Allstate decision raises concerns

Allstate's decision to stop issuing new homeowners insurance policies in coastal areas of Maryland has caught the attention of the housing industry, fueling fears that fewer policy options could complicate an already cooling market.

As insurers across the country shrink their coverage to minimize their risk in areas prone to heavy storms, real estate agents are worried that cutbacks will quash home sales.

"It's becoming more and more of a problem across the country. It's one of the primary items our national association has on its agenda,"...