20/10/2026
The home appraisal is getting a makeover, and if you're buying or refinancing this fall, it's worth knowing about.
First, a quick refresher: an appraisal provides an independent estimate of a home's value. For a mortgage, it helps the lender evaluate whether the property supports the loan.
Now the report itself is changing. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which back many conventional home loans, are introducing a new appraisal format called UAD 3.6. It's designed to:
• Adapt to the type of property being appraised
• Put photos alongside the details they support
• Replace shorthand codes with plain-language descriptions
Here's the timeline:
October 1, 2026: PRMG started ordering appraisals in the new format for standard conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, ahead of the requirement.
November 2, 2026: appraisals submitted for those loans are required to use UAD 3.6.
FHA, VA and USDA loans follow their own timelines, which haven't been finalized yet.
For most buyers and homeowners, there's nothing extra you need to do. Your lender orders the appraisal in the format your loan requires. If you're already in the process, I'm happy to let you know whether this change affects your loan.
What I like about this update: you'll typically receive a copy of your appraisal, and the new format is designed to make it easier to see how your home's value was determined. When you get yours, it's worth a few minutes to check that the property details are right, that recent upgrades are reflected and that the comparable homes make sense for your area. If anything looks off, bring it to me.
Have a question about appraisals? Send me a message anytime.
Know someone with a home purchase or refinance on their fall to-do list? Share this with them.