Homeowner Resources
Should I Order My Own Appraisal Before Refinancing?
Usually, the better first move is a conversation with your lender — here's why.
It's a reasonable instinct to want your own appraisal before refinancing — but for most homeowners, the more useful first step is a conversation with your lender, not an independent order.
Why Contact the Lender First
Appraiser-independence rules mean lenders generally have to select and order their own appraisal for a refinance transaction — a self-ordered appraisal usually can't simply be substituted in. Your lender can also tell you whether an appraisal is required at all, since some refinances qualify for a waiver.
When an Independent Appraisal Still Makes Sense
If you simply want a realistic sense of your equity before deciding whether to pursue a refinance at all, an independent appraisal can be useful context — just understand it's a planning tool, not a substitute for the lender's required process. See when should a homeowner get an independent appraisal for more scenarios where ordering your own makes sense.
What This Does Not Mean
It doesn't mean you have no options if your lender's appraisal comes back lower than expected — a reconsideration of value is the correct channel for that, not a competing independent appraisal ordered after the fact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Provided for general educational purposes. Last reviewed: August 2026.