Do You Need Life Insurance When Buying a Home?
- Josh Young
- Mar 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 6
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a huge financial commitment. So, do you need life insurance when making this big move?
While life insurance isn’t required to buy a house, it can offer crucial protection for your family’s future. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to a bigger space, or downsizing, your mortgage is a long-term responsibility. Life insurance can help cover mortgage payments if the unexpected happens, like illness or passing away, giving your family peace of mind.
Should You Buy Life Insurance Before Moving In?
With everything happening during a move, it’s easy to push life insurance to the back burner. But remember, you’re still financially responsible for the property, even if you haven’t moved in yet. It’s smart to review your existing insurance to make sure it offers enough coverage, especially for your new home.
Life Insurance vs. Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
You might’ve heard of LMI, but it’s important to note that it’s different from life insurance. LMI protects the lender if you can’t repay your mortgage, whereas life insurance protects you and your family. While LMI is often required by the lender, life insurance is your choice for personal protection.
Do You Need Both?
LMI and life insurance serve different purposes, and you might end up needing both. LMI covers the lender, while life insurance ensures your family is financially supported if something happens to you.
How Can Life Insurance Help?
Life insurance can provide a lump sum to pay off your mortgage and other property-related costs if you pass away. If combined with other insurance options, it can help protect you from falling behind on payments due to illness or accident.
Types of Life Insurance to Consider When Buying a Home
Income Protection Insurance: Helps cover your mortgage if you can’t work due to injury or illness.
Life Insurance: Provides a lump sum for your family to handle ongoing home expenses if you’re no longer around.
Total Permanent Disability Insurance: Supports you if a disability prevents you from working and helps with home-related costs.
Critical Illness Insurance: Offers a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, so you can focus on recovery, not bills.
All in all, life insurance is a great way to protect your home and your family’s future!
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