<< > I got to drop the PMI > payment (Mortgage Insurance, basically ), > Jerry, > Bad idea!!! Mortgage insurance has been a blessing to a couple of my friends >who's spouses met with untimely ends. (it does happen you know) No, the PMI is for the benefit of the LOANER, not the LOANEE. The Mortgage holder is guaranteed that the loan will be paid, or that there is sufficient equity in the house to pay off the loan, should the purchaser drop dead, etc. Similar in concept to buying a new car, where you have to keep full coverage on the car, not just Liability, so that in case of an accident, the BANK gets paid if you total the car and you're killed and can't pay any more of the loan. It doesn't benefit ME or my wife any, just the Loan company or bank. My home shot up in value, from 142k to around 190k, in just 3 years! So, there was sufficent equity in the property now, that the value of the remaining loan will be covered if they have to repossess the house for any reason, and resell it. Remember, insurance is not always beneficial to the holder! I have other insurance to ensure that the house will be paid for if I die. It's called a Term Life policy. That clear things up for ya? Jerry in Virginia