Ep 10 - Navigating Rising Insurance Rates with Allen Smith of Blue Valley Insurance

Are you feeling the pinch from rising insurance premiums, especially regarding home and automobile rates? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Allen Smith of Blue Valley Insurance to explain why insurance rates are climbing and what you can do about it. From the impact of frequent roof damage claims to the hefty premiums that come with insuring teen drivers, Allen shares insights you need to know. You’ll learn how insurance rates are determined, the difference between independent and captive agents, and practical steps you can take to help lower your insurance premiums. Whether you're a homeowner, a parent of a new driver, or simply looking to understand your policy better, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• (00:00) Introduction and opening
• (02:01) Allen provides a backstory of what has caused insurance rates to rise
• (07:17) Discussion of insurance claims for roof damage
• (13:47) Discussion of how insurance rates are determined
• (16:27) The difference between an independent agent and a captive agent, and a discussion of automobile rates for teen drivers
• (24:38) Discussion of what a consumer can do to lower the rising insurance premium amount

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Home and auto insurance premiums have skyrocketed in recent years, driven by inflation, increased claim frequency, and higher repair or rebuild costs due to supply chain issues and material/labor price hikes.
• Frequent roof replacement claims—often triggered by minimal hail damage—are straining insurance providers. Companies are tightening coverage rules and increasing deductibles to curb widespread losses.
• When adding a young driver to your insurance policy, expect a substantial rate increase—potentially $200 or more per month before assigning them a vehicle. However, don't despair. Be proactive and shop around, 

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

Blue Valley Insurance Agency - Website

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Al joined Blue Valley Insurance in 2008 as a Personal and Commercial Lines Agent, where he enjoys educating clients and building lasting relationships. In 2013, he earned his Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation, recognizing him as one of the industry’s most knowledgeable professionals. Since 2011, Al has consistently received the Five Star Professional Award—an honor given to fewer than 7% of KC-area insurance professionals based on outstanding customer satisfaction.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Ethan is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute. With a career in Financial Services, his expertise spans Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys hunting, cycling, and outdoor activities with his wife, Shanna, and their sons, Rhett and Levi.

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best interests. Originally from southeast Iowa, Eric has lived in Kansas City for 20 years with his wife, Becky, and their sons, Gabe and Nolan. He holds a degree in finance from Iowa State University.

 Insurance Rates, Rising Insurance Premiums, Automobile Insurance, Teen Driver Insurance, Roof Damage Claims, Home Insurance, Independent Agents, Captive Agents, Insurance Premiums, Personal Insurance, Policy S, Insurance Industry Trends, Claim Frequency, Lowering Premiums, Insurance Coverage Tips