Understanding the new Uniform Property Dataset from Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac
A Q&A with Sherri Zahtilla, SVP Operations
1. Let's start with the basics, what is the new Uniform Property Dataset (UPD)?
The Uniform Property Dataset, or UPD, is a standardized dataset developed by both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that is designed to “enhance data quality and consistency in property data collection.” Before the UPD went into effect April 1 of this year, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac each had separate, similar but slightly different guidelines and data collection forms – Property Data Collection for Fannie (PDCs) and Property Data Reports (PDRs) for Freddie—that they used in making appraisal waiver decisions.
UPD replaces those forms and captures all required, conditionally required and optional data elements for GSE property data collection as well as supports a full interior and exterior data collection, with images and floor plan of the subject property.
The UPD functions as a centralized repository for property data. It aggregates key information about properties, including physical characteristics, location details, and valuation metrics. Mortgage lenders and stakeholders can access this standardized dataset to make more informed decisions throughout the loan lifecycle.
2. How Can CSS Help Mortgage Lenders With the UPD?
CSS, through our collaboration with ProxyPics, is able to provide a turnkey UPD solution to our clients. We collect the inspection data in the approved format and can submit to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac on the lender’s behalf.
As lenders become more accustomed to UPD, we expect the demand for this option to grow. After all, appraisal waivers save borrowers money and accelerate the approval process: two benefits that can improve loan pull through.
The UPD is being billed as a significant first step in the GSEs’ attempt to add efficiency to the appraisal process. Once adoption grows, the UPD has the potential to significantly help mitigate risk and improve operational efficiency for lenders. By accessing standardized property data through the UPD, lenders will be able to enhance their underwriting processes, reduce discrepancies and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Moreover, it will facilitate more accurate property valuations, supporting lenders in making informed lending decisions.
3. How Will the New UPD Benefit the Appraisal Process?
The aging within the appraiser workforce is a long-term challenge facing the mortgage industry. A more efficient, data-based process of identifying properties where appraisal waivers can be safely justified is part of the solution to the coming shortage of experienced appraisers.
UPD also has the potential of playing a critical role in optimizing the appraisal process by providing comprehensive property information in a standardized format. Appraisers can leverage this dataset to access critical details about property, such as square footage, amenities, and neighborhood characteristics, thereby improving the accuracy and consistency of property valuations. Furthermore, the UPD promotes transparency and consistency in appraisals, fostering greater confidence among lenders, borrowers and other key stakeholders
