Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of TrueTracts? What does it do? What problems does it solve?
TrueTracts simplifies market area definition, time adjustments, and market analysis—making appraisal work faster, more accurate, and GSE-compliant.
Traditional methods rely on limited data and outdated linear models, often leading to missed time adjustments, reconsideration requests, or questions of bias.TrueTracts combines machine learning, appraiser-defined filters, and advanced analytics to deliver transparent, data-driven insights aligned with real market trends.
How does this tool benefit me?
By combining advanced analytics, machine learning, and appraiser-defined filters, TrueTracts delivers:
Accuracy: Eliminates arbitrary neighborhood and market boundaries by using data-driven insights.
Credibility: Provides non-linear time adjustments based on adjusted sale prices and contract dates.
Efficiency: Enables appraisers to analyze 3 to 5 times more data in less time.
Compliance: Aligns with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac requirements for credible market analysis.
What method does TrueTracts use to calculate Market value and why?
TrueTracts uses the Generalized Additive Model (GAM). GAM is a statistical tool used in data analysis and machine learning to uncover and explain trends in complex datasets. Unlike more traditional models which use a simple linear relationship, GAM uses a more “flexible ruler” that can more accurately and precisely measure complex relationships between factors such as location and price.In the context of real estate market analysis, this means appraisers and analysts can rely on GAM to uncover true market trends, make precise time adjustments, and deliver more accurate and credible valuations. To learn more about why TrueTracts is the answer to the need for a better approach to market analysis, download our free whitepaper.
What are the new guidelines from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and how do they relate to TrueTracts?
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac released new guidelines concerning time adjustments to comparable sales and market conditions analysis. They point out that the overall market trend and the most appropriate time adjustment for a particular comparable may conflict.Simply put, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac indicate that the time adjustment to each individual comparable sale should reflect what actually happened from that point of time (went under contract) to the time of the appraisal (effective date) rather than basing the time adjustment on a straight linear amount for the entire year.TrueTracts helps the appraiser use a data driven approach to define the Subject’s Submarket (SS) and Competing Submarket (CS) as well as easily identifying properties that are locationally similar.Below are links to the guidance that was issued in November 2024:Fannie Mae Guide Freddie Mac Guide
How do I sign up for TrueTracts?
You can sign up here: https://truetracts.truefootage.tech/signup
If you already have an account, login here: https://truetracts.truefootage.tech/login
What is the cost?
The beta version of TrueTracts is free for a limited time. However, there is one (optional) feature that requires payment: Automatic data imports to TOTAL. This fee is charged by a la Mode, not TrueTracts.
Can my trainee and I share a login?
No, each user will have their own log-in credentials. In the future, you may be able to share session links.
How do I reset my password?
There is a password reset link right below the password box on the login screen. Click the link and enter the email address associated with your account.
How fresh and accurate is the data in the tool?
Data is updated daily. The tool uses the last 5 years of sales.
Is my area supported?
You can check the current list of supported counties here.
Is this tool compliant with USPAP and industry standards?
Yes! The design of this tool was driven by and developed with expert appraiser input. Great consideration to appraisal standards and best practices has been given to every feature of this tool to help the appraiser be compliant, accurate and more efficient.