This post was sponsored by Progressive.
Over the last few years, we’ve come to recognize Progressive Insurance thanks to Flo, the Progressive girl. Initially, when the company first began in 1937, it focused solely on auto coverage. Over time, the Ohio-based company stayed true to its name of being a progressive insurance company, and thus, expanded its services beyond vehicles. From golf carts to condos, customers can obtain coverage for some unique circumstances in addition to standard protection. They were the first major auto insurance company to have a website, they continue their history of innovation with a new service: HomeQuote Explorer.
HomeQuote Explorer Review
What is it?
HomeQuote Explorer is a free online quoting experience to help homeowners compare home insurance rates. Think Trivago for hotels, except it will show prices from multiple insurance companies side by side. Not just that, but when you do enter your information, HomeQuote Explorer will match you with the best policy for you based on your information. Currently, Progressive is the only insurer that offers anything like this, according to their website.
How does it work?
You start the process by entering the address of your home to their search bar on the site. Progressive then pre-fills any information they find based on public records of the house, which helps you save time. Their questionnaire also includes images to assist in the process of answering questions about your home, such as your roof type or flooring details.
Once you’ve completed the assessment, they’ll match you with what they feel is the best policy based on your answers. However, you do not have to choose their recommended. They also provide you with alternative rates and coverage to review – side-by-side comparisons of rates and coverage from multiple companies so that you can ensure you’re getting the best deal.
As you finalize your decision on your new home’s insurance option, you can simply buy it online or call Progressive to speak with a licensed agent.
Pros and Cons of Progressive HomeQuote Explorer
Pros:
On top of comparing your rates, they will even take care of the details with your mortgage company for you if you prefer. They’ll send a proof of insurance and coordinate the details, allowing you to lump in the payment to your mortgage rather than paying Progressive directly.
The information regarding their service is also very clear and easy to find. Their FAQ page answers just about any question you might have about the process, which is something I truly appreciate.
Cons:
The biggest con for me, personally, was that the HomeQuote Explorer was still relatively new when I gave it a try so there were still a few quirks. Using my current address, I went through the process as though I were buying my place. As I went through and filled out the information for my home insurance quote, the images the promotional video showed were not present. It was their old questionnaire that also did not have an auto fill option as promoted.
When I tried again, however, the new screen and features did appear. After going back and taking a look at the newer version of HomeQuote Explorer, this issue was resolved.
Another con I experienced was that the HomeQuote Explorer didn’t directly provide the homeowner’s insurance but rather partner with other companies to do so. Thus, they are limited in the discounts they can offer.
Progressive is a trustworthy company and continues to deliver a quality service. I can say this confidently as an auto insurance policy holder for the last three years. Regardless, it would still be wise to research other home insurance policies before purchasing through the HomeQuote Explorer. It does appear that some glitches are still being worked out.
All in all, the tool was easy to use and helpful in giving me an idea of one of my options for home insurance.
Interested in learning more about HomeQuote Explorer? Check out the video below:
Jenn Clark is a writer, PR specialist, entrepreneur, blogger and coffee enthusiast. A lover of laughter, traveling and cheese, she’s written about her life experiences here at suburbanfinance while at the same time growing other young professionals. You can find more of her work at Jennblogs.co.