Meet Nancy Vences | Independent Insurance Broker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nancy Vences and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nancy, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I began my business as an opportunity that was brought to me by one of my closest friends. In the middle of the pandemic, I found myself unemployed and looking for a job. My friend Adriana, who is a realtor, had opened an insurance agency a few years back in conjunction with her real estate business. Finding herself with way too many things on her plate, decided to sell her book of business. I’ve been licensed since 2008 but had not really immersed myself in that line of business, it was more of a part time job for me. I spoke to my husband, who is also an Insurance Agent, convinced me that this was the opportunity I was needing. The timing was perfect, I had been laid off, I was helping my husband with his agency and was starting to grow my own book of referrals. After much consideration and convincing on my husband’s part, I took the plunge and purchased her book. I must admit I doubted myself many times and still do. I would question if I had done the right move. I’ve experienced fear, self-doubt, a lot of stress, but I also have experienced a lot of satisfaction from the work that I do. I’ve built great work relationships with many people, expanded my knowledge in the business and have received immense gratitude from my clients.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m an independent insurance broker, which means I have access to multiple insurance companies, giving me the opportunity to offer better prices, better coverage options than a captive agent, who can only offer services from one company. My main niche is the Hispanic market. 90% of my clients are Spanish speaking. This market is very unique. Many tend to move from one agent to another, looking for the cheapest options available. And I think the reason is, because a lot of agents don’t take the time to really explain why certain coverages are important. They don’t educate their customers and offer the right advise. Every client is unique and have their own needs. I like to take the time to learn about my client’s current life situation and life events, I offer different scenarios and coverage options so they can determine what is their best fit.

Currently we are going through some difficulties in the insurance field. We’ve seen increases in insurance premiums up to 50% or more from last year. Mainly due to the increase of natural disasters in the past year. This has led to higher claims reported. Inflation and rising consumer prices have also been a contributing factor. 2023 and now 2024 has seen many changes in our industry, that has limited options for my clients, however, this has also given me the opportunity to expand my client base to commercial/business insurance and not just personal.

I’m very fortunate to count with a great support system and team of experts. From my insurance carrier reps to my mentors at Premier Group Insurance, I know that I will be able to overcome this rough patch.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was to visit me for the weekend, I would take her to breakfast at one of my favorite places, The Original Pancake House. She would need to try the Hawaiian pancakes with a nice hot cup of coffee. From there we would probably drive to Cherry Creek mall to browse and maybe some shopping. For a late lunch I would take her to another of my favorite places, Le Bilboquet in Cherry Creek, have some light appetizers with some amazing wine, of course. We would drive up to Blackhawk for some slot machine fun and free drinks and possibly dinner at Timberline Grill inside the Ameristar Hotel and Casino.

The next morning, we would drive up Guanella Pass and enjoy the scenery, drive down to Georgetown and stop by Georgetown Valley Candy Company for some fudge and ice cream. On our way back we would stop by another of my favorite Mexican restaurants, Fritanga’s and have a Sopa Azteca and Agua de Limon for lunch. I would then take her to the outlets in Castle Rock as we both love to shop! And to end our day, we would have dinner at another of my favorite places, Ruth’s Chris.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband has been a great mentor to me. I’ve learned so much from him. I always say that if it hadn’t been for him, I would not be where I am right now. I have doubted myself so many times and he is always there to encourage me, to push me to learn more, to dream big, that anything is possible as long as I put in the work. He has supported me through the rough times that I have experienced, professionally and personally. For that I will be eternally grateful.

Instagram: @youragentnancy

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