The appraisal industry is undergoing one of the most significant reporting changes in years. Beginning November 2, 2026, appraisals submitted to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for conventional loans must use the new Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 and redesigned appraisal report format.
The good news is that the appraisal process itself is not changing. Appraisers will still inspect the property, analyze comparable sales, and determine market value. What is changing is how property information is collected, organized, and reported.
What Are the Biggest Changes?
1. More Detailed Property Information
The new report allows appraisers to capture property characteristics in greater detail, creating more consistent and standardized reporting.
2. Dynamic Report Format
The traditional appraisal forms many agents are familiar with are being replaced by a single, flexible report that adjusts based on the property’s characteristics.
3. Greater Emphasis on Property Features
Appraisers will be documenting items such as renovations, condition, energy-efficient improvements, ADUs, unique amenities, and room-level characteristics in a more structured way.
4. Improved Data Consistency
The goal is to provide lenders and investors with more reliable and standardized property data while reducing reliance on narrative comments.
How REALTORS® Can Help Appraisers
To help ensure a smooth appraisal process and accurate valuation, consider providing the following at the inspection:
- A list of recent upgrades and renovations
- Dates improvements were completed
- Approximate costs of improvements
- Copies of permits, if applicable
- Information about energy-efficient features or solar installations
- Details regarding additions, conversions, or ADUs
- HOA information and amenities
- Information on multiple offers (when permitted by local regulations and lender guidelines)
- A list of recent comparable sales that support value
- Any unique neighborhood or property features that may not be immediately apparent
What This Means for Listings
As listing agents, it will become increasingly important to maintain detailed records on property improvements and upgrades. The more accurate information an appraiser has about a home’s condition, features, and updates, the better equipped they are to understand the property’s marketability and value.
A good practice is to prepare an “Appraiser Information Sheet” for every listing that includes:
- Recent improvements and costs
- Dates of major renovations
- Builder or contractor information
- Energy-efficient upgrades
- HOA details
- Relevant comparable sales
- Unique features that differentiate the property from competing homes
What Is NOT Changing
- Appraisers will still perform property inspections.
- Comparable sales will still play a critical role in determining value.
- Market value is still based on current market conditions and sales data.
- The appraiser remains an independent third party.
Final Thoughts
While UAD 3.6 may make appraisal reports look very different, its primary purpose is to improve the quality, consistency, and transparency of appraisal data. REALTORS® who provide organized property information upfront can help reduce questions, minimize delays, and contribute to a more efficient transaction for everyone involved.
If you have questions about the new appraisal requirements or how they may affect your upcoming transactions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help.
Sources: Fannie Mae Appraisal Modernization Initiative, Freddie Mac UAD 3.6 Resources, and The Appraisal Foundation (USPAP).