OP,
I think the front bumper and side mirrors are good to put the clear bra on. However, I think the entire hood is a little overkill.....especially at that price.

When EPA regulations first banned lead-based car paints, chipping was a big problem with water-based car paints. However, I think it's gotten a lot better now. I clearbra'ed one of my cars myself about 8 yrs ago. It's really not that hard. So, $1800 is plain crazy. The cost to the installer to do that job will be $150-200 maximum if he/she buys the clearbra in sheets and cuts it himself/herself.