They get the money now. MR just take care of the debt service. I agree its worth paying off if you are staying long term. To me MR is not so much a part of value but rather an amenity (i.e. money for new schools and infrastructure) with a carrying cost. I get something from that money just like I get something from my HOA fees. Some people value those things and others dont. Its more of a carrying cost. Its a kin to buying a house with a big lot. You pay for the big lot and there is some value for that. However, there is an additional carrying cost to a bigger lot in watering, maintaining, landscaping etc for the bigger lot.