I mentioned that at some point I would be speaking with an agent. Why even have an online forum if it's unfathomable to ask for experience and advice about a topic.
A smart man only believes half of what they hear. A wise man figures out which half to believe. An insurance agent may tell me what I want to hear which will serve their interests not mine.
I think you are putting the Cart before the horse. I have been waiting for my birthday next month to apply for the Retirement Visa. In the meanwhile I just use tourist visa exemption to stay in Thailand on and off for 9 months. Next month I Initiate the retirement visa process which begins with a 90 day visa, and then the actual 1 year Visa starts .