In a word--Yes. The appraisal is often lumped in with other fees, like an application fee or preparation fee, both of which are basically junk fees. The appraisal differs in that you get to keep the appraisal and have something of tangible value, whether or not you go through with the loan.  Most appraisers will not be ok with getting paid out of escrow at closing, because if you don't end up closing on the loan, then they did the work, but didn't receive any money for it. If the broker pays for the appraisal and you back out of the loan or go with someone else, then they eat the money and have an appraisal  that is worthless.