Just an update. After doing my own shopping and talking with my current insurance broker which is part of the Baldwin group now, I found I can get the same policy that Progressive wants at $2,100 for $1,350. Actually, several companies came back in this range.
Initially, I didn't want to switch to a smaller company in fear that they wouldn't pay in large weather event but from my neighbors experience after hurricane Milton, Progressive didn't want to pay either. They low-balled many of my friends who had roof and water damage to the point where they had to go the legal route to get compensated. I've also heard storys with Allstate and others. Just go with the one that has good ratings and provides the same coverage at the lowest cost.
So, what I found is Kin, Loggerhead, Frontline, State Farm for example, will provide the same coverages at a significant less cost. I understand everyone will have a story to tell about all these companies but that's the nature of home insurance these days.
One thing I will tell you is Frontline, will give a significant discount for a monitored burgler and fire alarm system, whole house surge protector and a Smart Home Water Protection System. I was very surprised to see these in the discounts. Also, they check to see if you have replaced your hot water heater as well. So, yet another reason to proactively replace it after the warranty ends vs waiting until it leaks and potentially causes damage to your home. Your credit score also has a lot to do with your rate and they tell you that explicitly.
Just FYI, I know people are going to comment that they got Kin for example and the first year was cheap and after that the premium doubled. In speaking with some friends, this can be for many reasons such as your roof reaching a certain age, etc.. You never get the whole story from the complainers. What I'm finding is it's probably a good idea to re-shop your homeowner's insurance yearly unless your renewal is reasonable and now there are plenty of insurers to choose from. Just the way things are these days with insurance.
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