How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost? (2026)
Last reviewed October 25, 2026
A standard single-family appraisal runs $300–$500, averaging around $360–$400. FHA and VA appraisals run $400–$900 because they add safety and condition standards on top of the value opinion. It's a buyer-side closing cost the lender orders — one of the few closing fees you can't shop directly.
Appraisal cost by type
| Type | Band | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-family (conventional loan) | $300–$500 | ~$360–$400 | The standard lender-required appraisal for a conventional purchase or refinance. |
| FHA / VA appraisal | $400–$900 | varies | Runs higher because the inspection standards are stricter (safety and condition requirements on top of value). |
| Drive-by / hybrid appraisal | lower band | varies | Lender-authorized alternatives use exterior-only or desktop review; availability depends on the lender and loan program. |
What to know before you order
- Who pays: Usually the buyer, as a buyer-side closing cost — on a refinance, the homeowner pays it directly.
- When it's paid: Often collected at or before closing; it's one of the few fees that can appear early in the loan process.
- Why the lender requires it: The appraisal confirms the collateral value; if value comes in low, the loan-to-value math changes and the buyer may need more cash or a renegotiated price.
- Shopping it: The lender orders the appraisal (federal rules bar borrower-directed appraisers), so unlike title insurance you generally don't shop this fee.
Where it fits in closing costs
The appraisal is one line in the buyer stack. Compare the full picture: closing costs explained, title insurance cost, escrow explained, and the closing cost calculator. Buying or refinancing? refinance closing costs and refinance break-even.
FAQ
How much does a home appraisal cost?
A single-family appraisal typically runs $300–$500, averaging around $360–$400 (HomeAdvisor/Angi). FHA and VA appraisals run $400–$900 because the inspection requirements are stricter.
Who pays for the appraisal?
On a purchase, it's usually the buyer as a buyer-side closing cost. On a refinance, the homeowner pays it. Because the lender must order it under federal rules, you can't pick your own appraiser or shop this fee the way you can shop title insurance.
What happens if the appraisal comes in low?
The lender bases the loan on the lower of price or appraised value, so a low appraisal can mean bringing extra cash, renegotiating the price, or disputing the appraisal. On a refinance it can change your loan-to-value and rate tier.
Sources
- HomeAdvisor / Angi — home appraisal cost (avg ~$360–$400; FHA/VA $400–$900)
- Bankrate — what are closing costs (appraisal as a buyer-side line item)
GeniusRealty is an educational resource. Figures are cited cost-guide bands, not quotes.