01 / Payment
Who pays depends on
why the appraisal is needed.
Paying for an appraisal and ordering one are separate things. In a mortgage transaction, the lender usually arranges the appraisal while the buyer pays the fee upfront or through closing costs.
| Situation | Usual payer |
|---|---|
| Buying with a mortgage | The buyer, through the lender’s appraisal process. |
| Refinancing a home | The homeowner taking out the new loan. |
| A seller orders a private appraisal | The seller or homeowner requesting it. |
| A seller agrees to cover the fee | The seller, under the agreed transaction terms. |
These are general arrangements. Confirm who pays, when payment is due and how any agreed credit will be handled in your transaction.
02 / Your agent’s role
A recommendation does not mean
the agent pays.
Your agent may suggest getting an appraisal or help you understand the next step. That does not, by itself, make the appraisal fee part of the agent’s services.
If an agent offers to cover the fee, clarify that arrangement before an appraisal is ordered. If the seller agrees to contribute, make sure the agreement is reflected in the transaction documents.
Using a mortgage? Ask your lender about its appraisal process before ordering a separate private report. A report you commission for your own decision should not be assumed to satisfy the lender’s requirements.
03 / A clear next step
Three questions to ask
before you order.
- Who needs the report? Establish whether it is for your lender or for your own decision about a property.
- Who is responsible for payment? Confirm the fee, payer and payment timing with the party arranging the appraisal.
- What must the report address? Share the property address, intended use, valuation date and deadline.
For a private residential appraisal in Allentown, explore residential appraisal services or contact The Appraising Group to discuss your property.