PerformancePro is highly recommended when I was doing my research so I ended up getting that, it is more expensive unfortunately but the quality is there. Although still not hooked up (build is taking a wee bit longer than expected, lol). I think my question about a cover was misunderstood. I realize you cannot protect against a flood like you had, but the very first line of the manual for the Sequence says do not allow the pump to be submerged from transient heavy rain or runoff. PerformancePro says the same thing, so you do have to cover these pumps (again not talking about flood proof). Performance does sell separately a cover for their pumps.
Not sure why the Sequence sells the strainer/priming pot separately other than it can make the pump look like it has a cheaper price. I guess if you have a good skimmer and filter before the water gets to the pump then you dont have to worry about debris getting in the pump, but you would still have the priming issue. Majority of pumps I have seen come with those pots attached already so I am not sure you really save anything in the future and I don't think those pots are really a part that breaks down all that much but maybe I am wrong.