Appraisal Updates Are Coming — Here's What CA Buyers Should Know

New appraisal standards are introducing price gaps and longer timelines that could affect your home purchase. Here's what to expect and how to stay ahead of the changes.

If you're in the process of buying a home in California — or planning to — there are some important appraisal changes on the horizon that could affect your timeline and costs.

Updated appraisal standards (known as UAD 3.6) are rolling out across the industry, and they're already raising questions. Two of the biggest issues: appraisal fees can vary by as much as $300 depending on who's doing the work, and the new process is adding anywhere from three to five extra days to the appraisal timeline.

For buyers in a competitive California market, an extra three to five days can feel like an eternity — especially in multiple-offer situations. And a $300 swing in appraisal costs, while not deal-breaking, is worth factoring into your closing cost estimates.

If you're working with a Realtor, make sure they're aware of these delays so contract timelines can be adjusted accordingly. The last thing you want is an appraisal contingency causing unnecessary stress at the finish line.

As your mortgage broker, it's our job to keep you ahead of these kinds of industry shifts so nothing surprises you at closing.

Have questions about the home buying process or current appraisal timelines in California? Reach out to our team — we're here to guide you every step of the way.