I don't think the insurance is very expensive.  

Without running any specific numbers yet, and ignoring my 200k loan repayments for now, if I my rent income minus property taxes, insurance etc and everything else related to the expenses of the property (again, ignore the 200k loan repayments) comes out to anything beyond 12000 annually in the first year I'll probably be relatively satisfied with that outcome. 

what is damage protection insurance? 

I've only ever purchased homes as primaries, one being rented out currently to an insurance company and the other is my current primary.

One thing you may want to consider is some sort of umbrella insurance - that might be a cheaper option, I'd price out bother.

You should also check to ensure they have Errors & Omissions insurance, Fidelity Bond coverage, and a Financial Institution Blanket Bond.Some are more consultative and advisory and provide guidance, while others are just processors. 

Only thing better would be initial deposit and then paid in full upon Certificate of Occupancy and punchlist complete.Of course, standard items should also be checked: licensed, insured, willing and able to pull all required permits, reference checks.I would also commonly avoid the cheapest bid you get.  

Forget Title insurance. 

In my case this week this was full title insurance for me as a lender in 4 hours which as stated is the fastest service I personally have gotten.

My agent said it wasn't worth challenging because Nationwide is leaving the state.Our insur. agency sent a new proposal from Bass insur.