Appraisal workload trends, BRAVE data standards, and URAR learning opportunities
In this issue:
- Freddie Mac analysis highlights regional differences in appraisal workload and mortgage market demand.
- Register for the July 16 Trending Topics Thursday webinar on BRAVE and the future of commercial appraisal data.
- Read the latest advocacy update on targeted modernization of FHA Minimum Property Requirements.
- Explore upcoming URAR companion courses designed to strengthen residential analysis and reporting skills.
A Note About Your Newsletter
We're moving Appraisal Now to biweekly starting with this issue. Your next issue will be July 21, then every other Tuesday from there.
Freddie Mac Data Highlights Regional Differences in Appraisal Workload
As the housing market continues to normalize following the unprecedented refinance boom of 2020 and 2021, a newly updated Freddie Mac analysis provides an interesting look at how appraisal activity is distributed across the country and what it may say about changing market dynamics.
The centerpiece of the report is a state-by-state heat map showing the average number of GSE appraisals completed per active appraiser credential during the first five months of 2026. Rather than measuring the number of appraisers in each state, the map illustrates average appraisal workload, revealing considerable variation from one market to another.
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Q. I was hired by a local lender to complete a refinance appraisal on a rural property. The lender contacts me directly a few times a year and does not use an AMC.
The property included an older but well-maintained home on more than three acres, along with a barn and two additional outbuildings. The owner was very pleasant and appeared to be in good health, so I was surprised when the lender notified me about a week after my inspection that she had passed away and the assignment was canceled. I was paid a partial inspection fee, although it did not fully cover my time.
Since I had already gathered photos, measurements, sketches, and field notes, I compiled a workfile as required, even though the report was never completed.
Recently, I received a call from someone claiming to be the owner’s son. He said the family planned to sell the property and requested a copy of my appraisal report. I explained that no report had been completed. He then demanded my entire file, including photos, stating that the information was personal and belonged to his family. I declined and explained that he was not my client.
He became upset and threatened legal action, claiming the materials were private and that I would be hearing from his attorney. Should I be concerned?
Read Claudia’s answer to understand your obligations and how to respond.
AI Blog
The next live online session of Basic Appraisal Principles begins July 7—and there's still time to register.
If you're considering a career in appraisal or beginning your qualifying education, revisit our blog on why this course is much more than an introduction. Learn how it builds the concepts that support every appraisal assignment, from property rights and value theory to valuation methodology.
Read the blog and register today.
Sign up for our next free webinar
The Next Generation of Commercial Appraisal Data: Understanding BRAVE
July 16, 2026, 11 AM CT
As commercial real estate valuation becomes increasingly data-driven, the need for standardized, interoperable appraisal data has never been greater. The BRAVE (Business Rules for Appraisal and Valuation Exchange) Appraisal Data Standard was developed to create a common framework for exchanging commercial appraisal information across lenders, appraisal firms, technology providers, and other industry stakeholders.
Join Jeff Garvin, MAI, Senior Vice President and Chief Appraiser at Bank OZK, and Elaine D. Liz-Plowman, MAI, AI-GRS, Director of Appraisal Services at Hancock Whitney Corp., for an overview of the origins and development of BRAVE, the challenges it was designed to address, and its role in the future of commercial valuation.
Appraisal Organizations Recommend Targeted FHA MPR Modernization
The Appraisal Institute, joined by the American Society of Appraisers, the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, and MBREA, submitted comments to HUD supporting thoughtful modernization of the Federal Housing Administration's Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). Rather than weakening longstanding borrower protections, the organizations urged FHA to improve clarity, consistency, and efficiency by reducing unnecessary documentation, streamlining guidance, expanding appropriate post-closing repair flexibility, and clarifying appraisers' role as property observers, not home inspectors. The comments also emphasize preserving the appraiser's critical role in identifying readily observable property conditions that may affect collateral risk while maintaining FHA's core safety, soundness, and security standards.
Kentucky Board Approves Significant Increase in Appraiser Licensing Fees
The Kentucky Real Estate Appraisal Board (KREAB) has voted to substantially increase appraiser licensing and renewal fees. Under the fee schedule approved by the KREAB, the biennial licensing fee would increase to $1,180 every two years, representing a dramatic increase from previous fee levels.
Real Estate Horizons
Stay updated and check out links to the latest major real estate industry stories!
More Opportunities to Learn
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Your community
Appraisal Institute and TEGOVA Expand Global AI Education Collaboration
The Appraisal Institute and The European Group of Valuers' Associations (TEGOVA) are strengthening their partnership by making the Appraisal Institute's AI on AI Replay: Season 1 available to TEGOVA members across Europe. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to preparing valuation professionals for the evolving role of artificial intelligence in practice while reinforcing the importance of professional judgment, ethics, and transparency.
The seven-hour, on-demand program explores practical applications of generative AI throughout the valuation process, from research and market analysis to narrative development and workflow efficiency. Participants also examine important considerations surrounding confidentiality, disclosure, and responsible AI use, ensuring that technology enhances, rather than replaces, professional expertise.
By expanding access to this educational resource, the Appraisal Institute and TEGOVA continue to build stronger connections between valuation professionals worldwide and support the exchange of knowledge across international markets. The program is available to TEGOVA members for $99 USD.
Until Next time
Team Appraisal Institute
