do lenders have to give a new mortgage insurance on harp loan

yes

Yes they do; but with home prices moving up you may have more equity then you think. It might be worth looking into a normal refinance loan.

Yes.. it's a new MI policy, but the premium is exactly the same. HARP is due to expire as it's pretty much outlived it use.. Property values have steadily increased and most people have sufficient equity to qualify for traditional financing without the need for HARP. You might want to contact a local mortgage broker and let him look at your complete loan profile.. once they have all the info, it's easier for them to advise you.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. William J. Acres, Lender411's number ONE lender in Arizona. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com NMLS# 226347

If your existing loan has mortgage insurance, your new loan will have mortgage insurance. It is a "new" policy, but the cost will be based on the original policy.

Yes, but if you have a new appraisal showing you have enough equity in the property to do a "non-HARP" mortgage it could be eliminated. (Depending on the type of loan, the monthly PMI payment can be eliminated with as little as 3-5% equity above the new loan amount)