News

Real Estate Closings 101 (3 CE)

11/02/2026

Real Estate Closings 101 (3CE) Date: Thursday, November 19th, 2026 1:00 – 4:00 pm Location: […]

REALTOR Broker Summit

11/02/2026

Join HAAR for the North Alabama Broker Summit on February 18, 2027—a day dedicated to […]

NEW! Risk Management: From Signed to Sold (3 CE)

11/02/2026

NEW! Risk Management: From Signed to Sold (3 CE) Date: Wednesday, December 9th 1:00 pm […]

Broker Forum

11/02/2026

Join us for the North Alabama Broker Forum on Thursday, November 12 from 9:00–10:30 AM […]

10/30/2026

Real estate friends, this one is going to be good! 🎉 Join Atlantic Bay Mortgage […]

Superintendent’s Chat

10/30/2026

Superintendent’s Chat What’s happening in our local schools? Let’s talk about it. We’re bringing together […]

Rocket City Round Table

10/29/2026

North Alabama Real Estate Event Rocket City Roundtable Join real estate agents from across North […]

UAD 3.6 Appraisal Changes: What REALTORS® Need to Know

10/29/2026

Residential appraisal reports are undergoing their first major redesign in over two decades. The Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 update modernized standard appraisal forms into a dynamic, data-driven format designed to reflect today’s real estate landscape.

With the mandatory implementation date of November 2, 2026, coming up quickly, members of the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) need to understand what is changing, where to find crucial property details, and how to navigate the upcoming transition period seamlessly.

What is Changing with UAD 3.6?

Instead of relying on legacy paper-based forms (such as Form 1004), the new UAD 3.6 framework introduces a single, flexible report layout. This changes how appraisal information is organized and presented across all residential property types.

Key updates for REALTORS® include:

A New Layout & Data Architecture: Property details are organized into intuitive sections, making it easier to read once you get familiar with the structure.
Expanded Property Information Requests: Appraisers may request additional, detailed property data, such as specific feature breakdowns or mechanical upgrades, to fulfill new data requirements.
Streamlined Valuation Views: The report dynamically adapts depending on the property type, eliminating unnecessary fields and standardizing key terms.

Important Implementation & Transition Dates

To ensure a smooth transition for buyers, sellers, and lenders, implementation will occur in overlapping phases:

Mandatory Implementation: November 2, 2026
Transition Exception Period: Some lenders may continue utilizing older report formats through May 19, 2027.

Because of this extended exception timeline, REALTORS® should expect to see both old and new appraisal report formats during transactions over the next year. Understanding both layouts will prevent delays and keep closing timelines on track.

How REALTORS® Can Prepare and Assist Clients

Being proactive with the new appraisal report format will help you guide your clients confidently and facilitate better communication with appraisers.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the New Layout

Knowing where key valuation drivers, square footage breakdowns, and comparable adjustments are located helps you quickly review reports and address potential valuation discrepancies. Check out the HAAR Event & Education Calendar for upcoming local workshops and webinars.

2. Prepare Detailed Property Packets

Because appraisers need more structured data under UAD 3.6, providing comprehensive listing info—including modern home updates, permit details, and feature lists—helps appraisers complete reports efficiently.

3. Answer Client Questions with Confidence

Homebuyers and sellers rely on you to explain transaction paperwork. Understanding this update allows you to set clear expectations with clients when reviewing appraisal documentation.

Official Training & Learning Resources

You don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Fannie Mae has created comprehensive guides, visual walkthroughs, and sample reports to help industry professionals adjust quickly.

Access official webinars, overview documents, and detailed FAQs on the Fannie Mae UAD Resource Page.
Stay updated on local market standards and upcoming training opportunities through the HAAR Member Portal.

Getting ahead of the curve today will ensure your transactions remain smooth through November 2026 and beyond!

Holiday Party 2026: HAARLand After Dark

10/28/2026

December 10, 2026 | 5–8 PM HAAR | 535 Monroe St NW, Huntsville HAARLand is […]

Madison City Council Recap: Key Zoning, STR, & Infrastructure Updates for REALTORS®

10/26/2026

Staying in the loop on local government decisions is critical for guiding your buyers and sellers in North Alabama. The Madison City Council met on Monday, October 26, 2026, covering key residential zoning decisions, updates to short-term rental rules, new capital improvement planning, and crucial infrastructure enhancements across town.

Here are the most relevant updates from the council chambers that impact your local real estate business and clients.

Annexations & Residential Zoning Up for Final Consideration

Council held public hearings on two key residential zoning and annexation proposals following their initial readings on September 14, 2026:

North of Huntsville-Browns Ferry Road & East of Holladay Boulevard: Public hearing for Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-316, proposing to zone 20.8 acres owned by Reality 9, LLC, to RC-2 (Residential Cluster District) upon annexation. (Paired annexation ordinance: Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-314).
139 Lewter Drive (South of Eastview Drive): Public hearing for Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-319, zoning 1.55 acres owned by Glenn Ray and Deena McPherson to R-1A (Low Density Residential) upon annexation. (Paired annexation ordinance: Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-317).

REALTOR® Takeaway: Density developments like RC-2 clustering and new low-density residential single-lot additions expand inventory options in growing Madison corridors. Keep an eye on these parcels when consulting clients interested in new construction or western Madison expansion.

Short-Term Rental Ordinance Amendment (First Reading)

The Legal Department introduced Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-444, an amendment to Ordinance No. 2026-201 regarding Short-Term Rentals (STRs).

What’s Changing: This amendment updates the STR appeals process and formally establishes an Appeal Review Board for short-term rental permits and operations within the City of Madison.

REALTOR® Takeaway: If you represent real estate investors operating or shopping for STR properties in Madison, this structural change to the appeals process will directly affect how compliance issues and permit disputes are adjudicated.

Infrastructure & Traffic Flow Enhancements Across Madison

Smooth commutes drive home value. Several engineering contracts and change orders were presented to enhance key Madison corridors and intersections:

Royal Drive Extension (Phase 1): Approval of Change Order #1 for Rogers Group, Inc. ($178,061.80) to address roadway undercutting required by unsuitable subsoil conditions (Res. No. 2026-407-R).
Balch & Gillespie Roundabout: Contractor agreement with Whitworth Concrete Works, LLC ($61,600) to replace the center grass island with a stamped concrete center for reduced maintenance (Res. No. 2026-429-R).
Greenway Trail Extension: Adjustment for Mullins, LLC ($21,000) on the Town Madison Boulevard & Graphics Drive greenway path to align with federal grant guidelines (Res. No. 2026-408-R).
Traffic Signal Upgrades:
- Madison Blvd & County Line Rd (Radar detection rewiring upgrade; Res. No. 2026-433-R).
- Madison Blvd & Research Blvd (Traffic signal pole and overhead line replacement; Res. No. 2026-434-R).
- Wall Triana Hwy & Gooch Ln Signal Upgrade (Electrical work via Huntsville Utilities; Res. No. 2026-435-R).
- County Line Rd & Royal Dr Signal (Electrical work via Huntsville Utilities; Res. No. 2026-436-R).

Long-Term Capital Improvement Plan (FY 2027–2031)

The Finance Department introduced two major long-term planning measures:

Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Adoption of the City of Madison Capital Improvement Plan spanning Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031 (Res. No. 2026-446-R).
Capital Improvement Fund Amendments: Approval of Amendment No. 3 to General Capital Improvement Fund (Fund 38) project list and fund transfers (Res. No. 2026-441-R).

Public Facilities & Community Highlights

Public Facilities Maintenance: Approved service agreements with Trane U.S., Inc. for HVAC remote monitoring and maintenance at the Madison Public Library ($8,563) and other city-owned facilities ($57,497) (Res. Nos. 2026-427-R & 2026-428-R).
Community Events Sign-Offs: Authorized the use of Madison City Schools Stadium parking lots for the annual Christmas Parade on December 12, 2026, and the Trash Pandas Parade on April 1, 2027 (Res. Nos. 2026-448-R & 2026-449-R).

What This Means for Local REALTORS®

As Madison continues to balance commercial growth, infill residential development, and infrastructure demand, staying proactive with city council decisions equips you to answer client queries confidently. Whether it’s pointing out upcoming road improvement projects during neighborhood tours or keeping investor clients updated on short-term rental compliance, your local government affairs insight sets you apart.

Have questions about municipal issues affecting your transactions? Reach out to the HAAR Government Affairs team anytime at outreach@valleymls.com!

Website Search:

Real Estate Closings 101 (3 CE)

REALTOR Broker Summit

NEW! Risk Management: From Signed to Sold (3 CE)

Broker Forum

Superintendent’s Chat

Rocket City Round Table

UAD 3.6 Appraisal Changes: What REALTORS® Need to Know

Residential appraisal reports are undergoing their first major redesign in over two decades. The Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 update modernized standard appraisal forms into a dynamic, data-driven format designed to reflect today’s real estate landscape.

With the mandatory implementation date of November 2, 2026, coming up quickly, members of the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) need to understand what is changing, where to find crucial property details, and how to navigate the upcoming transition period seamlessly.

What is Changing with UAD 3.6?

Instead of relying on legacy paper-based forms (such as Form 1004), the new UAD 3.6 framework introduces a single, flexible report layout. This changes how appraisal information is organized and presented across all residential property types.

Key updates for REALTORS® include:

A New Layout & Data Architecture: Property details are organized into intuitive sections, making it easier to read once you get familiar with the structure.

Expanded Property Information Requests: Appraisers may request additional, detailed property data, such as specific feature breakdowns or mechanical upgrades, to fulfill new data requirements.

Streamlined Valuation Views: The report dynamically adapts depending on the property type, eliminating unnecessary fields and standardizing key terms.

Important Implementation & Transition Dates

To ensure a smooth transition for buyers, sellers, and lenders, implementation will occur in overlapping phases:

Mandatory Implementation: November 2, 2026

Transition Exception Period: Some lenders may continue utilizing older report formats through May 19, 2027.

Because of this extended exception timeline, REALTORS® should expect to see both old and new appraisal report formats during transactions over the next year. Understanding both layouts will prevent delays and keep closing timelines on track.

How REALTORS® Can Prepare and Assist Clients

Being proactive with the new appraisal report format will help you guide your clients confidently and facilitate better communication with appraisers.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the New Layout

Knowing where key valuation drivers, square footage breakdowns, and comparable adjustments are located helps you quickly review reports and address potential valuation discrepancies. Check out the HAAR Event & Education Calendar for upcoming local workshops and webinars.

2. Prepare Detailed Property Packets

Because appraisers need more structured data under UAD 3.6, providing comprehensive listing info—including modern home updates, permit details, and feature lists—helps appraisers complete reports efficiently.

3. Answer Client Questions with Confidence

Homebuyers and sellers rely on you to explain transaction paperwork. Understanding this update allows you to set clear expectations with clients when reviewing appraisal documentation.

Official Training & Learning Resources

You don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Fannie Mae has created comprehensive guides, visual walkthroughs, and sample reports to help industry professionals adjust quickly.

Access official webinars, overview documents, and detailed FAQs on the Fannie Mae UAD Resource Page.

Stay updated on local market standards and upcoming training opportunities through the HAAR Member Portal.

Getting ahead of the curve today will ensure your transactions remain smooth through November 2026 and beyond!

Holiday Party 2026: HAARLand After Dark

Madison City Council Recap: Key Zoning, STR, & Infrastructure Updates for REALTORS®

Here are the most relevant updates from the council chambers that impact your local real estate business and clients.

Annexations & Residential Zoning Up for Final Consideration

Council held public hearings on two key residential zoning and annexation proposals following their initial readings on September 14, 2026:

North of Huntsville-Browns Ferry Road & East of Holladay Boulevard: Public hearing for Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-316, proposing to zone 20.8 acres owned by Reality 9, LLC, to RC-2 (Residential Cluster District) upon annexation. (Paired annexation ordinance: Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-314).

139 Lewter Drive (South of Eastview Drive): Public hearing for Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-319, zoning 1.55 acres owned by Glenn Ray and Deena McPherson to R-1A (Low Density Residential) upon annexation. (Paired annexation ordinance: Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-317).

REALTOR® Takeaway: Density developments like RC-2 clustering and new low-density residential single-lot additions expand inventory options in growing Madison corridors. Keep an eye on these parcels when consulting clients interested in new construction or western Madison expansion.

Short-Term Rental Ordinance Amendment (First Reading)

The Legal Department introduced Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-444, an amendment to Ordinance No. 2026-201 regarding Short-Term Rentals (STRs).

What’s Changing: This amendment updates the STR appeals process and formally establishes an Appeal Review Board for short-term rental permits and operations within the City of Madison.

REALTOR® Takeaway: If you represent real estate investors operating or shopping for STR properties in Madison, this structural change to the appeals process will directly affect how compliance issues and permit disputes are adjudicated.

Infrastructure & Traffic Flow Enhancements Across Madison

Smooth commutes drive home value. Several engineering contracts and change orders were presented to enhance key Madison corridors and intersections:

Royal Drive Extension (Phase 1): Approval of Change Order #1 for Rogers Group, Inc. ($178,061.80) to address roadway undercutting required by unsuitable subsoil conditions (Res. No. 2026-407-R).

Balch & Gillespie Roundabout: Contractor agreement with Whitworth Concrete Works, LLC ($61,600) to replace the center grass island with a stamped concrete center for reduced maintenance (Res. No. 2026-429-R).

Greenway Trail Extension: Adjustment for Mullins, LLC ($21,000) on the Town Madison Boulevard & Graphics Drive greenway path to align with federal grant guidelines (Res. No. 2026-408-R).

Traffic Signal Upgrades:

Madison Blvd & County Line Rd (Radar detection rewiring upgrade; Res. No. 2026-433-R).

Madison Blvd & Research Blvd (Traffic signal pole and overhead line replacement; Res. No. 2026-434-R).

Wall Triana Hwy & Gooch Ln Signal Upgrade (Electrical work via Huntsville Utilities; Res. No. 2026-435-R).

County Line Rd & Royal Dr Signal (Electrical work via Huntsville Utilities; Res. No. 2026-436-R).

Long-Term Capital Improvement Plan (FY 2027–2031)

The Finance Department introduced two major long-term planning measures:

Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Adoption of the City of Madison Capital Improvement Plan spanning Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031 (Res. No. 2026-446-R).

Capital Improvement Fund Amendments: Approval of Amendment No. 3 to General Capital Improvement Fund (Fund 38) project list and fund transfers (Res. No. 2026-441-R).

Public Facilities & Community Highlights

Public Facilities Maintenance: Approved service agreements with Trane U.S., Inc. for HVAC remote monitoring and maintenance at the Madison Public Library ($8,563) and other city-owned facilities ($57,497) (Res. Nos. 2026-427-R & 2026-428-R).

Community Events Sign-Offs: Authorized the use of Madison City Schools Stadium parking lots for the annual Christmas Parade on December 12, 2026, and the Trash Pandas Parade on April 1, 2027 (Res. Nos. 2026-448-R & 2026-449-R).

What This Means for Local REALTORS®

Have questions about municipal issues affecting your transactions? Reach out to the HAAR Government Affairs team anytime at outreach@valleymls.com!

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