If you’re thinking about selling your home, an important appraisal change is coming in 2026 that sellers should understand. Beginning November 2, 2026, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are scheduled to require appraisers to use UAD 3.6, a new framework designed to create greater consistency and transparency in how property information is collected and reported. For sellers, this reinforces something I’ve believed throughout my real estate career: your home’s condition, history, improvements, documentation, and pricing strategy matter. Appraisers may require more detailed information about a property’s characteristics, renovations, condition, and improvements, along with more structured documentation. That means your home’s story shouldn’t begin on appraisal day. Before listing, sellers should document meaningful improvements such as a new roof, HVAC system, renovated kitchen or baths, windows, finished living space, landscaping, and custom features. Pricing also goes far beyond choosing three comparable sales. Two homes with similar square footage can have very different values based on condition, construction quality, renovations, layout, lot, location, views, garage space, and maintenance. An appraiser independently determines value, but an experienced Realtor can ensure your property is accurately represented and facts support its full story. Preparation, documentation, presentation, and strategic pricing matter more than ever. When selling one of your largest financial assets, the details should be part of the strategy from day one.
