Which of the following is a characteristic of an insurance broker?

The role of an insurance broker is to act as an intermediary between clients seeking insurance and the various insurance companies that provide those products. Brokers are licensed professionals who have expertise in evaluating clients' needs and recommending appropriate insurance options from multiple carriers. This characteristic is significant because it emphasizes their independence, as they are not tied to any single insurance provider. This enables them to offer a broader range of choices and tailor recommendations based on the client's specific situation.

The other choices highlight misunderstandings about the insurance brokerage model. Brokers do not exclusively represent one company, which would limit their ability to offer diverse options. Additionally, while some brokers may provide advisory services, they typically earn a commission from the insurance products sold; therefore, there are costs associated with the policies they recommend. Lastly, insurance brokers do not limit themselves to life insurance; they deal with various types of insurance products including health, auto, property, and more, which allows them to meet a wide array of client needs.