About Us

The Cota Group office
WHo WE ARE

Whether home or auto, insurance is a fact of life for most people.

In fact, insurance is so commonplace that the process of buying a policy may seem routine or make your choice of agent seem unimportant. Looking for the lowest price may seem like the right place to start, but insurance is more complicated than people realize.

Choosing the right policy options can guarantee that you’ll be made whole after an incident while selecting the wrong coverage may leave you without the protection you need in a time of crisis.

The COTA Group has been counseling Manatee County residents regarding their insurance coverage for over 20 years. We are committed to providing the best products and services to our clients and the community we serve.

“If what you have is better, we will tell you, not sell you.”

If we can’t provide you with better coverage than you already have, we won’t pressure you to switch. But we believe that you will find our service to be second to none.

The COTA Group will customize your coverage, taking into account your lifestyle, budget, and specific needs. We will explain your policy options and explain the importance of each component of your coverage.

The COTA Group serves Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Ellenton, Myakka City, and Arcadia. We provide home and auto insurance, as well as flood insurance, boat insurance, and RV and motorcycle insurance.

No matter how you live your Florida life, we’ve got you covered.

Laura Bassler Cota

Our Team

We are longtime Manatee residents ourselves, having lived here for over 50 years. Our friends are here, and our families are here. Every client is a part of our community, and we believe each one should be treated with honesty.

Some of the hobbies we enjoy include networking, travel and outdoor activities. But most of all we enjoy helping clients understand insurance and the importance of it.

You’ll work with a friendly and knowledgeable team who will educate you about your insurance policy and remain in contact well after you sign your name. You’ll have your agent’s cell phone number, guaranteeing immediate access should you need our support.

Mark Schuetz
Cynthia Owen

Cynthia Owen

Cynthia Owen is a native Floridian from Manatee County and has been involved in the insurance industry since 2019. She decided to start a career in insurance because she loves helping people and looks forward to assisting all COTA clients. Cynthia recently moved to the Tampa area with her husband where they purchased their dream home. When they are not busy remodeling they enjoy traveling, spending time with family, and a great game night with friends.

Michael Sannuto

Mike is originally from Brooklyn, New York and has been a Florida resident since 2004. He has been an insurance agent since 2006 working with families and businesses to help protect them and their assets from any challenges they may face.  Mike says, “I am always there for my clients. I want to make sure they have peace of mind and are safe from anything life throws at them. I’m very protective of my clients.”  

Mike plays the drums and worked in the music industry in New York City. He is married to the love of his life, Suzette.  They have two beautiful children, Isabella and Giovanni and they all attend Bayside Community Church in Bradenton, FL as a family.  They love to travel and have fun with their friends and family whenever they can.

Michael Sannuto