The Upcoming URAR Style Guide Explained

We thought we'd share a recent blog by one of our appraisal advisors, John Anderson. You can find the original, more detailed, post on our website.

We've discussed the upcoming changes with the Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 and the Uniform Property Dataset (UPD), initiatives by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac designed to streamline how we collect, structure, and report property data digitally.

A critical component of these updates is the new dynamic Uniform Residential Appraisal Report (URAR), guided visually by the URAR Report Style Guide Supplement (Appendix E-1).

What is Appendix E-1? Appendix E-1 serves as the visual framework for the updated URAR, dictating precise typefaces, element placements, and formatting details. Its goal is ensuring every URAR, regardless of software, maintains a consistent visual presentation.

Key Elements Defined by the Style Guide:

• Standardized Layout: Clearly defines consistent layouts such as headers (HDR-L, HDR-R) and footers (FTR-L, FTR-R), ensuring uniform placement.
• Component Styling Codes: Uses codes to standardize styles:
• Clear Visual Hierarchy: Different text styles, sizes, and indentation ensure reports are quickly readable.
• Mandated Consistency: All compliant reports will share a uniform visual structure, significantly improving readability and review efficiency.

Why It Matters to Appraisers:

• Faster Navigation: Familiarity with standardized layouts allows quicker report navigation.
• Easier Reviews: Consistent presentation aids in reviewing your own reports for accuracy and completeness.
• Structured Data Reinforcement: Supports the transition to structured data and reduces reliance on varied narrative formats.
• Technology Integration: Modern appraisal tools and automation platforms, such as Valuemate, align seamlessly with these formatting standards, enhancing efficiency.

Looking Ahead: The URAR Report Style Guide Supplement is a key step in appraisal modernization, emphasizing consistency in data and visual presentation. Understanding this framework prepares you for a smoother transition and helps leverage the advantages of standardized appraisal processes.