What Is PMI in a Conventional Loan? Explained Simply
Buying a home with a conventional loan ? If your down payment is less than 20%, you'll likely encounter something called PMI —Private Mortgage Insurance. PMI is one of the most misunderstood parts of the mortgage process for many homebuyers, especially first-timers. But don't worry—we'll walk you through exactly what PMI is, why lenders require it, how much it costs, and how you can avoid or remove it. Let's break it down. What Is PMI in a Conventional Loan? PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) is a policy that protects your lender—not you—if you stop making mortgage payments. It's most commonly required when your down payment is less than 20% on a conventional loan. With less equity in the home, you're viewed as a higher risk. PMI gives lenders a financial cushion in case of default. However, while the lender benefits from PMI, the borrower pays the monthly premiums. Why Is PMI Required? Lenders use PMI for risk management. Data shows loans with less than 20% eq...