In most cases an appraisal is not needed. The value can be determined by the lender using an electronic evaluation. If an appraisal is needed, some lenders will pay for it, in some cases it is the clients expense. In a case where the appraisal is lower though the lender will calculate the application on the lower amount. You will still get a mortgage but it does change the calculations, so 10% downpayment might now be 8.5% downpayment. Each deal is different. Check with your Broker.