Purchasing an agency

Hello,

I’ve been between the financial and insurance industry for the last few years, and I would like to open my own agency. My hope would be to buy and agency or at the very least, just the book. My main dilema is choosing which “brand” or type of agency to buy. I live in the state of Colorado, both Allstate and State farm have a good reputation here. My main concern is once you pick one, you’re kind of stuck. Im not married to any of these 2 companies, all input and suggestions are welcome. My concern is one company offering more competitive rates than the other, so in this example, allstate seems to be more competitive in the auto space. What are all the things I should consider before choosing an agency and which one would you recommend? I also worked for an agency that just brokered the deals, so they made the commissions, but were not captive. Any other types of business or insurance carrier/providers I should consider?

Not sure if its worth mentioning or if this affects anything, but aside from my prop and casualty, life and health licenses, I also hold a series 6, 63, 7 and 66. So I would also be doing the investment side.

Finally, do all or any of these have a good program where I can get a loan directly with them to make periodic payments on the agency or the book? I also heard with state farm you dont actually own the agency, you’re just a contractor. Is that true and something that would be a deal breaker for you? Any insight is much appreciated.

Thanks