The appraisal industry is undergoing its most significant transformation in over a decade with the implementation of the Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 standard. At Class Valuation, we're not just preparing for this change — we're leading the way to ensure a seamless transition for our clients. 

What is UAD 3.6? 

UAD 3.6 represents a comprehensive update to the dataset behind appraisal reports submitted to Fannie Mae® and Freddie Mac® (the GSEs). This industry-wide initiative will modernize the appraisal process by replacing all existing GSE appraisal forms with a single flexible and dynamic report, according to the Lender Readiness Kit published by the GSEs in June 2024. 

The days of form numbers like 1004/70, 1073/465 and 2055 are coming to an end. Instead, appraisals will be driven by specific property characteristics and data points that better reflect the unique attributes of each property. 

Key Changes and Benefits 

Moving Beyond Form Numbers 

Rather than selecting a specific form number when ordering an appraisal, lenders will provide property and loan type characteristics such as: 

• Appraisal Type: Traditional, Hybrid, Desktop, Exterior-Only, Appraisal Update, Certification of Completion 

• Dwelling Type: SFR, Condominium, Manufactured Housing, Small Residential Income Property, Cooperative Interest 

• Additional Clients or Intended Users: XYZ Bank, FHA, USDA, VA, etc 

• Property Rights: Fee Simple, Leasehold 

• Assignment Type: Purchase Transaction, Refinance, Other 

• Occupancy: Owner, Tenant, Vacant 

These characteristics will drive what appears in the appraisal report based on the specific property being evaluated. The GSEs outlined this in the joint publication, “Mapping Legacy Forms to Redesigned URAR Property Type Characteristics” document which states “the data that describes the subject property drives the appraisal report, not a form type/number.” 

Enhanced Data and Delivery 

UAD 3.6 introduces significant improvements to how appraisal data is collected, processed, and delivered: 

• Discrete Data: Less freeform text means more consistent, searchable and automatable information 

• ZIP File Delivery: Instead of just XML files, deliverables will include a ZIP file containing XML, PDF and all appraisal images 

• Better Photo Tagging: Enhanced identification and organization of property images 

• Improved Quality Control: More data fields enable stronger automated rules and quality checks 

• New UCDP Schema: Updated formats for submission to the Uniform Collateral Data Portal 

• Redesigned SSR: The Submission Summary Report provides more pertinent information in both PDF and JSON formats 

Implementation Timeline 

The transition to UAD 3.6, according to the official GSE timeline released in December 2024, will occur in phases: 

• September 8, 2025 – January 25, 2026: Limited Production Period with select lenders 

• January 26, 2026 – November 1, 2026: Broad Production release open to all lenders 

• November 2, 2026: Mandate date – UAD 3.6 required for all new appraisal report submissions 

• May 2027: Complete retirement of UAD 2.6 pipeline 

During this transition period, Class Valuation will support both UAD 2.6 and UAD 3.6 processes, ensuring business continuity regardless of which format you're using.

It's important to note that Class Valuation will continue to support UAD 2.6 even after the implementation period for clients whose loans are not delivered to the GSEs. While GSE eligible loans will eventually require the new standard, we understand that many of our clients work with non-QM loans and other products that may continue using the legacy formats for the foreseeable future. Our systems are designed to accommodate both standards long-term, providing flexibility for all your appraisal needs. 

How Class Valuation Supports Your UAD 3.6 Transition 

As one of the nation's largest and most respected appraisal management companies, Class Valuation is uniquely positioned to guide you through this transition: 

• Early Adopter: We're working directly with the GSEs and participating in the Limited Period  

• Expert Team: Our dedicated UAD team is equipped to support both lenders and appraisers with their UAD 3.6 transition. Notably, our Chief Appraiser, John T. Dingeman, MNAA, is a McKissock instructor. McKissock, an approved education provider, offers “The Appraiser’s Guide to the New URAR,” ensuring our guidance is backed by leading industry instruction. 

• Technology Leadership: Our systems are being updated to handle both standards simultaneously 

• Vendor Readiness: We're implementing tools to identify and select appraisers qualified and ready for UAD 3.6 

• Comprehensive Solutions: From appraisal order placement to quality control to delivery, we're optimizing every step of the process 

Steps to Prepare for UAD 3.6 

As we approach these implementation dates, here are steps you can take to prepare: 

1. Familiarize yourself with the new property characteristic requirements that will replace form numbers 

1. Review your systems for integration with the new data formats and file types 

1. Train your team on the differences between the current and new formats 

1. Stay connected with Class Valuation for the latest updates and resources 

Your Questions Answered 

Have questions about UAD 3.6 and what it means for your business? Our team of experts is ready to help. Contact your Class Valuation representative today to schedule a consultation on how we can support your transition to this new standard. 

Class Valuation is committed to being your trusted partner through this industry change. Together, we'll navigate the UAD 3.6 transition with confidence and emerge stronger on the other side. 

For more information about UAD 3.6, visit the Fannie Mae UAD web page or the Freddie Mac UAD web page.