FHA Gives Lenders, Borrowers More Time to Use Appraisal Reports
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) on Tuesday published Revised Appraisal Validity Periods guidance that extends the initial appraisal validity period from 120 days to 180 days and the appraisal update validity period from 240 days to one year for Single Family Title II forward mortgage programs.
These changes align FHA appraisal validity periods with industry practices, making it easier for lenders to manage appraisal validity while potentially reducing appraisal costs for mortgagees and ultimately, borrowers seeking FHA-insured mortgage financing. The guidance applies to case numbers assigned on or after June 1, 2022.
The appraisal validity period establishes the maximum time an appraisal report may be used for an FHA-insured mortgage. This also includes the time mortgagees can utilize an appraisal update to extend the initial appraisal validity period.
The updates highlighted in this guidance will be incorporated in a future version of the Single Family Housing Policy Handbook.
Latest from NAHBNow
Apr 03, 2026
NAHB’s Monthly Update Features a Codes Victory and Economic SnapshotThe talking points this month feature news related to federal energy code mandates and the current economic conditions for the housing industry.
Apr 02, 2026
Call Before You Dig: 6 Key Steps to Prevent Utility Strikes on the JobsiteApril’s National Safe Digging Month is a timely reminder for builders, contractors and trade partners to prioritize one of the most critical and often overlooked jobsite safety practices: preventing utility strikes.
Latest Economic News
Apr 03, 2026
Job Growth Rebounds in MarchThe U.S. labor market showed signs of a modest rebound in March following a weak February, as payroll employment increased and the unemployment rate edged down to 4.3%. Job growth was led by healthcare, construction, and transportation and warehousing.
Apr 02, 2026
Iran Conflict Reverses Decline in Mortgage RatesMortgage rates, which dipped below 6% in February, climbed back up to end the month just under 6.4%. According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.18% in March, 13 points (bps) higher than February. The average 15-year rate also increased by the same amount to 5.56%. Despite the recent increase, both rates remain lower than a year ago by 47 bps and 27 bps, respectively.
Apr 01, 2026
Consumer Confidence Climbs Despite Oil Price SurgeConsumer confidence in March rose to a three-month high as consumers’ improved view of current business and labor market conditions outweighed weaker future expectations.