With independent agencies struggling to survive in this anemic economy, many are looking to join with a bigger operation to bolster their leverage with carriers, gain access to new markets and achieve economies of scale. But even though the credit crunch is not necessarily dampening buyer appetites, pulling off a deal is far from a slam dunk.

I recently moderated a panel of some of the biggest buyers in the business, presented by Hales & Company and sponsored by the folks over at FC&S Bulletins–a National Underwriter Company subsidiary. They offered keen insights into the hurdles agencies must clear to attract a partner and earn top dollar on a sale in this capital-starved market.

For one, it's hard to value an agency these days. The economic contraction means that even achieving a 100 percent renewal rate produces lower revenue for agents, since so many clients are cutting back operations and laying off staff that insurable risks are down considerably.

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