If you’re buying a home in Boca Raton, FL, you may encounter the term PMI — Private Mortgage Insurance. This is a common requirement for borrowers using conventional home loans in Florida who put down less than 20%. While PMI adds an additional cost to your monthly mortgage payment, it can also help you purchase a home sooner in Boca Raton’s competitive real estate market.
At Streamline Financial Group, we help homebuyers understand how PMI works, what it costs, and how to potentially avoid it — so you can make informed decisions about your home loan.
What is PMI?
Private Mortgage Insurance is coverage that protects the lender if you default on your Boca Raton home loan. It’s typically required for conventional loans with a down payment under 20%. While it doesn’t protect you as the borrower, it allows you to buy a home without waiting years to save for a large down payment.
How Much Does PMI Cost in Boca Raton?
PMI costs depend on factors such as:
Home price and loan amount
Down payment percentage
Credit score
Loan type and term
On average, PMI ranges from 0.3% to 1.5% of your original loan amount annually. For example, if you purchase a $500,000 home in Boca Raton with a small down payment, PMI could add $125–$625 to your monthly mortgage payment.
How Boca Raton Buyers Can Avoid PMI
While PMI can’t always be avoided, there are strategies to reduce or eliminate it:
Put down at least 20% on your home purchase
Use a piggyback loan (80-10-10 structure) to lower your loan-to-value ratio
Consider lender-paid PMI where the cost is built into a slightly higher interest rate
How to Remove PMI
If you start with PMI, it’s not forever. You can request PMI removal when you reach 80% loan-to-value through regular payments or rising home values. Many lenders also remove PMI automatically once you reach 78% loan-to-value.
Why PMI Can Be Worth It in Boca Raton’s Market
While PMI does add a cost, it can be beneficial if it allows you to:
Enter the market before home prices increase further
Begin building equity sooner rather than later
Take advantage of current Florida mortgage rates
Work With a Boca Raton Mortgage Expert
At Streamline Financial Group, we work with multiple lenders to find the best mortgage solution for Boca Raton homebuyers — with or without PMI. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or refinancing, we’ll guide you through your options and help you understand how PMI impacts your monthly budget.
Ready to explore your Boca Raton home loan options? Contact Streamline Financial Group today and take the first step toward your new home.