Let’s say you buy a life insurance policy that has kicked in immediately or after a waiting period, and you meet your unfortunate demise a day, month, or several years later. Will your beneficiaries receive the entire amount? Broadly speaking, yes.
So, how long do you have to have life insurance before it pays out? If you have, say, a 25-year term life policy, then your loved ones are usually covered for 25 years. If you have an active permanent life policy, the entire death benefit is generally in place during your lifetime.
There’s a significant cost difference between term life and permanent life insurance, though. Stay tuned.
Life Insurance Basics
Life insurance is meant to protect a spouse or partner, children, or other family members upon your death. It is intended to replace your income and avoid a large financial loss while paying the costs of a funeral or a memorial service.
When it comes to life insurance plans, there are two main types: term life and permanent life. Both kinds of insurance are sold by the majority of life insurance companies.
No matter which type you have, when you die, your beneficiaries or the executor of your estate will need to file a claim with the insurance company in order to receive the death benefit. The payout may come in one lump sum or in another form, depending on the insurance company.
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How Does Term Life Work?
Term life insurance is often viewed as more cut and dried than permanent life insurance. Policy owners make regular monthly payments during the term. The insurance company pays a death benefit — or the amount of the coverage — if the policy owner dies during the term.
Term life insurance covers a set period, such as 20 or 30 years.
The coverage can range from $25,000 to several million dollars, depending on the insurer and your financial needs and plans. If the insured dies after the time period chosen, the insurance company will not provide the payout.
The intent of term life insurance is to ensure that your financial responsibilities are taken care of in case of an illness or tragedy. A policy can support the financial needs of children, help a stay-at-home parent find their footing, or cover a mortgage, credit card bills, or other outstanding debt.
Parents may decide to buy term life insurance while their children are younger and before they go to college or establish careers. Some people might also choose term life insurance because it typically costs less than permanent life insurance. Others may opt for term life because they believe they’ll be self-insured when the term ends or because they want to protect certain assets, such as paying off a mortgage.
What Is Permanent Life Insurance?
Unlike term life, permanent life insurance provides coverage for a lifetime. For example, when you purchase whole life insurance, a common kind of permanent life, the policy remains in effect for the rest of your life unless you cancel it or miss payments. Beneficiaries receive the death benefit after the insured passes away.
Permanent life insurance can be more complicated because there is a “cash value” included in the policy. These financial products are seen as a combination of insurance and savings.
One of the main differences between term life and permanent life insurance is the amount of the premium, or the money that you pay each month to maintain the policy. Permanent life insurance is usually more expensive than term life insurance because it provides longer coverage.
Recommended: 8 Popular Types of Life Insurance for Any Age
What to Consider When Choosing a Policy
There are several things to evaluate before you purchase either term or permanent life insurance. Examining the options will help you decide which type of insurance will meet your financial needs the best.
Waiting Periods
A waiting period is the length of time the insured person must wait before some or all of their coverage kicks in. Some life insurance companies will make policies effective immediately or as soon as the first payment is made.
Waiting periods were created to avoid fraud and are one way that insurance companies protect themselves. If the insurance company does not have a waiting period, the policy is likely to be more expensive than one that requires someone to wait.
When applying for any life insurance policy, it’s best to ask if there is a waiting period and whether any exceptions exist. Then, once a policy is issued, it’s smart to confirm the details.
Cost of Premiums
One major factor in weighing term life and permanent life insurance policies is the monthly premiums. Typically, term life insurance costs less — often much less — than permanent life insurance, even though the coverage amount is the same.
The difference is that permanent life insurance has a cash value component. If you need to take out a loan, you can use that money as collateral based on the interest rate given in a policy. The cash value part of a permanent life insurance policy generally grows tax-free, though in some cases withdrawals, loans, and surrenders may be taxed.
Permanent life insurance has a cash value component and costs more than term life.
One main difference between term life and permanent life is that if you live beyond the term that you chose, no money is paid out. Term life insurance policies have no cash value.
Recommended: How to Buy Life Insurance in 9 Steps
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between term life and permanent life insurance policies can be difficult. While permanent life insurance policies have a savings portion, the “cash value” is invested by the insurance companies and they choose what assets they want to invest in.
Other criteria that may help you make a decision are whether you are married or not, if you have children and how old they are, if you think your salary will increase over time, and how much debt you have, such as your mortgage, other loans, and credit card bills that would need to be paid off if you died.
Changing a Current Policy
You may already have a life insurance policy, but life circumstances can change rapidly. Some life insurance companies might allow you to either increase or decrease the amount of coverage.
Permanent life insurance policies tend to be more complicated, and changes may mean that you will have to pay administrative fees.
Most permanent life policies have a surrender charge, which is subtracted from the top of your cash value if you end, or surrender, the policy. Surrendering a policy means giving it up. You’ll receive the cash value, minus any fees. By canceling the life insurance policy, your heirs will receive nothing from it when you die.
The Takeaway
Life insurance can help protect your family from the financial impact of your death. Term life insurance provides coverage for a set amount of time. If the insured person dies during that time, their beneficiaries receive the entire payout. Permanent life, on the other hand, provides lifelong coverage and comes with a cash value. Beneficiaries receive the payout after the insured dies. As you consider policies, be sure to note the costs involved.
If you’re shopping for life insurance, SoFi has partnered with Ladder to offer competitive life insurance policies that are quick to set up and easy to understand. You can apply in just minutes and get an instant decision. As your circumstances change, you can easily change or cancel your policy with no fees and no hassles.
Complete an application and get your quote in just minutes.
Coverage and pricing is subject to eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Ladder Insurance Services, LLC (CA license # OK22568; AR license # 3000140372) distributes term life insurance products issued by multiple insurers- for further details see ladderlife.com. All insurance products are governed by the terms set forth in the applicable insurance policy. Each insurer has financial responsibility for its own products.
Ladder, SoFi and SoFi Agency are separate, independent entities and are not responsible for the financial condition, business, or legal obligations of the other, Social Finance. Inc. (SoFi) and Social Finance Life Insurance Agency, LLC (SoFi Agency) do not issue, underwrite insurance or pay claims under Ladder Life™ policies. SoFi is compensated by Ladder for each issued term life policy.
SoFi Agency and its affiliates do not guarantee the services of any insurance company.
All services from Ladder Insurance Services, LLC are their own. Once you reach Ladder, SoFi is not involved and has no control over the products or services involved. The Ladder service is limited to documents and does not provide legal advice. Individual circumstances are unique and using documents provided is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances. Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice. SOPT0523005
20-year term life insurance is becoming increasingly popular. No matter which term of insurance you purchase, make no mistake it’s important to just buy it. In the event something happens to you, it’s the only way to make sure your family is taken care of.
As you’re thinking of buying the perfect life insurance plan, there are many factors that you’ll need to look at to make sure that your loved ones have the money that they need.
There are several different types of life insurance plans that you can purchase, but a common type is a term life insurance plan.
These are the most affordable kinds of life insurance and are an excellent option to give your family the protection that they need.
Life insurance can be confusing and the process of having one issued could be lengthy, but we specialize in making it quick and we’re happy to help connect you with the best life insurance policy.
Who Would Want to Consider Buying a 20-Year Term Policy?
The most common ages of people I see purchasing a 20-year term life insurance policy range between 25 and 45.
As mentioned above, many in this age range will have their largest asset paid off (their home) and if their savings are on track, should be close to being self-insured by the end of the term.
Affordability, maximum coverage, and policy length are three key aspects to nail down when looking to purchase a 20-year term.
And even if you wish to increase your face value you don’t want to overstretch your budget – it’s important to understand that there are many options in the marketplace to tailor the right plan to your needs.
How Much Does a 20-Year Term Policy Cost?
Below are some sample 20-year term life insurance quotes from some of the big carriers. As you’ll see, I ran 20 year quotes for $250,000, $500,000 and $1,000,000. I’ve listed the top 3 carriers for males and females of different ages (25, 35, and 45).
Please note that these quotes are subject to change depending on when you actually run the quote for yourself.
$250,000 20-Year Term Life Policy Quote
$500,000 20-Year Term Life Policy Quote
$1,000,000 20-Year Term Life Policy Quote
SEX
AGE
20YR TERM POLICY
COMPANY 1
COMPANY 2
COMPANY 3
MALE
25
$1,000,000 FACE AMOUNT
AMERICAN GENERAL $414
BANNER LIFE $425
SBLI $440
MALE
35
$1,000,000 FACE AMOUNT
SBLI $450
BANNER LIFE $455
NORTH AMERICA CO. $485
MALE
45
$1,000,000 FACE AMOUNT
BANNER LIFE $1,155
SBLI $1,160
GENWORTH FINANCIAL $1,173
FEMALE
25
$1,000,000 FACE AMOUNT
AMERICAN GENERAL $354
SBLI $360
BANNER LIFE $365
FEMALE
35
$1,000,000 FACE AMOUNT
SBLI $390
AMERICAN GENERAL $404
BANNER LIFE $405
FEMALE
45
$1,000,000 FACE AMOUNT
SBLI $880
BANNER LIFE $895
TRANSAMERICA $930
In case you’re curious about how much a $1 million dollar term life insurance policy costs in other terms, follow the link to check out a post on my other blog.
Should You Consider a 10 or 30-Year Instead of a 20-Year Term Life?
Obviously, this all depends on your situation. I can think of one client who took out a 10-year term policy and then was forced to renew 10 years later. She was so young that it would have been wise to do a 30-year term, but she settled for purchasing a 10-year policy. She was lucky in the sense that even though she was 10 years older, the premium was almost the same. If I were you, I would not bank on this strategy.
My buddy Phil from PT Money has the right thought process in buying his 20 year term policy. Phil writes,
I plan to self-insure in the future. Twenty years from now I won’t need life insurance. I’m planning on having at least $500,000 of my own at that point. I’m taking serious steps with my retirement and short-term savings so that as soon as I’m able I can drop life insurance and rely on my own stash.
Many people that purchase 20-year terms do so with the same mindset.
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Why I Purchased a 30-Year Term Policy
Part of me knows that in 20 years I will be self-insured. So why waste the money, right? Good question. I’ve asked myself the same thing and my conclusion comes with losing my father in his late 60s due to heart disease and Type II diabetes.
Although I’m in excellent health now, I always play the “what if” card. And there’s some reassurance that from the ages of 54-64, my family will have that much more to take care of them if something happens to me.
Do I Need to Take a Medical Exam to Purchase 20 Year Term?
While yes, there are no medical exam term life insurance policies, it’s typically not suggested if you in good health. The exam is very basic – just like going to your doctor’s office; expect the nurse comes to you!
Every time I’ve had a medical exam, a traveling nurse has either visited my house or office and it literally took less than 20 minutes. It’s very simple and they are often willing to work around your schedule. FYI, I prefer if they can come to my house in the mornings since you are usually required to fast and I don’t like going too long without eating something.
No medical exam plans are always available for purchase should you need coverage in short order. Though it should be known that you will need to stretch your budget more because your monthly cost will be higher than the normal term plans. If affordability is your goal its best to apply for a standard plan.
Additionally, your purchasing power is not as high as you would imagine. Typically, the face value is capped at $25K for a nonmedical exam plan and you could leave yourself wanting more coverage which means buying two of these policies.
What Happens to My Policy After it Expires?
Good question. First things first. If you are truly worried about it, then you might want to consider just buying a 30-term life insurance policy.
Yes, it will cost a bit more; but at least you’ll rest assured that you’re covered for another decade. If you’re still dead set on a 20-year term insurance policy, then read on…
Typically, your insurance life insurance company will give you the choice to continue your policy on an “annual renewable basis”. What does that mean?
That means that you can keep your policy in force by continuing to pay the premiums. I’m sure you’re wondering what the catch is.
The catch is that the annual premium is now determined based on your current age which means it will be much higher; not what you locked in 20 years ago.
The one positive thing about the “annual renewable basis” option is that you don’t have to get a new medical exam.
So if you’re in bad health, this might be a good option for you so as long as you can afford the premium.
Don’t Forget Your Beneficiaries
It seems it talking about life insurance, we are always focused on the insured.
But the reality is that the only reason we are taking out the policy is for our beneficiaries.
The first beneficiary that is always selected is your spouse. No question.
After that you name them, you’ll then want to list your children. While this all sounds basic – and it is – I’m amazed at how many people overlook this.
Another BIG mistake I see is when a divorce happens or a new child is born and the beneficiaries don’t get updated.
How to Get a 20 Year Term Life Insurance
If you want to get a twenty-year term life insurance quote for yourself, you don’t have to go too far.
Keep in mind the importance of getting life insurance coverage for your family.
No matter how long we think our lives will last being able to provide your family with financial security will last longer.
These days, every week brings a new report, forecast or piece of news reminding us that the mortgage lending market is in uncharted waters. Mortgage demand fell 6% week over week at the end of July. Applications dropped 7% in the same period. The national inflation rate eclipsed 9% in June. Things have changed even more since then.
As lenders, we know these things to be true not just within the context of a recent market report — we see it happening every day on the ground, in the weeds with homebuyers, real estate agents and partners. In a field built on risk — like mortgage lending — the lack of control or agency can often feel like the biggest risk of all.
It can also be truly liberating. It can force lenders back to the basics — to refocus on the things they can control that have always been the most important element of the home-buying journey anyway: How customers feel when they work with you.
In the age of automation and analytics, altruism can often feel less quantifiable, and perhaps less important as a result. Even those who value it will often say something like, “You can’t put a price on experience.”
Except, you very much can.
The polarization of the lending market
The state of the housing market today has pushed homebuyers into one of two camps: those who feel they missed out on their opportunity to capitalize on low rates and high appreciation, and those who desperately need to move and will largely be undeterred from a negative market shift just by nature of their circumstances. Such a reality stands in stark contrast to what we saw even a few short months ago, when the FOMO (fear of missing out) was real and correctable and everybody wanted a piece of the action. The FOMO homebuyer is now just trying to weather the storm, as we’ve seen in recent weeks with the dips in demand and applications.
But the homebuyer that needs to move is still out there looking for the right home and the right partners to help them get it. They know the homebuying process right now is going to be more challenging both logistically and financially. They also know that a lender can compound those challenges or reduce them to a mere speed bump rather than an insurmountable hurdle.
For lenders who prioritize providing exceptional experiences, there’s never been a more perfect customer — or a better opportunity to capitalize on the value they deliver that many others don’t.
The greater the need, the better the service
How lenders, particularly local ones, service their customers and loans over the next six months will be the greatest factor in their ability to survive the market shift.
There are two reasons for this. First is their ability to maintain short-term profitability even as fewer people search for homes. That’s simple enough: When there aren’t as many loans, capitalizing on the ones that come through become exponentially more important.
With all other factors like rates and costs being relatively equal, the difference will always come down to the elements that comprise the customer experience: responsiveness, time to close, one-on-one engagement and education, local market expertise, transparency and human connection.
These things you can absolutely put a price on and brings me to my second point about the role customer service plays in survivability: future revenue.
How exceptional service creates long-term ROI
When the opportunity to refinance comes, it will come for just about everyone. As early as the first quarter of 2024, we may begin to see a seismic boom in refinancing for millions of homeowners. When they pick up phone, it’s easy to see how spending an extra couple hours with a customer now can increase their likelihood to call you instead of a new lender.
The same, of course, is true for the rest of the market. If lenders can push through the notable decline in retention. A 2021 report from Black Knight found that only 18% of borrowers kept the same servicer across multiple transactions at the end of 2020. Cash-out refinances fell to 11% retention, while rate-and-term refinances hovered at 23%.
The biggest reason? Poor service and an overreliance on digital tools. The latter often drives the former, as lenders over the last several years leaned so heavily into technology to meet heightened demand and volume that they inadvertently pigeon-holed customers and failed to compensate for a dominant digital experience with a more personable human one.
The decline in origination volume in recent weeks and for the foreseeable future only reinforces the need for lenders to invest in service as much as technology.
Because while repeat customers are a rarity in lending, they don’t have to be. It’s just been the price lenders have paid for not focusing on the thing their customers want most: better service.
Eric Bernstein is co-founder and president of LendFriend Home Loans.
This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of HousingWire’s editorial department and its owners.
To contact the authors of this story:
Eric Bernstein at [email protected]
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Sarah Wheeler at [email protected]
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
The Christmas season is here and you want fun ideas to do!
To help make your life easier this year, I created a bucket list full of over 100 activities. You can use it as an actual bucket list or just enjoy scrolling through some fun things to do with friends and family before December 25th.
You will find everything from decorating ideas for your home (from simple snowflakes that are easy enough for kids to make) all the way to DIY recipes for Christmas treats.
Who doesn’t love a good list?
This Christmas bucket list is things you can do with your family around the Christmas season to make it more lively and enjoyable.
I made this list for my own kids, but I thought I would share it with you to use it too!
How can you make your Christmas bucket list more fun?
There are many different ways to make your Christmas bucket list more fun.
One way is to focus on new activities that you haven’t done before. Another way is to add food-related activities, which always make Christmas special.
You can also try incorporating some outdoor activities, even if it’s just for a (snowy) day.
And don’t forget about family traditions! They’re a big part of the holidays and can really enhance the experience.
No matter what you do, make sure you enjoy yourself (and not stress yourself out)! The holidays are a time for celebration and should be spent with loved ones. Merry Christmas!
Memorable Christmas Bucket List
While we love the classic Christmas bucket lists, we also are always looking for unique ideas to add to your holiday bucket list.
Some of these out-of-the-box ideas are pretty sweet and you may want to do them year and year again.
You can find everything from baking cookies to attending a German market to spending Christmas at a lodge. No matter what you choose, make sure you keep in touch with your family and friends during the holidays.
1. Go to Mexico. This is one of our Christmas traditions! There is something relaxing about enjoying the beach while Felix Navidad is playing in the background. (Gift hint… all of the beach gifts can be given to be used on the trip.)
2. Book a Wintery Mountain Stay. On the flip side, there is something magical about sipping hot cocoa while by the fireplace when giant snowflakes are falling outside.
3. Participate in a Neighborhood Luminaires Night. Organize one night for all of your neighbors to put luminaries outlining their driveways. It is a symbolic event with neighbors coming together in peace.
4. Roast Chestnuts. Just like in the famous song by Nat King Cole, it is your turn to roast chestnuts on an open fire.
5. Wrap Presents with Friends. For some wrapping presents is fun, for others it is a task. But everything is always sweeter to do with friends, so plan a time to wrap presents with friends. Appetizers and drinks are optional.
6. Order Matching Christmas Pajamas. This is a popular Christmas tradition for most families. Make sure you order your matching Christmas Pajamas in time. Some of my favorite places to find them are Kohl’s, Macy’s, and Amazon.
7.Wear Matching Christmas Pajamas. Depending on the age of your kids and spouse will depend on how well the matching outfits go over. Make sure to snap pictures!!
8.Kiss Under the Mistletoe. This is a fun Christmas tradition for kids and adults. Kids love this because it’s not just kissing their parents on the cheek, but they get to kiss everyone in the room! Adults love this too because it’s a great opportunity to get some alone time with your significant other.
9. Host a Progressive Dinner. This is a great idea to host a fun holiday party. For each course of a meal, you move houses.
For example, you start at house A for appetizers.
Then, move to House B for dinner.
Finally, wrap up at House C for dessert.
If you have more houses participating, then you can easily stretch to a 7-course meal.
10. Buy Ugly Christmas sweaters. This is a love-hate for many people. Are you totally into buying Christmas sweaters or do you want to shy away? Either way, it is always helpful to have at least one ugly Christmas sweater in your closet.
11. And then host an Ugly Sweater Christmas Party. Time to invite all of your introvert friends for an epic ugly sweater party. The winner walks away with a prize!
12. Go to a Christmas Eve Service. If you’re feeling a little more spiritual, there are many churches that offer Christmas Eve services. If it’s your first time going to one, consider this a good opportunity to introduce the whole family and get them interested in going.
13. Classic Christmas Movie Marathon. This is always a popular idea! Especially one that is next to free to do! Pull up the classic movies and enjoy!
14. Read Christmas Books. This is another one that is uber-popular in our house! We try to stick with Christmas-only books in the month of December. One of our favorites is JK Rowling’s latest book!
15. Go on River Cruises. The river is a great place to find some peace and quiet. You can go during the day or at night.
16. Stay Downtown. Whether you are looking in another state or in your own city, you’ll find a new adventure.
17. Snowman Building Competition. Set up a snowman building competition in your neighborhood and let the winners decide what charity to donate the money raised! Bragging rites until the next competition is held.
18. Shake a Snowglobe. Maybe even add to your snowglobe collection. There is a great children’s book called Snow Globe Family. That is a super fun read.
Classic Christmas Bucket List Ideas
This is the list you think of when it comes to Christmas things to do!
Whatever you decide to do this holiday season, make sure it’s something that will create memories that will last a lifetime.
19. Bake Christmas Cookies. This is the classic holiday bucket list idea. Here are some of our favorite Christmas cookie recipes.
20. Watch Christmas Hallmark Movies. Did you know there is a countdown to when the Hallmark Channel releases their Christmas movies?!?! Yes, this is a must-do for many people. In fact, you may want to buy them the same Hallmark socks we gave our moms.
21. Host a Christmas cookie exchange. Yes, please! Cookie exchanges are the best. In fact, it is one of the most popular Christmas challenges.
22. Go Christmas Caroling. Is it a tradition? Or is it just something that you love to do with your friends and family? Bring joy to your neighborhood or nursing home by singing traditional Christmas carols.
23. Volunteer. This could be serving at a soup kitchen, organizing an event for people who can’t afford gifts to “shop,” or lending a hand to a neighbor in need. There are many organizations looking for help.
24. Build a Snowman. Yes, this is the ultimate idea for families. Make sure you have the snowman supplies to dress up your Frosty the Snowman properly. Don’t forget the carrot nose!
25. Build a Gingerbread House. This is a classic activity for many kids and you can easily pick up a gingerbread house kit for under $10. However, it is not just for kids. Check out this family’s gingerbread house display!
26. Christmas Portrait Time. Thankfully, this time of year you can find plenty of Pinterest-perfect backdrops to take portraits at. You can take family photos or one of each person in your house. This accessory helps your amateur photos look professional!
27. Mail Christmas Cards. This may have been a long-standing tradition for many years and slowly making a comeback. You can take Christmas photos just for the occasion or a collage of photos. Order your Christmas cards here.
28. Read Twas the Night Before Christmas. This Christmas classic must be read at least once on Christmas Eve. Grab your copy of the classic book.
29. Find Creative Ideas for Elf of the Shelf. Let’s face it. You jumped on this tradition … hook.line.and.sinker. Now, you must keep up with all of the Pinterest perfect ideas.
Christmas Outdoor Bucket List
Time to get outside and explore. Fresh air is always helpful!
30. Go Sledding. This is a classic bucket list item. Check out a new sledding hill in your neighborhood.
31. Build a Snow Fort. This is personally one of my favorite activities, but Mother Nature must cooperate with tons of snow! Grab some shovels and start building a fort!
32. Snowball Fight Time. Who doesn’t love a good snowball fight?!?! Grab some friends and head out for an epic snowball fight. Even better if you built the snow fort prior to game time!
33. Go Ice Skating. This is a classic especially if you live in the upper midwest. There are plenty of recreation centers that make ice skating a reasonable cost activity.
34. Skiing. Fresh powder sounds like the perfect Christmas tradition. Just make sure to book your ticket early.
35. Plan a Wintery Picnic. Grab a blanket, lunch, some hot cocoa, and your Christmas Pajamas for an outdoor picnic this winter! Make this time special with a special picnic basket to use.
36. Go Snowboarding. Time to shred the slopes. Check out the latest snowboarding gear.
37. Time to Go Tobogganing. What is tobogganing exactly? Much like sledding except you hit the snow-covered slopes and artificial-ice-covered chutes with a toboggan.
38. Give the Gift of Nature. Take your family on an outing to see some beautiful nature! Get out in the fresh air and enjoy the beauty of nature.
39. Make a Snow Angel. This is the perfect activity for kids to do. Yet, very calming and peaceful if you decide to get down in the snow and create snow angels.
40. Hunt for the Perfect Live Tree. Grab your permit and go on a hunt for the perfect Christmas tree. Make sure to bundle up and wear snow boots!
41. Catch Snowflakes on your Tongue. Regardless of your age, this childhood memory needs to be done yearly for your Christmas bucket list. Drop all of your worries off your shoulders as you catch a snowflake on your tongue.
42 Skate on Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks. Skip the indoor rinks and head outside to skate. Even more romantic if the snow is falling.
43. Create a Winter Wonderland. This one is a do-it-yourself project that doesn’t require any crafting skills.
44. Go for a Holiday Walk. Take some time out of the hustle and bustle by taking a walk outside.
45. Neighborhood Christmas Light Competition. Another great idea is to put your home in a Christmas lights competition! This can be really fun if you have friends and family who live close by. All you need is some creative decorations and an appetite for holiday cheer.
Name That Entertainment Holiday Bucket List
Time for friends, laughter, and fun!!
These are the social must-haves on your entertainment holiday bucket list!
46. Host Christmas Eve Dinner at your home. If you have room, open up your home to friends or family who might otherwise be alone for Christmas. Our Christmas Eve tradition is fondue!
47. Christmas Party Night. Invite your friends and family over for a Christmas party night! This is a fun way to get everyone together in one place, have some laughs, and enjoy each other’s company.
48. Wear Christmas Dress Attire. Everyone wants an excuse to dress up. So, make sure you have a special occasion to year your Christmas cocktail dresses.
49. Find Entertainment from the Seasonal Classics. This could be watching The Polar Express (it’s on Netflix now!), listening to holiday music, or reading a children’s Christmas book.
50. Host an Advent Calendar Party. It is so much fun to count down the days before Christmas! This works especially well in a classroom setting. Each day is a new activity to count down the days until Christmas.
51. A Christmas Story. Watch A Christmas Story and then read a few of the lines with your friends!
52. Home Acting. Put on your own production of your favorite movie or theater production!
53. Misfit Toys. Collect a variety of small, inexpensive toys and have your guests guess which toy belongs to each guest. To make it more fun, be sure to include some items that are broken or missing pieces!
54. Mistletoe Bingo. Get your guests in the Christmas spirit by setting up a bingo board with different categories for them to fill out!
55. Birthday Party for Jesus. ‘Tis the reason for the season – the birth of Jesus Christ. Plan a birthday party to celebrate everything Jesus gave to us.
56. Holiday Game Night. Christmas is a time for fun and games, so why not have a Christmas-themed game night? Some popular game ideas include playing charades, Pictionary, or Cranium. You could also try some new games that you haven’t played before – like Elf on the Shelf or Monopoly.
Holiday Season Bucket List Around Town
One of the best things about the holiday season is there are SO MANY activities to do with no money. You can find something to do each day for free.
The paid events are classics that create lifelong memories!
57. Book a Limo to Check out Christmas Lights. What better way to enjoy watching the Christmas lights and not having to drive? Personally, this works great when sharing the limo costs with friends!
58. Attend a Local Craft Fair. These craft fairs are becoming a hot place to find personalized gifts. Plus it is a great way to give back to local small businesses as well as the high school teams and clubs who organize the craft fairs.
59. Book Tickets to a Lightshow. This is a hot commodity so make sure to book your tickets early – like around Halloween. That way you will get the prime time you want to attend the light show. Also, many areas have more than one popular light show to see!
60. Attend a Ballet Performace. While the Nutcracker is a popular dance performance, there are plenty of other ballets at this time of year.
61. Watch The Nutcracker Live. I have danced in and seen the Nutcracker so many times that I have lost count. However, I love the production, the costumes, and the music! Make it more magical by taking a young girl who has never seen the Nutcracker before and watching the production through their star-struck eyes.
62. Visit Your Local Christmas Market. Every town has one. A local store stocked with all things Christmas! Maybe even see if your area has a German Christmas Market and check out the varying traditions.
63. Attend a Holiday Tree Lighting Event. Right after Thanksgiving, there are plenty of local tree lighting ceremonies. Check with your city for dates and times.
64. Attend a Holiday Festival. The holidays are the perfect time to attend a festival with family or friends. By attending, you can enjoy the activities and experience new things that may be on your list for next year!
64. Attend a Christmas Parade. Get out and see the Christmas spirit in all of your favorite holiday traditions. Most cities kick off the holidays with a parade.
Christmas Bucket List in the Kitchen (Recipes a Must!)
Around the holidays, the kitchen is the hub of the activity. More money is spent on food and drink in November and December. So, you must include a few of these Christmas activities on your list.
65. Decorate Sugar Cookies. This is a great project that tastes delicious. It’s also really easy and you’ll be surprised how much your decorating skills improve each year.
66. Make Hot Cider. Hot cider is a great drink to have this time of year. This Christmas treat can be made in the oven or on the stovetop, with just enough heat that it’s still perfect for kids and adults. Plus it makes your house smell naturally festive.
67. Enjoy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows. This is a perfect wintertime drink. Surprise the family with cute Christmas mugs.
68. Drink Egg Nog. This is a classic must-have during the holidays. There is something that warms your belly with the creaminess of egg nog. Make sure to buy your Egg Nog early as many stores ran out at Christmas time. Which eggnog flavor is your favorite?
69. Gourmet Hot Chocolate Bar. Set up a hot chocolate bar with all of your favorite toppings, like cinnamon, heavy cream, and gourmet chocolates. This will make the holidays even more special!
70. Snowy Ice Cream Treats! Make some delicious homemade ice cream and put it in bowls or cups and hand them out to your loved ones.
71. Visit a Bakery. These places are filled with great ideas! If you don’t have time, pick up one of their creations. Or try to make your own at home.
72. Make Your Own Gingerbread House Kit. This gingerbread house kit contains everything you need to make a gingerbread house this season.
73. Make Homemade Marshmallows. These are so simple to make and perfect for hot chocolate or in a sugar cookie recipe!
74. Make a Birthday Cake for Jesus. There is a huge reason to celebrate! So, let’s bake a cake and celebrate!
Crafty Christmas Bucket List
You don’t have to be super crafty for any of these projects. Simple ways to make decorations!
For many people, making their own gifts is a great way to give awesome Christmas gifts when you are broke.
75. Get crafty! There are thousands of Christmas crafts you can do during this season! Some ideas include making ornaments or wreaths, cutting out snowflakes, decorating a gingerbread house, or making your own Christmas cards.
76. Make DIY Christmas Tree Ornaments. Okay, I will be honest … there are so many great ideas for DIY Christmas Tree ornaments that I freeze on which project to actually complete. So, pick 1 or 2 that you know are within your crafty skills and get started!
77. Make Paper Snowflakes. This is a classic Christmas activity to do.
78. Make a Christmas Wreath and Decorations with your kids or family members. This is great for the whole family to do together, as it helps create memories that are sure to last a lifetime.
79. Wonder the Craft Stores. With no agenda and plenty of time! Let your mind wander and fill with amazing Christmas crafts you could make.
80. Make Salt Dough Ornaments. This is the simplest Christmas craft for the non-crafty person! Learn how to make salt dough from Katie.
81. Create Candy Care Garlands. The options are endless on this one! You can use big candy canes or mini candy canes to make your garlands.
82. Decorate a Christmas Photo Frame. This is a fun project that can be completed in just minutes! Take any old frame and spray paint it white. Then, add Christmas decorations around it or use spray painted puzzle pieces.
83. Knit Christmas Mittens. This is a quick and easy project to knit up for the holidays!
84. Make Your Own Snowmen. Make your own snowman out of rice or beans, it’s fun and easy.
85. Put Snowflakes on the Windows. This is a fun and easy way to decorate for the holidays.
86. Make Your Own Poinsettia Wreath. These wreaths can be made in no time at all!
87. Find Creative Ideas for Elf of the Shelf. Let’s decorate the elf and make its day bright!
88. Make Wreath Cards from Last year’s Christmas Cards. This is a great way to upcycle and make unique Christmas ideas. Watch this YouTube video to learn how.
89. Decorate Staircases with Ribbons. This is a simple trick to make your house look more festive!
90. Make Orange Peel Poppuri. This is a simple and quick recipe that will make your house smell fragrant.
91. Make Christmas Cards. This is the perfect time to make your own Christmas card with all of your family members, friends, and even pets! There are so many fun ways to customize these cards. You can be crafty with paper supplies or use a digital template.
Decoration Christmas Bucket List
The decor is the major component of the holidays! Make sure you are ready to get decorating!
92. Decorate the Christmas Tree. This “to-do” should be treated with a little more emphasis. Plan an event around decorating the tree and sharing memories while hanging ornaments.
93. Create a Themed Christmas Tree. Star Wars fan? Barbie lover? Marvel fan? Sports diehard? Time to unleash all of your passion and decorate a themed Christmas tree in honor of your fervor. Find some ideas to jumpstart your creativity.
94. Hang Chrismas lights. Even better make your house look better than the National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Order your lights here.
95. Upgrade Your Christmas House Lights to a Christmas Light Show. Thankfully, technology has greatly approved and you do not need to be an engineer to figure it out. You can pick up this up and quickly set your lights to music.
96. Pick a New Scent for the Holidays. Personally, I like peppermint.
97. Buy Cute Christmas Dish Towels. This is a simple decoration tip from the pros. With this simple purchase, it looks like your house has been staged for the Pinterest perfect Christmas dinner.
Shopping Place for Holiday Activity
Every bucket list has gifts on it, so time to get your shopping done!
98. Create your Christmas Budget List. While this may not be on the top of your list, this is a very important money management tip to master. Learn how to make a Christmas budget that works for you.
99. Shop for Christmas Gifts. This is a great time to find gifts for your friends and family. No need to rush, but shop early if possible! Amazon has a ton of gift ideas that are easy on the wallet too! Find a list of the best Christmas gifts under $10 for kids.
100. Purchase Christmas Flowers just for You! Buy some fresh flowers from your local flower shop and enjoy them for the holidays!
101. Wear Christmas socks. Hello, we all love cool socks! Make sure you pick up some new Christmas socks for your holiday collection.
102. Start A Collection. If you are looking for some easy gifts, start a collection that can be added year after year! A few examples include Christmas ornaments, books about Christmas traditions from around the world, and ornaments made out of candy canes.
103. Shop A Christmas Store. Find a Christmas Store; they are worth a visit if you want to get into the holiday spirit! They have everything from traditional nutcrackers to more unique items like Santa toilet paper holders. No matter what your interests are, these specialty stores have something for everyone.
104. Give Money Creatively. Did you know you could give money besides just writing a check? There are over 45 different money gift ideas for you.
Christmas Bucket List for Family Activities
Entertaining the kids is a must! Thankfully there are so many things to do.
Plus you can see the magic of the season through their eyes!
105. Write a Letter to Santa. This needs to be done in the first part of December in time to reach the North Pole.
106. Make Reindeer Food. Fruit and vegetables make a great snack for the reindeer, so it’s easy to do this activity with your kids. You can also experiment with adding different spices into the mix such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
107. Watch the Holiday Funny Movie Marathon. This is a fun way to spend a cold or hot day. Pick out some of your favorite hilarious movies and get cozy in front of the TV! Laugh til you drop!
108. Make Winter Slime. Yes, every kids LOVES slime and what is better than just slime… WINTER SLIME! Pick up Iceberg Frozen Winter Slime for your kid’s Christmas Party.
109. Host a Kid’s Christmas Party. This is something we have done every year is to host a kid’s Christmas party. It is a simple and festive way to share in the Christmas season. Provide some simple Christmas crafts, hot chocolate (with marshmallows of course), and easy snacks.
110. Sing Christmas Carols. This is a fun family activity that will make you feel festive!
111. Visit Santa. This is an old-fashioned tradition that never gets old. Visit Santa and find out if you have been naughty or nice!
112. Make Paper Snowflakes. This activity is a must for kids. Simple and easy to make. Plus they will get lost in the activity for hours! Find paper snowflake ideas.
113. Make Rudolph Pancakes. One easy way to make your Christmas bucket list more fun is by adding some creative and festive tasks to ordinary things like making pancakes.
114. Talk to Santa Claus. It’s hard to believe, but there are actually people who talk to Santa every year and make sure he has everything he needs for Christmas Eve. You can talk to him on the phone or online, and it’s a great way for your kids to get in touch with their inner child.
115. Go for a Christmas Scavenger Hunt. This is a great family activity that will have your kids having fun and learning at the same time. You can make it as easy or as hard for them to complete, depending on their age.
116. Make a Christmas wish list and check it twice. Have the kids pick out gifts they would like for themselves as well as give to others.
117. Have a Holiday Movie Night with your Friends and Family. Make some popcorn, grab your favorite movie, and cuddle up on the couch for an evening of laughter!
Holiday Bucket List to Help Others
You don’t have to be a millionaire philanthropist to help others in your community. You can make a difference by doing small things that will go unnoticed, but still, provide assistance for those who need it.
118. Participate in Random Acts of Kindness. This is a fun way to do something nice for someone else this Christmas. It’s also a great opportunity to practice your own “random acts of kindness” you want to give back in the new year.
119. Polar Plunge: A Fun and Festive Way to Help Others. Create a team of people who will pledge money for every degree the temperature drops below freezing! Make sure to follow through and take the polar plunge!
120. Donate to a Food Bank. Make a donation to your local food bank or homeless shelter in order to help those who are less fortunate during this time of year. This is a perfect way to help those in need in the wintertime and continue the tradition year round!
121. Be Someone’s Secret Santa. This is a fun and heartwarming tradition that works well for your whole family. It’s simple, too: just give out the names of people you would like to be Santa Claus for in December and tell them not to let the person know who you are.
122. Donate Toys. There are a ton of organizations that accept donations of toys or other items. Find the best charities to donate your old toys and help those in need this holiday season!
123. Make a Financial Contribution to a Nonprofit. Most nonprofits receive the majority of their financial donations in the last months of the year. Maybe see if you could make it a part of your biweekly budget and give more often.
124. Visit the Animal Shelter for a pet adoption event. It’s not just cats and dogs that need homes on Christmas Eve! Many of our furry friends are forgotten about this time of year. Stop by a local animal shelter.
125. Adopt a Family for Christmas. If you’re not into the whole Santa Claus thing, why not take it upon yourself to give back to the community? Adopt a family for Christmas by purchasing gifts, food, and necessities that they might not otherwise have. There are many families in need this time of year and it’s truly an act of love and kindness to give back in this way.
126. Give the gift of music. If you’re a musician or know someone who is, offer to play at a nursing home or assisted living facility on Christmas Eve. If you’re not a musician, sponsor the music of a local choir or orchestra.
127. Give the Gift of a Smile. Visit an elderly neighbor and say hi. Smile to the person behind you in line. It takes more muscles to frown than smile.
128. Pick a Tag from a Giving Tree. Many companies set up a tree with tags of people who are in need. Then, their employees can pick a tag and purchase the selected item.
129. Baking for Others: A Fun Way to Help Others. Bake for someone in your neighborhood and donate the ingredients to an organization that feeds people in need!
130. Pray for Peace and Happiness. Don’t stop praying during these hard times. Pray for peace, happiness and prosperity around the world.
Something Else for Holiday Bucket List Items
These are the ones that are still awesome ideas but don’t fit in the above categories!
131. Empty your Christmas Schedule. This is a great way to destress, especially if you have been stressing about your holiday season.
132. Start Dreaming About Your New Year’s Resolutions. This one is my favorite! I love rolling over to a new year with fresh dreams.
133. Grab your Yearly Planner before January 1st. Yes! Especially with supply chain issues, I recommend getting your yearly planner in advance. Here is the current yearly planner I use.
134. Create Your Own Advent Calendar. It’s easy to create your own advent calendar. Use a simple white board and some markers to create your own countdown to Christmas.
Christmas Bucket List for Couples
These are the top 10 ideas from above just for couples!
Ice Skating at Night
Kiss Under the Mistletoe
Go on a Sleigh Ride
Romantic Movie Night
Catch a Snowflake on Your Tongue
Enjoy A Fireside Cuddle
Leisurely Stroll on a Snowy Mountain Area
Escape for a Night Away
Volunteer Together
Dream About Your Future
Christmas Bucket List Template
Okay, we gave you TONS OF IDEAS!
There is absolutely no way you can accomplish them all in one Christmas season.
So, here is a template to use to pick your top 25 activities to complete.
If you’re like us then setting up the tree is something that you always look forward to. From decorating the tree, baking cookies, and watching movies under it with your family this Christmas is sure to be a magical time for all of us!
What are some tips for creating an ultimate Christmas bucket list?
There are a few things to keep in mind when creating your ultimate Christmas bucket list.
First, make sure that it includes experiences that you will really enjoy. This is not the time for obligation or duty–the list should be filled with activities that you and your loved ones will love doing together.
Second, try to include a variety of different types of activities, from traveling and vacationing to visiting new places and trying out new experiences.
And finally, don’t forget to add some classic holiday traditions as well!
KEY TIP… Plan Your Day Ahead: What are you going to do tomorrow?
How can you make your Christmas bucket list more meaningful?
When it comes to the holidays, many people want to do as much as they can.
The Christmas bucket list is often a great way to make sure that you’re able to check off all of the items on your wish list. But sometimes, we can become overwhelmed by all of the things that we want to do. This year, consider making your bucket list more meaningful by doing activities that will bring you happiness and joy.
Idea #1 – Be Happy
One way to make your Christmas bucket list more meaningful is by only including activities that truly make you happy.
For example, if decorating the tree or going shopping for presents isn’t really your thing, then don’t put them down as items that you have to do this year! Instead, focus on doing things like baking cookies with loved ones or taking a walk in the snow.
Idea #2 – Spend Time Together
Another way to make your holiday season more special is by spending time together over a fire. Whether you build one in your backyard or take advantage of one at a local park, this is a great opportunity for conversation and reflection.
Consider lighting the fireplace and reading a good book together–or having some deep conversations about what’s been going on in each other’s lives!
Idea #3 – Make an Advent Calendar
Making your own advent calendar is a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit. You can make it as simple or as complex as you want, but the key is to include activities that will get you excited for the holiday season.
For example, one day you might do an act of service for someone else, and on another day you might bake cookies!
Now, start brainstorming ideas with your family and friends.
Idea #4 – Get Prepared
Take time to figure out what kind of holiday experience you want, which helps narrow down the items on your bucket list.
Another way to make your Christmas bucket list more special is by preparing for Christmas Eve the night before. One great idea is to create a box filled with all of the things you’ll need for the following day. This could include pajamas, breakfast foods, and even some presents!
Use the printable to prioritize which activities your family would like to do during the holidays.
Idea #5 – Make it Personal
Finally, why not add a personal touch to your Christmas this year?
Make your list as personal and meaningful to you as possible by only including activities that are important.
Instead of using store-bought wreaths and ornaments, try making them yourself! There are endless possibilities when it comes to homemade decorations, so get creative and have some fun!
This isn’t the time to make your season harder – only what you want to do.
What are some things you can do to make your Christmas bucket list more exciting?
There are many ways to make your Christmas bucket list more exciting!
One way is to add a variety of activities, from festive traditions to outdoor adventures.
You can also mix up the type of activities so that you have something for everyone in the family. Additionally, you can make a point to do new things every year and keep your bucket list updated.
This will help ensure that you have an enjoyable and memorable Christmas season.
What are some tips for making your Christmas bucket list more fun for everyone?
One way to make your Christmas bucket list more fun for everyone is to try and do something that is meaningful and fun for everyone in your family.
This could be anything from spending time by the Christmas tree together, to doing random acts of kindness this holiday season!
A great tip would be to have everyone include their top three ideas that make the family Christmas bucket list.
All in all, you want to start Christmas traditions that the whole family looks forward to each and every year. This may be as simple as starting a new family tradition or making homemade gifts for your friends and neighbors.
Which Holiday Activities do you Need & Love?
So many ideas, right?
Your head may be spinning, but only put the holiday activities on your list that you want to do.
If you’re looking for something special to do this year, consider checking out one of the many Christmas productions around the country. From The Nutcracker to A Christmas Carol, there’s something for everyone.
And don’t forget about all of the amazing light displays – they’re definitely worth seeing!
It’s the most wonderful time of year, so you might as well make your family traditions more exciting by adding some creative tasks to what is normally a boring list of chores.
What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions? I’d love to hear about them!
For more inspiration, check out our Christmas Pinterest board.
Merry Christmas!
Also, it might be time to start thinking about what do I want for Christmas?
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
While there are a few different types of life insurance policies available, they fit into one of two umbrellas: term life and permanent life. Term life insurance is almost always cheaper than permanent life, as it provides coverage for a pre-established amount of time and lacks a cash value component. However, term life policies can be fitting for a variety of circumstances if the death benefit is only needed for a set number of years. Knowing how term policies work can empower you to make an informed decision when shopping for new coverage. Bankrate’s insurance editorial team breaks down term life insurance to help you better understand if this policy type is right for you.
Key takeaways
Term life insurance only stays in effect for a predetermined number of years —usually between 10 and 30 years — unlike permanent life policies.
Term policies are around three times cheaper than permanent life insurance, on average, because the chance of a payout on behalf of the policyholder is less likely.
99 percent of all term policies never pay a death benefit, because most term policyholders stop paying their premium, causing their policy to lapse.
If you want to see a return on payments towards a term life insurance policy, you may want to look into conversion riders or return-of-premium riders.
What is term life insurance?
Term life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that lasts for a predetermined number of years rather than your entire life. When purchasing a term life policy, you’ll choose a policy term, most commonly between 10 and 30 years.
To help understand how term life insurance works, imagine you purchase a 10-year term life insurance policy. During that decade, you would pay your monthly or annual premium on time. If you were to pass away within that 10-year period, your beneficiaries would receive the policy’s death benefit.
If the insured does not pass away within the policy term and the coverage expires, the policy would end and the beneficiaries would not receive a death benefit when the insured passes away. However, there are exceptions to this scenario. Many of the best life insurance companies offer specialized riders, like conversion and return-of-premium riders, that tweak the way term life insurance policies work. If you are purchasing term life insurance, you may want to speak with your agent about what riders are available for your specific policy.
Typically cheaper than permanent life insurance
No cash value component or investment potential to build wealth
Conversion and return-of-premium riders may add flexibility and peace of mind
Only covers a specified time period
Gives families the ability to cover significant financial liabilities that will eventually expire after a set period of time, such as mortgages and tuition
Sunk cost if you outlive the policy
Advantages of term life insurance policies
When choosing life insurance, it’s important to know how term and whole life insurance policies compare. Term life insurance has a couple of key advantages that make it an attractive option for those who need a larger death benefit for a specific period of time. It is typically the cheapest type of life insurance, especially for younger people or new parents. The larger death benefit at a reasonable price can provide for children dependents if something happens to the parent(s) earlier than anticipated.
Many financial planners encourage people who buy term life insurance to invest the money saved from not purchasing more expensive permanent life insurance. For policies with level premiums, the cost will not increase with age for the policy’s life as it does with some other life insurance options.
Learn more: Compare life insurance quotes
Disadvantages of term life insurance policies
Term life insurance does have a few limitations to keep in mind. For example, term life insurance policies pay out a death benefit when the insured passes away, but these policies do not include a cash value account. Whole life insurance policies, on the other hand, typically include a cash value account that may accumulate limited interest and capped returns. Some permanent life insurance policyholders use their cash value accounts to build wealth, but that option does not exist with a term life policy.
Another potential downside to having a term life insurance policy is that it only remains in effect for a certain period of time. Because policyholders can outlive their policies, there’s a chance that the death benefit will never be paid out. In fact, a study done by Penn State University indicates that 99 percent of all term policies never pay out a death benefit. However, that’s because most term policyholders don’t pay their premiums and let their policies lapse, not because they outlive the policy term, according to Entrepreneur.
Learn more: Best term life insurance companies
Types of term life insurance
There are several different term life insurance options, and some offer more guarantees than others. Usually, the more guarantees the policy offers, the more expensive the policy is. Here is a breakdown of the major types of term life insurance policies:
Level term insurance: Both the premiums and the death benefit remain constant over the policy’s life with this form of term coverage. Level term insurance usually lasts for anywhere from 10 to 30 years.
Decreasing term insurance: This type of term insurance, usually used to cover a shrinking debt such as a mortgage, is typically less expensive because the death benefit slowly decreases over time.
Guaranteed renewable term insurance: This type of term coverage allows the policyholder to renew the policy at the end of the term without having to undergo a medical exam or prove insurability again. It is generally more expensive overall, and it is important to note that the policy premiums will still increase with each successive term. A yearly renewable term is a form of guaranteed renewable term coverage.
Convertible term insurance: If you purchase a conversion rider and outlive your policy term, your coverage would turn into a permanent life insurance policy. Typically, you will not have to undergo another medical exam during policy conversion. Keep in mind that your premium or death benefit amount will change based on your age at the time of conversion. For example, if you wish to continue paying around the same premium, your death benefit would decrease, whereas you’d pay more to maintain around the same death benefit.
Return-of-premium term insurance: Some policyholders may be worried about signing up for a term policy, outliving their term and “wasting” the premiums they paid over the course of the policy term. This specialized rider provides a partial or full refund if you outlive the policy term. However, the rider will cost you extra during the policy term.
Riders for term life insurance
A standard term life insurance policy may not cover certain events such as critical illnesses, financial protection for your loved ones after you pass, and more. A rider, also referred to as an endorsement, is an optional type of life insurance coverage that can be added to your existing policy. It can be beneficial to add a rider to cover some of the gaps in coverage in a term life insurance policy. Here are three riders that are available for term life insurance:
Child term rider: This is only available for term life insurance policies. A child term rider provides coverage if your child passes away before a certain age and would pay out a death benefit. Additionally, this rider enables the term policy to be converted to a permanent policy without needing a medical exam.
Return of premium rider: For an additional fee, this rider ensures you receive back the money you paid into the policy if you don’t pass within the policy’s term. If the policyholder passes away before then, the money would be paid to the beneficiaries listed as normal.
Waiver of premium rider: If you become critically ill, injured or disabled and cannot go to work, a waiver of premium enables you to pause your monthly premium until you’re able to go back to work. However, qualifying scenarios are determined by the particular insurer. Additionally, with this rider you are typically only covered up to a certain age — usually your retirement age.
How much does term life insurance cost?
Term life insurance premiums are calculated based on the age and health of applicants. Because of this, pricing for a term life insurance policy varies but is typically significantly cheaper for younger applicants. Keep in mind that age and health are the main determinants of your premium, though you may still see some variance if you get quotes from multiple life insurers.
Comparing life insurance companies may be most helpful when you focus on what type of policy riders are available, how positive the customer satisfaction may be or what the insurer’s financial strength ratings are compared to other insurers.
Learn more: Affordable life insurance companies
Will I get my money back at the end of my term?
Unless you purchase a return-of-premium term life insurance policy, you will not get any money back at the end of the term. Paying premiums without receiving a death benefit is one of the potential disadvantages of purchasing term life insurance. A return-of-premium rider would increase the cost of your term life insurance, but would allow you to recoup a portion or all of your paid premiums. If you want to receive money back in the event that you outlive your policy term, you may want to discuss this option with your life insurance agent.
How much term life insurance do I need?
Deciding how much term life insurance you need hinges on your financial goals and specific situation. For instance, a parent of a young child may want to purchase a life insurance policy with a 15-year term. A term of this length could make the most sense as it could ensure that their child will be financially secure if the parent passes away while the policy is in place.
On the other hand, a childless couple with 10 years left on their mortgage may only want a term life insurance policy to be active while they are still paying off their home.
Some other factors to consider when determining your life insurance coverage needs include:
What is your yearly income and what are your expenses? How much room do you have in your budget for life insurance?
Are you the sole breadwinner? If not, does your spouse or partner make enough to cover your family’s current and future expenses if you aren’t there?
How many children do you have, and what are their ages? Do you plan to cover their higher education costs?
Are you a caretaker for any disabled family members?
Do you have a mortgage or other debts? If so, how many years will it take to be debt free?
How much financial help would your spouse need to keep your home afloat if you passed away?
It’s essential to consider your coverage needs to keep your life insurance premium within budget. If you carry too much coverage, you could find it challenging to keep up with your life insurance bill, putting yourself at risk of policy cancellation. If you don’t have enough coverage, your beneficiaries may struggle financially after your death. A life insurance calculator can help guide you on your life insurance shopping journey, as can a consultation with a certified financial planner.
Frequently asked questions
At the end of a term life insurance policy’s term, most plans will expire; however, policyholders may have the option to either renew the policy for a predetermined term of their choosing or convert the policy to a permanent plan, if they have elected these options at the onset of their policy. While letting the plan expire in most term policies means losing the money paid into premiums, some providers offer “return-of-premium” options that allow people to pay higher premiums in exchange for the option to have some or all premium payments returned if they outlive their term.
While it is possible to take out a life insurance policy on someone else, there are some stipulations. For instance, there must be insurable interest between the person purchasing the policy and the person being insured, such as business partners, spouses, parents or children. The person purchasing the policy must prove that the death of the insured person would have an adverse financial impact on them. Additionally, the insured person would also need to provide their consent, as you cannot take out a policy on someone without their knowledge or agreement.
Choosing a life insurance beneficiary is a personal choice. Many choose spouses, children, parents or a trust for the benefit of a family member to be their life insurance beneficiaries, but no rules dictate that these are your only options. Your life insurance beneficiary doesn’t have to be a person at all — you can choose to list a church or charity as your beneficiary if you wish. One of the most important things when selecting a life insurance beneficiary is remembering to do it. Forgetting to name a life insurance beneficiary can cause financial hardship for the person (or people) you thought would be collecting your death benefit.
Save more, spend smarter, and make your money go further
Last Friday is affectionately known as Black Friday, and and today is Cyber Monday. These colorful monikers are used to describe two of the heaviest shopping days of the year, both of which kick off the holiday shopping season. This isn’t a secret and the retailers see you coming.
The National Retail Association will release the official results of Black Friday shopping on November 28th, but we already know that the numbers are going to be massive, because they always are. In fact, the billions that will be spent from Black Friday until the after Christmas sales will likely outpace what we’ve spent at retailers in the preceding 47 weeks.
So, why am I telling you all of this? I’m telling you because many of you have, or will open, new retail store credit cards or general use credit cards during the holiday shopping season because their offers are very enticing this year. Retail card issuers will offer between 10 and 20 percent off daily purchases, and some of the general-use card issuers are offering $100-$200 cash back bonuses if you charge more than $500 over the next three months.
Because you’re likely to spend more than normal, you’re more likely to consider at least one of these offers. While many of you will permanently add the card to your wallet’s inventory, some of you will use the initial discount offer and then close the credit card after the holiday season. For those of you who’ve followed my Mint blog, you know that closing a credit card can cause problems for your credit scores. So, what gives? Is it a good idea or not to close a credit card?
The Good News
The good news about closing credit cards is that you eliminate the potential for fraudulent use, which shouldn’t be much of a concern to you since the Fair Credit Billing Act caps your liability to only $50. There’s also no way you can use that card to get yourself into excessive (or even modest) credit card debt, and that’s not a bad deal either. Although, I’d argue that getting into credit card debt is a choice, not a requirement.
Generally, it’s ok to leave your credit cards open and use them all from time to time just to prevent the issuer from closing them because of inactivity. Having unused credit limits is actually very good for your credit scores, even if you never use the card. Of course, you only have unused credit limit if your cards are open.
The Bad News, and More Good News
The bad news when closing a card is made up of one big deal and one myth. When you close a credit card you lose to access to the credit line, which can lower your credit scores. The amount it can lower your scores is going to depend on how much of a line you just lost AND how much credit card debt you carry on other credit cards. If you have no debt, then the closure might be meaningless. If you carry a lot of debt, then the closure will likely be significant.
If you’ve ever explored the downside to closing a credit card on the Internet, then you’ve inevitably seen someone talk about how you should close newer cards and leave the older ones open. This is the myth and it suggests that closing older cards can make your credit file look younger, which lowers your credit scores. Credit scoring systems take the average age of your accounts when calculating your scores.
The problem, and what makes this one a myth, is that the average age of your credit accounts considers both open and closed accounts, including credit cards of all types. According to Craig Watts, a FICO spokesperson, “When assessing length of credit history, the FICO score considers the origination date on all accounts on the credit report, open and closed.”
This is great news for consumers who want to close down unused or unwanted credit card accounts. Now they can choose which ones to close based on how expensive the rate is or how high the annual fee, and not based on whether it’ll hurt the average age of your credit report.
I’d strongly suggest when you’re choosing which cards to close that you consider closing retail store cards instead of general-use cards like Visas, MasterCards and Discovers. The reason is the limits on retail cards are generally very low, at least when they’re initially issued, compared to the limits on your general use cards. This will limit the damage you’re going to cause to your credit scores because you’re probably not closing credit cards with thousands of dollars of credit limits.
Happy shopping!
John Ulzheimer is the President of Consumer Education at SmartCredit.com, the credit blogger for Mint.com, and a contributor for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. He is an expert on credit reporting, credit scoring and identity theft. Formerly of FICO, Equifax and Credit.com, John is the only recognized credit expert who actually comes from the credit industry. The opinions expressed in his articles are his and not of Mint.com or Intuit. Follow John on Twitter.
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Money orders are a form of payment that are sometimes very useful if you need to transfer funds to someone. They can be obtained from various outlets, at typically a low fee, and can be a good way to move cash when a person doesn’t have or doesn’t want to use a bank account.
Here, you’ll learn more about what money orders are, how they work, when to use them, and what alternatives to money orders exist.
What Is a Money Order?
Think of a money order as a paper check that can never bounce because it has been prepaid by the sender. It can be cashed or deposited just like a check, but it offers a few benefits over checks beyond never bouncing.
For one thing, if for whatever reason you don’t have a bank account, that isn’t a problem. You don’t need a bank account to get a money order, cash one, or even use money orders to pay bills.
To send a money order, here’s the protocol of the U.S. Postal Service:
1. Take cash, a debit card, or a traveler’s check. You cannot pay with a credit card.
2. Fill out the money order at the counter with a retail associate.
3. Pay the dollar value of the money order plus the issuing fee.
Recommended: Can You Buy a Money Order With a Credit Card?
Where to Get a Money Order
Many of the biggest banks offer money orders and often require that they be purchased at a branch. There can be a $5 to $10 fee when buying a money order worth up to $1,000 (though the fee may be waived for premium accounts).
Sometimes the money order fee is also waived for members of the military. However, many banks require that you already have an account with them to purchase a money order.
Money orders are also issued at places like Walmart (with a maximum fee of $1, and the exact fee varying by location), convenience stores, credit unions, and the Postal Service.
Postal Service fees for money orders are based on the dollar amount: $1.45 for a money order of up to $500, $1.95 for one from $500 to $1,000 (which is the maximum amount for a single money order), and 50 cents for postal military money orders issued by military facilities.
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Advantages of a Money Order
Money orders may be safer than some other forms of money. For example, while a check contains sensitive personal information like your home address, phone number, and bank account and routing number (plus the name of anyone else on the account), a money order usually only contains the names of the payer and payee.
So a money order is usually a more anonymous and therefore a potentially more secure method of payment than a check, although some money order issuers may require an address. That’s usually in case the check’s payee needs to contact the sender about the payment.
Sometimes both halves of the transaction may have to include this information. If you’re unsure, the best bet is to just ask.
Potential Drawbacks
Here are a few of the cons of money orders:
• Fees. While you can pay bills with money orders, the small fees can add up if you’re relying on them for that purpose.
Check cashing stores may charge a flat fee of $2.99 per money order, while some might charge around 4% to 5% to cash a money order. Many banks usually will do it for free. Also note that there are banks that will deposit a portion of the order and then after a couple of days release the rest.
• Payment limits. Usually $1,000 is the ceiling for most money orders.
• Inconvenience. The fact that many banks require your presence to process a money order may make putting money orders you receive into use less convenient.
The cap on a money order’s value also means there’s a time investment if, say, you need to pay $2,000 to someone — that’s two money orders, two fees, and twice as much time spent getting them issued.
In addition, not all businesses may accept money orders. If you are trying to use one to pay a bill, check with the payee first. Every now and then, you may encounter someone who accepts only, say, online bill paying.
• Use in scams. A big strike against money orders overall — and this is why banks can be somewhat cautious in accepting them — is that they can be used in banking scams. Money orders are perceived as a safe way to receive payments, and that is true when they are legitimate.
But the news can share stories about counterfeit money orders that revolve around suspicious prizes, employment opportunities, classified ads, and so on. Because money orders are not checks, it can make them harder to trace. It’s a good idea to keep your receipt for a money order until you are sure the order has been received and cashed.
Alternatives to Money Orders
Sometimes vendors or recipients aren’t able to accept a check, and a money order might make sense. But there are digital age options like peer-to-peer payments or P2P transfers.
P2P platforms are often a free service offered by financial institutions that lets users send and receive money, usually in minutes.
And P2P transfers are generally quick, as fast as a few seconds. Examples of services people use for P2P payments are PayPal and Venmo, as well as Zelle which moves money in a slightly different way, from bank account to bank account, but is usually mentioned in the same breath with the others.
Also, many banks now offer ways to transfer money from one bank to another as part of their services, making it easy to move money between your own accounts and to other individuals and businesses.
Recommended: Pros and Cons of Electronic Banking
The Takeaway
Money orders are a paper financial tool, which, like a check, can move funds. They have the added benefit of being able to be used even if you don’t have a bank account, and the fees involved in getting one can be quite low. However, there is typically a $1,000 cap on the amount of a money order, and it can take some time and energy to get one.
If you’re looking for a simple way to move money from your bank account to another person at any time, consider a SoFi Checking and Savings online banking account. You’ll be able to send funds to a recipient, whether or not they bank with SoFi.
What’s more, a SoFi Checking and Savings Account offers a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) and charges no account fees, which can help your money grow faster. And you get to spend and save in one convenient place.
SoFi Checking and Savings: The smart and simple way to bank.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
SoFi members with direct deposit can earn up to 4.20% annual percentage yield (APY) interest on Savings account balances (including Vaults) and up to 1.20% APY on Checking account balances. There is no minimum direct deposit amount required to qualify for these rates. Members without direct deposit will earn 1.20% APY on all account balances in Checking and Savings (including Vaults). Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 4/25/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet. Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances. Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners. SOBK0523023U
As you begin to approach older age, a big house may not have the same appeal as it once did.
In homes with multiple levels, for example, getting around may become increasingly difficult or there just might not be the need for many rooms.
Similarly, once you retire, you may wish to shift your focus to different priorities in life; while a big home may have been ideal while raising children, something a little smaller could afford you the ability to travel and spend your hard-earned money on something other than a mortgage payment.
It’s no wonder then that downsizing can offer many possibilities to those searching for something different. The choice isn’t an easy one, however, and there are many factors to take into account any questions you need to ask before committing to a move like this.
Photo by Craig McLachlan on Unsplash
When Should You Downsize?
There’s no right or wrong time to downsize but you’ll find that most often it happens before the age of 65 or around the age of retirement.
Apart from the physical work that downsizing takes, it can also be a rather stressful and emotional time for homeowners, especially if they’re leaving the home they raised children in and established so many memories.
Because of this, it’s best to commit to the process while you are still capable and the toll won’t take too much out of you; if you’re already unable to move around your home as freely as you once did, you’re at a disadvantage.
Even those in fine health may see the benefit of downsizing, however. If you don’t have the need for such a large space or simply want to save money, downsizing might be more economical or practical. This guide goes into a bit more detail about the economic benefits of downsizing.
Take Your Time
Another reason downsizing before the age of 65 is ideal for many is because it gives you the ability to take your time.
Instead of feeling like you’re being backed into a move you aren’t ready to make, starting the process early can help ease the transition.
This starts with finding out your home’s worth and calculating the profit you can expect to make from a sale. Taking your time allows you to evaluate the market and, with the help of an estate agent, sell for a good price.
Relocating
Photo by Wilfried Santer on Unsplash
The same way a real estate agent can help you sell your home, they can also help you relocate and find a new one that meets your every need.
In some cases, this may just be a smaller house or apartment in the same area you live in now but for some, they’ll find the opportunity to research and visit retirement developments that cater to retired residents. In any case, it’s important to consider why you’re downsizing in the first place; there are many possibilities for those looking for something smaller and more affordable with fewer stairs to climb.
Paring Down
Another bonus of starting the process of downsizing early is that you’re afforded the extra time to go through your belongings and pare them down properly. It’s the perfect opportunity to evaluate your assets and to purge belongings that won’t be essential in your new place.
For example, start your packing and paring down in rooms that you know you won’t likely have once you move. Get rid of duplicates and things you won’t need by determining whether you can sell or store them.
In many cases, things you no longer need can be passed down to children or relatives. Similarly, making a note of the things you absolutely can’t do without will help you determine just what kind of square footage you’ll need in a new home.
Whether you’re downsizing for practical or economic reasons, there are many advantages to starting the process early and going through the proper channels to ensure a transition that is as smooth as possible.
While only time and support from friends and family can help ease the stress and emotions that come with saying goodbye to a home you’ve lived in an loved for decades, a real estate agent can help with everything else. With their help, you’ll be able to find something new that suits your budget and every need, where you’ll be sure to make even more great memories for years to come.
More resources:
Why There’s Never Been A Bigger Need for Senior Housing Options Why Hire a Professional Interior Designer? Here are 6 Top ReasonsHow Much Do Modern Prefab Homes Cost? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Buy a House in a Neighborhood with an HOA
I had dinner with two friends from high school last night. We shared good wine, good food, and, especially, good conversation. Much of our discussion focused on our shared history: the things we did twenty years ago (or 25!) that now seem as if they might have been done by a stranger. (Yet those strangers were us.) We talked about how we perceived money when we were younger.
Sparky and Stew grew up down the road from each other. I didn’t meet either of them until junior high school. Stew’s family was poor. They lived in a single-wide mobile home. His father built bar stools in the garage; his mother waited tables. “I remember your dad as an entrepreneur,” Sparky said last night. “I remember him building those stools. I admired that.”
“Yeah, he was a sort of entrepreneur,” Stew said. “He tried, but he could never really make a go of it. We couldn’t survive on the money he brought in making bar stools. In fact, he financed that operation on credit cards. We lived on the tips my mom brought home from waiting tables. It seemed like she was always working to get us money. She hoarded her money. She watched it. She had to make it last.”
“Huh,” said Sparky. “I never realized that. I mean, I knew you were poor, but I always thought of your family as wealthy. You lived in a trailer house, and you didn’t have much, but when I visited your house, it was an adventure. I remember sleeping outside in the tent —”
“That’s because we didn’t have room inside,” Stew said.
“I remember sleeping outside in the tent,” said Sparky. “I remember you seemed to live in a fantasy land. It was like your dad had a dream job. You had a basketball court in the woods. And a wiffle ball stadium. Plus you and your brother always did this wild, imaginative play. It was awesome.”
“But I didn’t learn much about money from my parents,” Stew said. “I learned more from yours. I remember going over to your house and marveling that you had opened a savings account. I remember that passbook you had, and how your parents would drive you into town to make deposits. I went home and told my mom that I wanted a savings account, but it never amounted to much.”
“I still have that savings account,” said Sparky. “The same account my parents opened for me when I was a kid is my savings account today. So, yeah, I guess my dad wasn’t an entrepreneur, but he did teach me a lot about money. He did some business on the side — raising produce, growing Christmas trees — but mostly what I learned from him was how to save. And how to invest. I watched how he invested his money and let it grow. He’s played a very active role in his investments, so in a way I think of him as an entrepreneur of the stock market.”
“I wish my parents had taught me some of that,” I said. “Whenever my dad had money, which wasn’t often, he spent it on toys. He didn’t save. He didn’t invest. I can’t remember that he ever invested a dime in anything. He bought computers and airplanes and sailboats. But then when he was broke, he turned around and sold them again. We were always poor because he couldn’t save his money.”
Sparky laughed. “I remember going over to your single-wide mobile home and being scared that I was going to fall through the floor!”
We all laughed. I said, “It’s still that way, you know. The box factory’s offices are in that old trailer house, and it hasn’t improved with age. We’re just too damn cheap to replace it. Our wives hate the place, and I can’t blame them. But it costs nothing for us to keep.”
Sparky nodded. “You know,” he said, “even though you were poor, and even though I was afraid of falling through that floor, I looked around at all the gadgets you had and thought of you as rich, too. Your family had a fancy stereo system. Your dad let you drive that Datsun around when nobody else in school had a car.”
We paused to order dessert, and Sparky continued. “It’s as if although your families were poor, you created a world of wealth out of nothing. Stew had this fantasy wonderland of imagination. J.D.’s family had gadgets that I envied.”
“And I envied you,” I said. “I remember going over to your house and thinking how amazing it was to have a nice normal home on a lot of property. I wanted that. I liked having gadgets, but I would have rather not lived in the trailer house.”
Our chocolate torts came. We began to pick at them. “One thing I’m glad of,” I said, “is that my father taught me about the entrepreneurial spirit. I’m glad to have had a chance to learn from him. I used to hate working at the box factory, but now I recognize that I would not be the person I am today without that experience.”
“Yeah,” said Sparky. “We look at ourselves now and wonder how did we get here? But it’s all a result of everything that we’ve seen and done. The girls I dated in high school. The decade I took off after college to travel around the U.S. and the world. Sometimes it’s frustrating that I’m 38 and only make $30,000 a year, but I look at the experiences I’ve had, and I look at who I am today, and I know that I would not be this person without everything that had come before.“
I smiled. “I just wrote about this subject today,” I said. “I’ll post it on Sunday.”
In Secrets of the Millionaire Mind (my review), T. Harv Eker writes that each person possesses a “money blueprint”, an internal script for dealing with money that comprises the lessons we learned in childhood, especially from our parents. This conversation with my friends illustrates this concept. My problems with money as a young adult were a product of the blueprint I inherited from my parents. They were modeling a relationship to money — they never realized what sort of effect it would have on me and my brothers.
Yet this blog is a direct result of that modeling, too.
Incentivized by a 200 basis point decline in mortgage rates, 14 million homeowners in America refinanced their mortgages between the second quarter of 2020 and the fourth quarter of 2021, according to a recent research report by the New York Fed.
Approximately 5 million homeowners extracted $430 billion in home equity from their cash-out refinancings ($81,000 on average), while 9 million received a rate-term refi and shaved more than $200 on average from their monthly mortgage payments.
All told, approximately one-third of outstanding mortgage balances got refinanced during the refi boom, and an additional 17% of mortgages outstanding were refreshed through home sales, the New York Fed found.
In other words, 50% of homeowners with a mortgage in America have little financial incentive to sell. They’re actually disincentivized given that they’d face a housing market where home prices are 36% higher than they were pre-pandemic and the cost of financing is up significantly.
It seems increasingly likely that the COVID refi boom will prove to be the most consequential event in housing in modern American history. It reset the board. Mortgage lenders were so successful at refinancing their own customers that they have a hugely diminished customer base just two years later. Some lenders won’t survive. Real estate brokerages have a related problem — transaction volume is down. Way down. Their bread-and-butter move-up customers can’t make the math work and/or are reluctant to give up what they’ve got.
Take my wife’s cousin Christopher, for example. Christopher and his spouse bought a townhouse in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2021 and scored a mortgage rate in the 2.8% range. They want to start a family soon and would like more space and yard, but feel stuck. They don’t want to give up that mortgage rate. Although they could rent out the townhouse and make a profit, it wouldn’t be enough to offset the cost of a new home in the suburbs.
At this point, Christopher is waiting until a major life event happens or the market becomes much more favorable.
A lot of households are in this sort of holding pattern. In a recent survey by Realtor.com, 82% of 1,200 potential sellers felt “locked in” by their currently low mortgage rate.
So where do housing pros turn? There’s always the first-time homebuyers who are ready to take the leap. And a proportion of people will move for new jobs, divorce, death of a spouse, etc. But the fact that most home sellers also need to buy at the same time complicates matters and will suppress transaction volume until affordability improves.
The medium-term answer may rest with the boomers (since they have all the money). In that aforementioned Realtor.com survey of potential sellers, more than half of those who identified themselves as boomers said they did not feel “locked in” by their current mortgage rate. (It’s worth noting that 87% of Gen Xers said they did feel locked in, but one-third said they planned to sell anyway, perhaps because they have lower debt levels.)
A related potential target is the roughly 40% of households that don’t have a mortgage and own their property “free and clear,” according to Census Bureau data. This group tends to be older and must plan out their final chapter in life. That might mean moving to be closer to family and downsizing, extracting equity from their home to pay for age-in-place upgrades (HELOCs and reverse mortgages), or finding a more affordable lifestyle in a cheaper area. If we’re going to see inventory unlocked, this is one segment it will have to come from.
Where do you think existing home inventory will come from? And when? Share your thoughts with me at [email protected].
In our weeklyDataDigest newsletter, HW Media Managing Editor James Kleimann breaks down the biggest stories in housing through a data lens. Sign up here! Have a subject in mind? Email him at [email protected]