Why are there among our Fellows who conclude the new UAD3.6 is a terror?  It may be that it is a change from what we already know, and everybody (not just appraisers) fear changes.  Or maybe it is because this will require appraisers to learn a new “language”.  After all, what currently works in report writing will be obsolete when UAD3.6 comes out.  Or maybe it is just that appraisers think the GSEs have no call or right to meddle in what works.  Hey!  It ain’t broke, so don’t fix it.  No, it’s not broke.  But it is old and outdated.

So, to claim “UAD3.6 is a terror” may be jumping the gun a little.  Between this writing and November 2, 2026 when UAD goes into effect, there are approximately 14-months within which appraisers can learn and then conquer USD3.6.  Is there going to be some disruption of appraisal life as we know it?  Yes, of course.  Are some of our Fellows going to find this transition difficult? Surely.  Will the UAD3.6 that rolls out in September of 2025 be the same UAD3.6 that presents in November 2026?  Probably not.  So, what are we appraisers going to do?  Some will see these changes are a reason to collapse and fail.  Others will see it as an opportunity to rise to the occasion.  Really, is that not how we should all be?

So, we can collapse in tears of frustration, or triumph with tears of joy and enthusiasm.  If you think UAD3.6 is a terror you’ll be right.  And it you think it is an opportunity to excel, you’ll be right, too.

In any event, keep your E&O Insurance up-to-date, and an experienced administrative law attorney‘s number handy in your phone.  Those don’t mean you are afraid of anything.  It merely means  your wise.