What is Establishment Fee?
An establishment fee is a one-off charge for setting up a new loan — typically $200–$800. Sometimes called a loan approval fee or set-up fee. Often waived under professional packages or competitive offers.
Why it matters for you
Establishment fees are usually negotiable. A broker checking the market can often secure fee waivers even when the lender's published rate stays the same. Factor fees into the comparison rate, not the headline rate.
Last updated: April 2026