5 minute read
Jax Real Producers ~ December 2023 Partner Spotlight, Michele Mcilmurry with Brightway Insurance
Jax Real Producers ~ December 2023 Partner Spotlight, Michele Mcilmurry with Brightway Insurance
By Brandon Jerrell
GIVING THE BEST OPTIONS
When making important business decisions, everyone wants to make choices that fit them best. It is an obvious statement, yet many are forced to settle for less. In the real estate industry, the need for better decision-making is vital for success.
This is a fact that Michele Mcilmurray and Brightway Insurance, The Pihl Agency, recognize. “In today’s tough insurance environment, you need a partner who is responsive and has the choices for your client,” Michele says.
Representing most of the Florida insurance companies, Michele and her team at Brightway are able to find markets that other insurance companies can’t. “We strive to be an extension of your brand, so we do everything in our power to make our referral partners look good.”
FLORIDA RAISED
Michele was born and raised in South Florida as one of six children. With being one of six, there was never a dull moment for her in those years. “Growing up in a large family you quickly learn how to put other people’s needs first,” she explains.
During her college years, she pursued a degree in nursing. “I had my first daughter at 21 years old but still managed to earn my BSN degree in supervision and management from FSCJ (Florida State College at Jacksonville).”
“I also knew at an early age that I wanted to be self-sufficient and be successful for my soon-to-be family. Never taking no for an answer, I believe that most things are possible with morals and a strong work ethic.”
FINDING HER PASSION
While searching for a career with an opportunity for advancement, she found a position with Geico as a receptionist. “With a passion for helping others, I quickly learned that I should be assisting people with getting the proper insurance protection at a price they can afford.”
“My daughter Remi developed salmonella meningitis when she was five months old. This was a very scary time for me and I was so appreciative of the healthcare workers who supported us through this journey. However, during this tough time, I learned that my calling was not to be a nurse. This is when I knew that I wanted to take my insurance career to the next level and become an agent.”
“I learned that life can be short and you need to love and cherish those who are important to you. I now firmly believe that what doesn’t kill you will make you stronger.”
PROVIDING THE BEST
After moving to Jacksonville, Michele worked towards becoming a successful insurance agent. With hard work and dedication, she quickly became a top sales agent for Brightway.
Brightway assists its clients with obtaining insurance. As one of the largest insurance agencies in the country, they are able to assist with all lines of personal insurance. They have a specialization in home and auto insurance.
“As one of the largest insurance agencies in the state we represent nearly every company who is accepting new customers,” explains Michele. “More choices means lower prices with better coverage.”
Michele and Brightway still believe in old-fashioned customer service — a trait that is unfortunately a luxury to find in the modern day. “We answer the phone when you call and respond to emails in a timely manner.”
When it comes to helping others learn what they need to know, Michele shares that she would have been a teacher in another life. “Whether it is educating a first-time homebuyer on how coverages work or explaining the importance of uninsured motorists on an auto policy, I love to present all the information to my clients so they can make the best decision and feel well-protected.”
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY
“My family and I are tight-knit. They are my biggest cheerleaders and the reason I relocated here to Jacksonville. My sister and best friend all-in-one, we had our first children two months apart to the day. We wanted them to grow up together, so I knew the move was necessary to make this happen. Just recently, my other sister left the Marines and moved here to work for JSO (Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office). My mother also relocated to Jacksonville with my two youngest siblings.”
“My youngest brother, Noah, was born with Down Syndrome. Through this my mother found her passion for helping others with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities). She saw a need here in Jacksonville and started a local non-profit called Noah’s Agape Café where those with IDD can find meaningful employment. Now that we are all in Jacksonville, we continue our traditions of family gatherings and helping local charities including the annual Buddy Walk.”
If you are in the market, make sure to check out Michele Mcilmurray and Brightway Insurance, The Pihl Team. They are sure to be able to get you the insurance choice that best fits you.
Website: brightwayjax.com
AS ONE OF THE LARGEST INSURANCE AGENCIES IN THE STATE WE REPRESENT NEARLY EVERY COMPANY WHO IS ACCEPTING NEW CUSTOMERS.