Why online comparison sites aren't all they're cracked up to be

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by: bythesea
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Word Count: 411
Date: Fri, 15 Jul 2011 Time: 12:37 AM
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There's no doubt that the internet can be incredibly useful when it comes to searching for the best price on a number of items or services - but it's important to be wary that the ease and speed of internet shopping can sometimes hide the fact that you aren't necessarily getting the best deal.

Online comparison sites are a prime example of this. On the face of it, these websites offer a one-stop-shop that delivers all relevant information to customers, allowing them to quickly determine which company is offering the best value when it comes to products like home or car insurance.

Comparison site users looking to buy such a product are exposed to so many quotes in such a quick timeframe that it's easy to assume that every reputable provider is represented - but that's not necessarily the case. There are certain big name insurance providers that choose not to give quotes via comparison sites, for reasons intended to benefit the customer.

By refusing to allow an online middle-man to make commission on customer referrals, the providers in question are able to pass savings on to the consumer who chooses to deal with them directly. For that reason, it's important that you don't blindly click through to the best deal offered by a comparison site without doing some further research; you may just find that the ‘unbeatable' deal you had previously decided to take can be bettered.

Your best option is to visit each of the major insurance provider's websites in turn and have a thorough look at what they can offer you. While you may well find the lowest price while you're scouting about, it's also important to look past the cost. Is there any added value being offered with the deal you're looking at? Will you have added peace of mind going with a trusted brand rather than a lesser name? If so, it may be worth spending a little extra.

Only head over to a comparison site once you've got your quotes from the big name providers individually. That way, you can be sure that you truly have all possible options on the table before making a decision on which policy to go with. True, putting in this extra effort will take a little longer than if you only used a comparison site, but if you find an outstanding deal that you would have otherwise have missed out on then it will be well worth your while.

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Make sure to do your research before getting a new car insurance policy.