What is Lender Paid Mortgage Insurance?

Why pay PMI when your lender can pay it for you?
Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is a term every homebuyer will hear if he/she is buying a new home with less than a 20% down payment. Whether you are buying with a FHA or conventional loan, PMI is a necessary evil if you don't have the cash to make that 20% down payment. PMI rates vary, but expect a significant payment increase if you are required to pay it monthly.
Lender Paid Mortgage Insurance
Lender paid mortgage insurance is exactly that. Instead of you paying PMI upfront in a lump sum or monthly as part of your mortgage payment, your lender pays it. Now, as you've probably guessed, this isn't free. Your lender will offer you a slightly higher interest rate in exchange for paying the PMI. However, the payment increase resulting from the higher rate is almost always lower than the monthly PMI you'd be paying on your own.
As with all conventional loans, your down payment, credit score, and loan amount will determine how much extra interest you'll pay with lender paid PMI. As always, talk to your lender about all options available to you and your specific situation.
Related Calculators
Conventiona Loan CalculatorRead More
What is a Bridge Loan? How Does a Bridge Loan Work?
What is a bridge loan? Learn how bridge loans work, when to use one, and if it’s the right solution for buying a new home before selling your current one.
Top 3 Most Common Mortgage Loans: Which One Is Best?
Discover the top 3 most common mortgage loans—Conventional, FHA, and VA. Compare pros and cons to find the best mortgage loan for your needs.
Top 10 First Time Homebuyer Tips: From Pre-Approval to Closing
Buying your first home? These first-time homebuyer tips will guide you from pre-approval to closing, helping you avoid mistakes and make confident decisions.
What is an ADU? Accessory Dwelling Unit Guide (2025)
Thinking about adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property? Learn what an ADU is, typical use cases, average costs, and how to start building one in this 2025 guide.
When Will Mortgage Rates Go Down? [2025 Guide]
Wondering when mortgage rates will go down? Experts predict rates could dip below 6% by late 2025 or early 2026. Learn what’s driving mortgage rates, when they might drop, and whether you should buy now or wait.
The NACA Program: What It Is and If It’s Right for You [2025 Review]
The NACA program offers a path to homeownership with no down payment, no fees, and below-market interest rates. Learn how to qualify, the pros and cons, and alternative mortgage options.