Relevant News

Beginning in 2026, NAR will accept any AQB-approved course satisfying the Valuation Bias and Fair Housing Laws and Regulations learning objectives to also satisfy NAR's Fair Housing Training requirement.

On January 14, 2026, HUD issued a proposed rule eliminating HUD regulations governing disparate impact liability under the Fair Housing Act and revoked guidance addressing appraisal bias.

All state-credentialed appraisers must complete the 7-hour Valuation Bias and Fair Housing Laws and Regulations (VB-FH) course, effective January 1, 2026.

New maximum per-unit deductible of $50,000 for master policies effective July 1, 2026, and roofs may now be insured on actual cash value basis rather than replacement cost only.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac increased required capital reserves from 10% to 15% of annual budget for projects under Full Review, effective January 2027.

Streamlined Review project review type was retired effective August 3, 2026, requiring most established condo projects to undergo Full Review instead, with lenders having fewer simplified review options.

HUD's Mortgagee Letter 2026-10 (effective 6/23/26) eliminates the requirement that FHA lenders obtain appraisal field reviews on at least 10% of quality control loans -- lenders now use risk-based judgment instead, an estimated $3.3M/year industry savings.

Fannie Mae's SEL-2026-08 (published 9/2/26) updates UAD 3.6 highest-and-best-use requirements -- appraisals must now reflect the property's highest and best use as improved or proposed, not present use, effective immediately.