Does putting more down on an FHA loan shorten the mortgage insurance?
Written by the Warens Financial Group education team · Reviewed by Franklin Warens, Mortgage Broker, NMLS #1249423
Yes. With less than 10% down, FHA's annual mortgage insurance premium generally lasts for the life of the loan. Put down 10% or more, and it can be removed after 11 years.
This is one reason some FHA buyers choose to put down more than the 3.5% minimum when they can. Many FHA borrowers also refinance into a conventional loan later to drop mortgage insurance sooner, once their equity and credit support it. A licensed loan officer can model both paths against your budget.
This answer is part of our guide How Much Down Payment Do You Need to Buy a House in Houston?.
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Educational content only; not financial, legal, or tax advice, a commitment to lend, or an offer of credit. Program requirements vary by lender and change over time; eligibility depends on your full financial profile. Warens Financial Group, NMLS #2532048. Franklin Warens, Mortgage Broker, NMLS #1249423. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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