Why do I Need Home Loan Insurance?

Owning a home is a huge responsibility. Not only do you need to be able to afford the mortgage, but you also need to be prepared for all of the expenses that come with homeownership - from property taxes to home repairs. Home loan insurance is one expense that many homeowners don't think about until it's too late. This post explains what home loan insurance is and why you may need it.

What Is Home Loan Insurance?

Home loan insurance, also known as mortgage protection insurance, is a type of coverage that helps protect your mortgage in the event that something happens to you. For example, if you become seriously ill or injured and are unable to work, your home loan insurance would help cover your monthly mortgage payments. This can help prevent you from losing your home if something unexpected happens. 

What Are the Types of Home Loan Insurance?

There are a few different types of home loan insurance policies available, so it's important to shop around and find one that fits your needs. Be sure to ask your lender about their specific policies and what they offer. Home loan insurance can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency, so it's important not to overlook this important step when buying a home.

Private Mortgage Insurance

There are a few different types of home loan insurance, each of which serves a different purpose. The most common type is private mortgage insurance, which is required by most lenders in order to protect them in case the home buyer defaults on the loan.

This type of insurance is typically required when the down payment on a home is less than 20% of the purchase price.

Lender-Paid Mortgage Insurance

Another type of home loan insurance is lender-paid mortgage insurance, which allows the home buyer to avoid paying private mortgage insurance by agreeing to pay a higher interest rate on the loan.

This type of insurance is typically used when home prices are rising quickly, and home buyers want to lock in a low interest rate.

Government-Backed Mortgage Insurance

Finally, government-backed mortgage insurance is offered through programs such as the Federal Housing Administration's Mortgage Insurance Program. This type of insurance protects both home buyers and lenders in case of default, and it can make it easier for home buyers with good credit to qualify for a mortgage.

How Long Must I Pay Mortgage Insurance?

If you're a home buyer, you may be wondering how long you'll have to pay mortgage insurance. The answer depends on a number of factors, including the size of your down payment, the type of loan you choose, and current market conditions.

For most home buyers, mortgage insurance is a temporary expense that lasts for a few years. However, if home prices rise or mortgage rates stay low, you may find yourself paying mortgage insurance for longer.

Ultimately, the length of time you pay mortgage insurance will be determined by market conditions and your personal financial situation.

How to Stop Paying Home Loan Insurance?

For home buyers, mortgage insurance is an added expense that can drive up the cost of homeownership. Mortgage insurance is typically required when homebuyers make a down payment of less than 20% of the home's purchase price. The insurance protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan.

While mortgage insurance can be a valuable safeguard for lenders, it can be a burden for home buyers. Fortunately, there are a few ways to stop paying mortgage insurance. One option is to wait until the home's value increases and the loan balance falls below 80% of the home's value. At that point, most lenders will allow borrowers to cancel their mortgage insurance.

Another option is to refinance into a new loan that does not require mortgage insurance. Home buyers should carefully consider their options before deciding to stop paying mortgage insurance.

Conclusion

When you’re house hunting, it’s important to be mindful of all the costs associated with purchasing a home, including insurance. Home loan insurance protects your lender in the event that you can’t make your mortgage payments, but this protection comes at a price.

Before committing to a home purchase, ensure you understand all the costs involved, so there are no surprises down the road. If you have questions about home loan insurance or anything else related to mortgages, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help my clients navigate the sometimes confusing world of real estate financing.

MortgageWorks

MortgageWorks offers financing for new home purchases, refinance, home equity, investment property, construction, and a wide variety of loan program options to fit your every need.

Servicing the state of California and the entire Coachella Valley, including Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, La Quinta, Indio and Coachella. Call Art today @ (760) 883-5700


* Specific loan program availability and requirements may vary. Please get in touch with your mortgage advisor for more information.