Understanding the UAD 3.6 Appraisal Changes

Changes to the appraisal process have become an important topic of conversation across the real estate and mortgage industries. With the introduction of the Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6, the way property information is collected, documented, and reviewed is evolving. For real estate agents, loan officers, and their clients, understanding these changes can help set expectations and address questions as the industry transitions to a new appraisal reporting format.

 

In this special release episode of The Closing Table, Duffy Hanna sits down with Ken Wojnowski, President of 1st Priority Mortgage, Howard Hanna Mortgage’s affiliate in New York, and Michelle Swaciak, Vice President of Operations for the Howard Hanna Family of Mortgage Companies, to discuss the UAD 3.6 appraisal changes, why they’re happening, and what they mean for the homebuying process.

 

Ken and Michelle explain how the new appraisal format is designed to modernize reporting, improve clarity, and make property information easier to understand. They discuss the differences between traditional appraisal reports and the new format, including more detailed property measurements, clearer comparable property information, and reports tailored to specific property types.

 

The conversation also addresses concerns about how these changes could affect mortgage transactions, particularly appraisal turnaround times and underwriting reviews. Michelle shares how the mortgage operations teams began working with UAD 3.6 appraisals in August, what they’ve learned through early implementation, and how the industry is adapting to the transition. Ken offers perspective on why patience and education are important as appraisers, lenders, and real estate professionals become familiar with the new process.

 

For agents wondering what these changes mean for their transactions, Ken and Michelle discuss how Howard Hanna’s mortgage teams are preparing through training, communication, and hands on experience with the new reporting format. They also explain why having knowledgeable lending partners can help agents stay informed and better support their buyers and sellers as industry practices evolve.

 

A timely conversation about UAD 3.6, the future of appraisal reporting, and how preparation, education, and collaboration can help real estate professionals navigate appraisal changes with greater confidence.