LEADing THE CHArGE to Bring Accessibility into Real Estate
ABLE Environments partners with Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) across the country to help them better identify, organize, and display accessibility features within their listing databases. Our consulting services make it possible for MLSs to modernize their systems to meet the growing demand for accessible, age-friendly, and universally designed homes—helping both real estate professionals and consumers find homes that truly fit their needs.
Our team brings decades of combined experience in real estate, accessibility, data design, and education. From initial strategy through full implementation, we guide MLSs through the process of integrating accessibility criteria that are accurate, inclusive, and easy to use.
Why Accessibility Matters
More than 60 million Americans live with some form of disability, and millions more are aging in place or planning for future mobility needs. Yet, until recently, most MLS systems provided no way to search for homes that met those needs.
ABLE Environments is changing that. By integrating standardized accessibility data fields, we make it possible for homebuyers and agents to identify features such as zero-step entries, roll-in showers, or single-level living—bringing transparency and inclusivity to the housing market.
Our MLS Consulting Services
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Accessibility Field Integration
We work directly with MLS leadership, technical teams, and member committees to develop and implement data fields and support forms that reflect real-world accessibility needs. Each field and form is designed using plain language and aligned with universal design and age-in-place principles.
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Taxonomy & Data Structure Development
We help MLSs create a clear and consistent taxonomy that ensures accessibility data is searchable, standardized, and compatible across platforms. Our work often includes mapping new fields to RESO Data Dictionary standards for national interoperability.
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Policy & Compliance Support
We help MLSs develop internal policies and best practices for the ethical use of accessibility data, ensuring compliance with Fair Housing laws and protecting both brokers and consumers.
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Stakeholder Engagement & Training
Successful adoption requires buy-in from the people who use the system every day. We provide educational webinars, presentations, and user guides to help MLS staff, brokers, and agents understand the purpose and use of accessibility data fields.
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Ongoing Consultation & Review
As accessibility standards evolve, so should your MLS. We provide continued support to review data effectiveness, recommend updates, and guide enhancements that keep your MLS ahead of the curve.
Proven Success
ABLE Environments led the development and launch of the nation’s first accessibility data fields through the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) in Washington State. Since then, our model has been adopted and customized by other MLSs across the country.
Our approach not only improves data accuracy—it increases engagement, enhances consumer confidence, and positions MLSs as leaders in inclusive real estate practices.
