Short answer
Starting November 2, 2026, new appraisal reports for loans sold to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac must use the Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6. It replaces more than a dozen old appraisal forms with one redesigned Uniform Residential Appraisal Report that adjusts to the property. Freddie Mac says it has a look and feel similar to the loan application and the Closing Disclosure. The appraisal's purpose hasn't changed, and you still get a copy.
What's changing?
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are retiring the separate appraisal forms used for years, including the single-family report, the condo report, the 2 to 4 unit report, the manufactured home report and the exterior-only reports. In their place is one data-driven report whose sections depend on the property, with standard fields that describe the home's features.
- There's no general addendum at the end. Appraisers add comments in each section instead.
- Market rent, when it's needed, is part of the report's Rental Information section rather than a separate form in most cases.
- An appraisal update and a completion report, such as after repairs, are now two separate reports.
When does it start?
According to Freddie Mac, the new format is mandatory for new appraisal reports submitted to the agencies' appraisal portal on or after November 2, 2026. The date that matters is when the report is submitted, not when you applied or when the appraisal was done. Lenders that can't meet the date have to ask each agency for an exception, so some reports may still arrive in the old format for a while.
What stays the same?
The appraisal is still an opinion of value for the lender, for the mortgage. Freddie Mac says the report's purpose hasn't changed. Traditional, hybrid, desktop and exterior-only appraisals are all still possible, depending on each agency's policies. A low value still affects your loan the same way. See what to do if the appraisal comes in low.
Does it apply to FHA, VA and USDA loans?
Freddie Mac says the agencies worked with FHA, VA and USDA to include their requirements in UAD 3.6, but each of those agencies sets its own timeline. Ask which format your appraisal will use.
Will I still get a copy?
Yes. Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act's Regulation B, lenders must give you a copy of every appraisal and written valuation for a first-lien loan on your home promptly after it's completed, or three business days before closing, whichever is earlier. You can waive the timing, but you still get a copy. More in what happens after you apply.
Sources
- Freddie Mac, Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 FAQ (updated September 30, 2026)
- CFPB, Regulation B, 12 CFR 1002.14, Rules on providing appraisals and other valuations
Checked November 2, 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.
General information only, not tax or legal advice. Program availability, eligibility and terms vary by lender and are subject to change and to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend.