Mortgage Insurance
Let’s Protect What You’ve Worked So Hard to Build
Your home is more than just a place to live—it’s one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make, and a cornerstone of your family’s future. Mortgage insurance helps protect that investment by ensuring your mortgage can be covered if life takes an unexpected turn.
Whether it's illness, disability, or the unthinkable, mortgage insurance provides peace of mind that your loved ones can stay in the home you’ve built—without added financial stress. It’s a simple way to secure everything you’ve worked for and protect those who matter most.
Mortgage insurance is especially valuable for first-time buyers, dual-income families, homeowners without existing coverage, or anyone who wants a financial safety net “just in case.”
Is mortgage insurance required in Canada?
Yes—but it depends on the size of your down payment.
In Canada, mortgage default insurance (also known as CMHC insurance) is required by law if your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. This insurance protects the lender in case you’re unable to make your mortgage payments—but it also allows you to qualify for a mortgage with a lower down payment.
If you’re putting down 20% or more, default insurance isn’t required. However, optional mortgage protection insurance—like life, disability, or critical illness coverage—is still worth considering to protect your home and family if something unexpected happens.
Should I get mortgage insurance through my bank?
While banks do offer mortgage insurance, it’s important to know that you have options—and your bank’s plan might not always be the best fit.
Bank-issued mortgage insurance is typically tied to your mortgage, meaning it only covers the balance with that specific lender and decreases as your mortgage is paid down. In many cases, the bank—not you—owns the policy, and you're not in control of the coverage.
An alternative is to explore independent mortgage protection insurance, which can offer more flexible coverage, consistent benefits over time, and may even be transferable if you switch lenders. It also gives you more control over who receives the payout and how it’s used.
Can I get mortgage insurance if I have health conditions?
Yes—in many cases, you can still qualify for mortgage insurance even with existing health conditions.
Every insurer has different underwriting guidelines. Some may require a medical questionnaire or health screening, while others offer simplified or guaranteed coverage options with fewer questions and no medical exams. Even if you’ve been declined for traditional life or disability insurance in the past, there may still be options available.
At Valko Financial, we work with a variety of providers to help find a solution that fits your unique health situation and offers the protection you deserve. Our goal is to make sure your home—and your peace of mind—are protected, no matter your medical history.
I recently met with Tracy Valko to review my house mortgage as I was about to enter retirement. I left that meeting feeling very at ease and satisfied that my concerns and needs were not only well take care of with a new plan of attack, but also in that emotionally, Tracy left me feeling acknowledged and appreciated for how my income stream was about to change in ways I had never experienced. I would recommend Tracy and her team for any mortgage planning and in fact, any financial planning period.
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Craig Dubecki
15 days ago
Adding to my review as it has been 8 years since first working with Tracy for home financing. I recently went through the renewal process with Tracy and had again a wonderful experience. Tracy really helps me to understand every step of the process in a way that is not intimidating or overwhelming. She has built my confidence in understanding home financing and how to educate myself for making the best decisions. Tracy and her team are approachable and available and I have never had a question go unanswered. They are knowledgeable and efficient and I really working with this team. Thank you Tracy and team!!! I had the pleasure of working with Tracy to obtain financing for my first home. Being new to the housing market was intimidating, however Tracy made me feel comfortable and allowed me to ask as many questions as needed. Tracy is very knowledgeable about the field she works in, and I truly felt like she was looking after my best interest and providing me with helpful support. I have since referred other friends purchasing their first home to Tracy as I know they are in good hands! Thanks Tracy!
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Lindsay H
8 years ago
Switching brokers was the best decision I could have made. Tracy and her team are truly wonderful. They patiently answered all of my questions—and there were many—while guiding me through every step of the process to ensure I was fully informed. A special shout-out to Samantha for her incredible support! I felt valued throughout the entire experience and know I am in excellent hands with Valko.
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Amanda G
16 days ago
Honest advice that puts your future first.
We’ll help you understand your options and find the right coverage — no pressure, no sales pitch.