Places like statefarm and allstate will only quote with your autos or home and it gets complicated.

@Amber Forkey both operations typically have the same coverage needs:  General Liability, E&O, Auto, Work Comp, EPLI, etc. 

Looking for good rates, low fees, auto renewals with low fees, interest only payments if possible.

My two cents :)let us know how things work out once you have the property purchased, renters in and the house on auto pilot! 

We saw this in NJ in the auto insurance aprox. 15 years ago when a number of companies were either pulling out or putting moratorium on new business. 

Any recommendations for independent insurance brokers in Illinois who can do home and auto?

yes but still a great value) Metro Detroit has problems, Yes, But it also has SF homes that would sell for $10,000,000.00 in today's down market.Detroit was about 60% auto industry now is rebuilding as about 9-10% dependant on auto.

Has anyone used the Schlage Encode locks and set them to auto lock?

Even after they tout the auto bundle discount.

.- We (my spouse and I) live in Texas- We do have Auto/Personal Home/Umbrella insurance through Geico.- All rental homes insured through UPC insurance.Issue: When I called Geico to add my 5th rental policy on Geico umbrella insurance, i was told that Geico will allow a maximum of 4 rental properties to be added on Umbrella policy.Question: What have you done for the umbrella policy coverage on 5th property and beyond?