaper premium doesn’t help when the coverage falls short during a claim. We help you avoid those surprises.

Whether you need homeowners, auto, renters, umbrella, commercial liability, workers comp, or specialty coverage, our goal is simple: give you clarity and confidence.

Why this matters for you

Working with HML means:

• You get options, not pressure
• You speak with real people who care about your long term needs
• You get a team who advocates for you at renewal, not just at signup
• You have support when claims or life changes show up unexpectedly
• You become part of a community agency that’s been around for almost 40 years

In a market full of automated quotes and call centers, choosing an independent agency isn’t old fashioned. It’s smart.

Ready to review your coverage?

Whether you’ve been with us for years or you’re exploring your options for the first time, we’re here to help you understand your coverage and make sure it still fits your life.

Reach out anytime. We’re always happy to walk through your questions, explore new quotes, or simply help you get the peace of mind you deserve.