The duration for which an appraisal remains valid under Federal Housing Administration (FHA) guidelines is a critical factor in real estate transactions. This period represents the window of time during which the assessed property value can be relied upon for loan underwriting purposes. An FHA appraisal establishes a property’s market value and ensures it meets minimum property standards, which protects both the lender and the borrower.
Maintaining an up-to-date appraisal is essential for ensuring that the loan amount accurately reflects the property’s current market value and condition. This protects the FHA’s insurance fund and prevents borrowers from obtaining loans for properties that are overvalued or do not meet safety and habitability requirements. Historically, consistent appraisal validity periods have helped stabilize the housing market and promote responsible lending practices.