What happens if the appraisal comes in low
Your options when the bank's number doesn't match the contract price.
If the appraisal comes in below your offer price, you generally have a few options: negotiate with the seller to lower the price to match, make up the difference in cash if your contract allows it, challenge the appraisal with additional comps, or walk away if you have an appraisal contingency in place. This is exactly the kind of moment where having that contingency, and a good agent, pays for itself.
This step is general educational guidance, not legal, financial, or real estate advice — your contract terms, deadlines, and local requirements always take precedence, so confirm specifics with your licensed professionals. Read our full disclaimer.