What is PMI and Why Does It Matter?

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a form of financial protection for lenders in the event that a borrower defaults on a mortgage. While PMI benefits lenders, it can be a burden for borrowers, adding to the monthly mortgage cost. In the Tulsa, OK housing market, understanding how to eliminate PMI can save you significant money over the life of your loan.


Advantages and Disadvantages of PMI

  1. Advantages: PMI enables people with lower down payments to secure a home loan, broadening the pool of potential homebuyers.

  2. Disadvantages: PMI increases monthly mortgage payments and the total cost of your mortgage.


When Do You Need PMI?

You’re typically required to purchase PMI if you put down less than 20% on a conventional loan. Some government-backed loans, like FHA, have similar but differently termed insurance requirements.


Strategies for Eliminating PMI

  1. Pay Down Your Mortgage: Once the loan balance reaches 78% of the home’s original value, PMI can often be removed.

  2. Home Appraisal: A new appraisal can help if your home’s value has increased, potentially reducing your loan-to-value ratio.

  3. Refinancing: You may be able to refinance your mortgage to eliminate PMI, especially if the property value has increased or if you’ve improved your credit score.


How to Request PMI Removal

Once you reach the point where your loan balance is at or below 80% of your home’s original value, you can request that your lender remove the PMI. It’s advisable to put this request in writing and to keep all records of payments and correspondence.


Local Trends: PMI in Tulsa, OK

The housing market in Tulsa is on the rise, which could mean that your home’s value has increased. This creates a favorable situation for homeowners looking to get rid of PMI sooner than anticipated.


About Kyle Bradley, Your Go-To Mortgage Expert in Tulsa, OK

Kyle Bradley | The Bowtie Lender VP Mortgage Banker
NMLS #488324
Kyle Bradley Mortgage
100 S. Riverfront Dr. Jenks, OK 74037
C: (918) 855-0494
E: [email protected]
www.kylebradley.com

With over 16 years of hands-on experience, I focus primarily on conventional, jumbo, and new construction loans. I am dedicated to making your mortgage journey as straightforward as possible. If you’re interested in removing PMI or have other mortgage-related concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me.


Contact Information

For tailored advice on how to navigate PMI or any other mortgage issues in the Tulsa, OK area, feel free to reach out at (918) 855-0494 or [email protected]. Let’s work together to find the best financial solution for your needs.