Posted on March 25 2026 

Homeowners along the Mississippi Gulf Coast often assume that older homes—especially those with unique construction features—are difficult and expensive to insure. In many cases, that’s true. But with the right strategy and access to the right carriers, meaningful savings are still possible.

At The Simmons Agency, we recently helped a homeowner in Gulfport, Mississippi significantly reduce her insurance premium—despite challenges that often limit coverage options.

The Situation

Our client owned a 1,200 square foot home built in the 1950s. Like many homes of that era, the property included asbestos siding, which can make it more difficult to find insurance coverage. Many carriers either decline these homes or offer limited options at higher premiums.

At the time of renewal, she was paying approximately $7,000 per year for her homeowners insurance.

Our Approach

Instead of accepting the renewal, we conducted a full policy and risk review. We evaluated the home’s construction details, age, and location, and then worked across multiple insurance carriers to identify a better fit.

The key was finding a carrier that:

• Accepted asbestos siding
• Properly evaluated the home’s risk profile
• Offered more competitive pricing for older homes in coastal areas

The Result

We were able to place her policy with a carrier that met all of these criteria—while still delivering significant savings.

• 33% reduction in annual premium
• Coverage placed with a carrier that accepts the home’s construction
• Improved overall policy structure and long-term insurability

This is a great example of how working with an independent insurance agency can open doors that many homeowners don’t realize are available.

Why This Matters for Gulf Coast Homeowners

Many homes across Gulfport, Biloxi, and the surrounding Mississippi Gulf Coast were built decades ago and may include materials or features that some insurance companies avoid. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck overpaying.

With the right agency, it’s often possible to:

• Find carriers that better understand older homes
• Improve coverage while reducing premiums
• Avoid unnecessary restrictions or exclusions

Get a Second Opinion on Your Home Insurance

If your home is older, has unique construction features, or your premium has increased significantly, it may be time for a second look.

Trusted Gulf Coast Homeowners Insurance Specialists

The Simmons Agency specializes in homeowners’ insurance across the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, with a strong local focus on the following areas:

Mississippi

Pass Christian, Bay St. Louis, Long Beach, Gulfport, Biloxi, Jackson, Hattiesburg, Oxford, Starkville, Natchez, Ocean Springs, Gautier, Saucier, Moss Point

Alabama

Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, Loxley, Spanish Fort, Daphne, Daphne Island, Mobile, Fairhope, Fort Morgan

Tennessee

Memphis, Nashville, Franklin, Collierville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Johnson City, Kingsport.

Contact The Simmons Agency today for a personalized homeowners insurance review.

Better coverage. Lower premiums. Solutions others may miss.

Licensed in Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.