Best ALTA Survey Providers for Fannie Mae Loans
Expert comparison of surveying companies specializing in Fannie Mae multifamily requirements, Table A compliance, and agency loan closings.
Why Fannie Mae Loans Need Specialized ALTA Surveyors
Fannie Mae multifamily loans require ALTA surveys with specific Table A items that many general surveyors aren't familiar with. Using a surveyor inexperienced with agency requirements can result in rejected surveys, delayed closings, and costly revisions.
The best ALTA survey providers for Fannie Mae loans understand agency certification requirements, maintain relationships with Fannie Mae-approved lenders, and can deliver compliant surveys within transaction timelines.
Fannie Mae Required Table A Items
Fannie Mae requires the following Table A optional items on all ALTA surveys for multifamily properties:
How We Evaluate Fannie Mae Surveyors
When selecting an ALTA survey provider for Fannie Mae loans, these factors determine the quality and reliability of the survey:
Prior experience completing surveys for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans
Experience with apartment complexes, student housing, and senior living
Understanding of all 21 Table A items and when each applies
Ability to meet agency timelines (typically 2-3 weeks standard)
Experience coordinating with title companies on certification
Multi-state capabilities for portfolio transactions
Top ALTA Survey Providers for Fannie Mae Loans
These surveying firms have demonstrated expertise in Fannie Mae multifamily surveys. Providers are evaluated based on agency experience, Table A proficiency, and lender relationships.
EL ECS Limited
Large multi-disciplinary firm with 3,000+ employees. Founded 1988. Pre-approved by major GSE lenders (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD). Comprehensive due diligence services.
BC Bowman Consulting Group
Publicly traded on Nasdaq (BWMN) since May 2021; multi-disciplinary consulting firm offering broad range of services to public and private clients
Fannie Mae ALTA Survey Costs
Fannie Mae compliant ALTA surveys cost toward the higher end of the range due to the required Table A items. The 13 required items add approximately $800-$1,500 to a base ALTA survey depending on property complexity.
Cost factors: Property size, number of buildings, parking complexity, and geographic location all affect final pricing. Large multifamily communities (200+ units) may exceed standard pricing.
Fannie Mae Survey Timeline
Proposal, authorization, title commitment order
Receive title commitment, research easements and exceptions
Site survey, boundary, improvements, and Table A data collection
Survey preparation, QC, certification, and delivery
Rush service: Available in 7-10 business days for an additional $500-$1,500 fee. Schedule early in the transaction to avoid delays.
Tips for a Smooth Fannie Mae Survey
- Order early - Don't wait until the last minute. ALTA surveys for Fannie Mae require title commitment review, which adds time.
- Confirm Table A items - Verify with your lender which specific Table A items are required for your transaction. Requirements may vary by property type.
- Provide site access - Ensure surveyors have access to all areas of the property, including utility rooms, parking structures, and building interiors if needed.
- Share prior surveys - If available, provide prior surveys to reduce research time and potentially lower costs.
- Coordinate with title - Ensure your surveyor receives the title commitment promptly. Delays in title slow down the entire survey process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Table A items does Fannie Mae require?
Fannie Mae requires Table A items 1, 2, 3, 4, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8, 9, 10, 13, 16, 18 for multifamily loans. These include monument placement, flood zone, setback lines, building dimensions, parking counts, and utilities. Use our Table A Configurator for the complete list.
How much does a Fannie Mae compliant ALTA survey cost?
An ALTA survey meeting Fannie Mae requirements typically costs $3,000 to $8,000 for standard multifamily properties. Costs vary based on property size, complexity, and the specific Table A items required. The required items add approximately $800-$1,500 to a base survey.
How long does a Fannie Mae ALTA survey take?
Fannie Mae compliant ALTA surveys typically take 2-3 weeks from authorization to delivery. Rush service may be available in 7-10 business days for an additional fee. Plan survey timing early in the transaction to avoid delays in loan closing.
Can I use an existing ALTA survey for Fannie Mae?
Existing surveys may be acceptable if less than 6 months old and the surveyor is willing to recertify. The survey must include all required Table A items and reflect current property conditions. Most lenders require surveys dated within 90 days of closing.