Accessibility Real Estate Specialist (ARES) Designation
The tools are here. Make accessibility part of your expertise.
Northwest Multiple Listing Service and Able Environments have partnered to help you identify, search for, and highlight accessibility features in the homes you list and show. The Accessibility Real Estate Specialist (ARES™) designation gives you the knowledge to put those tools into action, strengthen your listings, connect buyers with features that meet their needs, and guide clients with greater confidence.
NWMLS members receive exclusive pricing:
Complete the training, earn 10 clock hours, and save $250 with the special member price of $299, regularly $549.
*Use discount code NWMLS in all capital letters when registering.
NWMLS members: Build your expertise. Expand your impact.
Enroll in ARES™ today and make accessibility part of what sets you apart.
The ARES™ designation equips you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to serve clients with accessibility needs while setting yourself apart in today's market.
Through expert interviews, engaging lessons, and real-world examples, you will learn how to:
Confidently work with clients who have accessibility needs
Recognize and communicate accessibility and Universal Design features
Use Form 6B and the NWMLS accessibility search tools effectively
Create stronger, more informative listings
Build expertise in an underserved and growing market
The course is fully online and self-paced, so you can complete it whenever it fits your schedule.
By becoming ARES™-certified, you'll join a community of professionals committed to expanding housing opportunities and creating a more inclusive real estate experience.
NWMLS members receive exclusive pricing: Complete the training, earn 10 clock hours, and save $250 with the special member price of $299, regularly $549.
*Use discount code NWMLS in all capital letters when registering.
Why Real Estate Agents Should Care About Accessibility
Massive Market Growth: 10,000 Americans turn 70 every day—demand for accessible homes is soaring!
Untapped Business Opportunity: Stand out in a competitive market and engage an underserved community
Legal Awareness: Understanding accessibility helps avoid legal issues and supports fair housing
Future-Proof Your Career: The “Silver Tsunami” is here—agents who adapt will lead the market
You don’t need a new client base—stand out in your current one by showing you understand accessibility!
ARES Sample Units
ARES Promo
A Brief Introduction to the ARES Training Program
ARES Video Series
A Tale of Two Entrances
ARES Sample Unit
ARES: Module 1 - Unit 5 - Lesson 12 -
ADA Amendments Act of 2008
ARES Video Series
NAR Fair Housing Champion Video
ARES Sample Unit
ARES: Module 1 - Unit 6 - Lesson 7 -
Disability Etiquette Conclusion
ARES Video Series
83 Seconds with Dan: True Value in Accessibility
Continuing Education for Real Estate Agents
We currently offer 10 continuing education clock hours in Washington and Ohio, with Oregon, Idaho, and Arizona coming soon! If you live in Oregon, Idaho, or Arizona, you can take the ARES™ training now and earn your designation.
Once approval in these states is received, we can apply the appropriate clock hours to your course, provided you meet the applicable state requirements.
Regardless of CE credit availability, the ARES™ Designation is open to real estate professionals in all 50 states.
States Where We Currently Offer Continuing Education Credits Along with the ARES™ Designation
Note: Please note that this Designation is not supported or endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS® or any affiliated REALTOR® associations.
NWMLS members receive exclusive pricing: Complete the training, earn 10 clock hours, and save $250 with the special member price of $299, regularly $549.
*Use discount code NWMLS in all capital letters when registering.