CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Moves You Forward.

Appraisal Reports Are Changing November 2: What Agents Should Know

by

A change to residential appraisal reporting is approaching. Beginning November 2, 2026, new appraisal reports submitted for loans involving Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac must use UAD 3.6, a format that calls for more detailed property information. Some lenders are already ordering reports in the new format, so you may encounter it before the deadline.

CCAR is planning a training seminar on October 20 to help agents understand the new appraisal reporting format and the practical steps they can take now. Registration details will be announced very soon.

Helpful Information:

Changes to Appraisal Report

One flexible report replaces the familiar fixed forms. The report adapts to the property type and its features, so it may look different from appraisals clients have seen before.

More detailed property information is recorded. Appraisers document features such as individual levels, rooms, improvements, amenities and site characteristics in greater detail.

Photos and supporting information have more defined reporting requirements. The redesigned report specifies which images are required, required with certain circumstances, or optional

Impact on REALTORS®

Explain the new appearance without treating it as a sign of a problem.

Provide clear facts about improvements, including what was done and when. “Updated kitchen” is less useful than a dated description of work.

Help clients know what to expect at the appointment and respond promptly if an appraiser requests factual information about a property or past sale.

Impact on Homeowners

Buyers and sellers may receive a less familiar-looking report, but the appraiser’s responsibility to determine value remains the same.

Sellers should be ready to share records of renovations and allow for a potentially longer property visit. More detail does not automatically mean a higher appraisal value.

A visit may involve more documentation than they expect; the homeowner should ask the lender/appraiser about any access or preparation needs for their specific assignment.

For more practical guidance, read NAR’s article: “Appraisal Ready: What Agents and Brokers Can Do Now for UAD 3.6.”