People often see their homes as their biggest investment, and naturally
they want to protect that investment. On the other hand, people also
worry about what would happen to their loved ones if they were no longer
around to care for them. For both of these situations, there is life
insurance and mortgage insurance. Both types of insurance offer
benefits, but they differ in their nature and eligibility criteria. If
you are considering one or both forms of insurance, here are some things
that you need to be aware of before making a decision.
Life Insurance
Life insurance is a smart move for many people who have dependents.
However, life insurance does not often come without a rigorous
application process. Age is a critical factor in the monthly premium you
pay and you often have to undergo a medical exam. If you have had any
previous complications, then that could work against you. In short, the
younger and healthier you are, the better your chances of getting a good
premium. However, for those who don’t qualify for life insurance but
still want to protect their assets, they have to look at other options.
Mortgage Insurance
Mortgage insurance is usually offered by the same lender providing
you with the mortgage. This form of insurance covers your monthly
mortgage payments in case you can‘t pay them with your regular income.
While mortgage insurance is much easier to secure than life insurance,
there is a higher cost. Also, while the premiums don’t change as time
goes by, the benefits are reduced as you pay down your mortgage. If you
have trouble qualifying for life insurance but still want some form of
protection, then mortgage insurance might be a more practical option.
However, if you change your lender, your policy will also change.
Which Is Better?
Choosing between mortgage insurance and life insurance depends on
your situation. If you know that you may not qualify for life insurance
then mortgage insurance may be the next best thing. That said, there are
many life insurance plans that offer flexibility and require little
medical examination (often just a short questionnaire). So it is best to
fully explore your options.
At Northwood Mortgage, our agents can help you find the best solution for your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us see how we can help you protect your assets and your loved ones.
source: northwoodmortgage.com