Homeowners Insurance Broker Your Smart Insurance Solution

Homeowners insurance broker: Navigating the complex world of insurance doesn’t have to be a headache. A knowledgeable broker can simplify the process, compare policies, and negotiate the best rates for your home. They act as your advocate, ensuring you get the right coverage at the right price. This guide explores the benefits of using a broker and helps you choose the best one for your needs.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything from understanding different policy types to comparing quotes and evaluating broker expertise. You’ll also learn how to identify potential savings and the importance of choosing the right broker for your unique situation.

Introduction to Homeowners Insurance Brokers

Finding the right homeowners insurance can feel like navigating a maze. Premiums fluctuate, coverage options are confusing, and comparing quotes across different companies can be a time-consuming nightmare. A homeowners insurance broker acts as your guide, streamlining the process and saving you both time and money.A homeowners insurance broker is a professional who acts as an intermediary between you and multiple insurance companies.

They don’t represent any single insurer; instead, they work for you, seeking the best possible coverage at the most competitive rates. This means they’re not beholden to any one company’s interests, allowing them to shop around for the ideal policy tailored to your specific needs.

Services Offered by a Homeowners Insurance Broker

Insurance brokers provide a comprehensive service that goes beyond simply finding a policy. They actively compare quotes, negotiate policy terms, and even help you understand complex policy language. This proactive approach ensures you’re not just getting a policy; you’re getting the best possible policy for your situation.

Comparison Shopping and Policy Negotiation

Brokers excel at comparison shopping. They have access to multiple insurance providers’ databases, enabling them to quickly generate quotes from a variety of companies. This means you get a wider range of options, allowing for better comparisons of coverage, deductibles, and premiums. Beyond simply providing quotes, brokers will also negotiate policy terms with the insurer to secure better coverage at a more favorable rate.

This often involves leveraging their expertise and experience to potentially reduce premiums.

Benefits of Using a Broker vs. Going Directly to an Insurance Company

Using a broker offers significant advantages over dealing directly with insurance companies. Firstly, you benefit from a dedicated professional who understands the intricacies of insurance policies. They can identify the best coverage options for your home and lifestyle, saving you the time and effort of researching and comparing policies independently. Secondly, brokers are experienced negotiators, often securing more favorable terms and lower premiums than you might achieve on your own.

This negotiation power is a key benefit you don’t have when dealing with an insurance company directly.

Types of Homeowners Insurance Policies

Choosing the right policy is crucial for adequate protection. Different policies cater to various needs and levels of risk.

Policy Type Description Coverage Highlights
Standard Policy A basic policy that provides fundamental coverage for property damage and liability. Covers typical risks, such as fire, theft, and vandalism.
Enhanced Policy Offers broader coverage options and higher limits, including coverage for more specific perils and increased liability limits. Provides greater protection for specific needs, such as flood or earthquake risks, or higher liability requirements.
Umbrella Policy Provides excess liability coverage beyond the limits of your homeowners policy, protecting you from substantial financial losses in case of accidents or lawsuits. Extends liability coverage to protect you from catastrophic claims, such as significant injury or property damage to others.

Understanding the Brokerage Process

Finding the right homeowners insurance can feel like navigating a maze. But a good broker acts as your guide, simplifying the process and ensuring you get the best coverage for your needs. They don’t just sell policies; they partner with you to find the perfect fit.The brokerage process isn’t about pushing a product; it’s about understanding your unique situation and providing tailored solutions.

A skilled broker will ask the right questions, analyze your risk profile, and present various options to find the most suitable policy for your home and budget. This proactive approach saves you time and ensures you’re not paying for unnecessary coverage.

Client Needs Assessment

A crucial first step is a thorough client needs assessment. This involves gathering detailed information about your home, its features, and your lifestyle. The broker will ask about the value of your home, the types of potential risks (e.g., flood, fire, theft), your desired coverage limits, and any specific requirements or concerns. This personalized approach ensures the policy protects you against the specific vulnerabilities of your situation.

For example, a home with a pool will require different coverage considerations than a condo in a low-risk area.

Policy Recommendations

Armed with this information, the broker presents policy recommendations that align with your needs and budget. They compare various options from different insurers, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each. This comparative analysis ensures you’re not just getting the cheapest policy, but one that effectively protects your investment. For instance, a policy with higher liability coverage might be more suitable for a homeowner with a large family or a high-value home.

Claims Handling

A reliable broker isn’t just helpful during the initial policy purchase; they’re also there to guide you through the claims process. This involves understanding your policy details, filing the claim, negotiating with the insurance company, and ensuring a smooth resolution. This is particularly valuable during stressful times when dealing with an insurance company directly can be overwhelming.

Finding the right homeowners insurance broker is crucial, but did you know they often have expertise in other areas too? For example, they can often connect you with excellent deals on auto car insurance , saving you money and hassle. Ultimately, a good homeowners insurance broker can be a one-stop shop for all your insurance needs.

Policy Updates

Your needs and circumstances can change over time. A good broker will proactively review your policy and recommend any necessary updates to ensure continued adequate coverage. This proactive approach avoids gaps in protection. For example, if you add a pool or renovate your home, a broker can help adjust your policy accordingly.

Typical Claims Process (Broker’s Role)

Step Broker’s Role
1. Notification of Loss Communicates with the client and the insurance company regarding the details of the loss.
2. Documentation Gathering Collects and organizes all relevant documents, such as police reports, photos, and repair estimates.
3. Claim Submission Files the claim with the insurance company on behalf of the client, ensuring all necessary forms are completed accurately.
4. Negotiation and Communication Acts as a liaison between the client and the insurance company, advocating for the client’s best interests. This includes negotiating with adjusters to ensure fair settlement amounts.
5. Monitoring and Resolution Tracks the progress of the claim and ensures timely resolution. They also handle any appeals or disputes that may arise.

Comparing Different Insurance Options

Choosing the right homeowners insurance can feel like navigating a maze. Different companies offer varying coverage levels, premiums, and deductibles. A savvy broker acts as your guide, helping you understand the nuances and find the best policy to fit your needs and budget. They don’t just sell insurance; they curate the perfect protection plan.

How a Broker Compares Insurance Options

Insurance brokers don’t just pull quotes from one company. They act as your personal comparison shopper, gathering quotes from multiple providers. This comprehensive approach ensures you get the most competitive rates and the best possible coverage. They leverage their network and expertise to uncover policies tailored to your specific situation, including your home’s value, location, and any potential risks.

Their goal is to present you with options that balance affordability with robust protection.

Factors Considered in Policy Recommendations

A broker’s recommendation isn’t based on a single factor. They consider several crucial elements. These include your home’s construction, the neighborhood’s risk profile, your personal belongings’ value, and any potential hazards like flood zones or proximity to fire stations. They also look at your claims history, if any, and the specific coverage you need. Their objective is to offer a policy that balances the cost with the necessary safeguards for your property.

Questions to Ask Your Broker

To ensure you’re getting the best deal, ask your broker pertinent questions. This helps you understand the nuances of each policy and determine if it aligns with your needs. Clear communication is essential for making an informed decision.

  • What are the different coverage options available from each insurer?
  • What are the typical deductibles and premiums for policies from various companies?
  • What are the potential exclusions or limitations in each policy?
  • How does the policy handle specific risks, like hail damage or theft?
  • What is the claim process for each insurer, and what are their average claim settlement times?

Organizing Insurance Quotes

A well-organized comparison table is invaluable. It allows you to quickly see the key differences between policies from different providers. This organized view lets you compare premiums, deductibles, coverage limits, and other crucial details.

Insurance Company Premium Deductible Coverage Limits (Dwelling) Coverage Limits (Personal Property)
Acme Insurance $1,200 $1,000 $250,000 $100,000
Reliable Insurance $1,500 $500 $300,000 $150,000
Secure Insurance $1,000 $1,500 $200,000 $80,000

Note: This table provides a sample comparison. Actual quotes will vary based on individual circumstances.

Brokerage Fees and Value Proposition

Finding the right homeowners insurance can feel like navigating a maze. You’ve got rates, coverage options, and policy jargon swirling around you. A homeowners insurance broker acts as your guide, simplifying the process and potentially saving you money and headaches.Understanding how brokers are compensated and the value they bring is crucial for making an informed decision. They don’t just blindly push policies; they work to find the best fit for your specific needs and budget.

Broker Compensation

Insurance brokers are typically compensated by commissions paid by the insurance companies they work with. This means you, the client, don’t directly pay them. Instead, the insurance company pays the broker a commission on the policies they secure. This structure incentivizes brokers to find the best policy for you, not just the one that nets them the highest commission.

They are essentially acting as your advocate, working to secure the most favorable terms possible.

Value Proposition: Broker vs. Self-Service

Using a broker offers distinct advantages over handling homeowners insurance independently. While the DIY approach might seem appealing for its perceived cost savings, it often leads to a less thorough assessment of your specific needs and risks, resulting in suboptimal coverage. Brokers have access to a broader network of insurers, enabling them to compare multiple policies and uncover hidden savings.

They also possess in-depth knowledge of insurance products and regulations, ensuring you receive appropriate coverage and navigate complex clauses.

How Brokers Save You Money and Time

Brokers leverage their expertise to identify potential savings you might miss. They understand different policy options and can tailor coverage to your exact requirements, potentially avoiding unnecessary expenses. They can also negotiate better rates with insurers on your behalf. This is particularly helpful in situations where a single insurance company might not be the most competitive.

  • Comprehensive Policy Evaluation: Brokers assess your specific needs and risk profile, ensuring your policy aligns with your circumstances. This includes evaluating your home’s value, the level of risk associated with your neighborhood, and your personal insurance preferences.
  • Negotiating Favorable Rates: Brokers act as negotiators between you and various insurance companies, leveraging their relationships and market knowledge to secure lower premiums. This is a key way they save you money.
  • Access to a Wider Range of Policies: Brokers have access to a wider selection of policies from different insurers than you might on your own. This broadened scope of options allows them to find the best possible coverage at the most competitive price.

Potential Cost Savings

The amount a broker can save you varies depending on factors like your location, home characteristics, and desired coverage. However, significant savings are possible. Here’s a table illustrating potential cost differences:

Feature Self-Service Broker Service
Initial Policy Price Potentially higher due to lack of comparison and negotiation Potentially lower due to comprehensive comparison and negotiation
Hidden Fees Potentially exposed to hidden fees or exclusions in policies Minimized risk of hidden fees or exclusions due to thorough policy review
Coverage Gaps Risk of inadequate coverage due to lack of comprehensive assessment Minimized risk of gaps due to personalized policy tailoring
Time Investment Significant time spent researching, comparing, and understanding policies Minimal time investment required, allowing you to focus on other priorities

Choosing the Right Broker

Finding the right homeowners insurance broker is crucial for getting the best coverage at the best price. It’s not just about the lowest premium; it’s about understanding your specific needs and ensuring you’re protected. A good broker acts as your advocate, navigating the complexities of the insurance market to find the optimal solution for you.Selecting a broker isn’t a random process.

It’s about evaluating experience, reputation, and the value they bring to the table. This process helps you make an informed decision, saving you time and potentially thousands of dollars in the long run.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Broker

Choosing the right broker is like choosing a trusted advisor. You want someone with expertise, experience, and a proven track record. Look for these key factors:

  • Experience and Expertise: A broker with years of experience in the homeowners insurance market has likely seen various scenarios and knows how to handle complex situations. Their understanding of different insurance products, coverage options, and industry trends is invaluable. Look for brokers with a deep understanding of the specific risks relevant to your area, such as flood zones or wildfire risks.

    For example, a broker specializing in coastal areas will have a better understanding of hurricane coverage.

  • Reputation and Client Testimonials: Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the broker’s reputation. Positive feedback from previous clients often indicates a broker who provides excellent service and meets client needs effectively. Look for brokers who are actively involved in their communities, demonstrating their commitment to providing helpful support.
  • Certifications and Affiliations: Certain certifications and affiliations, like designations from professional organizations, can signal a broker’s commitment to ongoing learning and best practices. This shows their dedication to maintaining expertise and knowledge.
  • Local Knowledge and Network: A broker familiar with the local insurance landscape and network of providers can provide tailored recommendations. They might have relationships with specific insurers who offer unique or competitive options that other brokers might miss.
  • Value Proposition and Fee Structure: Not all brokers are the same. Understand their fees and value proposition clearly. A broker offering a flat fee instead of a commission-based model might provide more transparency and predictability.

Finding Reputable Brokers

Finding a reputable broker in your area is easier than you think. Leverage these resources:

  • Online Brokerage Directories: Many online resources specialize in connecting consumers with insurance brokers. Use these directories to search for brokers in your area, filtering by specific needs or certifications.
  • Local Insurance Associations: Local insurance associations often maintain directories of licensed and reputable brokers in the area. These associations can be excellent resources for finding trustworthy professionals.
  • Referrals from Friends and Family: Word-of-mouth referrals can be a valuable source. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations on insurance brokers they’ve used and had positive experiences with.

Broker Comparison Table

This table provides a sample comparison of brokers, highlighting their specialties and services. Note that specific details will vary significantly by broker and market.

Broker Name Specialization Services Offered Reputation
ABC Insurance Commercial and Residential Flood, Earthquake, Liability Excellent (Based on reviews)
XYZ Insurance Luxury Homes High-value coverage, personalized service Good (Mixed reviews, but focused on a niche market)
Local Brokerage First-time Homebuyers Simple explanations, low-cost packages Excellent (High client satisfaction in local area)

Vetting a Broker for Credibility and Expertise

Vetting a broker involves more than just looking at their website. Thorough vetting ensures you’re working with a credible and expert professional.

  • Verify Licensing and Credentials: Confirm the broker’s license and insurance credentials. This ensures they are legally authorized to operate in your area.
  • Check References: Contact a few previous clients to get their firsthand experiences with the broker. Ask about their communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction.
  • Understand Their Process: Inquire about their process for reviewing your needs, comparing policies, and explaining different options. A transparent process is key.
  • Review Policies: Request detailed information about the policies they’re offering. Understanding the coverage and exclusions is vital for making an informed decision.

Insurance Policy Details and Coverage

Understanding your homeowners insurance policy is crucial for protecting your biggest investment. It’s not just about the price; it’s about knowing exactly what’s covered and what’s not. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises. Don’t just pay the premium; understand the policy.

Common Homeowners Insurance Coverages

Homeowners insurance policies typically include several key coverages to protect you from various risks. These coverages are designed to address different potential events, from accidental damage to financial liabilities. Knowing what each coverage entails is paramount to a comprehensive understanding of your policy.

  • Property Damage Coverage: This covers the physical structure of your home and its contents against perils like fire, hail, wind, vandalism, and theft. This is often the most significant coverage component for many homeowners.
  • Liability Coverage: This protects you from financial responsibility if someone is injured on your property or if your actions cause damage to someone else’s property. This coverage is essential for peace of mind, safeguarding you from potential lawsuits.
  • Additional Living Expenses (ALE): If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, this coverage pays for temporary living expenses like hotels, meals, and temporary housing.
  • Loss Assessment Coverage: This coverage compensates for the loss of use of your property, whether it is your home or a business, and the expenses that arise from this. This is crucial for maintaining business operations during unexpected disruptions.

Understanding Policy Exclusions and Limitations

Every insurance policy has exclusions and limitations, which are situations or circumstances not covered. Knowing these is essential to avoid disappointment if a claim is denied. It’s like a fine print of the agreement, specifying what’s not included in the protection.

Illustrative Table of Common Exclusions and Limitations

Coverage Common Exclusions/Limitations
Property Damage Earthquake, flood, wear and tear, neglect, intentional acts, and pre-existing damage.
Liability Intentional acts, pre-existing conditions, and injuries caused by a pre-existing condition.
Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Events not covered under the property damage coverage, or if the damage is not severe enough to render the property uninhabitable.
Loss Assessment Coverage Events not covered under the property damage coverage, or if the loss of use is not substantial enough to warrant coverage.

Examples of Coverage Application

  • Scenario 1: A fire destroys your home. Property damage coverage would likely apply, covering the cost of rebuilding or repairing your home and the contents. However, if the fire was caused by your deliberate act, it wouldn’t be covered.
  • Scenario 2: A guest slips and falls in your home, sustaining injuries. Liability coverage would likely apply, covering the medical expenses and potential legal fees associated with the injury. If the guest was intoxicated and the injury was self-inflicted, it might not be covered.
  • Scenario 3: A severe storm damages your roof. Property damage coverage would likely apply. However, if the storm caused damage to a pre-existing roof problem that wasn’t addressed, the coverage might be limited.
  • Scenario 4: A tree falls on your car parked in your driveway. Property damage coverage would likely apply, but if the tree was damaged by your intentional act, it wouldn’t be covered.

Recent Trends and Innovations in Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance is a constantly evolving landscape, mirroring the shifting realities of the housing market and technological advancements. Understanding these trends is crucial for brokers to provide competitive and future-proof solutions for their clients. Rising premiums, new technologies, and evolving risk assessments are impacting the way policies are designed and administered.

Rising Premiums and Shifting Risk Profiles

Homeowners insurance premiums are experiencing significant increases in many areas. This is driven by several factors, including escalating construction costs, increased frequency and severity of natural disasters (hurricanes, wildfires, floods), and rising claims costs. Brokers are adapting by analyzing risk profiles with greater precision, helping clients identify and mitigate vulnerabilities. This includes recommending preventative measures, such as upgraded security systems, or evaluating the structural integrity of the home to identify potential vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, the rise of climate change-related disasters is driving a more comprehensive risk assessment that includes environmental factors, such as flood zones and wildfire susceptibility.

Finding the right homeowners insurance broker can be a game-changer. But did you know that understanding factors like state farm car insurance cost here can actually influence your overall home insurance premiums? Ultimately, a good broker will factor in all your needs, including auto insurance, to get you the best possible deal.

New Technologies in Home Insurance

Technology is fundamentally altering the homeowners insurance landscape. From automated claims processing to remote property assessments, innovative solutions are changing how policies are administered and claims are handled. Real-time risk assessment tools, leveraging data from weather forecasts, historical claims, and even smart home technology, are providing a more nuanced view of a property’s vulnerability. These tools allow brokers to tailor policies to specific risks, potentially reducing premiums for clients with lower risk profiles.

Finding the right homeowners insurance broker can be a real headache, but it’s crucial for protecting your assets. If you’re looking for competitive rates, checking out State Farm auto insurance quotes online is a smart move. Comparing different options, like those available through a good homeowners insurance broker, can save you a bundle. Ultimately, a savvy homeowners insurance broker can help you navigate the complex insurance landscape and find the best coverage for your needs.

Digital Brokerage Methods: A Comparison, Homeowners insurance broker

The traditional method of homeowners insurance brokerage often relies on in-person meetings and extensive paperwork. Digital brokerage methods are gaining traction, offering speed, efficiency, and greater accessibility.

Feature Traditional Brokerage Digital Brokerage
Policy Application In-person application with paperwork; often involves multiple trips to the insurance office. Online application; instant quote generation, often with automated document submission.
Customer Service In-person appointments or phone calls; potential delays in response time. 24/7 online support; instant chat or email communication.
Policy Management Manual policy updates; potentially lengthy process. Online portal for policy access and management; quick access to policy details and updates.
Cost Potential for higher administrative costs, potentially more expensive due to travel and in-person services. Reduced administrative costs; often lower premiums due to streamlined processes.
Accessibility Limited to geographic area of the broker’s office. Global reach, accessibility for clients across geographical locations.

Digital brokerage methods offer significant advantages in efficiency, speed, and accessibility. This translates into a more streamlined customer experience, enabling brokers to serve a wider client base and adapt to the demands of a modern marketplace.

Adapting to Trends: Broker Responsibilities

Brokers are evolving their practices to accommodate the new trends in homeowners insurance. This includes continuous professional development in risk assessment, incorporating data analytics, and utilizing technology to improve client service. For example, brokers are now utilizing advanced software to analyze property data, identify potential risks, and offer tailored recommendations for risk mitigation. This proactive approach empowers clients to make informed decisions about their insurance needs.

Moreover, staying informed about the latest developments in insurance technology and regulatory changes is paramount to delivering top-notch services.

Customer Testimonials and Case Studies

Convincing potential clients to choose your homeowners insurance brokerage often hinges on more than just impressive features. Building trust requires showcasing real-world results and happy clients. Testimonials and case studies offer compelling evidence of your expertise and value proposition. They humanize your service and demonstrate your ability to solve problems for your clients. This is where the rubber meets the road, showing potential clients what you’ve actually done.This section dives deep into the power of testimonials and case studies, providing examples and templates to help you showcase your brokerage’s success.

Sample Testimonial Format

Testimonials are powerful social proof. They highlight your brokerage’s positive impact on clients’ lives. Use a format that is easy to read and engaging, showcasing specific examples of how you helped the client.

  • Client Name: Clearly identify the client. This helps create a personal connection.
  • Testimonial Excerpt: Include a concise, positive statement from the client about their experience. Focus on specific benefits they received, like lower premiums or a smoother claim process. Avoid generic praise. Example: “I was so relieved to find [Brokerage Name]. Their personalized service and competitive rates saved me hundreds of dollars, and the claim process was incredibly smooth.”
  • Client Photo (Optional): Adding a photo can personalize the testimonial and increase engagement.
  • Client Location (Optional): Mentioning the client’s location can make the testimonial relatable to a wider audience.

Detailed Case Study Example

A case study provides a detailed account of a client’s experience with your brokerage. This provides more in-depth evidence of your value proposition.A client, Sarah Miller, faced a complex insurance claim after a severe storm damaged her home. The claim involved multiple contractors, various insurance policy intricacies, and potentially high deductibles. Our broker, David Chen, expertly navigated the claim process.

He coordinated with contractors, negotiated with the insurance company, and ensured Sarah’s rights were protected throughout the entire process. By efficiently managing the claim, David successfully reduced Sarah’s out-of-pocket expenses and ensured a timely resolution.

Benefits of Real-Life Examples

Using real-life examples and client success stories is crucial for building trust and credibility. It’s not just about what you

  • say*, but about what you
  • do* for your clients. These stories show potential clients that you understand their needs and have the experience to deliver results.
  • Builds Trust and Credibility: Positive testimonials and case studies demonstrate your brokerage’s competence and commitment to client satisfaction.
  • Showcases Expertise: Highlighting successful claim resolutions or premium reductions showcases your brokerage’s deep understanding of insurance policies and negotiation skills.
  • Improves Conversions: Real-world examples can effectively address potential clients’ anxieties and build confidence in your services.
  • Attracts Referrals: Satisfied clients are more likely to refer others to your brokerage.

Case Study Template

A structured template for case studies makes the information easily digestible and persuasive.

Section Description
Client Profile Briefly describe the client (e.g., location, home characteristics, insurance needs).
Problem Statement Clearly articulate the client’s challenges before working with the broker (e.g., complex claim, high premiums).
Broker’s Solution Detail the specific actions taken by the broker to address the client’s needs (e.g., negotiating with the insurance company, comparing policy options).
Before-and-After Scenarios Present a clear comparison of the client’s situation before and after the broker’s intervention (e.g., premiums, claim settlement time, cost savings). Use charts or tables for better visual impact.
Cost Analysis Quantify the benefits of working with the broker (e.g., cost savings, avoided expenses). This is crucial for showcasing value.
Client Testimonials Include direct quotes from the client, highlighting their positive experience.

Final Conclusion

In conclusion, using a homeowners insurance broker can save you time, money, and stress. They act as a trusted advisor, guiding you through the process, ensuring you get the best possible coverage. From understanding your needs to comparing policies and handling claims, a broker is your partner in safeguarding your home’s value. This guide empowers you to make informed decisions and choose a broker that’s right for you.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the typical fees charged by a homeowners insurance broker?

Broker fees vary. Some brokers work on commission from the insurance companies, while others charge a flat fee or an hourly rate. Always ask about the compensation structure before choosing a broker.

How can I compare quotes from different insurance companies?

A broker can gather quotes from multiple insurers, saving you the time and effort of doing it yourself. They’ll organize the quotes and highlight key differences in coverage and pricing.

What should I look for when choosing a homeowners insurance broker?

Consider the broker’s experience, reputation, certifications, and the specific types of insurance they handle. Ask for references and check online reviews.

What is the difference between standard, enhanced, and other types of homeowners insurance policies?

Different policies offer varying levels of coverage. Standard policies provide basic protection, while enhanced policies offer broader coverage and often include additional features. A broker can help you determine the best policy based on your needs and potential risks.

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