This is the worst market except for 1975 and 1976. The P & C companies lost more money those two years than they had made in the past 20 years. I don't know of any company appointing agents now. One marketing rep for one our companies said Travelers was going to cancel one third of their agents next year. So, even if you are an established agency you may still have a problem with markets next year. We are quoting more new business than ever but we don't get many. For example, I have dozens of dec pages from State Farm and Auto Owners than I have ever had. I can compete on the auto but I can't get close to State Farm and Auto Owners on the homeowner. Our commissions are holding steady but they aren't increasing. I got a contract with Travelers and Nationwide through Smart Choice but my progressive contract is direct with them and I have other contracts direct with carriers. But, even being with Smart Choice you aren't safe from termination and production requirements. There is no loyalty from insurance companies today. They will cut your throat in a heartbeat. It's not a good time to be an independent agent.