CONFUSED ABOUT PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE?

HERE'S THE FYI ON PMI....... 

What is PMI?
Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, is an insurance that protects the lender/investor if you are unable to pay your mortgage. All conventional, conforming loans backed by Freddie Mac without at least 20% down require some form of credit enhancement or PMI.

How much can I expect to pay in PMI?
It varies based on your loan-to-value ratio – the amount you owe on your mortgage compared to its value – and credit score, but you can expect to pay between $40 and $80 per month for every $100,000 borrowed.

Why should I pay PMI?
The value may be getting your foot in the door at today's historically low mortgage rates and affordable home prices in many parts of the country.

How long will I have to pay it?
You'll have to pay it until you’ve built more than 20% equity in your home. Borrowers with FHA loans are responsible for paying FHA mortgage insurance premiums for the life of the loan.

Can I cancel my PMI if my home increases in value or if I made extra payments?
If you are current on your payments, PMI will automatically terminate on the date when your principal balance is scheduled to reach 78% of the original value of your home. That date will be given to you in writing on a PMI disclosure form when you get mortgage.

You can also request that your lender cancel your PMI if you have made additional payments or if rising home values have increased your home equity to more than 20%.

If you have more questions about PMI or other issues related to purchasing a home, contact me!  I'd love to help!