For FHA loans, borrowers are required to pay a Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP). This insurance protects the lender in case of default or foreclosure. FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration, and MIP is mandatory for borrowers due to the lower down payment requirements and increased risk to lenders.
* Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP): FHA loans require an upfront MIP at closing (usually 1.75% of the loan amount) and annual MIP, which is divided into monthly installments and added to the mortgage payment.
* The MIP protects lenders by providing insurance coverage in the event the borrower defaults, reducing the lender's loss.
Other options:
* Down payment (A) is required but does not protect the lender.
* Hazard insurance premium (B) protects the property, not the lender in foreclosure.
* Homeowners association dues (D) are unrelated to lender protection.
References:
* FHA Single-Family Housing Policy Handbook
* U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines