re: Can PMI be cancelled by building equity through home improvements?

FHA is a high cost loan. So you put 3% down and then FHA charged you an upfront PMI fee of 1.75% so you really only put down 1.25%. Your stated renovations might add a little value to the house but not a a lot. I would advise you to pay extra on your house payments and when you get closer to 90% loan to value ratio to refinance your house to a conventional loan and reduce your monthly PMI. In the mean time enjoy your home ownership