When it comes to buying a home, navigating the financial territories can be as challenging as it is exciting. One aspect of the home buying process that often raises questions is Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). PMI is an insurance policy that plays an undeniably crucial role in the world of mortgages, protecting lenders in the event that borrowers default on their mortgage loans. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the definition of PMI, its relationship with your down payment, the different types of loans and their PMI requirements, and the factors influencing PMI costs. We’ll also provide real-life examples to illustrate these concepts.
Definition of Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
At its core, Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a protection for lenders when borrowers take out a mortgage with a down payment of less than 20%. It serves as a financial safety net, protecting the lender’s interests in case the borrower defaults on their loan. However, let’s dive deeper into what PMI is and why it’s essential:
PMI Defined: PMI is an insurance policy that lenders require when the borrower’s down payment is least or insufficient to meet the 20% threshold. It ensures that the lender will be compensated for their losses if the borrower fails to make mortgage payments, ultimately allowing lenders to continue extending loans to homebuyers.
Real-Life Example To put this in perspective, imagine you're a lender. A borrower approaches you with a down payment of only 5% for a $300,000 home. While you see potential in the borrower, you also recognize the increased risk due to the low down payment. So, you require the borrower to obtain PMI. Several months down the line, the borrower encounters financial difficulties and defaults on the mortgage. PMI steps in to cover your losses, which may include the unpaid balance of the loan and legal expenses. This safety net enables you to continue providing financing to other aspiring homeowners.
The Role of Your Down Payment
The Correlation Between Down Payment and PMI
The down payment you make on a home purchase has a direct correlation with the need for PMI. In essence, it’s the initial investment you’re making in your new property, signifying your commitment to homeownership. The critical aspects to consider are:
- Down Payment Size: When your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price, lenders typically require PMI. This is because a smaller down payment implies a higher risk for the lender.
How a Larger Down Payment Affects PMI
Now, let’s explore how making a larger down payment can impact your PMI:
- Reduced or Eliminated PMI: A substantial down payment, often set at 20% of the home’s purchase price, can eliminate the need for PMI entirely. This is a significant financial advantage, as it means you won’t have to factor PMI costs into your monthly mortgage payments.
Real-Life Example To illustrate, consider two homebuyers, both looking to purchase a $250,000 home. Buyer A puts down a 5% down payment, which amounts to $12,500, while Buyer B opts for a 20% down payment, totaling $50,000. Due to the lower down payment, Buyer A is required to obtain PMI, which adds an extra cost to their monthly mortgage payments. In contrast, Buyer B's larger down payment exempts them from PMI, resulting in more manageable monthly expenses. Over time, Buyer B will save a considerable amount compared to Buyer A due to the absence of PMI costs.
Mortgage Insurance for Conventional vs. FHA, USDA, and VA Loans
The type of mortgage you choose plays a significant role in determining the PMI requirements. Here, we’ll explore the differences between conventional loans and government-backed loans (FHA, USDA, and VA) in terms of PMI:
Different Loan Types and Their PMI Requirements
- Conventional Loans: These are loans lack government backing. For conventional loans, PMI is typically required if the down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price.
- FHA Loans: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provides loans with more forgiving credit and down payment prerequisites. However, FHA loans typically have PMI requirements that last for the life of the loan.
- USDA Loans: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers loans for rural and suburban homebuyers with low to moderate incomes. USDA loans require PMI but offer competitive interest rates.
- VA Loans: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides loans for eligible veterans and active-duty service members. VA loans do not require PMI, making them an attractive option for those who qualify.
Real-Life Example To better understand these distinctions, let's imagine you're a potential homebuyer, and you're exploring your mortgage options. If you have a substantial down payment and a strong credit score, a conventional loan may be the most cost-effective choice, as PMI can be removed once you reach 20% equity in your home. On the other hand, if your down payment is limited, an FHA loan could be accessible, although it comes with the long-term cost of ongoing PMI premiums. If you're a veteran or active-duty service member, VA loans offer an opportunity to bypass PMI altogether, potentially saving you a significant amount over the life of your loan.
How Much Does PMI Cost?
Now that we’ve established what PMI is and how it’s influenced by your down payment and loan type, let’s explore the factors that determine the cost of PMI:
Factors Influencing PMI Costs
- Loan Amount: The amount you borrow for your mortgage is a crucial factor in determining PMI costs. Generally, the higher the loan amount, the higher the PMI premiums.
- Credit Score: Your credit score plays a significant role in setting your PMI rates. A higher credit score can lead to lower PMI costs, as it demonstrates lower risk to the lender.
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: The LTV ratio is the percentage of the home’s value that you’re borrowing. The higher the LTV ratio (indicating a smaller down payment), the higher the PMI costs.
Calculating PMI Payments
To calculate your PMI payments, you’ll typically use a formula provided by your lender. While the exact formula can vary, it often involves multiplying the loan amount by a percentage, which is determined by the factors mentioned above.
Real-Life Example Let's consider a hypothetical scenario. You're purchasing a $300,000 home with a 10% down payment, resulting in a loan amount of $270,000. Your credit score is excellent, and your lender calculates your PMI rate at 0.3%. Using these variables, your annual PMI premium would be $810 (0.3% of $270,000), which translates to an additional $67.50 per month in your mortgage payments.
Understanding the factors influencing PMI costs and how to calculate them is essential for estimating your monthly housing expenses accurately.
In conclusion, Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a crucial component of the home-buying process. It serves as a protective measure for lenders and can significantly impact your monthly mortgage payments. By grasping the relationship between your down payment, loan type, and PMI costs, you’ll be better equipped to make informed
Strategies for Avoiding PMI Altogether
Avoid FHA Loans
FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loans are a popular choice among homebuyers, especially those with lower credit scores or smaller down payments. However, one common drawback of FHA loans is that they often require PMI. Let’s delve into why FHA loans come with PMI requirements and explore alternative loan options that may not necessitate PMI.
Why FHA Loans Often Require PMI?
FHA loans are known for their lenient credit requirements and low down payment options. This makes homeownership more accessible for many individuals who might not qualify for conventional loans. However, to mitigate the increased risk associated with lower down payments, FHA loans typically require PMI. The government-backed nature of FHA loans means that lenders need assurance against borrower default, and PMI provides that security.
Alternative Loan Options
If avoiding PMI is a priority for you, there are alternative loan options to consider. Conventional loans, for example, may require a down payment of as little as 3%, but you can sidestep PMI by making a down payment of at least 20%. Other loan programs, like USDA and VA loans, also offer alternatives to FHA loans and PMI.
Real-Life Example Let's follow the journey of a homebuyer named Sarah. She initially considered an FHA loan due to its low down payment requirement but discovered that the added cost of PMI made the loan less appealing. After consulting with a mortgage advisor, Sarah explored conventional loan options and decided to save for a 20% down payment to avoid PMI altogether.
Put Down 20%
The significance of a 20% down payment cannot be overstated when it comes to avoiding PMI. This down payment threshold represents a crucial milestone in homeownership because it typically eliminates the need for PMI. Let’s explore why a 20% down payment is so important and discover practical strategies for saving up for it.
The Significance of a 20% Down Payment
When you make a down payment of 20% or more, lenders perceive your loan as less risky. This is because you have a substantial equity stake in your home right from the start. With this equity cushion, lenders are more willing to forego the need for PMI, as they have greater confidence in your ability to repay the loan.
Saving Strategies for a Substantial Down Payment
Saving for a 20% down payment can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Here are some practical tips to help you save up:
- Create a Budget: Establish a detailed budget that tracks your income and expenses. Identify areas where you can cut back and redirect funds toward your down payment savings.
- Open a Separate Savings Account: Consider opening a dedicated savings account for your down payment. This can help you keep your savings organized and prevent you from dipping into the funds for other purposes.
- Automate Savings: Streamline Your Savings: Simplify your financial goals by establishing automated transfers from your checking account to your dedicated down payment savings account. This ensures that you consistently contribute to your goal.
- Increase Your Income: Look for opportunities to boost your income, such as taking on a part-time job or freelancing. Boost Your Savings with Additional Income.
Real-Life Example Meet John, a prospective homebuyer. He knew that PMI would add a substantial cost to his monthly mortgage payments, so he set a goal to save for a 20% down payment. John diligently followed a budget, worked overtime at his job, and even started a small side business. After a few years of disciplined saving, he achieved his goal and purchased his home without the burden of PMI.
Consider a Piggyback Mortgage
A piggyback mortgage is a creative financing strategy that allows you to avoid PMI by combining two loans. Let’s dive into the details of how a piggyback mortgage works, its pros and cons, and explore a real-life case study of a homebuyer who successfully used this approach to achieve homeownership.
Explanation of a Piggyback Mortgage
A piggyback mortgage involves taking out two separate loans to finance your home purchase:
- First Mortgage (80% of the Home’s Value): This loan covers 80% of the home’s purchase price and acts as your primary mortgage.
- Second Mortgage (Usually 10% or 15%): The second mortgage covers the remaining portion of the purchase price, typically 10% or 15%. This second mortgage is often referred to as a “piggyback” because it “rides” on top of the first mortgage.
The combination of these two loans allows you to avoid PMI because you have effectively made a 20% down payment.
Pros and Cons of This Approach
Pros:
- PMI Avoidance: The primary advantage is, of course, the avoidance of PMI, which can save you a substantial amount of money over time.
- Lower Monthly Payments: Splitting the cost between two loans can result in lower monthly payments compared to a single larger mortgage.
Cons:
- Higher Interest Rates: Second mortgages typically come with higher interest rates than first mortgages, so you may pay more in interest over the life of the loan.
- Complexity: Managing two separate loans can be more complex and may require a good understanding of mortgage financing.
Real-Life Example Emily, a first-time homebuyer, found her dream home but was concerned about the additional cost of PMI. After consulting with a mortgage advisor, she learned about piggyback mortgages. Emily decided to go with this option, taking out a first mortgage for 80% of the home's value and a second mortgage for 10%. By doing so, she avoided PMI and enjoyed lower monthly payments.
Pay Down Your Loan Balance Quickly
Another effective strategy to eliminate PMI is to pay down your loan balance as quickly as possible. By making extra payments toward your mortgage, you can expedite the process of reaching the 20% equity threshold. Let’s explore how rapid loan repayment can eliminate PMI and discover practical tips for accelerating your loan payments.
How Rapid Loan Repayment Can Eliminate PMI
PMI is usually required until you reach 20% equity in your home. Equity is the portion of your home that you truly own, and it increases as you pay down your mortgage balance. By making extra payments toward your principal, you reduce your loan balance more quickly, which accelerates the accumulation of equity.
Tips for Accelerating Loan Payments
- Make Extra Principal Payments: Whenever you have some extra cash, consider making additional payments toward your mortgage principal. Even small extra payments can make a significant difference over time.
- Switch to Biweekly Payments: Instead of making monthly payments, switch to biweekly payments. This results in 26 half-payments per year, which equals 13 full payments instead of the usual 12.
- Round Up Your Payments: Rounding up your monthly mortgage payment to the nearest hundred dollars or even adding a fixed amount can help you pay down your loan faster.
- Use Windfalls Wisely: If you receive a tax refund, bonus, or any unexpected windfall, consider putting a portion of it toward your mortgage.
Real-Life Example James and Lisa were determined to eliminate PMI as soon as possible. They adopted a strategy of making extra principal payments whenever they could. This included using their annual bonuses and tax refunds to pay down their mortgage balance. By doing so consistently over several years, they reached 20% equity ahead of schedule and successfully removed PMI from their mortgage.
Refinance the Mortgage
Refinancing your mortgage can be a strategic move to eliminate PMI. By refinancing at the right time and under the right conditions, you can secure a new loan that no longer requires PMI. Let’s dive into how refinancing can help you remove PMI, explore the timing and considerations involved, and examine a real-world scenario of a homeowner who successfully refinanced to eliminate PMI.
Using Refinancing to Remove PMI
Refinance your mortgage involves substituting your current loan with a new one. This presents an opportunity to secure a loan that does not require PMI, provided that you meet certain criteria.
To successfully remove PMI through refinancing, consider the following:
- Improved Home Value: If your home’s value has increased significantly since you originally purchased it, you may have reached the 20% equity threshold, allowing you to refinance without PMI.
- Better Credit Score: If your credit score has improved since you first obtained your mortgage, you may qualify for a new loan that doesn’t require PMI.
- Refinance Timing: The timing of your refinancing is crucial. Wait until you have sufficient equity or a better credit profile to secure a loan without PMI.
Timing and Considerations for Mortgage Refinancing
Before refinancing, assess your current financial situation, home value, and credit score. Determine if the conditions are favorable for refinancing without PMI. Additionally, consider the costs associated with refinancing, such as closing costs and interest rates, to ensure that it makes financial sense.
Real-Life Example Maria had been paying PMI for several years and was eager to eliminate the extra cost from her monthly mortgage payments. She monitored her home's value and noticed that it had appreciated significantly. Additionally, her credit score had improved since she purchased her home. Maria decided it was the right time to refinance her mortgage. By doing so, she secured a new loan without PMI, which not only reduced her monthly payments but also saved her money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)?
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a type of insurance that provides financial protection to lenders in case a borrower defaults on their mortgage loan. It is designed to reduce the risk for lenders when they approve mortgages with lower down payments. Essentially, PMI protects the lender’s investment by ensuring they can recover their losses if the borrower cannot repay the loan.
Elaboration: PMI is typically required when the borrower’s down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. This insurance policy adds an extra cost to the borrower’s monthly mortgage payments. It’s important to note that PMI does not protect the borrower; it solely benefits the lender.
Is PMI Required for All Types of Mortgages?
No, PMI is not required for all types of mortgages. The requirement for PMI largely depends on the type of loan and the size of the down payment made by the borrower. Here’s a breakdown of which loans typically require PMI and which do not:
- Conventional Loans: Conventional loans may require PMI if the borrower’s down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price.
- FHA Loans: FHA loans often require PMI regardless of the down payment amount. PMI is an integral part of the FHA loan program.
- USDA Loans: USDA loans require a form of mortgage insurance, but it’s referred to as a “Guarantee Fee” rather than PMI.
- VA Loans: VA loans do not require PMI. Instead, they have a funding fee, which serves a similar purpose but is typically rolled into the loan.
Elaboration: While PMI is common with conventional loans, government-backed loans like FHA and USDA have their own insurance programs that serve a similar purpose. VA loans, exclusive to eligible veterans, do not require any form of mortgage insurance, making them an attractive option for those who qualify.
How Much Does PMI Typically Cost?
The cost of PMI can vary based on several factors, including the size of the down payment, the loan amount, and the borrower’s credit score. On average, PMI can range from 0.3% to 1.5% of the original loan amount annually. To estimate the cost, borrowers can use this formula:
PMI Cost = (Loan Amount × PMI Rate) / 12
Elaboration: PMI rates are expressed as a percentage of the original loan amount and are typically paid monthly as part of the mortgage payment. Borrowers should check with their lender for specific PMI rates and terms.
Can I Cancel PMI Once I Have It?
Yes, borrowers can often cancel PMI once they reach a certain level of equity in their home. The Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 provides guidelines for when PMI can be canceled. Typically, borrowers can request PMI removal once they reach 20% equity in their home, either through payments or appreciation.
Elaboration: It's important to note that some loans, like FHA loans, require PMI for the entire life of the loan, regardless of equity. However, conventional loans allow for PMI cancellation when specific criteria are met, such as timely payments and proof of sufficient home equity.
Are There Any Tax Benefits to Having PMI?
As of the 2021 tax year, the federal government phased out the tax deduction for PMI premiums. Previously, eligible homeowners could deduct PMI premiums from their federal income taxes. However, this tax deduction is no longer available unless it is reinstated through future legislation.
Elaboration: While the PMI tax deduction may no longer be in effect at the federal level, homeowners should consult with a tax professional to explore any potential state or local tax benefits related to PMI.
What Is a Piggyback Mortgage, and How Does It Work?
A piggyback mortgage, also known as an 80-10-10 or 80-15-5 loan, is a financing strategy that allows homebuyers to avoid PMI by taking out two separate loans. The first mortgage covers 80% of the home’s purchase price, the second mortgage covers a portion (usually 10% or 15%), and the remaining amount is covered by the borrower’s down payment.
Elaboration: The combination of these two loans allows the borrower to achieve a total loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 80%, avoiding the need for PMI. Piggyback mortgages can be an effective way to eliminate PMI costs while still making a lower down payment.
Is It Better to Save for a Larger Down Payment or Pay PMI?
Whether it’s better to save for a larger down payment or pay PMI depends on your financial situation and goals.
Saving for a Larger Down Payment (Pros):
- Avoid PMI altogether.
- Reduce totla interest expenses throughout the loan term.
- Greater equity in the home from the start.
Saving for a Larger Down Payment (Cons):
- May take longer to purchase a home.
- Opportunity cost of tying up funds that could be invested elsewhere.
Paying PMI (Pros):
- Allows for a smaller initial down payment.
- May enable homeownership sooner.
- PMI costs may decrease over time as the loan balance is paid down.
Paying PMI (Cons):
- Adds an extra monthly cost to your mortgage payment.
- Does not build equity for the borrower; it only benefits the lender.
- PMI may be required for the life of certain loans, like FHA loans.
Elaboration: The decision between a larger down payment and PMI should be based on your financial goals, timeline, and ability to save. It's crucial to take into account the financial impact in both the short and long run.
Can I Refinance My Mortgage to Remove PMI?
Yes, refinancing your mortgage can be an effective way to remove PMI, provided that you meet specific criteria. When you refinance, you replace your current mortgage with a new one. If you have gained sufficient equity in your home or improved your credit score, you may qualify for a new loan without PMI.
Elaboration: Refinancing to remove PMI can be advantageous if you've built up equity or improved your credit profile since obtaining your original mortgage. However, it's essential to assess the costs and benefits of refinancing before proceeding.
How Does My Credit Score Affect PMI Rates?
Your credit score can significantly impact the cost of PMI. Generally, borrowers with higher credit scores are more likely to secure lower PMI rates. Lenders view borrowers with good credit as less risky, which can result in lower insurance premiums.
Elaboration: Borrowers should strive to maintain a good credit score to secure the best mortgage terms, including favorable PMI rates. A higher credit score not only reduces PMI costs but also improves overall mortgage affordability.
Are There Any Government Programs to Help with PMI?
While there are no direct government programs to assist with PMI payments, some government-backed loan programs, such as VA and USDA loans, offer alternatives to traditional PMI. These loans have their own unique forms of mortgage insurance or funding fees.
Elaboration: Eligible veterans may benefit from VA loans, which do not require PMI. Similarly, USDA loans, designed for rural homebuyers, have a form of mortgage insurance known as a "Guarantee Fee." These programs provide options for borrowers seeking to avoid or reduce PMI costs.
What Are the Risks of Not Having PMI?
The primary risk of not having PMI is that you are responsible for covering a larger down payment, typically 20% of the home’s purchase price. Failing to meet this down payment requirement may limit your ability to purchase a home or force you into higher-interest loans.
Elaboration: Not having PMI can be beneficial in terms of lower monthly payments, but it requires substantial upfront savings. Additionally, if you're unable to make the required down payment, you may face more limited mortgage options or higher interest rates.
Are There Any Alternatives to PMI for Low Down Payments?
Yes, there are alternatives to traditional PMI for low down payments. Some of these alternatives include lender-paid mortgage insurance (LPMI) and single premium mortgage insurance (SPMI). These options may allow borrowers to avoid monthly PMI payments.
Elaboration: LPMI involves the lender paying the mortgage insurance premium upfront or as a lump sum, while SPMI allows borrowers to pay the entire PMI premium in one upfront payment. These alternatives can be explored with lenders to determine which option aligns with your financial goals.
How Does PMI Impact My Monthly Mortgage Payments?
PMI increases your monthly mortgage payments by adding an additional premium to your standard mortgage payment. The exact amount of the PMI premium depends on factors such as the loan amount, down payment, and PMI rate.
Elaboration: It's crucial for borrowers to factor in the cost of PMI when budgeting for their monthly mortgage payments. PMI can significantly increase the total monthly housing expenses, which is an important consideration for prospective homebuyers.
What Should I Consider Before Choosing a Mortgage Loan Type?
Before selecting a mortgage loan type, consider various factors, including:
- Your financial situation, including income, credit score, and savings.
- Determining the Down Payment Size Within Your Means.
- Your long-term homeownership goals.
- The current interest rate environment.
- The potential impact of PMI on your monthly budget.
Elaboration: Choosing the right mortgage loan type is a critical decision in the homebuying process. Evaluating these factors will help you determine which loan type aligns with your financial situation and homeownership aspirations.
How Long Does PMI Typically Last?
The duration of PMI payments varies depending on the type of loan and the borrower’s circumstances. For conventional loans, PMI is typically required until the borrower reaches 20% equity in the home. For FHA loans, PMI may be required for the life of the loan.
Elaboration: Borrowers should review their loan documents and communicate with their lender to understand the specific terms and conditions regarding PMI duration for their mortgage.
Can I Get a Refund if I Overpay PMI?
Refunds for overpaid PMI are typically not available. PMI premiums are paid in advance, either on a monthly basis or as a lump sum. Once paid, these premiums are not refundable, even if you sell the property or pay off the mortgage early.
Elaboration: It's essential to carefully review your mortgage agreement and discuss any questions or concerns regarding PMI with your lender to ensure a clear understanding of the terms.
Are There Any PMI Options for Self-Employed Individuals?
Self-employed individuals can access PMI options similar to those available to traditionally employed borrowers. PMI requirements may vary based on factors like credit score and down payment, but being self-employed should not disqualify you from obtaining PMI.
Elaboration: Lenders evaluate self-employed borrowers based on their income, creditworthiness, and financial stability, just like any other borrower. It's important for self-employed individuals to provide accurate financial documentation to demonstrate their ability to repay the mortgage.
How Does PMI Differ from Homeowners Insurance?
PMI and homeowners insurance serve different purposes. PMI protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the mortgage, while homeowners insurance provides coverage for the homeowner in the event of damage to the property, theft, or liability claims.
Elaboration: It's crucial for homeowners to understand the distinction between PMI and homeowners insurance, as both are separate expenses associated with homeownership. Homeowners insurance is designed to protect the homeowner's interests, while PMI benefits the lender.
Can I Pay PMI Upfront Instead of Monthly?
Yes, some borrowers have the option to pay PMI upfront as a lump sum at the time of closing rather than as a monthly premium. This can be a cost-effective approach for borrowers who have the financial means to do so.
Elaboration: Paying PMI upfront may save money in the long run compared to monthly payments. However, borrowers should carefully consider the impact on their available funds at the time of purchase.
What Happens If I Can’t Make My PMI Payments?
If you miss your PMI payments, it can lead to financial consequences, including late fees and potentially, default on your mortgage. Lenders typically require borrowers to maintain PMI coverage as part of the loan agreement.
Elaboration: It's essential for borrowers to prioritize PMI payments to avoid defaulting on their mortgage. If you encounter financial difficulties, it's advisable to contact your lender to discuss potential solutions or alternatives.
Is PMI Required for Investment Properties?
PMI is typically required for primary residences where the borrower makes a down payment of less than 20%. It is not a standard requirement for investment properties, as down payment and loan terms for investment properties differ from primary residences.
Elaboration: Investment property loans typically have their own set of requirements and may have different terms and costs compared to loans for primary residences. PMI is generally associated with loans for primary residences.
Can I Transfer PMI to a New Property If I Sell My Home?
PMI is typically non-transferable between properties. If you sell your current home and purchase a new one, you will need to establish new mortgage terms, including any PMI requirements, for the new property.
Elaboration: PMI is specific to the individual mortgage and property. When purchasing a new home, the terms and conditions of the mortgage, including PMI requirements, will be determined based on the new loan agreement.
How Can I Find the Best PMI Rates and Terms?
To find the best PMI rates and terms, borrowers should:
- Shop around with different lenders to compare offerings.
- Maintain a good credit score to secure favorable PMI rates.
- Evaluate various loan programs and down payment options to determine the most cost-effective approach.
Elaboration: Researching and comparing PMI rates and terms from multiple lenders is essential for securing the most advantageous mortgage terms. Additionally, improving your credit score can help you qualify for lower PMI rates.
What Is the Impact of PMI on My Home’s Equity?
PMI does not contribute to your home’s equity; it serves to protect the lender. Your home’s equity grows as you make mortgage payments, which reduce the loan balance and increase your ownership stake in the property.
Elaboration: It's important for homeowners to understand that while PMI may increase monthly costs, it does not build equity for them. Building equity is achieved by making principal payments on the mortgage, which reduces the loan balance over time