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A Washington broker advertises a free appraisal in 2026 and pays the appraiser out of its own pocket. How does the Washington advertising rule treat the claim that the appraisal is free?

Correct Answer

D) Deceptive: the cost can be recovered through the negotiation process

Advertising using the term free, or a similar term implying there is no cost to the applicant, is deceptive because the cost of the purportedly free item or service can be recovered through the negotiation process. Other choices: the broker paying is the situation the rule addresses; naming the firm does not change the claim; and a later charge is not required. Source: WAC 208-660-440(3)

Answer Options
A
Permitted, because the broker genuinely bears the cost and the borrower pays nothing for it
B
Permitted where the advertisement names the appraisal firm used
C
Deceptive only where the borrower is later charged for the appraisal
D
Deceptive: the cost can be recovered through the negotiation process

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Advertising using the term free, or a similar term implying there is no cost to the applicant, is deceptive because the cost of the purportedly free item or service can be recovered through the negotiation process. Other choices: the broker paying is the situation the rule addresses; naming the firm does not change the claim; and a later charge is not required. Source: WAC 208-660-440(3)

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