which insurance agents and carriers

[Robert Norris]

Hi everyone. I'm thinking of buying my first rental property. I'm wondering whether I should contact a national carrier (e.g., Allstate) or one of their agents, or go with an independent agent. (For what it's worth, the property is in rural Minnesota, near Mankato.) I know not all agents and not all carriers are the same when it comes to understanding the insurance needs of RE investors. Do folks here have thoughts on:

1. Specific RE-focused insurance agents vs. any ol' agent will do

2. Specific carriers that have done well for RE or conversely those that don't (e.g., carriers that perhaps avoid non-owner-occupied properties)

3. Is there value in having one agent for all my investments, or should I go with the best local agent in each case

4. Does it make sense for a RE-focused insurance agent to also handle my personal lines (e.g., my personal auto), or should I keep them separate

Sorry such a complicated question. I'm really just looking for open-ended advice on where to start once I'm ready to cover my first property. Thanks in advance for your help.

Rob