At Connexions Software, we understand that change of this magnitude can feel daunting. That's why we've invested heavily in ensuring our platform and services are fully aligned with UAD 3.6 requirements—making the transition as easy as possible for our clients.

In this post, we'll explore what UAD 3.6 means for the industry, share original insights into the transition process, and explain why partnering with Connexions Software positions you for success.

Understanding UAD 3.6: More Than Just a Form Redesign

UAD 3.6 is not simply a cosmetic update to existing appraisal forms. It represents a fundamental rethinking of how appraisal information is structured, collected, and transmitted across the mortgage ecosystem. The current UAD format, introduced in 2011, served its purpose but no longer reflects how modern appraisals are performed or how data moves through today's loan origination systems.

The new standard introduces approximately 150 new or modified data fields that reflect advances in property valuation methodology, technology capabilities, and evolving market needs. Perhaps most significantly, UAD 3.6 replaces the legacy static forms—including the familiar 1004, 1073, 2055, and others—with a single, dynamic Uniform Residential Appraisal Report (URAR) that adapts in real time to accommodate different property types, assignment characteristics, and loan scenarios.

Key Changes at a Glance

Dynamic Report Structure: Rather than selecting a specific form number, the new URAR adjusts automatically based on property type (single-family, condo, manufactured housing, 2-4 units) and assignment scope (traditional, desktop, hybrid, or exterior-only). This eliminates form-selection headaches and reduces edge cases that never fit cleanly on older forms.

Enhanced Data Standardization: UAD 3.6 transforms free-form commentary into discrete, standardized data fields. Property characteristics like site details, exterior and interior conditions, additional structures, quality ratings (Q1-Q6), and condition ratings (C1-C6) are now captured with more detailed, objective definitions.

New Reporting Sections: The redesigned URAR introduces sections for disaster mitigation features (fire-resistant decking, fortified roofs, impact-resistant glass) and energy efficiency/green features (solar panels, building certifications, HVAC efficiency). These additions reflect the growing importance of sustainability and resilience in property valuation.

Room-Level Detail: Appraisers will now document features at the room level, including dimensions, condition, and materials, creating unprecedented precision in how properties are compared across markets.

MISMO 3.6 Alignment: The updated dataset aligns with MISMO 3.6 standards and introduces ZIP-based file delivery (containing PDF, XML, and individual JPEG images) rather than the traditional ENV format, enabling more robust data analysis and automation.

Implementation Timeline: Where We Are Now

The GSEs have established a phased rollout to give the industry time to prepare and adapt:

September 8, 2025 – Limited Production: A select group of approved lenders and software vendors began testing UAD 3.6 in a controlled production environment, identifying real-world issues while UAD 2.6 remained the industry standard.

January 26, 2026 – Broad Production: All lenders may now submit UAD 3.6 reports without prior GSE approval. Both UAD 2.6 and 3.6 coexist during this dual-path period, allowing organizations to phase in adoption by channel, geography, or product type.

November 2, 2026 – Mandatory Compliance: UAD 3.6 becomes required for all new appraisal submissions to the Uniform Collateral Data Portal (UCDP). Legacy forms will no longer be accepted for new assignments.

May 3, 2027 – Full Retirement: The UAD 2.6 pipeline will be completely retired. No revisions to legacy reports will be accepted after this date.

Original Insights: What the Industry Is Learning

Having worked closely with lenders, AMCs, and technology partners throughout the preparation phase, Connexions Software has gained valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities this transition presents.

The Interdependency Challenge

One expert aptly compared the UAD 3.6 rollout to untangling a string of Christmas lights: if one bulb goes out, the entire string goes dark. This metaphor captures the reality that successful implementation requires coordination across multiple technology vendors—loan origination systems, appraisal management platforms, QC tools, and data warehouses must all be updated and aligned. Organizations that wait until the last minute risk discovering integration failures when there's no time to fix them.

It's Not Just About Forms—It's About Workflow Transformation

A common misconception is that UAD 3.6 is simply a new appraisal form. In reality, the transition touches every part of the valuation workflow: ordering (specifying property characteristics rather than form numbers), data collection (more structured fields, fewer narrative addenda), review and QC (data-driven validation instead of manual form reading), and delivery (ZIP files instead of ENV). Organizations that approach this as merely a form update will find themselves scrambling to address workflow gaps.

The Value Proposition for Early Adopters

Lenders and AMCs who embrace UAD 3.6 early are discovering tangible benefits: reduced revision requests due to clearer data standards, faster review cycles thanks to structured fields that eliminate ambiguity, and improved analytics capabilities that enhance risk management. The standardized data also supports better automated valuation models (AVMs) and collateral risk assessment, positioning forward-thinking organizations for competitive advantage.

The Human Element Remains Critical

Despite the modernization, UAD 3.6 does not replace human appraisers. The GSEs have been clear that this update adds tools and standardization while preserving the essential role of professional judgment. As mechanical checks become automated, appraisers can focus on higher-value analysis—edge cases, market nuances, and risk factors that require expertise. For lenders, this means maintaining strong appraiser relationships and investing in training remains essential.

Why Adapting to UAD 3.6 Will Be Easy with Connexions Software

At Connexions Software, we've been preparing for UAD 3.6 for years—not months. Our commitment to staying ahead of industry changes means our clients benefit from proactive solutions rather than reactive scrambling.

Fully UAD 3.6-Compliant Platform: Our systems have been updated to handle the new dataset, file formats, and ULDD Phase 5 requirements. Whether you're processing traditional appraisals, desktops, or hybrids, our platform seamlessly supports the dynamic URAR structure.

Seamless Integration Support: We understand that UAD 3.6 success depends on how well systems work together. Our team has worked closely with major LOS providers, AMCs, and QC vendors to ensure data flows correctly between platforms. If you're using Encompass, MeridianLink, Empower, or other systems, we've got you covered.

Dual-Format Flexibility: During the broad production period, you may need to process both UAD 2.6 and 3.6 reports. Our platform supports both formats simultaneously, allowing you to phase in adoption at your own pace while maintaining compliance for all loan types.

Comprehensive Training Resources: We believe technology is only as good as the people using it. Connexions Software provides extensive training materials, webinars, and documentation to ensure your processors, underwriters, and review teams understand the new data elements and can work efficiently from day one.

Expert Guidance Through Transition: Our team includes industry veterans who have navigated major transitions before. We're not just a technology vendor—we're a partner who will help you audit your current workflows, identify potential friction points, and develop a transition plan that minimizes disruption.

Future-Ready Architecture: UAD 3.6 is designed to support ongoing innovation in the appraisal space. Our platform architecture anticipates future updates, meaning you won't face another disruptive overhaul when the next iteration arrives. By partnering with Connexions Software today, you're investing in long-term stability.

The Bottom Line

UAD 3.6 represents a pivotal moment for the mortgage and appraisal industries. While the November 2026 deadline may seem distant, the organizations that begin preparing now will avoid last-minute scrambles and position themselves for operational advantages—faster processing, fewer errors, better data analytics, and stronger compliance postures.

At Connexions Software, we're committed to making this transition as smooth and straightforward as possible. Our platform is ready, our team is experienced, and our partnership approach ensures you have the support you need at every step.

Don't wait until the mandate is upon you. Contact Connexions Software today to learn how we can help you navigate UAD 3.6 with confidence and ease.