What is homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance is a form of financial protection against loss or damage to your home in the event of burglary, fire, or natural disaster. Most lenders require proof of a homeowners insurance policy prior to closing. That's because the lender wants to protect their investment as much as you do—and if something ever happened to your home, they want to know that you'll have the resources to pay off your loan. Better has an in-house insurance agency with an online process that allows you to shop for policies right alongside your home loan application.