So, even if two families with identical houses and identical cars with identical income live next door to each other the premium they pay will be different. This happens because their insurance score is different, driving records are different and claim history is different and we can go on and on. The algorithm is complicated and I will be the first to admit that we have no idea as to which company any one customer will fit in to.
Now, add to the above the fact that each company has a different algorithm and a different profit structure and a different loss ratio(money they take in to money going out) and when it all comes into play the premium gets adjusted...
On any given day one customer, on a 250k home could have a premium quote that ranges from $700 to $3000. So at that point one would say go with the cheapest. Not so fast! not all policies are created equal as one of my customers can attest too. When a house burns down, you don't ask how cheap it is .. you ask how much coverage do I have... This is where it becomes very important to know what you are buying...
Bottom line is to work with an independent agent who has access to multiple companies and knows the differences in coverages... when an insurer needs to make a profit and the investment strategy they use is not working for them then they have to adjust somewhere. Its business, not personal and as a consumer you are left with a choice to make... That is where a good independent agent is important... a low premium up front is not the cost of insurance... the cost is when a claim is not covered.