Writing a cross-border property can be a complicated matter if a broker lacks the knowledge, experience, and available markets to service it. The broker might try to convince a Canadian insurer to take on the American residence; they might approach the surplus lines market; or they might seek out a U.S. insurance agent in the area to place the business for them. If those strategies fail, they usually have no choice but to tell the customer they can’t handle the U.S. exposure. That’s bad for business.