When a claim occurs, the goal is to get you “back in the saddle” as quickly as possible.

From saddle to success. From idea to reality. From a dream to a legacy. This is Farris Insurance, located in Madisonville, Texas, and serving families in Madison, Leon, Grimes, Brazos, Houston, and Walker Counties and beyond. Established in 1996 by Mike Farris, the business is now run by his daughter Reygan Richardson since his passing in 2024. Reygan is not new to the insurance business. From the early age of seven, she spent countless hours by her father’s side, observing his hard work and dedication to growing Farris Insurance into the business success it is today. And how do they measure success? Not merely in dollars, but in meeting the insurance needs of families and friends through sound business practices, caring compassion, and integrity.  

From saddle to success?

After training horses for a living, Mike made the decision to start the company to provide a better life for his family. On many days, you could find him dressed in his customary hat, boots, and jeans, sitting in his favorite saddle, which by now was “stabled” in his office. As he said, this is where he did his best studying, and he did intense studying, because failure was not an option. This is where a representative of Germania Insurance found him in October 1996 when he approached Mike about beginning a business venture with Germania. It has been a good fit for Farris Insurance over the years because Germania’s insurance products are tailored for families living in rural areas. They still represent Germania today, along with several other carriers. And Mike’s saddle still retains its honored place in the insurance office, located at 602 South Madison Street. Over the years, the insurance market has changed in both its personality and in its use of technology. Most customers shop online and communicate with agents in that way as well. The day of face-to-face business encounters, along with a handshake, have faded from view to some extent. And as Reygan shares, this is fine, but they still enjoy the personal contact that an office visit provides. Policies can be better explained in person and printouts are available. Reygan and her staff, Clara Kelly and Maddie Stevens, are grateful for the many clients they have served and have been acquainted with over the years. Their customer retention has been tremendous over the decades, and they strive to serve both existing and new clients with the best in service, knowledge, and expertise. Sometimes, this may mean reviewing a policy from another company that a Farris client has found. Reygan and her staff are happy to do so and to give their advice with the intent to serve their client with honesty and integrity. She knows that the insurance business is cyclical, and by treating their customers in this way, they may come back to her in the future.  

Available carriers and coverage

As mentioned, Germania is their primary carrier, having a broad, comprehensive home, farm, and ranch policy, and farm and ranch liability with great coverages. Many of the Farris clients fall into this category and have been pleased with the customer support they receive. Although Farris Insurance can offer coverage anywhere in Texas, their focal point has been closer to home so they can offer the most efficient and quality service to the people they serve. They are always just a phone call or text message away and are diligent in responding quickly to their customers’ needs. Along with Germania, other carriers include Garfield with great coverage on homes, Amwins for new autos, and Dairyland for autos and motorcycles. Progressive Insurance is competitive on auto insurance at the present time and will also cover boats and motorcycles. Foremost is also included in their line-up of carriers. Germania and Amwins require proof of prior insurance coverage. Progressive does not require prior coverage but is more affordable if a history exists. For people who need to establish a history or need basic liability, Dairyland is a viable choice. Reygan is looking at other carriers, but because the Texas market is volatile at this time, many companies are not appointing agents in the state. There have been an excessive number of claims in the last few years with storms, hail damage, freezes, and flooding. Additionally, since Covid, the market has changed. During that time, many things that you could normally get fixed, such as heavy equipment, had to be totaled because of the inability to get parts. Although that situation is now rare, it still made its impact. And as to healthcare costs, it has been much easier to max out a policy, and small claims courts have paid out handsomely in this area. All these factors have affected insurance rates in Texas, but Reygan continues to diligently seek the best options for her customers.  

Relationships matter

Having an established relationship with a trusted insurance company such as Farris Insurance is a key component for your peace of mind.  And as mentioned, Reygan and her staff will scout out the best rates and coverage and provide exceptional service offered in a friendly and professional way. If you have added a barn, greenhouse, garage, or other edifice to your property, remember to add it to your policy. Also, at renewal time, please check with them to get updated information on available rates to ensure you are getting the optimum coverage for the cost. As Reygan shares, “Dad struggled to get this started, and I want to honor him in the way I practice business and treat our customers,” and she has done just that. Mike went from training cutting horses to starting this new venture. Reygan, an award winner in cutting competition, is carrying that same winning spirit into her work. She, Clara, and Maddie invite you to come by the office, get acquainted, and start the insurance journey under their capable care. And while there, be sure to take an admiring glance at that sturdy, well-worn saddle where the Farris Insurance legacy began.   FARRIS INSURANCE “COVERAGE THE COWBOY WAY” 602 South Madison Street Madisonville, TX 77864 936-348-2302 www.farrisinsurance.com