What Is PMI? Here’s What You Need to Know About Private Mortgage Insurance | Mortgages and Advice
Many lenders allow a 5%, 3% or even 0% down payment for a mortgage, so it’s no wonder some buyers are choosing not to put down the traditional amount of 20% when they buy a home. A downside of a down payment below 20% is that a buyer will need to pay private mortgage insurance possibly every month for several years.If you’re wondering what PMI is, here's an introduction to how it works and some tips on how to stop paying it as soon as possible.What Is Private Mortgage Insurance?PMI is an insurance policy that protects the lender in case you default on your mortgage."Mortgage insurance is generally required when the loan-to-value ratio is higher than 80%," says Ron Haynie, senior vice president of mortgage finance policy for the Independent Community Bankers of America.If you’re putting do...