Some lenders charge it, most don't... if you don't want to pay an application fee (and who would) find another lender, there are 1000's of them out there that won't charge you an application fee.
Free Mortgage Advice & Pre-Approvals (FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie, Freddie, Non-Prime, Construction, Renovation/Rehab, Commercial) since 2002
Mortgage Broker located in Southern California and lending in all 50 states
Reach out anytime!