Understanding Private Mortgage Insurance in Financing


Intro
Gaining a grasp on Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is crucial for anyone stepping onto the property ladder. PMI often sneaks into the conversation when discussing mortgages, but not everyone really knows what it entails. This guide is designed to break it down into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that you come away with a solid understanding of not just PMI itself, but how it intertwines with other critical elements of mortgage financing.
In this deep dive, weāll navigate the intricate web of factors that dictate your mortgage journey, touching on key concepts like credit scores, the nuances of PMI calculations, and potential alternatives that could save you a pretty penny. Youāll discover how PMI influences the monthly payments and why it shouldn't be an afterthought. Letās unravel this topic together.
Preamble to PMI
Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, holds a vital position in mortgage financing. It can be a bit of a double-edged sword for many, especially for first-time homebuyers. In the rush to buy a home, newcomers often overlook the ins and outs of this insurance. However, grasping PMIās purpose and workings can lead to informed financial decisions down the road.
When you make a down payment of less than 20% on a home, lenders typically require PMI. The reason behind it is simple: it protects the lender in case you default on your loan. While it adds to your monthly costs, it also opens the door for homeownership to those who might otherwise struggle to save a larger down payment.
Hereās where many first-timers hit a snag. They understand they have to pay PMI, but often the details are murkyāhow itās calculated, what impacts its cost, and when it can be eliminated, to name a few. By demystifying these aspects, borrowers can anticipate expenses and plan budgets more accurately.
Exploring PMI helps illuminate the associated costs and benefits, making it an essential read for anyone looking to dive into home financing. Many might ask: "Why bother with PMI?" The answer lies in recognizing that while it seems like a pesky extra cost, it can be a stepping stone to building equity more quickly and achieving financial stability.
Definition of Private Mortgage Insurance
PMI is simply an insurance policy that protects lenders from the risk of default on a loan, particularly when the borrower makes a down payment of less than 20%. Think of it as a safety net that mitigates the lender's risk. If you are unable to meet your mortgage obligations, the PMI policy ensures that the lender will recoup a portion of their losses. While traditionally seen as a necessary evil, understanding PMI can empower borrowers. By knowing how it works, you can navigate the process with more awareness and confidence.
Purpose of PMI in Mortgage Financing
The main purpose of PMI is to allow borrowers to secure a mortgage without the significant financial barrier of a hefty down payment. This is particularly key for younger homebuyers or those in high-cost areas where saving for that 20% can feel insurmountable.
Moreover, PMI serves three crucial roles:
- Risk Mitigation: By providing lenders with a level of protection, it encourages them to offer loans to higher-risk borrowers.
- Access to Homeownership: It opens doors for those who want to purchase their home sooner rather than later, facilitating real estate market fluidity.
- Financial Flexibility: PMI can often be cancelled once you reach a certain level of equity in your home, allowing you to reduce your monthly payments in the long run.
In essence, while PMI can seem like an added burden, it also offers a pathway to homeownership that might otherwise remain out of reach for many. That said, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate the costs versus benefits. As the saying goes, "You gotta spend money to make money;" this might ring true when looking at your mortgage options.
Calculating PMI Percentage
Understanding how to calculate PMI percentage is vital in the mortgage financing world. It's like peeling an onionāthere are layers, and each needs examination to appreciate the whole picture. PMI, or Private Mortgage Insurance, can add a significant amount to your monthly mortgage payment. By comprehending how itās calculated, homeowners can strategize their approach to borrowing.
Determining the PMI Rate
To get a grip on the PMI rate, first, know itās typically presented as a percentage. This percentage is applied to the loan amount. Usually, PMI rates hover between 0.3% to 1.5% of the original loan amount annually. Several factors play into where you might land within that range:
- Down Payment Size: The more you put down, the lower the PMI rate can be. If you're sourcing funds from somewhere else, be prepared for a heftier rate.
- Credit Score: Your credit score can be the difference between a reasonable rate and an exorbitant one. Higher scores generally lead to lower PMI costs.
- Loan Type: Conventional loans often have different PMI rates compared to FHA or USDA loans, affecting your calculations.
Letās say you're taking a $200,000 mortgage and your lender quotes a PMI rate of 0.5%. That would result in:$200,000 x 0.5% = $1,000 annually, or about $83 per month added to your mortgage payment. Thatās a tidy sum in the long run, which brings us to a critical considerationāhow lenders differentiate among borrowers.
Factors Influencing PMI Percentage
When determining PMI percentages, thereās a wide array of factors that lenders consider. Here are some notable influences:
- Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): This ratio compares your loan amount to the homeās appraised value. A higher LTV means more risk for the lender, often resulting in a higher PMI rate.
- Location of the Property: Different states and areas might see varied rates based on market dynamics. Some localities might have higher risks associated with mortgage financing.
- Property Type: Is it a single-family home or a multi-unit dwelling? Different property types carry different risks, impacting PMI.
It's a cocktail of conditions that affects how PMI plays into your finances. Knowledge is power, as they say. The more you know, the better decisions you can make.
How Lenders Calculate PMI
Lenders utilize a formula and internal benchmarks to determine PMI costs for borrowers. Generally, the process involves:
- Assessment of Loan Amount: Starting off, lenders look at how much you plan to borrow.
- Evaluation of Credit History: Your credit score is scrutinized to gauge risk.
- Review of Financial Stability: Lenders might assess your overall financial picture, including debts and income, which plays a role in final rates.
Calculating PMI isnāt as straightforward as it may seem. Here's a simple breakdown:
For example, if your loan amount is $300,000, and your PMI rate is 0.4%, the annual PMI cost would be conducted as follows:
This translates to an increase of $100 per month on your mortgage payment, affecting your budgeting significantly.


Understanding these elements can lead to better financial decisions regarding homeownership.
In summary, calculating PMI percentage involves multiple dimensions, all intertwining to impact your overall mortgage. Being aware of these variables allows borrowers to approach their financing options with confidence and clarity.
Typical PMI Ranges
Understanding the ins and outs of PMI ranges can save homeowners a heap of confusion and possibly even cash. Private Mortgage Insurance might sound like just another line item on your mortgage payment, but its implications stretch far and wide. By grasping PMI ranges, you can better navigate the financial landscape of home buying, especially for first-time buyers who might feel overwhelmed. Knowing what's typical not only helps in budgeting but also assists you in making informed choices when shopping for mortgage options.
Average PMI Rates in Today's Market
As of now, the average PMI rate varies quite a bit, typically ranging from 0.3% to 1.5% of the loan amount per year. Whether youāre a first-time buyer or someone looking to upgrade, these numbers can feel like navigating a maze. The specific percentage depends on several factors, including your credit score, the size of your down payment, and the type of loan you choose.
For instance, if you take out a $200,000 loan and your PMI is 0.8%, you could be looking at an added cost of about $1,600 annually, or around $133 per month to your mortgage payment. This is not chump change, and for those who are sensitive to every dollar spent, understanding this range is crucial.
"Knowing the typical PMI ranges helps homebuyers make more informed decisions about their mortgage costs."
Comparative Analysis of PMI Costs Across Loan Types
When comparing PMI costs across various loan types, a few patterns emerge, clearly illustrating how different funding options can impact the overall cost of your PMI.
- Conventional Loans: Generally, these loans require PMI if your down payment is less than 20%. The rates here can be lower for those with higher credit scores.
- FHA Loans: Federal Housing Administration loans typically involve a different structure regarding PMI. FHA loans have both an upfront mortgage insurance premium as well as an ongoing monthly premium. The total can be a notable chunk of monthly expenses, particularly for buyers with lower credit scores.
- VA Loans: Veterans Affairs loans come with the advantage of not requiring PMI at all. This can be a massive benefit, allowing veterans to save a bit more on their monthly payments.
Impact of PMI on Mortgage Payments
When delving into the world of mortgage financing, the importance of Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, cannot be overstated. In simple terms, PMI serves as a safety net for lenders in cases where the borrower makes a smaller down payment. This insurance provides security to lenders against potential defaults, which can heavily influence the overall cost of your mortgage payments.
Understanding PMI is crucial for borrowers, especially first-time homebuyers, as it directly impacts monthly payments and overall affordability. Hereās what you need to know about PMIās effects on your wallet.
Monthly Payments: Breaking Down the Costs
PMI premiums typically add a significant sum to your monthly mortgage payments. On average, PMI can cost between 0.3% to 1.5% of the original loan amount annually, usually paid as part of your monthly mortgage payment. For example, if your mortgage loan is $200,000 and your PMI rate is 0.5%, your monthly PMI comes to about $83.33. While this might not seem like a fortune at first glance, over time, it can add up substantiallyāespecially if youāre on a tight budget.
To illustrate this further:
- Loan Amount: $250,000
- PMI Rate: 0.5%
- Annual PMI Payment: $1,250
- Monthly PMI Payment: $104.17
Without PMI, that extra cash could easily go toward your savings or paying down principal more swiftly. Borrowers should be fully aware when signing up for loans, as this component raises monthly expenses significantly.
Long-Term Financial Implications
The long-term implications of PMI can shape your financial future. If youāre caught in a cycle of paying PMI for several years, that could result in thousands of dollars that could have been allocated elsewhereābe it retirement savings or that kitchen remodel youāve been dreaming of. Itās essential to view PMI not merely as a cost but as a potential roadblock in your financial path.
However, itās also important to consider that with a conventional loan, PMI can typically be removed once your mortgage balance falls below 80% of the home's value. This is known as reaching the ā80% threshold,ā and achieving it could save you on payments in the long haul. On the flip side, if house values drop, you might find you're stuck paying PMI for longer than anticipated.
The Relationship Between Down Payment and PMI
There exists a direct correlation between your down payment and PMI rates. The less you put down, the higher your chances of having to pay PMI. A down payment of less than 20% usually triggers this requirement. The rationale is straightforward: lower down payments mean higher risk for lenders. For instance, if you can only muster a 10% down payment, PMI may be unavoidable, and additionally, the rate you pay may also become more pronounced.
For clearer context:
- Down Payment: 20% or more
- PMI: Typically not required
- Down Payment: Less than 20%
- PMI: Likely required, with rates dependent on borrower credit risk, the size of the down payment, and loan type.
Understanding how your down payment impacts PMI can help in your decision-making process. You might consider saving a bit longer for that bigger down payment to avoid PMI altogetherāa choice that could save you considerable money.
By grasping these multifaceted dimensions of PMI, you can enter the housing market with more information and readiness, which in the long run will bolster your financial health.
Alternatives to PMI
Exploring avenues that exist outside of Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is crucial for borrowers seeking to minimize costs while navigating the mortgage landscape. PMI can feel like adding salt to a wound, especially for first-time buyers who might already be feeling the pinch from rising home prices and high interest rates. The alternatives to PMI provide viable options enabling borrowers to protect their finances more effectively.
Piggyback Loans Explained
Piggyback loans present a compelling alternative to PMI. This type of financing typically involves taking out two mortgages simultaneously. For instance, a borrower may secure a first mortgage for 80% of the homeās purchase price and then a second, smaller mortgageācommonly referred to as a second mortgage or home equity loanāfor the remaining 20%. By this means, the borrower can avoid the need for PMI entirely.
Having a piggyback loan can serve as a sweet spot for many. Not only does it allow the homeowner to sidestep the added PMI premiums, but it can also provide flexibility in payments. However, using this strategy isnāt without potential pitfalls. Borrowers need to be sure they can handle the double payment every month without flinching, as juggling two loans can be a challenge. And they must account for higher interest rates associated with the second loan.
Lender Paid Mortgage Insurance


Lender Paid Mortgage Insurance (LPMI) is an attractive option for those who want to keep their monthly payments lower. With LPMI, the lender absorbs the cost of the mortgage insurance, which is typically wrapped into the interest rate of the loan. As a result, borrowers avoid a separate PMI payment each month altogether.
However, thereās a catch: opting for LPMI means your interest rate will likely be higher than it would be with a traditional loan requiring a monthly PMI payment.
"Every dollar counts. Itās essential to calculate whether LPMI could potentially save you money over time compared to standard PMI."
So, while you might enjoy an immediate reduction in your monthly payment with LPMI, itās wise to dig deeper into the maths, considering how long you plan to stay in the home and how much interest you'd end up paying over time.
Government-Backed Loan Options
For those who qualify, government-backed loan options such as FHA loans are another avenue to escape PMI costs. These loans generally come with more lenient credit requirements and lower down payment options.
For instance, FHA loans require only a 3.5% down payment for borrowers with a credit score of 580 or higher. While these loans still have mortgage insurance, it functions differently than PMI. The insurance premium is calculated upfront and, frequently, rolled into the loan amount, mitigating the monthly costs significantly for many.
Furthermore, VA loans for veterans and active military members provide an exceptional advantage as they do not require any mortgage insurance whatsoever.
Overall, these governmental options serve as a lifeline, allowing qualifying borrowers to enter the housing market more easily, even when their financial standing may not be perfect.
In summary, while PMI might loom large in the minds of many borrowers, these alternatives specifically designed to lower or eliminate its impact have proven beneficial for countless individuals entering homeownership.
Managing PMI Costs
Navigating through the waters of mortgage financing can feel like trying to find your way through a maze. A significant part of this journey involves understanding and managing Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) costs. Effectively addressing PMI can mean the difference between a comfortable mortgage payment and a financial strain that looms over you like a dark cloud. Not only does it influence your monthly payments, but it can also affect your overall mortgage affordability, making it essential to manage these costs wisely.
The importance of managing PMI costs lies primarily in your ability to minimize what can amount to substantial expenses over time. Being proactive here ensures you retain more control over your budget, reducing stress and giving you room to breathe. Moreover, understanding how to manage these costs allows you to make informed decisions that align with your overall financial goals.
Strategies for Reducing PMI Expenses
Several strategies exist for homeowners looking to reduce their PMI expenses. Here are a few practical approaches:
- Increase Your Down Payment: One foolproof way to decrease or eliminate PMI is by enhancing your down payment. If you can manage to put down 20% of the property's price, PMI typically becomes unnecessary. This is a worthy goal for first-time buyers to consider, as it cuts costs significantly.
- Opt for a Different Loan Type: Certain loans are structured to avoid PMI altogether. For example, FHA loans may have lower upfront and annual premium costs than conventional loans, depending on the borrowerās financial situation. Itās essential to weigh these options with a keen eye on your long-term financial health.
- Improve Your Credit Score: A good credit score can lower your PMI rate. Work on enhancing your credit standing through paying bills on time and reducing existing debts. Small adjustments in your financial behavior can lead to big changes in your mortgage expenses.
"A stitch in time saves nine." This saying rings true when it comes to managing your PMI costs. Addressing your financial habits now can provide savings down the line.
- Shop Around for Lenders: Each lender has a unique formula for calculating PMI costs. Take the time to research various options. Comparing lenders can lead to discovering a better deal, saving you money in the long term.
- Keep an Eye on Your Loan-to-Value Ratio: By monitoring your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, you can identify when itās time to request PMI cancellation. Reducing the balance of your mortgage through extra payments can shift your LTV ratio in your favor, potentially allowing for PMI elimination sooner than expected.
When to Refinance to Eliminate PMI
Refinancing offers another avenue to cut or eliminate PMI costs. This becomes an attractive option under certain conditions. Firstly, if your property value has significantly increased, refinancing can enable you to obtain a lower LTV ratio, allowing for PMI removal.
Moreover, the timing of your refinance is crucial. If interest rates have dropped since you first took out your mortgage, not only might you achieve a better rate, but you can also benefit from eliminating PMI in the process. Itās vital to calculate total costs versus savings before making such a decision.
Additionally, many homeowners refinance after they build enough equity in their property. Once youāre past the 20% equity mark, you might decide itās prudent to dive into refinancing. Therefore, having an awareness of your equity status can position you advantageously to eliminate PMI sooner.
The Role of Credit Scores in PMI Calculation
Navigating the world of mortgages can feel like a daunting task for many, especially when trying to understand how various factors affect their overall financial situation. One critical element that often lurks in the background is the role of credit scores. These scores are not just numbers; they can significantly influence Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) rates, affecting how much first-time borrowers or those trying to improve their credit standing will ultimately pay on their loans. After all, a solid understanding of credit scores is crucial in making informed mortgage decisions.
Understanding Credit Scores
Credit scores are numerical representations of a borrower's creditworthiness; typically, they range from 300 to 850. Higher scores indicate better credit health, while lower scores can leave borrowers struggling. Think of your credit score as the key to unlock favorable mortgage terms. When a lender evaluates your application, they will consider your credit score to assess risk.
Here are the primary components that contribute to your credit score:
- Payment History (35%): This is the most significant factor. Timely bill payments boost your score, while missed payments create a red flag.
- Credit Utilization (30%): This ratio compares your total credit card balances to your credit limits. Using more than 30% can signal financial strain.
- Length of Credit History (15%): A longer credit history generally indicates experience in managing loans and credit.
- Types of Credit in Use (10%): A balanced mix of credit cards, mortgages, and installment loans can positively affect your score.
- New Credit (10%): Opening multiple new accounts in a short period can impact your score negatively.
Understanding these components can empower borrowers to take charge of their financial health.
Impact of Credit Quality on PMI Rates
The quality of one's credit does not just impact loan approval; it also has a direct link to PMI rates. Lenders typically require PMI for conventional loans when the down payment is less than 20% of the home's purchase price. The rationale behind this is simple: lower down payments equate to higher risk for lenders. Consequently, they lean heavily on the borrower's credit profile to assess risk.
If your credit score is below a certain thresholdāoften in the mid-600sāyou could find yourself facing higher PMI rates, which could lead to significant costs over time. On the other hand, those with scores in the mid-700s or higher often enjoy reduced PMI premiums.
"Your credit score is like a badge in the mortgage worldāits shine can significantly alter your financial path."


To illustrate this:
- A borrower with a score of 620 might see PMI rates around 0.5% to 1%.
- A borrower with a score of 760 may only pay about 0.2% to 0.4%.
These differences can have a ripple effect on monthly mortgage payments and the overall cost of homeownership. For instance, consider a $300,000 mortgage. The PMI could range from $1,250 to $2,500 or more annually, depending on credit score.
Reading Loan Estimates and PMIs
When navigating the labyrinthine world of mortgage financing, understanding the interplay of loan estimates and Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is crucial. Reading loan estimates can seem like deciphering hieroglyphics to many first-time borrowers. However, taking the time to comprehend this document can save you from several headaches and unexpected costs down the road. With PMI often lurking in the shadows of mortgage documents, it becomes even more necessary to grasp its implications.
Loan estimates serve as a roadmap for your mortgage journey. They outline critical financial information, including the interest rate, monthly payments, and the overall cost of the mortgage. Being aware of each element helps borrowers make well-informed decisions. One of these vital components is PMI, which can significantly affect the total cost of borrowing.
Interpreting the Loan Estimate Document
To start, letās break down the loan estimate document itself, which should come your way within three days of applying for a mortgage. You'll notice a section that discusses the Projected Payments. This will typically display your monthly payment amount alongside a line for PMI. If PMI is included, it tells you upfront how much you might be shelling out each month in addition to your principal and interest. The key here is to not only focus on the bottom line but to look closely at how much of that is going towards PMI.
Be attentive to the Loan Costs and Other Costs sections too. Lenders often include PMI in these areas. If the number looks significant, it could mean that you might want to inquire further about how they calculated it or if there are options available to mitigate this expense.
Identifying PMI in Mortgage Documents
Identifying where PMI is lurking in your mortgage documents can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, being vigilant can save you from unpleasant surprises later. When youāre reviewing your documents, look specifically for the Mortgage Insurance section, usually found in the financing fees or monthly payments details.
Hereās a simplified rundown of how to find this information:
- Check the breakdown of insurance costs: Most documents will include a specific line for PMI, indicating your monthly premium.
- Look for details on cancellation: Some documents will have a section outlining when and how you can eliminate PMI from your payments. This is essential as it might have significant implications on your long-term financial plan.
- Read all footnotes and fine print: Sometimes additional details about PMI may be included there, explaining how your premium may change based on your credit score and overall risk profile.
"Understanding your loan estimate is not just reading numbers; it's about comprehending your financial future."
By taking these steps, not only do you empower yourself but also help to demystify PMI, allowing for clearer decision-making regarding your mortgage financing. Knowledge is key, particularly in complex financial environments, where a small oversight can lead to larger issues down the line.
State Regulations and PMI
When diving into the world of Private Mortgage Insurance, one canāt skip the vital role played by state regulations. Understanding this aspect not only sheds light on how PMI costs can vary, but also helps borrowers in making informed decisions, especially for first-time buyers looking to step into home ownership without a vast down payment.
State laws can introduce a myriad of regulations that affect how PMI is calculated and implemented. For instance, some states may require PMI for loans above a certain percentage, while others may not. This variability can shape the financial landscape for borrowers significantly. It's essential to recognize that what might be true in one state about PMI might not hold in another, creating a patchwork of regulations that can confuse even seasoned buyers.
How State Laws Affect PMI Percentages
State laws can greatly influence the percentage of PMI a borrower must pay. Different states have their thresholds concerning the required down payment and the necessity of PMI.
- Down Payment Requirements: States have different requirements that determine whether PMI is necessary. Those that allow lower down payments often require PMI at relatively higher rates. In contrast, states with conservative lending practices might offer options with lower PMI or not require it at all.
- Risk Assessment Models: Each state might employ its own risk assessment model, influencing how lenders determine PMI rates. For instance, states experiencing stable real estate markets may have lower rates of PMI compared to those where housing markets are unpredictably volatile.
Itās not uncommon for buyers to end up paying more in PMI in states that have higher rates of mortgage defaults or other perceived risks. So, one must pay heed to local laws when analyzing overall mortgage costs.
Variations in PMI Practices Across States
PMI practices vary notably from one state to another. This variation can be due to various factors, including economic climate, local housing market conditions, and even cultural attitudes towards homeownership. Here are some examples of how PMI practices might differ:
- States with Higher Average PMI Rates: States like California and New York often experience higher PMI rates. Rising home prices necessitate PMI for many buyers who cannot afford significant down payments. Thus, these states bear a heavy PMI burden.
- States Promoting Homeownership: In states like Texas and Florida, there may be more programs in place, potentially reducing the cost of PMI as part of a broader initiative to encourage home purchasing. These regulations aim to create a more favorable environment for buyers, impacting PMI directly.
- Unique Legislation: Some states even create unique legislation that modifies PMI requirements. For instance, Minnesota has specific guidelines for lenders on how to present PMI to borrowers, influencing the overall cost structure and accessibility of mortgage options.
Understanding these variations can save borrowers significant amounts over the long haul. Knowledge about local regulations can empower buyers to seek loans that are not only suitable but also financially prudent.
In summary, state regulations around PMI play a crucial role that potential homebuyers should not overlook. Awareness of how these laws affect costs and options can bridge the gap between aspiration and actuality when pursuing home ownership.
The End
Understanding PMI is not just about navigating additional costs or deciphering intricate calculations; it is a vital component affecting the entire mortgage journey. As we consolidate the insights gained throughout this article, it becomes clear that PMI plays a significant role in the decision-making process for potential homeowners, especially first-timers. Key points to consider involve recognizing how PMI influences monthly payments, the alternatives available, and managing costs effectively.
Summarizing Key Findings
Throughout this exploration, some critical aspects of PMI emerged:
- Cost Considerations: PMI typically adds a notable amount to monthly payments, which can strain a budget if not anticipated properly.
- Rate Variability: The cost of PMI isn't set in stone. It varies based on several factorsācredit score, loan type, and down payment size.
- Alternatives Exist: For those weary of PMI, alternatives like piggyback loans or government-backed loans present viable options.
- State Regulations Matter: Understanding how different states handle PMI regulations can help navigate costs more effectively.
These findings underscore the necessity of conducting thorough research and asking questions before committing to a loan. Informed decisions can save substantial amounts of money in the long run.
Final Thoughts on PMI and Mortgage Decisions
When it comes to mortgage decisions, EMI is an integral piece of the puzzle. As many potential homeowners gather their resources and prepare to take the plunge, understanding PMI proportions and implications canāt be overstated. This awareness not only informs financial planning but also bolsters confidence in negotiations with lenders. It's wise to weigh all available options and consult with financial advisors before making final decisions.
"Knowledge is power when navigating the complexities of home financing."
By keeping abreast of PMI details, potential borrowers can effectively mitigate financial pressures and align their mortgage choices with long-term financial goals.
In sum, by equipping oneself with knowledge about PMI, one can confidently approach the housing market, lay a solid foundation for homeownership, and make financially sound decisions that resonate well beyond the initial purchase.