Not even sure where to begin..

Hello! I am looking for genuine advice on where to begin and have some questions about definitions I am unaware of.

I (37F) and husband (44M) have a mortgaged home we bought in 2021. We also had a child in 2023 and we both work full time. I’ve been putting off getting life insurance not because I can’t afford it, but because I am overwhelmed and confused by the choices. My longtime financial advisor retired last year, and I haven’t found a new one.

First off, is it necessary to hire an insurance broker to buy life insurance? We have several local insurance agency/brokers in my area, but not sure if its necessary to go that route. I am someone that is ok with doing a lot of research into best policies by myself, but if someone can help me make sense of the best policy to get, I’m also open to that.

Second, in a general sense, what is the best for my family’s situation? I realize this might be useless to ask since there are so many factors to consider, but figured I’d put it out there. I spoke with my parents and they seem to think term is best for my situation, at least until my mortgage is paid (about 27 years from now).

Update Edit: Thank you everyone for your insights and suggestions. This has been helpful as a starting point.