Insurance agency opens on Main Street

Jan. 30--As a sophomore in high school, Tony Murray's parents' home burned down and he believes they weren't treated well afterward by their insurance company.

Murray, a Mason City native, would go on to study political science at Iowa State University. He graduated in 2006.

After graduation, Murray didn't wish to incur more debt, so he began working in a claims department of an insurance company in downtown Des Moines. The memory of his parents after their house burned down remained firmly in his mind.

After a couple of years, he moved to the sales side of insurance and worked for a few different companies.

It's been about two years since he started Murray &Associates, an independent insurance agency which opened in West Des Moines. A few weeks ago, after several months of searching, the practice moved from West Des Moines to Main Street in Ames.

The agency offers commercial, life, health and personal insurance with more than 100 companies as well as some other specialized services for business clients.

Murray, who lives with his wife and children in Story County, said he wanted to stop commuting to the Des Moines area every day.

Located at 111 Main St., the operation is also a one-man show since Murray had to downsize for the move to Ames -- though he is looking for others with an insurance background.

His mission remains the same. He wants people to have peace of mind.

"On the corporate side, it's volume focused and about marketshare," Murray said. "I couldn't deliver that local small town experience. Insurance is such a commodity but it shouldn't be. There should be more personalization in it."

He said he wants people to know him as the local guy who is willing to go over the top for his clients.

Murray said he is still becoming acquainted with the area but is enjoying the downtown location.

Murray &Associates

111 Main St.

(855) 639-2046

www.murrayinsuranceia.com

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